February 2022

15 Buckden Roundabout February 2022 Biodiversity and Flooding PLANNING AND BIODIVERSITY The Parish Council cannot approve or refuse planning applications, but our comments and views are sought and considered by Huntingdon District Council (HDC), when they make planning decisions. We consider all planning applications against the objectives laid out in the Neighbourhood Plan and ac- cording to national requirements. A key aim of national planning guidance is to encourage an increase in biodiversity, and we look for ways to promote that aim whenever we review applications, e.g., suggesting wildflower and tree planting, bird and bat boxes for new houses or business premises. SOLAR FARMS A related priority is to find ways to help mitigate the impact of climate change. One approach, promot- ed nationally, is to develop “ solar farms ”. A local example is that close to Grafham water. All plans for solar farms need to show how they would help wildlife. We are currently aware of two plans within our Parish boundaries. We have had early discussions with the developers to understand the impact of these schemes and are keen to hear the views of residents. The Council has purchased a thermal imaging camera which can be borrowed by residents to help de- termine the thermal efficiency of their home and enable decisions about, for example, insulation. Con- tact the Clerk if you are interested. FLOODING This has been a key issue for the village in the last year. We have no direct authority to take action, but we have been very active in lobbying all those that have the power to get something done. This includes HDC and Cambridgeshire County Council and our local MP. The key areas of concern have been: • Lack of drain clearance, causing flooding in areas such as Silver Street and Manor Gardens. • Serious flooding in the High Street on several occasions caused by both lack of drain clear- ance and a drainage system that is not fit for purpose • The risk of flooding created by attenuation basins on the Lucks Lane development (see be- low). An additional issue has been problems with the sewage system in St Hugh ’ s Road.