BASE HEADER
Do you agree with the approach laid out in Draft Policy Direction-38 - Biodiversity Net Gain?
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93326
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr geoff marston
The councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (the absolute bare minimum) is somewhat pathetic. Explore is a cop out word for do nothing.
Local planning evidence derived through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire (Warks wildlife Trust), and the Plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93390
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr David Haggarty
N/A
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93477
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Vivien Haggarty
N/A
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93554
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Wellesbourne and Walton Parish Council
We agree with all these policy directions but they tend to be the last things that developers do and are either not done well or not at all so implementation needs to be monitored and the planning authority must ensure compliance. Planning approval should include penalties if developers do not do what they say they are going to do.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93600
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr JAMES STEWART
I do not agree with this policy because purchasing biodiversity units as a form of “offsetting” does nothing to improve real biodiversity. Protecting and enhancing existing ecosystems is far more effective than relying on theoretical compensation. Research shows that developers often fail to implement the ecological enhancements they promise, making “net gain” an empty commitment in over 50% of cases. This is a systemic issue and a regulatory failure. Instead of allowing biodiversity loss on paper, we must safeguard and support areas of high ecological value already in existence. Source: Wild Justice Report
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93677
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Claire STEWART
I disagree with this policy because purchasing biodiversity units as “offsetting” fails to deliver real environmental benefits. Protecting and enhancing existing ecosystems is far more effective than relying on theoretical compensation. Research shows that developers frequently neglect their promised ecological improvements, with “net gain” often remaining unfulfilled in over 50% of cases. This represents a systemic failure in regulation and enforcement. Rather than allowing biodiversity loss to be justified on paper, we must prioritize safeguarding and strengthening areas of high ecological value that already exist. Source: Wild Justice Report
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93719
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Cllr David Armstrong
Yes, particularly in looking to a higher level of BNG than the 10% minimum. Also it is key to ensure biodiversity unit assessment takes into account changes at a site before the application, to avoid developers removing trees/habitats before submitting plans in order to reduce the BNG they have to meet. This practice is possibly in evidence already at a site near Kenilworth (ref [redacted] - significant reduction in hedgerow height). Remote sensing timeseries data provides an archive of sites going back several years and could provide evidence.
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93834
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Warwick District Green Party
Yes. In looking at whether BNG in excess of 10% is desirable the plan should draw on the experience of other local authorities where a higher rate has been approved. Measuring BNG is a process involving both evidence and judgement, and the authorities need to be confident that they have the resources and expertise to review and interrogate BNG plans put forward by developers. There is otherwise a danger that this becomes another box-ticking exercise rather than a genuine commitment to enhance biodiversity. SDC and WDC should start now to develop a scheme of offsite biodiversity units within their areas.
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93842
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Dr Penny Gray
It concerns me that this direction encourages monetising the natural environment. Alternative provision through purchasing 'offsite biodiversity units' sounds like numerous carbon offsetting schemes that have proven to be scams. Biodiversity gains should be demonstrable on site, not off site.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93922
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Beverley Comley
Biodiversity should be at the site not offloaded elsewhere
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 93989
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Sue Scurrah
-
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94129
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr David Kelly
Purchasing of ‘biodiversity units’ as a way of ‘off-setting’ will never improve
biodiversity. Supporting the existing biodiversity, safeguarding and supporting areas of higher biodiversity already in existence is crucial. Research shows that developers aren’t implementing the ecological and biodiversity enhancements they originally claim to. This is a huge systemic issue and regulatory failure. In over 50% of cases the ‘net-gain’ exists only in on paper not in practice. Article reference: https://wildjustice.org.uk/general/lost-nature-report/
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94142
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Samantha Stafford Scott
“Offsetting” is not an option and shouldn’t be considered as a means of improving biodiversity. It is counterintuitive to not simply protect and safeguard the existing biodiversity. Developers have no interest in providing this and I am yet to see any evidence that they are implementing the regulations. As such, Development should not be permitted on sites that put current biodiversity at risk!
