SLP KDBH Extracts - Flipbook - Page 136
environmental quality and accessibility of remaining Green Belt land. This policy is only
expected to be used in connection with the allocations in this plan that entail the removal of
the allocated site from the Green Belt.
433.
The policy sets out the mechanism for achieving compensation through a sequential
approach based on the proximity of improvements to the land being removed. The last
option to pay a commuted sum will be acceptable only if it is demonstrated that none of the
other sequential options is available. Most compensatory improvements are not expected to
require planning permission. Where this is not the case, and the development would amount
to inappropriate development in the Green Belt, then compliance with this policy can assist
towards the very special circumstances needed to justify such development. It would also be
in accordance with paragraph 141 of the NPPF, which encourages LPAs to plan positively to
enhance beneficial use of Green Belt.
434.
There are a range of potential improvements that can be pursued to fulfil this requirement
and the following are provided as examples, but it is recognised that there may be others:
new or enhanced green infrastructure;
woodland planting;
landscape and visual enhancements (beyond those needed to mitigate the immediate
impacts of the proposal);
improvements to biodiversity, habitat connectivity and natural capital;
new or enhanced walking and cycle routes; and
improved access to new, enhanced or existing recreational and playing field
provision.
435.
In developing the required compensation, prospective applicants may also wish to review
other Council strategies (eg Local Cycling & Walking Implementation Plan) to seek to review
whether existing opportunities have already been identified.
This should include
Neighbourhood Development Plans and prospective applicants may also wish to approach
relevant Parish Councils or Neighbourhood Planning Forums to ascertain if they have any
priorities for action that could be fulfilled in this way.
436.
It should be noted that improvements being bought forward under this policy will be expected
to be beyond those needed to mitigate the immediate impacts of the proposal.
Challenges and Objectives Addressed by the Policy
136
C
Sustaining the attractiveness of the Borough for people who live, work and invest in
Solihull
E
Protecting key gaps between urban areas and settlements
K
Protecting and enhancing our natural assets