Nature

Green Infrastructure is the network of connected, multi-functional green and blue spaces and other natural features that extend through urban and rural areas. It is capable of delivering a wide range of environmental, economic, social, health and wellbeing benefits. Green Infrastructure comprises open spaces, woodlands, wildlife habitats, rivers, ponds, parks, food-growing areas, street trees, private gardens and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS), among other natural and semi-natural features.

This Design Code promotes a greener, healthier and more resilient borough by supporting development that protects, enhances and connects Green Infrastructure assets. In doing so, it contributes to Cheshire West and Chester Council's response to the climate and nature emergency declared in 2019, while supporting biodiversity, climate adaptation and the health and wellbeing of residents.

The incorporation of street trees and greenery into development is an essential part of ensuring climate resilliance. They can:

• Improve air quality by absorbing pollution and buffering road traffic emissions;
• Shade streets, regulate temperature and reduce the urban heat island effect;
• Enhance biodiversity and ecological connectivity by creating wildlife habitat;
• Intercept rainfall and improve infiltration, reducing pressure on drainage systems and recharging aquifers;
• Support traffic calming and speed reduction;
• Encourage walking, wheeling and cycling;
• Improve mental wellbeing and support cognitive development;
• Enhance the appearance of streets and the setting of buildings; and
• Increase property values, and
• Contribute to an area's prevailing historic character.

This chapter sets out how greenery, trees, biodiversity and SuDS should be woven into development from the start of the design process, directly supporting current Local Plan (Part Two) Policies DM44 (Protecting and enhancing the natural environment) and DM 45 (Trees, woodland and hedgerows).