Environment

Objective:

To conserve and enhance the landscape and value of cultural resources, preserve the townscape and visual setting of the existing villages, and create a working environment where biodiversity is protected, enhanced and flourishing via a network of wildlife reserves and active stewardship.

To create a built environment in which the use of energy and water and the production of waste is minimised, water resources are protected, natural resources are conserved, sustainable choices are enabled and new innovative environmentally friendly technologies and construction methods are explored.

Response:

Our environment strategy prioritises the protection, enhancement and creation of important Biodiversity Action Plan habitats for nature conservation.  It strives to retain historic features relevant to the area and is sensitive to the consumption and conservation of natural resources.

Summary of strategies under consideration:

Ecology and biodiversity – protection, conservation and enhancement of ecology and biodiversity will be at the forefront of our strategy for the environment.  The community will be encouraged to get involved in Stewardship schemes to manage the environment.   Residents of the eco-town and visitors will be educated about ecology and biodiversity principle and practices.

Landscape character – the masterplan is adaptable to respond to the site’s topography and landscape to create a unique character.  A Landscape Management Plan will be introduced to enhance existing landscape features, increase biodiversity and ensure success of new planting.  A significant area will be opened up for recreation and leisure through the creation of, among other open spaces, the Great Park.

Conservation and heritage – the cultural heritage of the area has much to offer by way of developing a sense of place.  The siting of the eco-town considers the existing historic villages and their settings.  All cultural heritage resources will be mapped and strategies developed for their conservation through in situ preservation or preservation by record.

Water – exemplary levels of water efficiency and demand reduction are proposed.  This will be achieved through an integrated sewage and water treatment works on site to treat and recycle water from all building uses.  This will reduce water demand from the mains by up to 45%.  To supplement this, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDs) will be introduced and rainwater will be harvested.

There will be no development within Flood Zone 2 and 3 and measures will be undertaken not only to mitigate flood risks in Great Glen and Leicester but to improve upon the current situation.

Waste – collection of waste for re-use and recycling will be undertaken to meet best practice standards.  We will also introduce initiatives and behavioural change programmes to educate people on waste minimisation and waste reuse.  Small-scale, localised waste treatment facilities will be provided in the town to minimise waste being taken to landfill.  Anaerobic digestion will be introduced for organic waste from the town and farm to produce energy.

 

The Masterplan