Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements
Following yesterday’s press report the government has provided an update on mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/biodiversity-net-gain-moves-step-closer-with-timetable-set-out
The updated timetable states that developers in England will be required to deliver 10% BNG for:
- large sites from January 2024 onwards
- small sites from April 2024 onwards
- Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects is planned for 2025.
Mandatory BNG will only apply to new applications for planning permission made after the implementation date. The precise implementation dates are currently unknown. By the end of November, the government intends to have published all guidance and the regulations including:
- the statutory biodiversity metric
- the draft biodiversity gain plan template
- the Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan template
- a package of BNG guidance that sets out further advice on roles and responsibilities of various parties
Further updates are expected in due course. In the meantime we recommend that developers and land owners continue to plan ahead and explore how their proposed projects can integrate gains in biodiversity alongside development.
A BNG Feasibility study is a good first step for projects at pre-application or site selection stage. This gives an opportunity to understand the baseline value of a site in ‘Biodiversity Units’ and what design options are feasible. For more information about our biodiversity services and assessments email ecology@optimis-consulting.co.uk or call 01234 330624.
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