Herefordshire Natural Environment Evidence

Entrant's Summary: The Herefordshire Natural Environment Evidence project, a collaborative endeavour by LUC for Herefordshire Council, stands as an exemplar of digital innovation in the planning domain. It serves as a comprehensive, web-based natural environment evidence base that redefines the landscape of professional planning. Integrating diverse datasets related to four component workstreams, including Landscape Character Assessment, Open Space Assessment, detailed Habitat and Species Analysis, and a Green and Blue Infrastructure (GBI) study, the project identifies ten Strategic Priority GBI zones, and offers a dynamic, multifaceted planning resource to support delivery of the new Herefordshire Local Plan. Worthy of the Award for Use of Digital Planning, this project showcases efficiency and inclusivity in its strategic use of GIS-based mapping and digital reporting. The project provides a transparent and accessible framework to guide sustainable development with environmental considerations, enhancing the overall effectiveness of Herefordshire’s local planning system. The project's user-friendly web interface broadens public engagement and involvement, and its full compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines ensures equity of access to the Natural Environment Evidence information, promoting transparency in the planning system. The Herefordshire Natural Environment Evidence Project effectively utilises digital tools to streamline planning processes and encourage community participation, making it a standout candidate for recognition in digital planning excellence.