Richmond Draft Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document Consultation 2026
Results updated 19 Aug 2026
The Draft Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) consultation closed on 23 March 2026. We received 16 responses from residents and other interested parties.
Following consideration of the consultation responses, the Head of Spatial Planning, in liaison with the Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, agreed to adopt the Biodiversity SPD on 9 June 2026.
What we heard
Most responses were broadly supportive of the Biodiversity SPD and its objective of strengthening biodiversity outcomes through the planning process. Key comments focused on clarifying the role and scope of the SPD, increasing references to related strategies and guidance, recognising cross-boundary ecological issues, and improving technical detail relating to matters such as bat-friendly lighting, marine planning, environmental permits, riverside management and biodiversity enhancements including swift bricks.
How your feedback was used
Consultation responses were reviewed and considered before the final version of the SPD was adopted. A number of minor, non-substantive updates were incorporated into the SPD to reflect the feedback received.
Further information
The decision notice, officer decision report and supporting documents can be viewed here.
Overview
Richmond Council is consulting on its draft Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). You can view the full draft SPD here.
The draft SPD provides clear guidance as to how biodiversity can be considered and incorporated at each stage of the development process, ensuring that biodiversity is integral to the design of proposals. It includes detailed information about how proposals can ensure biodiversity is considered and enhanced in the Borough, providing advice on targeted biodiversity enhancements and takes into account the Richmond Biodiversity Action Plan. The SPD responds to the updated BNG requirements (2024) and will support the biodiversity policies set out in the Richmond upon Thames Local Plan.
How to get involved
We are asking for your feedback to make sure the draft SPD is clear and practical. For more information please visit our Draft Supplementary Planning Document page.
Please give us your feedback either by email or letter:
- By email to LocalPlan@richmond.gov.uk
- By post to Spatial Planning and Design, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, Civic Centre, 44 York Street, Twickenham, TW1 3BZ
If your feedback relates to a specific part of the document, please make sure it is clear which part, along with any changes you feel should be made.
Please note that your response will not be treated as confidential and any anonymous responses will not be accepted.
For details on how we handle personal data, see our Privacy Notice.
What happens next
A summary of the responses to the consultation will be made available following the consultation period. These responses will be fully considered and if appropriate, changes will be made to the final version of the document prior to its adoption by the Council, which is intended to be later in 2026.
Areas
- Barnes
- East Sheen
- Fulwell & Hampton Hill
- Ham, Petersham & Richmond Riverside
- Hampton
- Hampton North
- Hampton Wick & South Teddington
- Heathfield
- Kew
- Mortlake & Barnes Common
- North Richmond
- South Richmond
- South Twickenham
- St. Margarets & North Twickenham
- Teddington
- Twickenham Riverside
- West Twickenham
- Whitton
Audiences
- Open to all
Interests
- Richmond Borough
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