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Planning isn’t the most exciting topic of conservation conversation, but it is an important issue as it shapes the places we live and work, and has an enormous impact on the type and quality of landscape we pass on to future generations. The Trust puts a lot of effort into engaging with the planning system, both regionally and locally, so that decisions made today will benefit wildlife tomorrow. This page provides an overview of our planning activities, explaining how and why we work with Somerset’s local authorities.
The planning system exists to control development: it aims to preserve the best of our heritage both man made and natural whilst delivering necessary infrastructure. Much emphasis is placed on sustainability, and a raft of national, regional and local policy and guidance exists to supplement national legislation for the delivery of sustainable communities. The environment is one element of sustainability: without a healthy, rich and diverse natural world, many life supporting goods and services on which our society and economy are built would simply cease to function. So the planning system is a force for conservation, and gives local authorities both the power and the opportunity to act positively for biodiversity. With strong, positive policies for biodiversity, local planning authorities can deliver a wildlife-rich future for their area, and grow truly sustainable communities.
Whilst there is a broad network of conservation legislation and planning policy protecting wildlife, implementation and interpretation is not always straightforward. We feel it’s worth taking the time and effort to get it right: wildlife is an essential element of sustainability, and we know that local communities benefit from and enjoy living in a wildlife-rich environment.
The Trust works hard to give wildlife a strong, clear voice in the planning system, to make sure that plans and decisions are made which benefit, rather than harm, biodiversity. We engage with the planning system nationally, regionally and locally, to ensure strategies, plans and policies give wildlife the best possible deal. We get involved with local planning casework to make sure good quality habitat and important wildlife populations are protected, and to secure the ecological enhancement of local landscapes.
We strive to maintain a high-profile in the planning system, working on large scale strategic planning, and development control. We do, however, rely upon our members, volunteers, and concerned local residents to take a stand and raise their voice for wildlife. We simply can’t respond to every small-scale planning application so if a development proposal near you seems to have overlooked local wildlife, why not get involved? Our straightforward guide 'Planning for Somerset’s Wildlife' is available to download and gives you all the information you need to give wildlife a voice in the planning system.
Fallow deer © Ben Simmonds www.bensimmondswildlife.co.uk
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Somerset Wildlife Trust |
Telephone: (01823) 652400
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