The planning system is fundamental to preventing further losses of biodiversity and to deliver positive gains. Local plans and strategies must take account of biodiversity and incorporate opportunities for enhancement. The challenge is to achieve a rich and diverse natural environment and sustainable communities for the future.

In 2010, Natural England and Hampshire County Council funded a seminar to share information and expertise on key topics:

• Current expectations on local government for conserving biodiversity

• How to include the needs of biodiversity in planning policies and decisions

• Helping biodiversity adapt to climate change

• Delivering improvements for biodiversity through Biodiversity Opportunity Areas, Green infrastructure and Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation

Seminar Presentations

Expectations on local government

Key drivers: Legislation and policy

Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure

GI soundbite: Southampton's Green Grid

Biodiversity Opportunity Areas (BOAs) the bigger picture

BOA soundbite:  the Meon Valley

Measuring performance, National Indicator NI 197

SINC soundbite: Improving New Forest SINCs

Biodiversity in Rushmoor

Eastleigh Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document

All Local Authorities in Hampshire have identified the submission of a biodiversity survey and report as a requirement for certain application types.

As part of 1APP (National Application Form), the submission of a biodiversity survey and report is listed in ‘Local Planning Application Requirements'. (Further information is included in the 'Validation Of Planning Applications Guidance for Local Planning Authorities', published by DCLG in December 2007 )

The Biodiversity Checklist has been designed to assist applicants to provide the relevant biodiversity information with their application. It is strongly advised that the checklist is used in order to adhere to biodiversity standards expected by statutory nature conservation bodies, and the relevant Local Authority.

The biodiversity checklist form can be downloaded from this page and once completed may be submitted either electronically or in hard copy.