What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?
Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain is increasingly important for securing planning permission and ensuring that development projects comply with current environmental legislation. By delivering a 10% net gain in biodiversity, developers contribute to a broader national effort to reverse biodiversity loss and restore vital habitats. Without a clear plan for achieving Biodiversity Net Gain, projects may face delays in the planning process or even be denied approval. Planning authorities now require detailed assessments of how biodiversity will be affected by development and how any losses will be mitigated or offset. A robust BNG strategy helps streamline the approval process and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Initial BNG Calculation:
Using the statutory biodiversity metric, we calculate the baseline biodiversity value of your site, taking into account existing habitats, species, and ecosystem services. This baseline is essential for determining the amount of biodiversity that will be lost or gained through the development.
Development Impact Assessment:
We assess the potential impact of your project on local biodiversity, identifying areas where habitats may be lost or degraded, as well as opportunities for enhancement. This assessment is crucial for understanding how your development will affect biodiversity and what steps can be taken to offset any negative impacts.
BNG Strategy Development:
Based on the findings of our assessment, we develop a tailored Biodiversity Net Gain strategy for your project. This strategy outlines the steps needed to achieve the required 10% net gain in biodiversity, including habitat creation, restoration, and enhancement measures. We also provide guidance on how to incorporate these measures into the overall site design, ensuring that biodiversity gains are integrated seamlessly into the development.
Monitoring and Management Plans:
Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain is not a one-time effort; it requires ongoing management to ensure that the gains are sustained over time. We provide detailed monitoring and management plans to help you maintain and enhance the biodiversity value of your site throughout the life of the development. This includes recommendations for habitat management, species monitoring, and adaptive management practices.
BNG Reporting:
Our Biodiversity Net Gain reports are tailored to the stage of your project, providing the necessary documentation to support your planning application. These reports include detailed calculations of biodiversity losses and gains, descriptions of the mitigation and enhancement measures, and evidence that the project will deliver the required 10% net gain. Our reports meet the standards set by planning authorities and ensure that your project is fully compliant with BNG requirements.
Planning Compliance:
Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain is a legal requirement for most development projects in the UK. Our services help you comply with these regulations, ensuring that your project proceeds smoothly through the planning process.
Positive Environmental Impact:
By delivering a measurable increase in biodiversity, your project contributes to broader efforts to restore ecosystems and protect wildlife, enhancing the environmental value of the site.
Long-Term Sustainability:
A BNG strategy ensures that your development is not only compliant but also sustainable in the long term, providing lasting benefits for biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Improved Public Perception:
Demonstrating a commitment to biodiversity can enhance the reputation of your project, showing that it aligns with modern sustainability goals and environmental best practices.
Why Choose Fenland Ecology?
Our team of skilled ecologists uses the latest tools and methodologies to ensure that your project complies with statutory BNG requirements while delivering positive results for local ecosystems.
We pride ourselves on offering clear, practical advice and providing solutions that balance development goals with environmental sustainability.
Contact Us
We are committed to helping you deliver measurable Biodiversity Net Gain and ensuring that your development contributes positively to the environment. Let us guide you through the process and provide the tools you need to achieve your BNG targets.