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94156
Derbyniwyd: 02/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Ms Holly Whittaker
The purchasing of 'biodiversity units' as a way of 'off-setting' will never improve biodiversity.
Supporting the existing biodiversity, safeguarding and supporting areas of higher biodiversity already in existence, is crucial. Research shows that developers are not implementing the ecological and biodiversity enhancements they originally claim to. This is a huge systematic issue and regulatory failure. In over 50% of cases the 'net gain' exists only on paper and not in practice. Article reference: https://wildjustice.org.uk/general/lost-nature-report/
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94379
Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr Alan Blandamer
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is not satisfied with the councils' intention to 'explore opportunities for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire.
Purchasing of 'biodiversity units' as a way of 'off-setting' will never improve biodiversity. Supporting the existing biodiversity is crucial. Research shows that developers aren't implementing the ecological and biodiversity enhancements they originally claim to. Article reference: https://wildjustice.org.uk/general/lost-nature-report/
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94658
Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Miss Renny Wodynska
No. The councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain is pathetic and neither here nor there.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire, a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 94950
Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr Jonathan Ainsworth
'Off setting' will eved improve biodiversity. I work as an estate agent and new developments never stick to their claims when developing sites and creating biodiversity.
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95065
Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Tracey Grimes
Developers are notorious for spending the bare minimum or not fulfilling what they said they would do. Enhancing an existing biodiversity ecosystem would be far superior than offsetting new ideas.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95245
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: David Gosling
as drafted it is hard to agree the approach. The policy appears to give a developer the chance to over develop a site, prove that on-site mitigation is not achievable, and turn to an apparently un-monitored trading arrangement to “buy credits”. Furthermore those credits can be for theoretical locations nowhere near the site where the damage is being created. Local biodiversity is therefore irreparably damaged and unproven gain is claimed for unknown locations
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95267
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Emma Restall Orr
It is unclear how this will deliver wider connecting corridors which are more substantial than the proposed small scale on-site improvements. The councils should update their Green/Blue Infrastructure evidence base, in line with the NPPF and in time to influence chosen housing sites in the Local Plan. The approach here shows a lack of understanding and a lack of commitment to fundamental ecological requirements.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95311
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Alamo
Asiant : Harris Lamb
No justification for a higher than 10% requirement. If this is to be pursued it should be viability tested.
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95337
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr Lee Tallen
Agree generally, but we have seen through things such as 'offsetting schemes' through air travel that off setting never makes up for the damage done. Feel the purchase of biodiversity credits would represent a 'cop out' and not have any impact of positive biodiversity gains.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95339
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Kristina Tristram
No. Not satisfied with the councils' intention to 'explore opportunities' for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain. Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire, and the plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95470
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Ms Sue Cuff
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is not satisfied with the councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire, and the Plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95526
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr Martin Freeman
I am not satised with the councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in
Warwickshire, and the Plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater
target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already
got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95710
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: David Wilson Homes
Asiant : Harris Lamb
seeking BNG of more than 10% will have viability issues. It shouldn't be sought if the councils want to ensure an efficient use of land.
Yes
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95776
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Bloor Homes Western
Asiant : Marrons
This policy reflects the national requirements for a minimum of 10% with regards to Biodiversity Net Gain.
Other
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 95965
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mr Paul Tesh
Yes. How will the commitment to 30 years be secured from developers? What sanctions will there be if a developer goes bankrupt during the 30 year period or reneges on his commitments (local authorities often have difficulty in getting developers to fulfil their obligations under current S106 and S278 agreements)?
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 96085
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Ms Tamsin Kashap
No. Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is not satisfied with the councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire, and the Plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.
No
Preferred Options 2025
ID sylw: 96126
Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025
Ymatebydd: Mrs Rosemary Collier
I am not satisfied with the councils’ intention to ‘explore opportunities’ for higher than the bare minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Local evidence through planning applications shows that more than 10% BNG is achievable in Warwickshire, and the Plan states that they are aiming to link with local priorities, so a greater target should be delivered. A number of other Councils such as Cornwall Council have already got plans through Examination with 20% net gain.