In May 2021, the British government passed the Environment Act, a landmark piece of legislation that includes mandatory biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirements for developers. BNG is a planning requirement that seeks to ensure that development results in a net increase in biodiversity. In England, these requirements will come into force in November 2023 for major developments and in 2025 for smaller developments.
How does the BNG requirement work?
Developers will be required to calculate the "biodiversity value" of their site before and after development, using the government's Biodiversity Metric 3.0 tool. The biodiversity value is based on a number of factors, including the types and numbers of habitats and species present, as well as their condition and connectivity.
If the development is likely to result in a net loss of biodiversity, the developer will be required to submit a Biodiversity Net Gain Plan (BNGP) detailing how they will mitigate for the loss. This could involve creating new habitats within the development site, or providing financial compensation that will be used to create habitats off-site.
The BNG requirement will be enforced by local planning authorities, who will assess whether a development proposal meets the requirements before granting permission.
What are the benefits of the BNG requirement?
BNG is expected to deliver a number of benefits, including:
- Protecting and enhancing biodiversity: BNG will help to protect and enhance biodiversity by ensuring that development does not result in a net loss of biodiversity.
- Creating more wildlife habitats: BNG will require developers to create new habitats, which will provide a home for wildlife and support the recovery of rare and threatened species.
- Improving the quality of the environment: BNG will help to improve the quality of the environment by reducing pollution and improving air and water quality.
- Making developments more sustainable: BNG will encourage developers to adopt more sustainable practices by taking account of biodiversity impacts from the start of the design process.
How can developers prepare for the BNG requirement?
Developers can start preparing for the BNG requirement by taking the following steps:
- Understand the BNG requirement: Make sure you understand the BNG requirement and how it will affect your development projects.
- Assess your site: Conduct a biodiversity assessment of your site to determine the biodiversity value and identify any areas of concern.
- Incorporate BNG into your design: Consider biodiversity net gain at an early stage of the design process to ensure that your development meets the requirements.
- Consult with stakeholders: Engage with local stakeholders, such as conservation groups, to get their feedback on your BNG proposals.
- Prepare a BNG plan: If necessary, prepare a BNG plan that details how you will achieve biodiversity net gain on your site.
By following these steps, developers can help ensure that their projects meet the BNG requirement and contribute to the protection and enhancement of biodiversity.
