Written question WQ96430
- Asked by
- Janet Finch-SaundersConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
What consideration has the Cabinet Secretary given to requiring all new build housing with gardens to only have turf that is plastic free?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government
The Welsh Government is committed to tackling plastic pollution. We regularly review and update our policies to ensure they effectively address environmental challenges. We are currently considering the potential risks posed by microplastics as part of an evidence gathering process to inform potential further measures to reduce plastic pollution and promote the use of sustainable alternatives in various sectors.
Future Wales and Planning Policy Wales set out our approach to providing a net benefit for biodiversity as part of all new development. Whilst Planning Policy Wales does not explicitly cover the use of artificial grass or plastic netting turf in new build housing with gardens, the principles of good placemaking require housing developers to consider positive biodiversity outcomes when new development is proposed and to promote more sustainable behaviours and outcomes wherever possible.