Biodiversity Net Gain

Biodiversity net gain refers to the regulations which require developers to show that their proposed plans will deliver a minimum of a 10% increase in biodiversity to the environment, with the habitat secured for at least 30 years. From 12 February 2024 these regulations will apply to most types of developments, with the exception of those which are exempt. Small sites are expected to provide the same level of biodiversity gain evidence from 2 April 2024 onwards.

It will generally be expected that the biodiversity gains attributed to the project will be delivered within in 12 months. However, the legislation recognises that this may not be possible in every case, therefore applicants may discuss and agree timeframes with local planning authorities where necessary.

Unless exempt, it will be a condition of all planning permissions for the applicant to provide a statutory biodiversity metric and biodiversity gain plan in order for development to commence.