Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
What It Is
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a new legal requirement for most developments. It means your project must leave the natural environment in a better state than before. In practice, this means measuring the quality and size of habitats on your site, then improving them by at least 10% through enhancements, new habitats, or long-term management.
Why It Matters — Risks Without It
❌ You won’t get planning permission without proving BNG
📣 Objections from planners, communities, and conservation bodies
⚠️ Expensive redesigns if biodiversity is overlooked late in the process
🧾 Breach of the Environment Act 2021 obligations
What’s Measured
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Existing habitats on-site (grassland, woodland, wetlands, etc.)
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Their quality, size, and ecological value
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Proposed changes — habitat creation, restoration, or enhancements
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Biodiversity “units” before and after development, calculated using the DEFRA metric
How It Works
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An ecologist surveys your site to map and score habitats
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Baseline biodiversity value is calculated
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Enhancements are designed into the project — e.g., wildflower meadows, hedgerows, ponds, green roofs
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A Biodiversity Net Gain Plan is produced for planning submission
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Long-term monitoring ensures the 10% net gain is delivered
Who It’s For
🏗️ Developers needing planning approval for new projects
🏛️ Local authorities enforcing biodiversity conditions
🏢 Planning consultants coordinating environmental reports
🌱 Landowners who want to improve habitats or sell biodiversity “credits”
What You Get
📄 A BNG Report and Plan ready for submission
📊 Clear evidence that your scheme meets the 10% net gain requirement
🧠 Practical advice on habitat improvements that work with your site
✅ Confidence your project is legally compliant and future-proofed
🌍 Simple Rule: Take what’s already there, improve it by 10%, and prove it with data. That’s Biodiversity Net Gain.
