The Baker Consultants team is currently reviewing the Department for Communities and Local Government consultation paper on a new Planning Policy Statement ‘Planning for a Natural and Healthy Environment'

It is proposed that this new PPS will replace PPS9 on Biodiversity and Geological Conservation.

The scope of the new PPS has been extended to include open spaces, sport and recreation, sustainable development in rural areas, landscape protection and coastal access.

The biodiversity aspects of the new PPS are greatly reduced when compared with PPS9 however the consultation includes a revised version of ODPM Circular 06/2005 and Defra Circular 01/2005 Circular: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation - Statutory obligations and their impact within the planning system.

Consultation closes on 1st June 2010 so make sure you have your say. To join in the discussion comment on this blog below or contact anyone at the Baker Consultants team here.