• Skip navigation
• Accessibility
• Contact us
• Search
• Site map

Section menu

• Environmental work
• Policy
• Management system
• Statement
• Performance
• Affordable warmth
• Good practice guide

Procedure for Checking the Nature Conservation Designation of Proposed Development Sites (OP16:V6:22/04/08)

Responsibility

1. Head of Development
   
   
2. Development Manager(s)
   
   
3. Head of Design

Action

Association acquired sites

1. At site investigation stage the Head of  Development Manager (SHG) or Head of Design should check the ‘Alert Maps’ which identify sites which have a special wildlife designation.  These are held by the County Conservation Officer and the Planning & Policy section of the relevant District Council. 
   
   
2. If the site has a special designation the Development Manager (SHG) or Head of Design should seek specialist advice on how to minimise the environmental impact of development.  Where economically viable suggested measures will be implemented. 
   
   
3. All sites acquired for development, (green and brown-field) will be checked for the presence of protected species such as badgers, bats or water voles.  If protected species are present advice will be sought from the Environment Agency or local wildlife trusts to reduce the environmental impact of the development.
   
   
4. A habitat survey will be carried out before work begins on any greenfield site.


5. An Eco Homes Assessment (or equivalent) will be carried out.

Section 106 sites

1. If a developer approaches the Association with a section 106 site, the  Development Manager (SHG) or Head of Design will attempt to negotiate the inclusion of a ‘protected species check’ or habitat survey into the contract.
   

Recording

1. The above procedure to be recorded on each site file.
2. Eco Homes or equivalent Assessment to be kept.