Purpose

To
create a SANGS site at Snipe and Bassets Wood.

Decision

RESOLVED –
 
1.   
That the proposed works for the creation of a SANGS
site at Snipe and Bassets Wood be implemented as soon as possible
using the funds collected from developers for that purpose be
approved. 
 
2.   
That the works proceed using the available funds as
and when collected under the direction of the Landscape and
Biodiversity Officer following the scheme approved by Natural
England be approved.
 
3.   
That any future funds collected for SANGS from
developers up to a total maximum of eleven new dwellings be used to
carry out further works in accordance with the approved scheme be
approved.

Reasons for the decision

The
option as approved by Natural England was considered to be the only
viable option for the proposed works at Snipe and Bassets
Woodland.   This option utilises
the funds collected in accordance with the description and
commitment set out on the forms used to collect the funds under
S111 of the Local Government Act 1972. 
It will ensure that the Borough Council is fully compliant with the
Habitat Regulations in respect of Ashdown Forest.    

Alternative options considered

1.   
The Council could continue to work with the other
LPAs engaged in mitigation for Ashdown Forest and providing SANGS
to release capacity to TWBC for the few developments that do arise
within that part of Tunbridge Wells Borough that is within the 7km
zone. Discussions with those LPAs so far has shown those
authorities that do have SANGS sites appear to be sympathetic and
willing to consider such an arrangement, but they have also
confirmed that they are unable to assist at present and cannot give
any certainty as to when and if they could assist in the future.
Consequently, whilst such discussions can continue there is no
prospect of success at the moment and so this does not represent a
realistic option.
 

2.   
Do nothing – this would result in developments
proposed within the 7km zone being refused until such time as
adjoining LPAs were able to offer capacity at sites outside the
Borough to provide the required SANGS mitigation. As explained
above there is at present no indication if and when this will
happen. Whilst these developments are unlikely to be of any
strategic importance they are of great importance to the
individuals and/or businesses concerned and may often contribute to
the local economy, housing provision and services. This option is
unpalatable to the Council which provides itself on being proactive
on development issues and supporting the economic vitality of the
whole Borough.

 

3.   
The Council has explored the option of finding a
bespoke local solution with its consultants and Natural England.
Having had an informal agreement in principle, officers considered
which sites would be suitable and deliverable within a short time
frame. To be deliverable it would need to be in the Councils
ownership and meet the SANGs criteria set by Natural England. After
an initial review of Council owned woodlands, it was felt that
Snipe and Bassets offered the best chance of success. The proposals
for this site to be treated as a SANG site and the details to
achieve that were submitted to and have now been agreed by Natural
England.  The cost and the subsequent
tariff have been agreed with applicants. The only viable option is
then to proceed with the proposed works to Snipe and Bassets
Woodland as set out above.