Mitigation strategy

Cheltenham Borough Council, as a “competent authority”, has a legal duty under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) to consider whether planning applications would affect the biodiversity of any Special Area of Conservation (SAC). We can only approve a planning application where the proposals will not impact on the special biodiversity of the Special Area of Conservation. We assess this using a process called Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA). We must also consider permitted development proposals which are likely to have an impact. Applicants must have written approval from the council before development can begin. We can only approve development which we are satisfied will not adversely affect the integrity of the SAC.

To help with planning applications and to ensure a strategic approach for mitigating recreational impacts at the Cotswold Beechwoods SAC, the local authorities in the area and Natural England have worked together to prepare a Recreation Mitigation Strategy for the Cotswold Beechwoods SAC (Footprint 2022). 

What development will the mitigation apply to?

All planning applications (and prior approvals) for residential or holiday accommodation within the 15.4km zone of influence, which covers all of Cheltenham borough, will be subject to habitats regulations consideration. This also includes:

  • Houses in multiple occupation (sui generis)
  • Residential institutions in the C2 use class where the residents are not severely restricted by illness or mobility
  • Student accommodation
  • Sites for gypsy, travellers and travelling show people
  • Tourist accommodation, including self-catering, caravan and touring holiday accommodation

The need to address habitats regulations issues for other types of development will be considered on a case by case basis.