New Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Requirements For Planning Applications In The UK

Recently, the UK government made a landmark decision to mandate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for all planning applications, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship in development projects.

Here are some key highlights of the new legislation:

• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now mandatory for all planning applications in the UK.

• Developers must deliver a BNG of 10%, meaning that the development must result in more or better quality natural habitat.

• Biodiversity value is measured in standardised biodiversity units, which can be lost through development or generated through habitat creation and enhancement.

• There are three ways for developers to achieve BNG: on-site strategies, off-site strategies, and buying statutory biodiversity credits.

• The BNG Service, including the Biodiversity Gain Site Register, provides guidance and digital tools for developers, landowners, and local planning authorities to comply with BNG requirements.

Starting from the 12th of February 2024, BNG has become mandatory for fresh planning submissions concerning significant developments as per the Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA) 1990, with specific exceptions. Significant development entails residential projects comprising 10 or more dwellings or sites exceeding 0.5 hectares. Additionally, small-scale BNG implementation will commence on April the 2nd, 2024, accompanied by an extended transition period. Small sites are characterised as residential developments featuring 1 to 9 dwellings or an unspecified number of dwellings on a site smaller than 0.5 hectares.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) represents a paradigm shift in the approach to development projects across the UK. With the goal of ensuring that developments yield a net positive impact on biodiversity, the requirement necessitates developers to achieve a BNG of at least 10%. This entails enhancing or creating natural habitats to offset any biodiversity loss incurred during construction.

“As we witness the introduction of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), it’s clear that its implications will affect various stakeholders involved in the planning and execution of development projects. From major developers navigating the complexities of residential construction to those at the helm of nationally significant infrastructure initiatives, adherence to BNG standards emerges as a fundamental priority. Additionally, land managers seeking entry into the burgeoning BNG market and local planning authorities are also bound by these regulations, fostering a collaborative effort towards biodiversity enhancement” says Silas Willoughby Chartered Town Planner at Planning By Design

To adhere to BNG regulations, developers must present a comprehensive plan outlining strategies to achieve the mandated 10% gain in biodiversity. These strategies encompass both on-site initiatives and off-site measures, all subject to approval by the local planning authority before the commencement of development activities.

The rollout of Biodiversity Net Gain marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s environmental journey, signalling a collective commitment to safeguarding and enriching the nation’s natural heritage.

For further insights into the new New Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Requirements For Planning Applications In The UK, explore the detailed information provided in our latest blog post: https://planning-by-design.co.uk/new-biodiversity-net-gain-bng-policy/