Issue - meetings

Report from the Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations? attached.

The Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations presented the report which considers the opportunities for accommodating off-site biodiversity net gain on Council-owned land and specifically identifies six sites that are proposed to be submitted for registration as well as setting out how these sites can be brought forward as receptor sites.

Discussions took place regarding the biodiversity and environmental benefits to the Borough of Bury. In response to a member question from Councillor M Smith, members were informed that Councillor Quinn was committed to providing a future update to members, before a Council meeting to outline the financial value of the units. Discussions took place regarding the future of responsible bodies to manage sites and this will continue to be considered in the new municipal year.

Decision:

Cabinet:

1.    Agreed to the use of Council land at Old Kays, Chesham, Hollins Mount, Springwater Park, Outwood and Philips Park as receptor sites for biodiversity net gain and, if legally secured, to submit these to the Department of Food & Rural Affairs for inclusion on their register of biodiversity gain sites;

2.    Authorised the Head of Property and Director of Law and Governance in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder to advertise for potential tenants to deliver biodiversity net gain on one or more of the above sites and, if terms can be agreed, sign leases; and

3.    Authorised a procurement exercise, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder, to advertise for a responsible body and delivery partner to deliver biodiversity net gain on one or more of the above sites.

Reasons for recommendation:

·         To help ensure that the benefits of biodiversity net gain from development in the Borough are secured locally, as opposed to regionally or nationally.

·         To improve management of and maximise investment in Council-owned greenspace.

·         To provide flexibility for the Council to utilise the best method for securing each site on a site-by-site basis during a time when the market is still emerging and routes to delivery are in the early stages of development

Alternative options considered and rejected:

To take no action - The lack of opportunities for developers to deliver off-site BNG within Bury is likely to result in developers delivering this outside of the Borough meaning that Bury would not benefit from biodiversity enhancements. Furthermore, the Council would lose the opportunity to secure investment in and enhancement of its land.