Environment Agency object to Bircherley Green proposals

The Environment Agency are urging the Distrct Council to reject plans for the redevelopment of Bircherley Green shopping centre.

In a letter to the council's planning officer, The Ggency highlight the "inadequate buffer zone" between the development and the river bank.

The proposals show that all new built development is to set back by 8 metres from the top of the bank of the River Lee. However, we require that the 8 metre buffer between the development and the top of bank is naturally managed to provide a green corridor for wildlife throughout the riparian zone. There is a small section of soft landscape edging proposed, but this should be extended all the way along the top of the bank and be at least 8 metres wide. There should be no hardstanding or artificial lighting causing light spill within this buffer zone.

The Agency also highlight that the plans do not comply with the council's own planning policy that states "Unless there is clear justification for not doing so, an undeveloped buffer strip at least 8 metres wide should be maintained alongside all main rivers. Any development proposals should include an appropriate management scheme for buffer strips."

The council's District Plan and the government's National Planning Policy Framework both suggest that no development  should take place within 8 metres (26 feet) of the river bank. This includes any built structure such as walkways or paving . A naturally managed buffer zone or green corridor should separate the river from any development, planted with locally native species and "appropriately managed under an agreed scheme". 

Complying with The Agency's requirements would mean developer Chase New Homes amending their plans to include the 8m (26ft) buffer zone "measured from the bank top (defined as the point at which the bank meets the level of the surrounding land) alongside the River Lee. The buffer zone will help to reduce shading, and should be free from built development including lighting".

Chase New Homes have been approached for comment.