What is biodiversity net gain (BNG)?
Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is a government requirement that ensures new developments leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than before.
Since 12 February 2024, most planning permissions for “in scope” developments have had to deliver at least a 10% increase in biodiversity value, based on the statutory biodiversity metric.
How BNG can be delivered
BNG can be achieved in three ways:
- on-site – preferred option
- off-site – using registered biodiversity gain sites
- statutory biodiversity credits – only if other options are not possible
All habitat improvements must be maintained for at least 30 years after development is completed.
The biodiversity gain hierarchy
Developers must follow the biodiversity gain hierarchy, which prioritises:
- first, in relation to onsite habitats which have a medium, high and very high distinctiveness (a score of four or more according to the statutory biodiversity metric):
- the avoidance of adverse effects from the development and, if they cannot be avoided,
- the mitigation of those effects; and
- then, in relation to all onsite habitats which are adversely affected by the development, the adverse effect should be compensated by prioritising in order, where possible,
- (i) the enhancement of existing onsite habitats,
- (ii) creation of new onsite habitats,
- (iii) allocation of registered offsite gains and finally (iv) the purchase of biodiversity credits.
This hierarchy does not apply to irreplaceable habitats.
When to consider BNG
BNG should be considered early in the planning process, including:
- site selection
- design
- pre-application discussions with us
We encourage developers to use our pre-application advice service to discuss BNG requirements.
The biodiversity gain hierarchy is set out in full within section 37A of the legislation and can be viewed online.
How can I obtain further advice?
See the Detailed Planning Practice Guidance on BNG
Government guidance highlights the importance of early pre-application discussions. We offer a fee-based one stop shop service that provides planning advice for proposed developments.
If you would like advice specifically on biodiversity net gain (BNG), please make this clear in your request. To get the most from the service, we recommend preparing your proposal in advance and, where possible, completing the relevant pre- and post-development biodiversity metric tools.
Please note that an additional charge may apply for BNG-related advice.
View One Stop Shop Service Details
Disclaimer
This page provides a brief overview of the topic at the time of publication. It does not provide comprehensive advice and guidance on all aspects of BNG. In all cases reference should be made to the most up to date guidance.