Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031, Proposed Submission

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.

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 local authority should be clear that there are no other sequentially preferable locations, or be convinced that there are no other suitable options that have lesser potential or actual harm on the natural environment. If the local authority proposes to progress this location, then it should be entirely satisfied that the development would not pose an unacceptable risk to the natural environment. To be confident of that, 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.

COMMENTING ON SECTION 15.2.7 HERE AS THE FORM DOES NOT ALLOW COMMENTS ON THAT SECTION
We agree with this, and would like to see evidence that the development would not pose an unacceptable risk to the natural environment, in particular Misterton Marshes SSSI. To be confident of that, a full and detailed hydrological model and risk assessment would need to be undertaken before the site is allocated.

COMMENTING ON SECTION 15.2.14
Please note that amenity grassland should not be included as wildlife habitat or linking habitats. It is part of Green Infrastructure but will not suffice for habitat in habitat connections or habitat connectivity mapping - an exercise that paragraph 117 of the NPPF recommends planning policies should do.