Object
Ipswich Borough Council Local Plan Core Strategy and Policies Development Plan Document Review - Final Draft
Representation ID: 26294
Received: 28/02/2020
Respondent: RSPB
Agent: RSPB
Legally compliant? Not specified
Sound? No
Duty to co-operate? Not specified
Notable omission to DM15. Representation made at Issues and Options stage suggested inclusion of line in policy, ‘k) to incorporate integrated swift-bricks.’ Suggestion not included - seen as missed opportunity. Due to national plight of swifts, failing to include could constitute a failure in the Council’s ‘Duty to conserve biodiversity’ under Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act. Cost of incorporating bricks insignificant and attitude towards them is positive so would not affect Council's ability to exercise functions and would be consistent with County Council's Suffolk Nature Strategy. Inclusion not unprecedented - included in Hackney Local Plan.
The RSPB hope that Ipswich Borough Council will consider including this provision in its Local Plan to ensure the precedent is set for conserving biodiversity in its development management policies and demonstrate its continued commitment to swift conservation.