The SPD is an opportunity to provide guidance on how sustainable construction can help deliver Policy DAP3 Protecting Nature Conservation, Geology and Geomorphology. This could be acheived by including information in Section 6 on green infrastructure such as formal and informal green spaces around buildings which can fulfil many functions. These include opportunities for climate change adaptation through the provision of corridors for wildlife movement, cooling through tree shade and opportunities for recreation and leisure.

Recommends that British Standard 5837 Trees in Relation to Construction Recommendations (2005) are referred to.

Support Section 8 and suggest that the text is expanded to require that opportunities should be sought to integrate biodiversity benefits (delivery of wetland habitat) into SUDs schemes wherever possible.

Recommends that an additional section is included on opportunities to promote biodiversity through buildings such as the inclusion of swift bricks, house sparrow and starling nest boxes and features to attract bats. These recommendations are supported by PPS9.