Issue - decisions

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)     support the principle of biodiversity net gain and endorse the planning service using available tools to deliver the forthcoming statutory requirements where possible at the present time;

(b)    note the formation of the officer Task Force between Planning and Environment and ask for a report of their work and recommendations within 6 months of the December 2021 Cabinet;

(c)     support the £93,000 of ongoing revenue funding requested from 2022/23 onwards, to sufficiently resource the services outlined in this report; and

(d)    notes that the £93,000 per annum from 2022/23 onwards will formally be recommended to Council as part of the 2022/23 budget and Medium-Term Financial Plan Update report in February 2022.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Development, Growth and Regeneration

Reason

To ensure the Council is ready for and at the forefront of the biodiversity net gain requirements set out in the Environment Act.