Much has been made about the new BNG rules, and we have had enquiries from clients considering taking some of their land out of agricultural production. Although our current advice is to consider the outcomes of the Autumn Budget, we have put together the following information as a brief guide. Do get in touch to discuss your requirements.
For a biodiversity net gain project to be suitable, a site should have potential for either habitat enhancement or creation, rather than needing to possess high biodiversity value currently. Achieving a significant increase in biodiversity is the goal, and so starting from a low baseline can sometimes make this a much easier process.
Developers will be encouraged to achieve biodiversity gains within the same local authority where their development is located, which may lead to regional variations in supply and demand for biodiversity units. Sites near areas experiencing extensive development might hold higher value, but similarly, a more remote site offering substantial opportunities for biodiversity gain could also appeal to developers tasked with meeting significant net gain targets on a single site.
Unlike national agricultural-environment schemes, biodiversity net gain projects allow for tailored management that fits the specific site and its context. Potential projects can include converting arable land to grassland, restoring species-rich grasslands, enhancing existing woodlands as well as creating new, or creating new habitats like scrub or wetlands.
To learn more about Biodiversity Net Gain, its benefits and implications, please contact us.