Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): Unlocking New Opportunities for Landowners and Developers

In recent years, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has emerged as a transformative concept within the UK’s planning and development framework. With the growing recognition of the need to halt biodiversity loss and restore natural ecosystems, BNG plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of land development. As a forward-thinking planning and development consultancy, Bartons Planning & Development Consultancy is perfectly positioned to guide both landowners and developers through this evolving landscape. This article explores what BNG means for development, why it’s becoming essential, and how it presents a unique opportunity to maximise the value of your land or development project.

What is Biodiversity Net Gain?

Biodiversity Net Gain refers to the principle where any new development or land-use change must deliver measurable improvements to biodiversity. Put simply, it’s no longer enough to mitigate harm to local ecosystems during a development; there is now an expectation to enhance biodiversity beyond its pre-development state.

Introduced as a key element of the UK’s Environment Act 2021, BNG mandates a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity as a condition for planning approval for most developments in England, expected to be enforced from November 2023. The new policy signifies a major shift in how developments are approached, requiring developers and landowners to think proactively about environmental impacts from the outset.

At Bartons, we understand that this might seem like an additional challenge, but it’s also a significant opportunity to add value to projects. With careful planning and expert guidance, incorporating BNG into your project can unlock development potential, expedite planning permissions, and appeal to environmentally conscious investors.

How Does Biodiversity Net Gain Work?

BNG is assessed using the Biodiversity Metric, developed by Natural England. This metric allows developers to calculate a site’s pre-development biodiversity value based on a range of factors, including the condition, size, and type of habitats present. Post-development, the value is recalculated to ensure the required net gain is achieved. The aim is for any lost biodiversity to be not only replaced but improved.

BNG strategies can be achieved through various approaches, including:

On-site biodiversity enhancements: Improving habitats on the development site, such as planting native trees, creating ponds, or restoring hedgerows.
Off-site compensation: If on-site enhancements are not feasible, developers can invest in biodiversity projects elsewhere to offset losses.
Biodiversity credits: These are created through conservation projects and sold to developers who need to achieve net gains but are unable to meet requirements through on-site measures.

The Impact of Biodiversity Net Gain on Development

For developers and landowners, BNG introduces both challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, the obligation to deliver a 10% biodiversity uplift can increase the complexity and cost of development. However, by approaching BNG strategically, there are clear benefits to be gained:

Enhanced Planning Prospects: Local planning authorities are more likely to approve developments that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing biodiversity. This can reduce delays and smooth the approval process, especially as local authorities increasingly prioritise environmental and sustainability considerations in line with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
Market Appeal: The growing awareness of sustainability in society is influencing buyer behaviour. Developments that integrate green spaces, diverse habitats, and eco-friendly design features are becoming more attractive to buyers and investors. By incorporating BNG, developers can position their projects as leading the way in sustainable development.
Reputation Management: A commitment to biodiversity not only fulfils regulatory requirements but also boosts a developer’s reputation as an environmentally responsible entity. This is especially crucial in today’s market where corporate social responsibility is increasingly scrutinised.

At Bartons, we help clients find the balance between meeting BNG obligations and maintaining the financial viability of their projects. We offer tailored advice on how to integrate biodiversity enhancements in a cost-effective way, whether through innovative design, habitat creation, or off-site solutions.

Strategic Considerations for Landowners

For landowners, BNG can also represent a lucrative opportunity. Many landowners have untapped potential in their sites that can be leveraged for biodiversity credits or off-site enhancements. Instead of viewing BNG as a restriction on land use, forward-thinking landowners can turn it into a revenue-generating asset.

Key opportunities for landowners include:

Biodiversity Offsetting: If your land includes valuable habitats or areas suitable for ecological restoration, you may be in a position to offer off-site compensation to developers. This can create a new income stream while also improving the environmental value of your land.
Biodiversity Credits: Landowners can work with conservation bodies to create biodiversity credits by enhancing or restoring habitats. These credits can then be sold to developers looking to offset their own biodiversity impact elsewhere.
Partnership Opportunities: Landowners can also partner with developers early in the planning process to offer on-site or nearby biodiversity enhancements. This collaborative approach not only meets regulatory requirements but also adds value to the land.

With the right expertise, landowners can benefit from the growing demand for biodiversity solutions. Bartons can assist in identifying and assessing the biodiversity potential of your land, helping you unlock new financial opportunities while contributing to environmental goals.

Navigating Biodiversity Net Gain: The Role of Bartons Planning & Development Consultancy

Successfully integrating BNG into your project requires a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework and ecological considerations, as well as commercial acumen to ensure projects remain profitable. This is where Bartons excels. With our comprehensive understanding of planning policy, environmental legislation, and the intricacies of land development, we help our clients navigate these new challenges with confidence.

Bartons’ services for biodiversity net gain include:

Pre-application advice: Early engagement with local planning authorities and ecological consultants to identify BNG requirements and opportunities.
Biodiversity assessments: Working with ecologists to assess your site’s current biodiversity value and calculate the required net gain using the Biodiversity Metric.
BNG strategies: Developing bespoke BNG plans tailored to your project, including habitat enhancements, off-site compensation, and biodiversity credit opportunities.
Planning negotiations: Liaising with planning authorities to secure approvals by demonstrating strong biodiversity credentials.
Economic impact assessments: Ensuring that BNG solutions are not only ecologically beneficial but also financially viable, keeping your development on track for strong returns.

Conclusion: Unlocking Value Through Biodiversity Net Gain

The implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain marks a significant shift in how developments will be designed and delivered in the UK. For developers and landowners alike, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity. By taking a proactive, strategic approach to BNG, you can not only meet planning requirements but also enhance the appeal of your development, improve planning outcomes, and even generate new revenue streams.

At Bartons Planning & Development Consultancy, we’re committed to helping our clients turn biodiversity obligations into opportunities for success. Whether you’re a developer seeking to navigate complex regulations or a landowner looking to maximise your land’s potential, we’re here to provide expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you achieve biodiversity net gain in your next project and unlock the full potential of your land or development. Together, we can build a greener, more sustainable future while maximising commercial success.