Comment

Representation ID: 22258

Received: 16/03/2020

Respondent: Carter Jonas LLP

Number of people: 2

Land at Green Lane West, Rackheath
It should be noted that national guidance expects planning decisions to contribute towards and enhance the natural environment, and to secure measurable net gains for biodiversity – see Paragraphs 170 and 174 of the NPPF. It should be acknowledged that development can deliver ecological enhancements and net biodiversity gains. The proposed allocation at Green Lane West in Rackheath would include ecological enhancements. The case officer for the planning application accepted that the site currently has limited ecological value and the open space is not managed, and concluded that the proposed development would lead to a net gain in biodiversity.
Land off Townhouse Road, Costessey
The promoted development at Townhouse Road in Costessey would include ecological enhancements. Where possible, hedgerows at the boundaries of the site should be retained and enhanced to create corridors and shelter/foraging areas for wildlife including birds, bats, badgers and hedgehogs. Planting of native hedgerow species in gaps, for example along the southern and eastern boundaries will provide further opportunities for these species and enhance their value as ecological corridors.
The addition of bat boxes to any new buildings or retained trees within the site would provide additional roosting opportunities. Schwegler bat boxes are recognised as being suitable for roosting bats and long lasting. Bat boxes should ideally be located south facing (between south-east and south-west) and above 5m. Boxes such as Schwegler 2F or integral bat tubes Schwegler 1FR suitable for pipistrelles would be suitable for this site.
Landscaping could incorporate native or wildlife attracting trees, shrubs, and wildflower areas as these would likely be of benefit to a variety of wildlife including, birds, bats and invertebrates. Such landscaping could also act as a receptor area should reptiles be recorded using the site and require translocation.
The incorporation of a reptile hibernaculum into the landscape design (preferably within any wildflower grassland) will enhance the area for reptiles in the future. Hibernacula can be created by partially burying piles of wood/rubble and covering with earth. Hibernacula in the form of log piles could also benefit hedgehogs.
The addition of a range of bird boxes would provide additional nesting opportunities. This could include house sparrow terraces on any new buildings on site providing additional nesting opportunities for this BoCC red listed species recorded on/over site. Further standard bird boxes sited on mature trees will help attract a greater diversity of birds to nest. Boxes should be located out of direct sunlight and close to, but not restricted by, vegetation. A suitably qualified ecologist should be consulted to determine the exact location and position of the bird boxes.
The addition of insect houses/hibernacula within retained or created wildflower grassland would retain shelter and hibernation opportunities for invertebrates using the grassland or boundary habitats.