Decision Maker: Pennines Township Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 3, 2025

Purpose: To make a decision to accept or reject proposals to designate new site of biological interest or make alterations to existing designated sites in respect of Greater Manchester Ecology Unit's recommendations.

Content: The Committee considered a report of the Director of Economy and Place, which sought approval of the Site of Biological Interest (SBI) within Whittaker Wood, Ealees Wood and Ealees Buckley Wood.   The Woodlands and Natural Capital Projects Officer was in attendance to present the information and to address the questions and the comments of the Committee.   Resolved that the new SBIs within Whittaker Wood, Ealees Wood and Ealees Buckley Wood be approved.   Reason for decision: According to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), planning decisions should enhance the natural and local environment by protecting and enhancing valued biodiversity sites. The areas identified by experts as having local biodiversity value should be protected in planning decisions.   Alternatives considered and rejected: Not supporting the proposed SBI designation would leave these key habitats vulnerable to loss and damage from development.