BNG is an alternative approach to land and marine development, where habitats must be left in a better state than they were pre-development

 

In accordance with the principles of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), from January 2024, new planning applications (with specific exemptions) will be required to demonstrate a 10% uplift in the biodiversity value of the site. This will extend to small sites in April 2024 and NSIP’s in 2025

 

For any new development, developers are required, wherever possible, to protect existing habitats and ecosystems. To ensure that any habitat loss is identified and mitigated in the early planning stages. As of 12th February 2024,  it is now a legal requirement for developers to deliver 10% biodiversity net gain (BNG) in new developments.

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It is important to form a balance between creating spaces for nature while still ensuring that a scheme meets local design codes, building regulations and is financially viable. Habitats which offer the highest unit return may not be suitable for the site in question or may be restricted from reaching moderate or good condition due to site constraints. Equally, ornamental planting with high visual appeal may offer negligible ecological value to native wildlife.

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Landscape level design – The proposed post-development habitats should reflect habitats and communities within the broader landscape which means selecting species appropriately. For example, although Scot’s pine is widespread across the UK, its native range is northern Scotland, meaning it may not be suitable for inclusion in a woodland planting mix in southern England. Local Nature Recovery Strategies and Biodiversity Action Plans can be used to inform habitat design and proposals should ideally contribute to local habitat networks.