Local Plans - Catchment Nature & Environment
South West water has published its Waste Water and Drainage Plans for the Kingsbridge - South Devon Area (May 2023). This covers their targets for the next 25 years.
In 2015, the South Devon Catchment Partnership stakeholders and technical specialists came together to undertake a review of all the natural assets we have in South Devon, the benefits they provide us with, and the opportunities to improve or maximise these benefits. See the maps and plan in the link above. We have a project pipeline spreadsheet which is reviewed and updated at meetings. Some of these projects are being developed for a specific funding stream, while others are being recorded and developed to be ‘shovel-ready’ for an appropriate funding opportunity. These meetings are open to all partners with a project they would like to develop in the South Devon area.
The Devon Nature Recovery Network Map is a strategic tool to help us achieve a Nature Recovery Network of wildlife rich habitats across Devon. The map will help to ensure that everyone is aware of existing wildlife habitats, networks and priorities across the county. Uses include: Informing Local Plans, Neighbourhood Plans and Planning applications Targeting funding e.g. Biodiversity Net Gain, ELM (environmental land management payments) and funding for habitat creation linked to benefits such as carbon sequestration, flood control, water quality improvements and recreation/tourism (known as Payments for Ecosystem Services). Targeting conservation effort.
The South Devon National Landscape's Nature Recovery Plan offers guidelines on an interactive map of where low grade agricultural land could provide an opportunity for higher nature value. The map also extends beyond the AONB.
Plan for Water aims tol transform the management of the water system, deliver cleaner water for nature and people, and secure a plentiful water supply. The actions are for government and regulators to lead on, but everyone needs to be involved to deliver this, including: water companies businesses, regulators and the public. The Plan for Water sets out measures to transform and integrate our water system, address sources of pollution and boost our water supplies through more investment, tighter regulation, and more effective enforcement.
Plan is a practical document for the implementation of work programmes to meet key NNR objectives. 1. Maintain and enhance the important habitats and species of the site to good condition whilst recognising climate change is likely to influence the status of some of these habitats. 2. Demonstrate practical conservation management for educational purposes. 3. Provide high-quality field sites for education and research in a safe and secure setting. 4. Maintain and enhance public enjoyment of the site through good public access and visitor experience. 5. Conserve the distinctive landscape character and spirit of place the site has. 6. Place Slapton Ley NNR within the wider landscape setting and seek opportunities to influence environmental opportunities outside the reserve so that its intrinsic interest is not isolated and fragmented features. 7. Provide relevant information to help inform the management plan.
Highlights the special qualities and significance of the Estuaries. Presents a vision for the future of the Estuaries. Sets out objectives and policies to secure the vision. Identifies what needs to be done, by whom, and when. States how the condition of the Estuaries and the effectiveness of its management will be monitored. Provides a framework and process for the resolution of differences and conflicts. Reflects the views and aspirations of a wide range of Estuarine ‘stakeholders’. Co-ordinates the work of different partner organisations.
Targets a 5.5% per year increase in biodiversity in the South Hams with a 20% increase in 4 years. Form a Climate & Biodiversity Experts’ Advisory Panel. Implement Project Assessment tool to consider environmental and social impacts. Continue to fund Sustainable South Hams. Launch a thermal imaging camera lending scheme. Hold a Climate & Biodiversity Assembly. Promote the action taken across the South Hams to tackle the climate emergency – tell the story. Carry out feasibility studies on viable council car parks for solar canopies. Increase tree planting in urban areas, extend and improve our woodland and protect wildlife habitats. Set up a Councillor Environmental Fund to support community action. Work with a community energy group to increase availability of community owned energy within the District. Deliver schemes to reduce the impact of our ferry and harbour operations