Agenda with Maps and Applications (21Mb) - pdf - Selby District ...

We support the proposed preservation of trees along the water course
and roadside verge along the Low Street boundary in addition to future
tree planting surrounding the site, which should compensate for the
possible loss of bird nesting spots. We would want such trees planting
to be of native species of local providence in order to best support local
biodiversity. We also appreciate the timing of the removal of bird
nesting material so that it is outside of the bird nesting season (March
to August inclusive) in section 10.5.8 of the Ecology report. All species
of birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife &
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). We welcome the retention and
strengthening of existing hedgerows, and we would wish to see
planting using hedgerows inside the site. The retention of buffers
along the watercourse corridor, southern boundary and Low Street
frontage is appreciate in order to prevent disturbance to bird and
mammal species.
Access and green infrastructure
Natural England welcomes the provision of areas of green space within
the site, and the use of footpaths and cycle routes throughout the site.
We support the footpath crossing the waterway on the eastern
boundary of the site, linking the site with the surrounding countryside,
along with the recreational waterway and woodland walks.
We also fully support the sustainable drainage system to be created
through the planting of a new wet meadow area. Such area will not
only provide drainage for the site but also provide new foraging and
nesting areas for birds and mammals through the planting of
vegetation. We would suggest that such vegetation to be of native,
locally provident species only and consist of a variety of species in
order to increase the diversity of invertebrate species in the site.
Landscape
The proposed development is not within any sites designated for their
landscape value. However, landscape issues should be considered
with any proposal, as the development should always compliment the
local character and distinctiveness of the surrounding area. We
consider that the landscape and visual appraisal has been carried out
to an appropriate methodology and appreciate the consideration of the
development with regards to the character of surrounding dwellings.
We welcome the proposed structural vegetation planting along the
ridge feature and southern boundary of the site to screen the site from
long distance views in section 4: Concept Development. We wish such
planting to be of a variety of species and heights in order to provide a
diverse mosaic of habitats for surrounding wildlife. Again the planting of
native species of local providence would be preferred. Increased areas
of planting surrounding the site would also be favoured in order to
compensate for green space loss inside of the site. Overall we do not
consider that the development will have a significant detrimental impact
on landscape character.
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