Question 9
What about the ancient woodland, will it be destroyed?
National planning policy set by Government in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) affords ancient woodland an extremely high level of protection. The NPPF states at paragraph 118:
“planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss”
The Local Plan identifies a new community to the north of Bishopstoke and north and east of Fair Oak (known as Options B and C) which is close to important ancient woodlands. However, the development will not involve the loss of any of these woodland areas and a number of studies have been undertaken to ensure that appropriate steps will be taken to protect ancient woodland along with other areas of environmental and ecological importance. The Council is working with Natural England (the Government’s statutory adviser) and others to ensure these important woods are preserved for future generations to enjoy.