Cyngor Bro Morgannwg
Vale of Glamorgan Council

The Green Infrastructure policies are welcome but overlook building-dependent species such as bats and red-listed endangered birds such as swifts, house sparrows and house martins.

Wales does not yet have planning guidance for these species but England has guidance based on British Standard BS 42021 for Integral Nest Boxes.

Therefore, please implement the equivalent of England national planning policy guidance (NPPG) Natural Environment 2025 paragraph 017 (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/natural-environment ), with regard to at least one swift brick per dwelling on average for new developments as these are a universal nest brick for small bird species, not included in quantitative biodiversity calculations so a separate policy is needed.

Key text to include from the England NPPG is as follows:
"Developments should include integrated nest boxes (commonly known as swift bricks) where possible, with the general aim across a development of a minimum of one nest box per unit. Nest boxes can provide important habitat for other species as well as swifts, such as starlings and sparrows.
Extensive guidance is available on wildlife friendly features, including the National Design Guide and National Model Design Code which illustrate how well-designed places can support rich and varied biodiversity by facilitating habitats and routes for wildlife. More specific support for the selection and installation of swift bricks can be found in the British Industry Standard BS 42021:2022 the Future Homes Hub Homes for Nature Guidance, and the RSPB’s Guide to Nestboxes. "

Please add, as house martins are a significant species in the Vale of Glamorgan with good availability of vegetated and waterside areas for foraging:

"Artificial nest cups for house martins may be specified as an alternative to swift bricks, where recommended by a suitably qualified ecologist."

Please also add the following, to ensure effective implementation:
"Post-construction stage confirmation of installation is required through photographs or verification by a suitably qualified ecologist."

Existing nest sites in buildings should be protected and retained where possible, and equivalent mitigation provided where this is not possible.