It is important to Buckingham residents to protect the environment – this applies to the Green spaces previously discussed – but also has a wider remit.
Talking Points:
- Buckingham Town Council declared a Climate Emergency in 2019.
- The new Neighbourhood Plan affords the opportunity to consider new policies.
- Retrofitting energy saving features can be difficult, especially in the large Conservation Areas – this needs to be considered as well as new development. A realistic balance between preserving the historic nature of the town, and the benefit of energy saving features to protect the future.
- Protection of existing habitats and features when development happens. This recognises the wealth of blue and green infrastructure in and around Buckingham, and its value to the community.
What the Plan Delivers:
- Urban Greening – initial design to promote green features such as green roofs or walls, soakage drainage on properties and use of permeable surfaces in major brownfield developments. The aim is to build climate resilience.
- Retrofitting in Conservation Area – guidance as to how retrofitting of energy saving features and other climate resilience might be achieved within the Conservation Area. The Independent Examiner described this as “a very positive approach”.
- Blue and Green Infrastructure – developers will have to demonstrate that there has been a benefit to the environment and habitat of plants and animals by measures taken through devices such as landscaping and buffer zones. Protection is sought for existing trees and hedgerows.
- The Design Code – contains additional requirements and suggestions to support and improve the environment such as the use of UK species for planting schemes.