Urban regeneration also brings opportunities to improve biodiversity, development should design with nature from the outset. These could include mandatory swift bricks for all new buildings of two storeys or higher (apart from rare exceptions) as has been effectively included in other Local Plans e.g. Brighton and Hove, SUDS pond/drainage schemes, native and locally-sourced planting or natural regeneration where appropriate, allowing less managed areas in places with paths through and edges trimmed to show they are deliberate, planning around green spaces, connecting through green corridors, limiting light pollution, and making these aims clear in policy wording. The importance of wildlife and green spaces to also contribute to human wellbeing should be recognised. It is also essential that the value of brownfield sites is properly captured as these can support high biodiversity and potential of rare species. 

The RSPB recommends that the following steps are taken, from the RSPB’s Nature Friendly Design – the Essential Checklist document: 1.Considering nature from the outset 2. Drainage and water management that works with nature 3. Planting for people and wildlife 4. Design features for target species, such as Swifts 5. Ensuring long-term maintenance and stewardship