River Condition Assessment Survey for Planning Permission

Local planning authorities now request Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for all proposed developments. If a project includes a river or stream within its boundary, regardless of direct impact, there will be an obligation to achieve mandatory biodiversity net gain specifically for rivers and streams.

A river condition assessment (RCA) plays a crucial role in evaluating potential development impacts. These assessments are commonly required by local planning authorities as part of the planning application process. Failure to address mitigation measures may result in delays or refusal of planning permission.

Here are key components of a river condition assessment survey for BNG:

1. Baseline Assessment: A Modular River Physical (MoRPh) field survey is conducted to collect information on vegetation, sediments, and water-related features. A river type desk-based survey is also carried out. This desk study is used to gather existing data and information related to the site area.
2. Impact Assessment: Assessing the potential impacts of the proposed development or land use change on the river ecosystem. This includes considering direct impacts (e.g., habitat loss, pollution) as well as indirect impacts (e.g., changes in hydrology, sedimentation).
3. Biodiversity Net Gain Calculation: Calculating the expected change in biodiversity resulting from the proposed project using the Defra Biodiversity Metric 4.0. This involves comparing the baseline biodiversity of the river or stream with the predicted biodiversity after implementation of the project, accounting for any mitigation or enhancement measures.
4. Mitigation and Enhancement Measures: Identifying and implementing measures to mitigate any negative impacts and enhance biodiversity within the river or stream. This may include river restoration for habitats, installation of fish passages, and implementation of erosion control measures.
5. Compliance and Reporting: Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements for Biodiversity Net Gain and providing transparent reporting on the outcomes of the river condition assessment, including the predicted biodiversity net gain and effectiveness of mitigation measures.

By conducting a thorough river condition assessment survey for Biodiversity Net Gain, developers and planners can ensure that development projects contribute positively to the conservation and enhancement of rivers, thereby meeting BNG requirements.

Our team of ecologists and land managers have helped numerous clients with river condition assessment surveys for planning and development.

We can also assist with biodiversity net gain by providing: 

• BNG guidance
• Assessments
• Mitigation
• BNG plans

Please get in touch if you would like further information about RCA methods.

Our Ecology Director, Olivia Collington, holds a Natural England license. If you would like to find out more about the services we provide, feel free to contact us using the details below.