URL: https://democracy.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=870

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To consider an updated strategy for the management of nutrient mitigation.

Content: RESOLVED that Cabinet agreed: - (a)           to cease use of and withdraw the Nitrogen Mitigation for Poole Harbour Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and to replacement of the SPD with Natural England’s approved approach involving the nutrient neutrality calculator and developer credit purchases; (b)           that the withdrawal of the SPD is to be implemented as soon as is practicable, with the replacement process in place, details published on the Council’s website and developers and agents advised at least 21 days in advance; and (c)           to give authority to temporarily use up to £1m from strategic CIL if the nitrogen CIL cash received is not timely with the need to spend, providing that Strategic CIL has received sufficient income to service the new demands. RESOLVED that Cabinet noted: - (d)           regular (at least 6 monthly) reports being prepared for the Leader of the Council and Chair of Cabinet to monitor the Council’s position in relation to the delivery of nutrient mitigation and transition from using the SPD to use of developer led mitigation. Voting: Unanimous Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council Reason Since Natural England updated their advice on nutrient neutrality in March 2022, the Nitrogen Reduction in Poole Harbour SPD is no longer considered to offer a robust mechanism for delivering nitrogen mitigation in the Poole Harbour catchment. The SPD therefore needs to be formally withdrawn and an alternative approach introduced. Dorset Council is the lead authority for co-ordinating nitrogen mitigation work for the Poole Harbour Catchment. Mitigation delivery projects are evaluated in accordance with Dorset Council’s assessment and prioritisation criteria for securing nutrient mitigation projects. The nutrient reduction and suitability of land for mitigation is agreed by Natural England’s discretionary advice. The Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund (LNMF) Steering Group with officers from both BCP and Dorset Councils provides the Governance for the fund.

Date of Decision: October 1, 2025