Under the provisions of the Habitats Regulations, we are required to consider the potential impacts of a land use plan on European-designated nature conservation sites.

We are working with partners - including Natural England - to investigate the effect of plans and projects on the Ashdown Forest Special Protection Areas(SPA) and Special Area of Conservation(SAC).

Planning applications for residential development within 7km of Ashdown Forest will be required to provide a financial contribution towards both Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) and Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM) mitigation.

Habitats Regulations Assessment for the Mid Sussex District Plan 2014-2031

This report presents the findings and recommendations of the Habitats Regulations Assessment for the focused amendments to the pre-submission draft Mid Sussex District Plan 2014-2031.

This was prepared to assess any potential effects of the District Plan on the integrity of the Ashdown Forest SPA and SAC.

Previous versions of the Habitats Regulations Assessment

Background Work

A considerable amount of work has been undertaken to support the Habitats Regulations Assessment which is still relevant.

Last updated: 21 August 2023