Plans to enhance access to three green spaces in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are to be reviewed by councillors next month.
The proposals for Erlin Farm, Millhams Mead and Solent Meads form part of the council’s work following the area’s declaration as the country’s first ever Nature Town. The aim is to improve access to nature and create stronger habitats for wildlife.
BCP Council intends to establish the three locations as habitat banks, generating biodiversity net gain (BNG) units that will keep environmental investment within the local area. Developers are required to replace habitat lost through construction, and when this cannot be done on-site, they can buy BNG units that fund nature projects elsewhere.
Since February last year, an estimated £180,000 has gone to other parts of the country because of the lack of a local BNG supply.
Councillor Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, said the proposals will help ensure more people can access quality green spaces while protecting biodiversity for the future. He added that residents will be engaged in shaping the long-term vision for these sites.
There are no plans for housing or large-scale development, and all proposals remain subject to planning and approval processes.
Share us with your friends on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.