Environment

145

Greater efficiency in water and energy usage will minimise the need for new infrastructure, and further reductions in carbon emissions will be delivered through the increased use of sustainable local energy sources. New water efficient buildings will also contribute to the protection of our water resources and water quality, helping to ensure the protection of our rivers, the Broads and our other wetland habitats. 

146

Air pollution levels will be reduced through a combination of better design and location of development, supported by technological changes. Improved air quality will mean that there will no longer be any Air Quality Management Areas in Greater Norwich.

147

This GNLP will protect and enhance the distinctive local characteristics of our city, towns and villages and their separate identities. This will be achieved by shaping high quality, well designed and beautiful new development, with homes large enough to provide for a good quality of life.

148

Development will make efficient use of brownfield sites and minimise the loss of greenfield land.

149

The development of a multi-functional green infrastructure network will continue across Greater Norwich. This enhanced network will help our communities mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change, by providing for biodiversity gain through improved and linked habitats, reducing flood risk and improving opportunities for active travel and leisure. Improved access to the countryside will be provided and the quality of our environmental assets will be enhanced. Visitor pressure on the Broads and other internationally and nationally protected sites will be reduced by new and improved green infrastructure both on and linked to developments, including delivery of the North West Woodland Country Park in Horsford.

150

Critically, our plan will have helped to achieve reductions in our greenhouse gas emissions to contribute to the national zero emission target by 2050.