Delivered in partnership with property consultancy Bidwells, which has been appointed to manage the scheme over the next five years, Lower Valley Farm has been developed to coincide with the introduction of new regulations in January 2024 that will require all developments – whether housing, commercial or infrastructure projects – to produce a biodiversity net gain of at least 10% if they are to be granted planning permission.
The purchase of biodiversity units will be used to offset any biodiversity loss stemming from Network Rail’s Cambridge South Infrastructure Enhancement scheme, which involves the development of a new railway station in South Cambridge.
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The proposed biodiversity enhancements, aimed to go far beyond the minimum net gain requirements, will include the establishment of species-rich hedgerows, botanically diverse grassland, and native Broadleaved Woodland. Once the habitats are established, the site aims to incorporate additional public access which will provide an important public resource without compromising the conservation outcomes
The size of the scheme, and this method of delivering biodiversity units ‘off-site’, showcases what should be possible for the delivery of biodiversity net gain across England. Where developers are unable to compensate for biodiversity loss on site, they must either deliver habitat enhancements within off-site schemes, or as a last resort purchase statutory credits that contribute to doing so. This ‘off-the-shelf’ method of delivery helps to reduce risks and delays for developers so that they are able to get their developments through the planning stage.
Councillor Lucy Nethsingha, Leader of Cambridgeshire County Council said: "Investing in the natural environment is crucial for a sustainable Cambridgeshire. Our innovative scheme at Lower Valley Farm makes it straightforward for developers unable to offer biodiversity net gain enhancing nature in the local area, through a Council backed scheme. On our thoughtfully managed former farmland we will be creating spaces for pollinators by establishing hay meadows, woodland and species rich hedgerows. We look forward to the benefits of botanic diversity and wildlife multiplying, as we craft these new habitats. In time we will also be putting in new paths to open up the area to the public, providing social as well as environmental gains for the local community."
