Biodiversity net gain (BNG) will become mandatory for the majority of new developments in January 2024, while the requirement for smaller sites will follow in April.

Our Senior Ecologist, Lauren Atkins discusses how BNG will impact upon development projects.

So, what exactly is BNG?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a concept that refers to the principle of leaving the natural environment in a better state than before. Encouraging developers to provide an increase in appropriate natural habitat and ecological features over and above that being affected, in such a way that hopes to halt the current losses of biodiversity through development and restore ecological networks.

The BNG process can be used to inform and improve planning, design, land management and decision-making, that considers the direct impacts on habitats within the footprint of a development. Through this process, ‘biodiversity units’ are used as a proxy to describe a habitats value. This means for developments where removal of habitats is unavoidable through development, new like for like or better habitat must be created either on or off-site.

Authorities now require developments to demonstrate how they will achieve a minimum of 10% net gain when making planning decisions. This may be achieved through planting of native, plant, tree and hedgerow species, enhancement to existing habitats and/or the creation of entirely new habitats within the site. The aim of this is to offset any biodiversity loss from the development, ultimately leading to a net increase in biodiversity.

How should BNG be considered for development projects?

BNG should be considered at the very early stages of a development project. An assessment of a development site by a qualified ecologist will identify existing habitat and their quality. Using the DEFRA Metric, biodiversity gains (or losses) can be calculated and used to inform a scheme of biodiversity enhancements requirements.

It must be considered that any habitats created or enhanced for biodiversity net gain must be secured, managed and maintained for a minimum of 30 years.

Ideally, BNG should be delivered on site, but where this is not possible, it can be delivered off site or as a last resort through the purchase of “biodiversity credits”.

What other aspect of ecology can Corylus assist with?

It's important to note that planning policies can evolve over time, and specific local planning authorities may have their own additional policies and requirements Corylus can provide advice and guidance on the most up-to-date and precise information relating to government guidance or your local planning authority.

Many Councils, such as Cotswold District Council, require the submission of a Biodiversity Checklist completed by an accredited person. Corylus can assist with this and other aspects of ecology throughout a development project, including:

• Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
• Biodiversity Net Gain and habitat condition assessments
• Ecological Impact Assessments
• Completion of biodiversity checklists required for validation
• Biodiversity Management Plans;
• Landscape and Ecological Management Plans;
• Construction Environmental Management Plans

For more information or to discuss your project, contact us at info@corylus-ltd.co.uk