SIC Publishes Planning Advice Note 14

Delivery of Biodiversity Enhancement on Local Developments

The SIC’s Natural Heritage staff have responded to requests from local architects and developers by producing an Advice Note on the biodiversity enhancement requirements needed to comply with National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4).

The Advice Note is in the format of Frequently Asked Questions. It explains the requirements and the Strategic and Policy decisions behind why the Government has introduced them.

Readers are guided through when and what to consider for their proposed site; how to assess the existing biodiversity and how to minimise the impacts of the proposed development. A range of measures which may be most appropriate for enhancing biodiversity in Shetland are provided and explained.

These include planting for pollinators; wildflower meadows – which can be as small as part of a garden; tree and shrub planting; and water for wildlife.

Measures which are likely to be ineffective, and which developers are discouraged from including in their biodiversity enhancement plans, are also listed.

By following the Advice provided, and also by engaging with planning staff at an early stage, applicants should be able to meet the criteria, increase the chances of a successful planning application and save time in the long-run.

The Advice Note is also intended to serve as a useful resource for those wishing to enhance biodiversity and support nature on their existing properties or in community spaces and projects.

The Advice Note can be found at: Planning Advice Note 14 – Delivery of Biodiversity Enhancement on Local Developments