Biodiversity and Geodiversity
Bexley is home to some wonderful wildlife and natural places, including the Thames Marshes in Erith and Crayford and ancient woodlands at Lesnes Abbey and Chalk Wood.
The conservation of biodiversity and geodiversity is an essential part of sustainable development and is important for people and the economy. Biodiversity and geodiversity also help to reduce the impacts of climate change, as green areas absorb rainfall and have a cooling effect in summer.
Biodiversity and geodiversity is an important consideration in the assessment of planning applications. Important sites, habitats and species receive protection through bylaws, planning policies and guidance.
Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation
Sites of importance for nature conservation (SINC) and strategic green wildlife corridors are protected by policies within Bexley’s Development Plan.
Places in Bexley that are of the most significant value for wildlife and biodiversity have been designated by the Council as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation. Strategic green wildlife corridors help to enhance their connection to wider ecological networks.
- Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) Report 2016 (PDF)*
- Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) Report Addendum 2022 (PDF)
- Appendix 1 to SINC Report Addendum – partial review ecological assessment 2020 (PDF)*
- Appendix 2 to SINC Report Addendum – partial review consultation document 2021 (PDF)
- Appendix 3 to SINC Report Addendum – partial review consultation statement 2021 (PDF)
*These files may not be suitable for users of assistive technology. Request an accessible format
The Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation Report and the partial review paper are an important consideration for developers in the preparation of planning applications. SINC are a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.
More information on London's biodiversity and Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation is available from the Mayor of London.
Biodiversity
Bexley is home to some wonderful wildlife and natural places, including the Thames marshes in Erith and Crayford and ancient woodlands at Lesnes Abbey and Chalk Wood.
The conservation of biodiversity is an essential part of sustainable development and is important for people and the economy. Biodiversity also helps to reduce the impacts of climate change, as green areas absorb rainfall and have a cooling effect in summer.
Biodiversity is an important consideration in the assessment of planning applications. Important sites, habitats and species receive protection bylaws, policies and guidance.