Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

Biodiversity Net Gain UK for Planning Applications, Habitat Baseline, Metric Calculations and Delivery Strategy

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a planning requirement that demonstrates measurable improvement in biodiversity value compared with the pre-development baseline. BNG typically involves habitat baseline assessment, calculation using the statutory biodiversity metric, and a delivery strategy showing how the required gain will be achieved on-site, off-site or via statutory credits. A clear BNG approach reduces planning delay by aligning ecology evidence, design decisions and long-term habitat management requirements.

When BNG Is Required

BNG is typically required where:

• Your planning application is subject to mandatory BNG requirements
• Habitats on site will be retained, enhanced, created or lost and a baseline is needed
• Planning officers request a BNG statement, metric outputs and delivery strategy
• Off-site units or habitat banks may be needed and you require options appraisal
• Long-term management and monitoring commitments must be evidenced

Purpose of BNG

The purpose is to ensure development results in a quantifiable biodiversity improvement, not just mitigation of harm. A strong BNG plan demonstrates: baseline habitat value, post-development habitat proposals, risk adjustments, delivery mechanism, and management commitments over the required term.

How BNG Works in Practice

BNG typically links to Ecology Surveys for baseline and to Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) where designated sites and pathways are relevant.

• Baseline habitat assessment and mapping (condition, distinctiveness, area)
• Metric calculation using the statutory biodiversity metric approach
• Design iteration to improve on-site outcomes where feasible
• Delivery strategy (on-site, off-site units, or statutory credits if needed)
• Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan outlining long-term maintenance and performance

What the Service Delivers

• Baseline habitat assessment inputs and mapping suitable for planning
• BNG metric calculations and clear outputs for submission
• Options appraisal to achieve BNG efficiently (on-site first, then off-site where needed)
• BNG delivery narrative aligned to planning decision-making
• Habitat management and monitoring framework to support conditions and obligations

Standards, Guidance and Regulatory Context

BNG planning requirements and implementation reference GOV.UK Biodiversity Net Gain guidance, Biodiversity Metric user guidance, and Planning Practice Guidance for the natural environment.

What We Need From You

• Red line plan and proposed layout (including landscape proposals if available)
• Programme and planning submission timeline
• Any existing ecology baseline information or surveys
• Constraints affecting delivery (floodplain, utilities, visibility splays, access)