Call for residents to have their say on biodiversity within our region
Fareham Borough Council wishes to hear from residents on how it can improve biodiversity.
The council has launched a public consultation on a biodiversity net gain policy, which is in the newly-adopted local plan.
The policy would force developers to leave wildlife habitats in an improved condition, by at least 10 per cent, after development.
Executive member for planning and development, Councillor Simon Martin said: ‘I am very proud that our Local Plan sets out how the borough can develop and grow in a sustainable way, taking into consideration environmental needs.
‘This supplementary planning document helps to safeguard our natural assets and green spaces throughout the development process.
‘I encourage residents to have their say on adding Biodiversity Net Gain requirements to future developments to help protect wildlife habitats long into the future.’
Executive council members agreed this month to consult on the supplementary planning document that developers, planning applicants and residents can refer to.
The document clarifies who the policy applies to and its requirements including how biodiversity net gain should be secured, managed and monitored.
The consultation will be available until 11.59pm on May 30 on the council’s website.
Residents can also submit comments by email to planningpolicy@fareham. gov.uk or by post to The Civic Offices, Fareham Borough Council, Planning Strategy, Civic Offices, Civic Way, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 7AZ.
• Passport Office strike
A strike by workers at the Passport Office is to be escalated next month.
The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) said its members in all Passport Offices will walk out for four days at the beginning of May.
Union members have been taking industrial action since the start of the month, but it has been limited to some staff in some offices.