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Updated Guidelines for Residential Planning Applications and SPA Impacts Approved

Updated Guidelines for Residential Planning Applications and SPA Impacts Approved

Guildford Borough Council have approved updated guidance relating to planning contributions for the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (‘the SPA’). This updated guidance will support applicants submitting planning applications for residential development.

Guildford is home to the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA),which is a vital habitat for three protected bird species. An increase in residential development can lead to higher visitor numbers, potentially harming the SPA and its wildlife. The revised guidance sets out how the council will ensure that this pressure is managed so that harm is not caused.

On Thursday, 5 September 2024, the Council’s Executive approved updated guidelines that align with and support the existing SPA Strategy. This updated strategy ensures that harmful developments are avoided, and the impact of visitors is properly mitigated.

The SPA Strategy includes:

  • Tariffs on residential developments to fund Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspaces (SANGs). These are open spaces designed to attract visitors away from the SPA
  • A Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM) programme, which manages and monitors the effects of visitors on the SPA
  • This new Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) supports existing policies in our Local Plan and updates the existing SPA Strategy

Lead Councillor for Planning, Cllr Fiona White said:

“This update will be used when reviewing planning applications to ensure compliance with the SPA strategy. It reinforces our commitment to building a community that values environmental responsibility and supports responsible residential development.”