Purpose

The reason for this decision is to adopt changes, which have occurred to designated Sites of Biological Importance (SBIs) within the borough. Changes are outlined in Appendix 2 and Appendix 1 provides maps of the SBIs with boundary amendments. This includes Hull Brook (Grade A) which has had a net loss of 0.6 hectares (due to agricultural improvement) and Ponds at Cowlishaw Farm (Grade B), which gained 0.1hectares due to an increase in swamp present.
Tame Water Woodland and Hey Bank were also reviewed but had no significant changes.
Oldham has a total of 38 SBIs, which has increased overtime from 18 since 1984 (please see Appendix 3 for fact sheet).

Decision

RESOLVED - That:
To adopt the changes to the SBIs as outlined in Appendix 2. The advantage to this option is that the changes to SBIs will be subject to the principles set out in NPPF of avoid, mitigate and as a last resort compensate any harm.

Reasons for the decision

Option 1 - Option 1 - To adopt the changes to the SBIs as outlined in Appendix 2. The advantage of this option is that the changes to SBIs will be subject to the principles set out in NPPF to avoid, mitigate and as a last resort compensate any harm. There are no disadvantages to this option. If development was proposed, it would be expected to comply with NPPF and Local Plan policies.
Option 2 - Option 2 - Not to adopt the changes to the SBIs as outlined in Appendix 2. There are no advantages to this option. The disadvantage is that boundary changes will not have been adopted and therefore the full extent of the SBI’s may not be given due consideration under NPPF and the Local Plan.

Alternative options considered

Option 2 - Not to adopt the changes to the SBIs as outlined in Appendix 2. There are no advantages to this option. The disadvantage is that boundary changes will not have been adopted and therefore the full extent of the SBI’s may not be given due consideration under NPPF and the Local Plan.