The Local Plan for the Broads: Issues and Options Consultation

Biodiversity is at the heart of nature recovery. Our natural environment and the beneficial goods, services and cultural values it provides from food and energy to landscape character and recreation are in good condition, used fairly and sustainably, and valued by society. In particular, the precious nature of plentiful, clean, fresh water as a fundamental resource is understood and respected by all.
We are meeting the challenges of climate change and sea level rise, and the carbon reduction targets of ‘net zero’ by 2040, with well-maintained soils that retain and increase stored carbon.

Wildlife is flourishing and habitats are maintained, restored and, expanded. Land and water are managed in an integrated way, with local and landscape-scale management that creates resilience and space for nature and agriculture, enabling us to adapt to changing environmental, economic and social needs. The area’s environmental history is better appreciated through understanding its sediments, rocks and landforms.

The past and present importance of the waterways for navigation, biodiversity and recreation is recognised and cherished, and the asset is protected, maintained and enhanced.

This living, working, ‘big skies’ landscape is notable for its natural beauty, distinctive local character and historic significance. People of all ages, abilities and circumstances enjoy it as a place to live and work, as a place of escape, adventure, learning and tranquillity, and as a source of national pride and identity. Local communities are active in decisions about their future and sustainable living is seen in action. There is a buoyant rural economy and a viable, well-used public transport network, and local housing need is being met.
The Broads National Park is forever recognised as fundamental to our prosperity and our mental and physical health and wellbeing, and is forever treasured as a unique and special place that provides a breathing space for the cure of souls.

10.4 Potential changes to the objectives

It is proposed that the objectives could be amended to address the following aspects:

• OBJ2 - Mention dark skies specifically
• OBJ4 – mention nature recovery (more, bigger, better, joined)
• OBJ5 – reference the importance of using the nature-based solutions
• OBJ7 – refer to net zero? Include adaptation?
• OBJ9 – could include warm, energy efficient homes? Refer to the issue of second homes?
• OBJ14 – potential to refer to the tension between tourism and sustainability?