Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: March 10, 2026

Purpose: The South Kesteven Biodiversity Action Plan has been developed to report on the actions South Kesteven District Council will take to conserve and enhance biodiversity across the district as part of the Council's Biodiversity Duty.

Content: Decision   That Cabinet:   1.    Note the biodiversity duty for all public authorities and requirements to report on actions and progress.   2.    Approve the adoption of the South Kesteven Biodiversity Action Plan.   3.    Delegate to the Director of Housing and Projects, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, the approval of minor amendments to the South Kesteven Biodiversity Action Plan as new Government guidance emerges.   Reasons for the decision   The Environment Act 2021 has strengthened the Biodiversity Duty of local authorities and as a result, it has become the legal obligation of South Kesteven District Council as a both a public authority and local planning authority to develop and implement a Biodiversity Action Plan.   Other options considered and rejected   It was a statutory requirement under the Environment Act 2021 that all local authorities (excluding parish councils) and local planning authorities must publish a biodiversity report. Therefore, the option to ‘do nothing’ has been discounted.