Reg 19 Publication Plan – Main Modification Document

We would wish the remaining areas of valuable habitat/SLINC to be retained and stronger wording thank 'could be suitable' to be included with regards to securing adequate greenspace provision.

We are concerned by the loss of habitats within the Alsopp's Hill SLINC. Regrettably, part of the SLINC had already been lost to development. It will also lead to a significant loss of greenspace within the area. This appear to be part of a Local plan pattern where several housing allocations overlap with important habitats and areas of greenspace/greenbelt. We are extremely concerned by the very significant impact this could have, to nature and the communities that live/work in Sandwell. Current supply of BNG-units within Sandwell is limited making adequate compensation for loss of habitats and greenspace less likely.

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.