To set out the design, delivery and overall process that officers will use to deliver, launch and implement the Habitat Banking Programme in Phase 1 and Phase 2.
To showcase the opportunity that exists for the council to improve biodiversity across parks and open spaces, to support financial sustainability, allowing for long-term improvements and investment into important local assets, and to create spaces that local residents want to visit.
To secure Cabinet approval for the phased establishment of habitat banks on Council-owned and leased land, enabling and supporting the Council to generate Biodiversity Net Gain units for commercial sales to developers and other interested parties. The report is intended to establish the strategic direction and approach; and provide a plan within which Officers can operate to deliver and implement the proposals and deliver the identified outcomes.
To utilise the implementation of the Habitat Banking Programme to promote and support the Council’s wider strategic approach of its Corporate Plan 2023–2028, the Climate Strategy, the Huntingdonshire Futures Strategy and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), helping provide a financially sustainable, nature-based approach to improving biodiversity, climate resilience and community wellbeing.
Decision type: Key
Decision status: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)