URL: https://democracy.stockport.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=8374

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Details about the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain legislation at the council, including the creation of a habitat banking vehicle for the provision of biodiversity units on council-owned land to fulfil demand for developments that require offsite biodiversity enhancement.

Content: The Cabinet has considered a report detailing a proposal to create and sell Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units on Council owned land, working in conjunction with Greater Manchester Combined Authority who would offer the necessary ‘Responsible Body’ function to facilitate the BNG service, and has:-   (1) Given approval in principle to the proposal to utilise the ‘Responsible Body’ route offered by the GMCA for the purpose of creating and selling Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units on Council owned land.   (2) Delegated authority to Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Environment, to finalise the terms of the agreement with the GMCA or to adopt alternative arrangements for the discharge of the Council’s duty to develop and sell BNG units in the light of prevailing circumstances.   (3) Given approval in principle to the selection and designation of three sites proposed for habitat bank creation as detailed in Section 8 of the report.   (4) Delegated authority to the Director of Place Management, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Environment, to finalise the designation and delivery of the sites selected for habitat bank creation; or the selection, designation and approval of alternative suitable council owned sites to deliver BNG units should those identified in Section 8 of the report not prove viable.   (5) Delegated authority to authority to the Director of Place Management, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Environment, to determine when it may be viable to proceed with creating BNG units on council owned land, following financial and legal appraisal. None. None.

Date of Decision: December 9, 2025