Comment

Representation ID: 1634

Received: 14/05/2014

Respondent: Natural England

Within the Sustainability Appraisal - Reference to the Habitats Regulation Assessment - "The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2010" is acknowledged here and Natural England is pleased to see reference to the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan.

Applicants and or developer need to be aware of the legislation and potential for impact, together with their requirement to screen and or assess for any likely significant effect.

SA Paragraphs 3.1.21 to 3.1.24 refer to the aspiration to "conserve and enhance the natural environment" which is welcomed and to be supported.
References to "conserving and enhancing the nature conservation and biodiversity assets and create new ones" are supported and link into our comments in respect of green infrastructure.
Similarly SA paragraph 4.3.4 refers to new urban open space, including new green space are also to be welcomed and encouraged and linked to comments above.
However, given the designations within the Borough we refer you to our comments in respect of projects and proposals that have the potential to impact on designated sites.