FOI request (FOIR-297892419)

Biodiversity of Hastings

Requested Tue 19 January 2021
Responded Fri 29 January 2021

I note that the Planning Department are responsible for looking out for the biodiversity for Hastings. Is there anyone in the Planning Department qualified to carry out this type of work? Incidentally what qualifications has **** got? I looked up and found that the Planning Department are responsible to ensure that biodiversity for Hastings is maintained. Again, is there anybody qualified in the Department to carry out this important work as the Developers Ecologists are only there for the money and they need close scrutiny. It must be remembered that the Government has put all wildlife in full protection because the country is becoming a place without wildlife.

Response

Planning Services are not responsible for Ecology in Hastings, but rather assess the impact of proposed development on a number of factors including biodiversity.

Ecology sits within our 'Environment and Place' department. However, Hastings Borough Council does not employ a full time Ecology Officer.

Notice of Refusal

The information you have requested in respect of officer qualifications is exempt information under Section 40(2) of the Freedom of Information Act 'personal data'. This is an absolute exemption, therefore the requested information will not be provided.