Biodiversity Net Gain Planning Practice Guidance

This month we are looking into biodiversity net gain, and more importantly, the planning guidance and implications around the subject.

Firstly though, let’s take a step back and answer the question of what biodiversity net gain is exactly.

It sounds complex, however the concept is fairly simple.

What is ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’?

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is an approach to development that seeks to ensure that the habitats for wildlife in and around the development are of better quality following any work undertaken. By following this principle the hope is that we’ll encourage nature recovery and provide new spaces for our wildlife to thrive.

BNG is not just for our animal’s sake though, spending time in outdoor green spaces has many health benefits for us humans, and this policy is also designed to help our health.

What type of Planning Applications does BNG Cover?

The Government list of current BNG exemptions states that the following types of development are currently excluded –

• Existing Planning Applications – made before 12/02/24
• Variations of Planning Permission
• Developments below the threshold – i.e. does not impact a priority habitat and is less than 25 square metres or 5 meters of on-site linear such as hedgerows.
• Householder applications – small projects such as loft conversions etc.
• High Speed Rail – HS2.
• Small Scale Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding – To qualify the development must consist of no more than 9 dwellings and be no larger than 0.5 hectares.

The BNG requirement will cover most other types of development.

Does Biodiversity net gain apply to Permitted Development?

BNG does not apply to anything covered by permitted development.

So, typical home refurbishment work such as loft conversions, and adding decked areas and driveways will not be affected by BNG.

How to approach BNG Planning

Our Biodiversity Net Gain planning practice guidance is based upon following the information shared by the government here and also the information distributed by the local planning authorities around the Warwickshire and West Midlands area.

1. Firstly, clarify whether the application would be subject to the biodiversity net gain requirement if so, certain conditions within the application must be met.
2. If the development is subject to BNG requirements, a suitable Biodiversity report should be prepared at the pre-development stage. This would include the biodiversity metric calculation for the site in question. An ecological assessment of the habitat that will be affected will be undertaken. The report will explain how the 10% BNG will be achieved.
3. A Biodiversity Gain Plan (BGP) must also be submitted alongside the planning application. The BGP sets out the information around how the biodiversity net gain is to be delivered.

We can help with Biodiversity net gain planning

It goes without saying that BNG has its complexities. If you are a developer in need of guidance or assistance on any issue around biodiversity net gain please get in touch and we can go through your options.

We can help prepare and submit planning applications that include all the necessary information in order to comply with Biodiversity Net Gain legislation.