Nutrient Neutrality Update 20.03.2023
Key Update
No Nutrient Neutrality Credits are yet available for purchase.
There is a potential conflict of interest between the planning authority and credit scheme company.
Natural England have commented on the Norfolk Nutrient Budget Calculator and have not accepted it in its current format.
Credit Scheme
The Natural England Nutrient Mitigation Scheme provides funding for nature-based solutions to benefit small and medium-sized developments in Norfolk. Credits can be purchased to enable development to be permitted. However, progress has been slow and no credits are currently available. A new Joint Venture called Norfolk Environmental Credits Ltd has been formed with the aim of developing mitigation solutions to help lift the brake on planning applications. The establishment of mitigation solutions is necessary for planning permissions to be granted. Until mitigation solutions are established, applicants will have to agree to an extension of time or applications may be refused.
In addition to the information provided in the previous summary, it is worth noting that Phil Courtier, who is the Head of Planning at Broadland and South Norfolk District Council, is also the sole director of Norfolk Environmental Credits Ltd. This has raised some concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as Mr. Courtier is responsible for making planning decisions that could benefit the joint venture in which he is involved. It is important for local authorities to ensure that there is transparency and accountability in such situations to avoid any perception of impropriety.
Norfolk Calculator
Natural England has responded to a consultation regarding the Norfolk Nutrient Budget Calculator. The email notes that the approach adopted by the Norfolk calculator is consistent with that of the Natural England nutrient budget calculator but highlights three elements where the approach differs: occupancy rates, water usage, and WwTW discharge concentrations. The email provides detailed comments and advice regarding these three elements. Regarding occupancy rates, Natural England advises that locally relevant data should be used to derive an appropriate occupancy figure for Norfolk. For water usage, Natural England advises against removing the additional 10 liters per person, per day, and recommends a more precautionary approach. Regarding WwTW discharge concentrations, the email notes that the Norfolk calculator uses a hybrid approach and advises the Norfolk authorities to ensure that the figures used in the calculator do not underestimate the nutrient load of new development.