Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 3, 2026

Purpose: The Cabinet will be asked to approve the West Suffolk Biodiversity Duty report for publication in accordance with statutory requirements.

Content: Resolved:   That: 1.           The requirements for West Suffolk Council to fulfil the statutory biodiversity duty reporting requirements in accordance with the Environment Act 2021, be noted.   2.           Publication of the first West Suffolk Council biodiversity duty report for March 2026 be endorsed (as set out in Appendix A to Report number CAB/WS/26/012).  Delegated authority be given to the Head of Planning in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Environment and Regulatory, to agree minor non-material consequential amendments to the biodiversity duty report. Any amendments to the draft, which are deemed by aforementioned Portfolio Holder to be significant, be presented to Cabinet for approval.   3.           The next steps and future statutory reporting requirements be noted (as set out in paragraph 7.1 of Report number CAB/WS/26/012).