Sustainable development sits high on the political agenda which makes improving biodiversity a key driver for developers, land owners and local planning authorities. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) sits within the Environment Act 2021. The purpose of this new requirement is to counteract the loss or degradation of habitat caused by the proposed development. It is to ensure that the habitat for wildlife is in a better state than it was before development.
As of 12th February 2024, all major developments in England are required by law to deliver 10% Biodiversity Net Gain to be maintained for a period of at least 30 years. Biodiversity value is calculated using the statutory measurement tools available from Natural England, and is based on an assessment of habitat type, size, distinctiveness, condition, and location, obtained via a baseline Preliminary Ecological Assessment.
Developers must now consider Biodiversity at the forefront of their development proposals and provide a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment to support their planning applications and ensure appropriate budgeting for mitigation measures is included in the project budget.
We take pride in advancing sustainable developments and consistently seek to incorporate environmental enhancements into our sites. Our team has designed and managed extensive planting initiatives, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), wildflower meadows, and numerous other environmental improvements. Additionally, we manage established habitats, including woodlands, meadows, reedbeds, ponds, rivers, and streams, always focusing on key objectives such as increasing biodiversity and supporting indigenous species populations.
The Terrena team is knowledgeable about the challenges surrounding BNG and is well-prepared to address this new legislation. We can provide bespoke guidance to housebuilders from the project’s start, advising on layout and the potential ecological benefits that can be incorporated. BNG plans require 30 years of ongoing maintenance, monitoring, and evaluation. We can create customised 30-year maintenance and monitoring plans and conduct thorough annual inspections of woodlands and SuDS.
To learn more about how we can manage the ongoing requirements of BNG for your open spaces, please contact us at gemma@terrena.co.uk or 07902309377.