ipswich.gov.uk

Comment

Representation ID: 25187

Received: 30/10/2017

Respondent: Environment Agency

We welcome the recognition of the range of sizes and types of open space in Ipswich. Benefits of the provision of new, and enhancement on existing, multifunctional open space include reduced flood risk, leisure provision, social cohesion and an increase in the value of development. The Plan suggests that fewer large areas of open space would be more cost efficient to maintain than a large
number of small spaces. However, the plan should also consider the benefits for urban biodiversity and amenity provided by a network of smaller open spaces.
Policies should look not only to halt biodiversity loss but to provide net gains for biodiversity wherever possible. We would encourage policies for de-culverting, removal of redundant structures from Main Rivers, creation and maintenance of green corridors to buffer watercourses, native riparian tree planting where appropriate and removal of invasive non-native species. There is currently no mention of non-native species, and the River Gipping in particular has Himalayan Balsam, Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed which are negatively impacting on biodiversity within Ipswich and must be addressed.