Decision Maker: Middleton Township Committee

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 5, 2025

Purpose: To make a decision to accept or decline the recommendation by Greater Manchester Ecology unit to designate an area of species rich grassland within Bowlee Community Park a site of Biological Interest

Content: The Township Committee considered a report of the Director of Economy and Place which advised that Sites of Biological Importance (SBI’s) are local planning designations in Greater Manchester that highlight areas of nature conservation importance, containing valuable habitats, plants, and animals.   Although they lack statutory protection like Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), they are considered in planning applications affecting these areas.   The Greater Manchester Ecology Unit (GMEU) annually recommends new SBIs (if applicable) and changes to existing ones, which are reported to the relevant Township(s) for adoption for planning purposes.   The latest review undertaken by GMEU has recommended that a new SBI be designated at Bowlee Community Park.   In considering the report, the following matters were raised: ·         Could more protection be afforded to certain sites, to which members were advised that there was a criteria in place, to designate sites, but this may be something that could be looked at further as part of local plan reviews: ·         Wince Brook – could this be considered as an SBI as the nature of the area had changed during the past few years; ·         In relation to bio diversity net gain, the Local Nature Recovery Strategy maps could be viewed on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority website.   Resolved:   That the new SBI at Bowlee Community Park as detailed within the report be approved, so that the nature conservation interest of the area can be taken into account when planning applications are being considered.   Reasons for the decision:   According to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), planning decisions should enhance the natural and local environment by protecting and enhancing valued biodiversity sites. The areas identified by experts as having local biodiversity value should be protected in planning decisions.   Alternatives Considered:   Not supporting the proposed SBI designation would leave this key habitat vulnerable to loss and damage.