RESIDENTS are being asked to give their views on new planning guidance about the management of the natural environment.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council aims to strengthen its planning guidance to provide more support to the natural environment through its new landscape, biodiversity and trees supplementary planning document.

A seven-week public consultation ending on Monday, 17 September is for residents to give their opinion on the planning guidance proposals.

The document sets out the borough council’s expectations for high quality development and highlights good practice to shape high quality design. It includes guidance about how biodiversity should be protected and enhanced, and how green spaces should be incorporated into new development.

It also explains how existing trees and hedgerows should be retained, and the types of new hard and soft landscaping that should be provided.

Cabinet member for planning and infrastructure at the borough council, Councillor Mark Ruffell, said: “It is essential to preserve the borough’s beautiful and diverse natural environment for the benefit of future generations.

“I hope members of the public will take the time to find out more about the proposals in the draft Landscape, Biodiversity and Trees Supplementary Planning Document and give their views online.”

To comment, go to basingstoke.gov.uk/planning-policy-consultations.