What do we do?
We work to conserve and enhance the
special qualities of Northumberland's natural environment. We do
this by making sure that nature conservation matters are fully
taken into account during preparation of Local Development
Framework documents and when making decisions about development
proposals.
We also offer specialist advice where proposed developments
affect the natural heritage of Northumberland, and pre-application
discussions are encouraged to help provide you with information
early in the application process. In recognition of the importance
of nature conservation, biodiversity is protected the government's
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the Office of the
Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM)
Circular 06/2005: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation and
relevant policies in the Regional Spatial Strategy.
When considering the ecological effects of a
proposed development, impacts on both species and sites of
ecological concern are taken into account. Certain species are
protected under national and international legislation, and a much
longer list of species, as well as a range of habitats, are
included on the Government’s Lists of Species and Habitats of
Principal Importance in England. All public bodies are required to
have regard to the purpose of conserving such species and
habitats.
Protected Sites
There are a number of different protective
designations which are applied to areas of land of high ecological
importance:
Special Protection Areas, designated under the European Birds
Directive, are areas of international importance for their bird
populations
Special Areas of Conservation, designated under the European
Habitats Directive, comprise areas of international importance for
their habitats or populations of species other than birds
Ramsar Sites are wetlands of international importance
Sites of Special Scientific Interest, designated under the
Wildlife and Countryside Act, are sites of national importance for
wildlife. All of the above designations are managed by Natural
England, the statutory nature conservation organisation for
England
Sites of Nature Conservation Importance are
non-statutory sites of county or regional importance, designated by
a partnership of public bodies and wildlife organisations,
including the Council, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Natural
England and Northumbrian Water.
Ecological Surveys
If a development proposal may have
implications for important ecological features, the applicant will
be required to commission relevant surveys and assessments, so that
the Council can evaluate the impact of the proposal on these
features, in accordance with the requirements of the NPPF and
relevant legislation. If important features are likely to be harmed
by the proposal, the applicants will need to consider the extent to
which harm could be avoided by amending the proposal or, if this is
not possible, the extent to which harm could be mitigated or
compensated for.
It is important to note that many ecological
surveys can only be undertaken at certain times of year, as many
plants are only visible for part of the year and many animals are
only active or resident in Northumberland for part of the year.
Accordingly, it is important that developers consult the Council
regarding ecological survey requirements at as early a stage as
possible, so that seasonal constraints do not cause delays to their
work programmes.
Please contact us for
further information and advice.
Bats and Houses
All species of bats and their roosts are
strictly protected. If you have bats roosting in your house and
this causes you any concern, or if you are planning to undertake
repairs or maintenance, you can obtain free advice from
Natural England by telephoning their Bat Advice Line on 0845
1300228.
Biodiversity Action Plan
The Northumberland Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) was
launched on Tuesday 22 May 2007 at Longhirst Hall, Morpeth. The BAP
aims to highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and
encourage a coordinated approach to species and habitat
conservation across Northumberland. For more information about the
Biodiversity Action Plan please contact the BAP
Coordinator at the Northumberland Wildlife Trust.
Related web pages
Local Development Framework
Natural England is an
independent public body whose purpose is to protect and improve
England’s natural environment and encourage people to enjoy and get
involved in their surroundings.
The North East Biodiversity
Forum is a collection of organisations and individuals
working together to conserve, enhance and promote biodiversity in
Northumberland.
Northumberland Wildlife Trust is
the leading charity dedicated to wildlife conservation and
environmental education in North East England.
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs is
a UK Government Department with advice on sustainable
development.
MAGIC is the first web-based
interactive map to bring together geographic information on key
environmental schemes and designations in one place.
Cross Border
Currents is the website of the Berwickshire & North
Northumberland Coast European Marine Site Special Area of
Conservation.
Contact us
Email: conservation@northumberland.gov.uk
Telephone: 01670 620305
