7.8.6

Wildlife Trust to undertake a survey of locally significant sites. The results of this survey work will be available for public scrutiny before inclusion in Area Plans as they become available.

7.8.6 Development which would affect any proposed or other recognised site of conservation value, including areas of ecological interest, will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that:

• the proposed development will not compromise the conservation objectives of the site or unacceptably harm its conservation value and its overall integrity;
• there is proven public interest where safety or exceptional social or economic considerations outweigh the ecological importance of the site; and
• the need for the development cannot be met in other less ecologically damaging locations or by reasonable alternative means.