Issue - meetings

Report ES15027

Members considered a revised Bromley Biodiversity Plan which followed a slightly different format from previous Biodiversity Action Plans. The Plan contained information and advice on habitats and species, with a set of general principles for biodiversity management. Appendices included a set of Best Practice Guidelines for Land Managers, Planners and Developers, Friends Groups and Volunteers, and Schools.

The new Bromley Biodiversity Plan had been drafted by members of the Bromley Biodiversity Partnership whose membership includes experts from a range of local organisations with an excellent understanding and knowledge of biodiversity in Bromley.

The document would be used for reference by many partners as well as Council Officers. It recommended best practice guidelines for protecting and enhancing biodiversity in the borough and there was universal acceptance of the Plan across landowners. A number of planning requirements were also cross referenced with the document.

Officers agreed to consider outlining in more depth matters concerned with notifiable weeds and their control e.g. Japanese Knotweed.

The document would be subject to low key public consultation/scrutiny and the Chairman invited Members to email any detailed comments to officers.

RESOLVED that the Portfolio Holder be recommended to:

(1) note the updated Bromley Biodiversity Plan (2015 – 2020) and its new format; and

(2)  endorse the Plan, subject to public consultation.