National Planning Policy Framework & Local Wildlife Sites

National Planning Policy Framework & Local Wildlife Sites

Yesterday the Government released the new National Planning Policy Framework for England. And the good news is that Local Wildlife Sites are back in!

In Hampshire and on the Island these are known as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and these sites are crucially important for wildlife in their own right, but also as part of a desperately needed ecological network.

We were very concerned that these sites had been dropped from the draft Framework but they are now listed again thanks to The Wildlife Trusts’ campaign.

Swanwick Lake, by John Windust

Swanwick Lake, by John Windust

There were representations from MPs from both sides of the House, a petition of 25,000, and Ministers met with our national colleagues who also had numerous meetings and calls with civil servants.

You can read more in the news story here

Testwood Lakes meadow in summer

© Ian Cameron-Reid

The Wildlife Trusts will now work with government on the guidance that accompanies the Framework, which is being reviewed in the autumn, to ensure that it is clear to everyone how Local Wildlife Sites should be safeguarded through planning policy.

Thank you for your support for the campaign, we really made a difference.