Land Agent in Hampshire: Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain

Hampshire’s rural landscape, positioned along the south coast, is evolving as landowners respond to changing economic pressures, planning policy, and environmental priorities. For many, this shift presents an opportunity to rethink how land is managed—balancing traditional farming with new, more sustainable and commercially viable land uses. 

As agricultural subsidies continue to change, landowners are increasingly exploring ways to generate long term, reliable income from their land. This includes diversification into environmental schemes such as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), as well as assessing development potential where appropriate. 

At Collington Winter Environmental, we work with landowners and developers across Hampshire to provide clear, practical advice. From early-stage feasibility through to project delivery, we help clients unlock the full value of their land while ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations. 

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now a central part of the planning system in England. Under the Environment Act 2021, most new developments must deliver at least a 10% measurable improvement in biodiversity compared to the site’s original condition. 

Where this cannot be achieved on-site, developers are required to secure biodiversity units elsewhere. This has created a growing market for off-site habitat provision—offering Hampshire landowners a new and potentially valuable income stream. 

With ongoing development across the south coast, demand for biodiversity units is expected to remain strong. For landowners, this presents an opportunity to generate long term income while contributing to meaningful environmental improvements. 

However, BNG agreements come with important considerations. Land entered into these schemes is typically subject to legally binding agreements and must be managed for biodiversity purposes for a minimum of 30 years. Understanding these commitments is essential before proceeding. 

A habitat bank is an area of land that is managed to create or enhance wildlife habitats over the long term. The biodiversity uplift achieved is measured using the statutory biodiversity metric and converted into units that can be sold to developers. 

In Hampshire, habitat banks may include: 

• Creation of species-rich grassland  

• Wetland restoration in low-lying areas  

• Native woodland planting  

• Hedgerow enhancement and expansion  

These projects not only support biodiversity recovery but can also provide a stable, long term income stream through agreements with developers. 

Is BNG suitable for all land in Hampshire? 
Not all land is appropriate for BNG schemes. Suitability depends on factors such as existing habitat quality, surrounding land use, and the potential for biodiversity improvement. A professional ecological assessment is required to determine viability. 

How much income can BNG generate? 
Income varies depending on location, habitat type, and market demand. In some cases, land used for BNG can generate significant returns over a 30-year period, particularly in areas with strong development pressure. 

How long do BNG agreements last? 
Most BNG agreements require land to be managed for biodiversity purposes for a minimum of 30 years, ensuring that environmental benefits are delivered over the long term. 

Can BNG be combined with farming? 
In some cases, lower-intensity land uses can be integrated with biodiversity projects. However, more intensive habitat creation schemes may require land to be taken out of agricultural production. 

More commonly asked questions regarding Biodiversity Net Gain can be found here. 

At Collington Winter Environmental, we provide specialist advice on all aspects of Biodiversity Net Gain and rural land use in Hampshire. Our approach combines ecological expertise with a strong understanding of land value and commercial opportunity. 

We support landowners and developers with: 

• Site identification and feasibility assessments  

• Habitat bank creation and management planning  

• Biodiversity unit valuation and market advice  

• Negotiation of BNG agreements  

• Planning and regulatory guidance  

Our goal is to deliver solutions that are both environmentally responsible and financially sustainable, helping you make the most of your land over the long term. 

If you are considering Biodiversity Net Gain, selling land, or exploring the development potential of your land in Hampshire, our team is here to help. 

To speak with a land agent in Hampshire, contact Collington Winter Environmental at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk, fill out the contact form below, or call 01204 939 608.