The Enigma of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
The concept of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is simple in theory: any development should leave biodiversity in a better state than it was before. However, the process of understanding and implementing BNG is far from straightforward.
What is BNG?
Simply put, BNG requires developers to ensure their projects result in a measurable increase in biodiversity, which must be sustained for at least 30 years. As of 12th February 2024, a 10% BNG became mandatory for major developments under the 2021 Environmental Act. For small sites, this requirement took effect on 2nd April 2024. While there are exemptions, those could be the subject of an entirely separate discussion.
While the mandate for a 10% biodiversity net gain seems straightforward, its application is much more complex.
Measuring Biodiversity
Biodiversity is assessed using a standard metric that measures habitat in terms of "units”.
Factors considered in calculating habitat units are:
Size: The area of the habitat.
Condition: The quality and health of the habitat.
Type: The specific kind of habitat.
Strategic Significance: The importance of the habitat in the broader ecological context.
From the baseline habitat units, an increase of 10% is required, accounting for any habitat lost during development.
Sounds easy, right? Not quite - there are trading rules to follow.
The trading rules mandate that any habitat impacted by development must be replaced on a “like-for-like” or “like-for-better” basis. This means that the newly created or enhanced habitat must be of the same type or of a higher ecological value. For example, in a recent project, the removal of 3 trees required planting 11 new trees to achieve the same ecological value. Once trading rules are satisfied, the 10% increase of habitat units are required from the baseline.
Achieving BNG
There are three main ways developers can meet BNG requirements:
On-Site Measures: The most favourable approach involves enhancing biodiversity directly on the development site (within the project's red line area).
Off-Site Measures: Developers can either buy off-site credits or provide BNG on their own land outside the red line area. Off-site lands used for BNG must be registered on the Biodiversity Gain Sites Register, which currently costs £639.
Statutory Biodiversity Credits: Developers can purchase these credits from the government to fund biodiversity projects elsewhere.
The Role of Local Planning Authorities
Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) play a pivotal role in the BNG process, as they are responsible for approving biodiversity gain plans and ensuring compliance. However, LPAs often face resource and expertise shortages, which can lead to inconsistent interpretations and enforcement of BNG requirements.
Landowners are responsible for maintaining the BNGs for 30 years, and LPAs are tasked with monitoring compliance over this period. Given the existing strain on LPAs, a key question arises: how will they ensure long-term adherence to BNG commitments?
Planning vs. Ecology
BNG has brought planners and ecologists into closer collaboration. Planners are learning more about ecological requirements, while ecologists need to understand planning law to effectively guide developers through the BNG process.
For those unfamiliar with the BNG metric, it may feel like a minefield. To the developer the theory behind the metric may also be baffling. Developers often find themselves confused by requirements such as why removing a single shrub, which doesn’t qualify as a tree in arboricultural terms, might necessitate the planting of multiple trees or a hedge as compensation.
Navigating the intricacies of BNG requires teamwork and shared expertise. At Bluestone Planning, we’ve learned a great deal from recent projects, and every case has been unique. Our advice?
Get your ducks lined up in a row.
Advice for Developers
Consider BNG from the outset of your project. Engage with planners and ecologist as soon as possible and curate your design to minimise the loss of existing habitats and vegetation. Remember that any habitat that is removed must be replaced on at least a like-for-like basis, and a 10% BNG is required on top of that.
Each decision you make will likely have a knock-on effect on BNG, so define your proposal clearly and work closely with an ecologist to ensure compliance with the biodiversity metric.
Conclusion
BNG represents a promising step toward integrating biodiversity considerations into development. However, its complexity and the variability in its implementation mean that no one has fully mastered it yet. As we continue to refine our understanding and methods, it’s crucial to remain adaptable and committed to the overarching goal of enhancing biodiversity.
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At Bluestone Planning, we specialise in helping developers meet Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements and navigate the complexities of the planning process. Our team works closely with ecologists and planners to ensure your project not only meets the mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain but does so in a way that aligns with the latest regulations. Whether you need on-site measures, off-site credits, or statutory biodiversity credits, we provide tailored support to guide you through each step.
For expert advice on how we can assist with your BNG obligations or planning needs, contact us at Bluestone Planning by calling +44 1235 766825 or emailing admin@bluestoneplanning.co.uk
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