In order to give more precise direction for applicants and increase the effectiveness of the policies, removing some of the ambiguity from these statements will be helpful. Statements such as 'where possible' 'where required''where necessary' invite dispute and doubt through different interpretation. They can be made much more definitive and hence effective by changing the wording slightly. Therefore I would advise slightly altering the wording to retain the sentiment but improve the functionality.

Developments are required to demonstrate how existing wildlife habitats and priority habitats such as trees, hedgerows, woodlands and rivers will be retained, safeguarded and managed during and after development, including the provision of habitat buffers. Buffers of a minimum of 12m of complimentary habitat will be required to all connective features of wildlife habitat or priority habitats.

A management plan outlining mitigation measures will be required to sensitively manage any issues arising as a result of the development on biodiversity or geodiversity assets.

Development proposals will be expected to maximise opportunities for net gains, or contribute to improvements in biodiversity, which must be demonstrated by using a locally approved Biodiversity Impact Calculator based on the DEFRA metric (or as updated).

Net gains can be delivered through the provision of soft landscaping, including trees, shrubs and other vegetation to support wildlife habitats as identified by the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan.z Similarly, the provision of permanent integrated features for wildlife can contribute to net gains. The provision of integrated bat and bird boxes will be expected on all suitable buildings where development borders open space or priority habitat.