Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the Shenley Park SPD
3. What is the scope of the SEA?
Introduction
3.1 The aim here is to introduce the reader to the broad scope of the SEA, i.e. the sustainability topics and objectives that should be a focus of the assessment of the plan and reasonable alternatives. Appendix B presents further information.
Consultation
3.2 The requirement is that "when deciding on the scope and level of detail of the information that must be included in the report, the responsible authority shall consult the consultation bodies". As such, the Environment Agency, Historic England, and Natural England were consulted in early 2023.
The SEA framework
3.3 Through the scoping process an SEA framework was established. Its purpose is to structure the appraisal of the plan and reasonable alternatives.
Table 3.1: The SEA framework
Topic
Objective(s)
Biodiversity
Conserve and enhance biodiversity by avoiding impacts to designated sites, ancient woodland and other priority habitats; seek to achieve a suitable level biodiversity net gain. Also consider geodiversity.
Climate change
Reduce the contribution to climate change made by activities within Shenley Park, particularly by minimising per capita greenhouse gas emissions from transport and the built environment in line with the Government's targets for net zero. Seek to realise opportunities for supporting on-site decentralised energy and carbon sequestration.
Support the resilience of Shenley Park to the potential effects of climate change, including flooding. Linked to biodiversity objectives, support restoration of natural processes and avoid actions that further constrain the natural environment's ability to respond to change.
Community wellbeing
Ensure growth in Shenley Park is aligned with the needs of all residents, delivering an accessible development that anticipates future needs and specialist requirements, supporting a cohesive and inclusive community.
Historic environment
Conserve and enhance the historic environment with a focus on designated heritage assets, but also non-designated assets and historic character. Consider links to landscape and place-making objectives.
Landscape
Protect and enhance landscape and village/rural character, by delivering a well-designed new community, utilising green infrastructure and preserving important open gaps between existing settlements.
Land & water resources
Ensure the efficient use of land, including avoiding the loss of high-quality agricultural land; protect and enhance water quality and water resources.
Transport
Support the achievement of modal shift from private car use to public and active transport, including through the layout and design of development.
