Object
Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031, Proposed Submission
Representation ID: 6488
Received: 07/11/2017
Respondent: Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust
Legally compliant? Yes
Sound? No
Duty to co-operate? Yes
The local authority does not appear to be giving the natural environment the priority or protection that the NPPF identifies it should, especially as there are alternative less damaging locations. The sensitive hydrology of Misterton Marshes needs to be protected or a study should be undertaken to prove that there will not be a negative effect on the hydrology of the SSSI.
We welcome the inclusion of 'natural and semi-natural greenspace (including the existing woodland' but would need further evidence that Misterton Marshes SSSI will be protected, especially its sensitive hydrology. Misterton Marshes SSSI is a sensitive area and we believe that it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to develop around it without impact upon its hydrology, which is fundamental to its special character and features. In addition, the future land use of the Lutterworth East development comprising 2,500 homes, retail centre, new motorway service station and industrial estate will inevitably result in polluted water run-off from roads, driveway, gardens etc. that may impact upon the sensitive habitat of the SSSI. To be confident of protecting Misterton Marshes SSSI, a full and detailed hydrological model and risk assessment would need to be undertaken before the site is allocated. The local authority would also need to be entirely confident that measures can be implemented and maintained (in perpetuity) to protect the highly delicate hydrology that is integral to Misterton Marshes SSSI.