What Is Biodiversity Net Gain?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach to development and planning which aims to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than beforehand. The objective is that development will impact the environment in a positive way by delivering improvements to ecological networks and the key point is that the improvement is measurable.

What is the requirement?

The Environment Act 2021 requires all planning permission to be granted subject to a deemed condition which imposes a requirement for a 10% increase in biodiversity on or near a development site. The Biodiversity Net Gain requirement will apply to developments covered by the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, unless exempt, from November 2023. The Biodiversity Net Gain requirement will apply to small sites from April 2024. That being said, some local planning authorities are already expecting applicants to demonstrate Biodiversity Net Gain.