Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document

(1) Glossary

Biodiversity The word 'biodiversity' comes from the term 'biological diversity'. It refers to the variety of all living organisms, including animals, insects, plants, bacteria, and fungi.

Biodiversity gain plan A consistent document explaining how a project has followed the mitigation hierarchy and also then achieved biodiversity net gain.

Biodiversity net gain An approach to leaving development in a measurably better state than before development.

Green-blue infrastructure Green-blue infrastructure is a network of multi-functional green spaces and other green features, and blue (water) features, which can deliver quality of life and environmental benefits for communities.

Habitat A habitat is the area and resources used by a living organism or assemblage of animals and plants.

Habitat banks Sites where habitat is created in advance, prior to any loss occurring. This habitat will need to be secured and managed long-term.

Irreplaceable habitat Habitats which would be technically very difficult (or take a very significant time) to restore, recreate or replace once destroyed, taking into account their age, uniqueness, species diversity or rarity. They include ancient woodland, ancient and veteran trees, blanket bog, limestone pavement, sand dunes, salt marsh and lowland fen.

Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) will set out locally agreed priorities and opportunities for nature recovery.

Mitigation hierarchy The principle that environmental harm resulting from a development should be avoided, adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for (NPPF, 2021).

Nature Recovery Network A national network of wildlife-rich places.

Protected species Many species of plants and animals in England and often their supporting features and habitats are protected. What you can and cannot do by law varies from species to species.

Standing advice General advice that Natural England, as a statutory consultee, gives to LPAs. It avoids the need to consult Natural England on every planning application.