Planning Policy Statement 9.docVIP

Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation INTRODUCTION Planning Policy Statements (PPS) set out the Government’s national policies on different aspects of planning in England. PPS9 sets out planning policies on protection of biodiversity and geological conservation through the planning system. These policies complement, but do not replace or override, other national planning policies and should be read in conjunction with other relevant statements of national planning policy. This PPS replaces Planning Policy Guidance Note 9 (PPG9) on nature conservation published in October 1994. The policies set out in this PPS will need to be taken into account by regional planning bodies in the preparation of regional spatial strategies, by the Mayor of London in relation to the spatial development strategy for London, and by local planning authorities in the preparation of local development documents. They may also be material to decisions on individual planning applications. In the context of this PPS, biodiversity is the variety of life in all its forms as discussed in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.1 Geological conservation relates to the sites that are designated for their geology and/or geomorphological importance.2 A joint Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (06/2005) and Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (01/2005)3 Circular is being published to accompany this PPS. This sets out the wide range of legislative provisions at the international and national level that can impact on planning decisions affecting biodiversity and geological conservation issues. A separate guide will also be published which sets out good practice in relation to planning for biodiversity and geological conservation. The Government’s Objectives Working with the grain of nature: a biodiversity strategy for England4 sets out the Government’s vision for conserving and enhancing biological diversity in England, together with a programme of work to achie