We would like the habitat bank to be reinstated in recognition of its especially important location and the value of its habitats if at all possible. Otherwise, consideration should be given to a like for like (or better) habitat bank alternative. We are further concerned with the current lack of BNG supply with the borough.

We are disappointed and concerned by the removal of a critically located habitat bank. This is an important ecological link connecting Sandwell to the wider conurbation and countryside beyond. It is a landscape that comprises a number of valuable habitats which warranted a recent designation as SINC. Investing in the management of this large area and its constituent habitats would have a significant positive impact in the wider borough's biodiversity (and beyond). The removal of this habitat bank not only reduces significantly the amount of BNG-credits available but it also reduces the types of habitats that those credits relate to.

Reinstatement of the site as a BNG habitat bank and assurances that this status will be maintained in the future.

Text
Q1. This change greatly concerns us. As one of only six such sites in Sandwell we think it is critically important to retain the designation. This area is both strategically important for ecological connectivity and biodiversity in general, and locally important as a recently designated SINC and community semi-natural open space. We would expect the Plan to support enhancement and protection of such sites rather than apparently downgrading them. Not only is no reason given for the proposal, nothing is said about what the future intentions are for this area, which we believe to be a serious omission.