Biodiversity Net Gain Shropshire: Understanding BNG

BNG applies to all sizes of developments. This includes housing settlements with 10 or more dwellings or sites over 0.5 hectares, as well as smaller residential and commercial projects. Even developments with fewer than 10 homes or commercial structures under 1,000m² are required to demonstrate biodiversity improvements.

The aim of BNG is to deliver a lasting positive improvement for the environment. If biodiversity enhancements can’t be achieved on the site of the development, developers must commit to a biodiversity off-set by purchasing biodiversity units to compensate. All net gain outcomes must continue to exist for at least 30 years.

There are ten key principles that guide the successful implementation of BNG:

1. Apply the mitigation hierarchy to reduce biodiversity impacts.
2. Avoid harming irreplaceable habitats.
3. Engage stakeholders fairly and transparently.
4. Consider environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
5. Involve relevant parties throughout the planning and delivery stages.
6. Create genuine, lasting benefits for nature and local wildlife.
7. Understand and plan for risks to BNG outcomes.
8. Go beyond the 10% minimum wherever possible.
9. Use reliable metrics to measure and manage gains.
10. Aim for the best possible results for biodiversity.

Developers in Shropshire who are unsure how BNG applies to their project should consult their local planning authority pre-development. If a development faces unique biodiversity challenges, it’s advisable to bring In a BNG expert during the design phase.

Collington Winter’s ecological consultants will assess existing habitats using the latest version of Statutory Biodiversity Metric (formerly Defra Metric 4.0). Afterwards, these findings are converted into a habitat management plan that achieves BNG compliance. The results can also inform supplementary planning documents to support your application for planning permission.

At Collington Winter Environmental, were here to support clients across Shropshire and the wider West Midlands. Our team of ecologists – licenced by Natural England – brings years of experience helping projects of all sizes deliver a gain for biodiversity.

We provide straightforward advice on biodiversity policy, assist with planning applications, and work closely with you to make sure your development meets local council requirements for improving biodiversity.

If you’d like to learn more about BNG or chat with one of our biodiversity consultant, feel free to get in touch at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk or to use the contact form below.