Purpose

To approve the Programme of Investment 2026/27 for the Chilterns Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Mitigation Strategy (Appendix – 1 POI 2026/27)
Reason: Under the Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) Dacorum Borough Council are legally required to ensure the integrity of the Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and that it is not adversely affected by new planning proposals.

Decision

As the Lead Competent Authority, Dacorum Borough Council will work closely with the National Trust to ensure that the allocated budget is adhered to and that mitigation activities are progressing appropriately

Alternative options considered

Option 1 - Considered through the wider SAC Mitigation Strategy including the Programme of Investment which was presented to and approved by Cabinet on 15/11/2022. Linked here: https://democracy.dacorum.gov.uk/documents/s36835/Chilterns%20Beechwoods%20Mitigation%20Strategy%20-%20Cabinet%20Report.pdf
Option 2 -
Option 3 -