Land Agent in Leicestershire: Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain

Rural land management in Leicestershire is changing quickly. New environmental rules, development pressure, and changing land use mean land agents are now more important than ever.

A land agent is a rural property expert who helps landowners manage, sell, and plan for the future of their land. While land agents have traditionally focused on farming and estate management, their role has expanded. Today, they also advise on planning, conservation, land diversification, and environmental schemes.

Many landowners in Leicestershire are now exploring Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). BNG can provide a long-term income while allowing land to be managed in a more sustainable way.

Collington Winter Environmental works with landowners and developers across Leicestershire and the surrounding areas. We assess land to see how many biodiversity units it could create and help landowners sell those units to developers who need them.

A land agent’s role will depend on the landowner’s needs, but it usually includes:

• Valuing and selling land – Rural valuations, land and property sales, purchases, and negotiations
• Planning advice – Support with land use, planning applications, and development opportunities
• Environmental support – Help with grants, subsidies, BNG schemes, and sustainable land management
• Legal compliance – Making sure land meets planning and environmental rules

Biodiversity net gain is a legal requirement under the Environment Act 2021. Most major developments must now deliver at least a 10% increase in biodiversity.

If this cannot be achieved on the development site, developers must buy biodiversity units from another location. This creates a new income opportunity for Leicestershire landowners who can improve land for wildlife.

BNG sites can be listed on the BNG Market Register, helping to ensure the process is clear and properly regulated.

A habitat bank is an area of land – often lower-quality or less productive farmland – that is managed to improve wildlife habitats for at least 30 years. These improvements are measured in biodiversity units, which can then be sold to developers.

Land agents play a key role in helping landowners benefit from BNG. At Collington Winter Environmental, we can help by:

• Checking whether your land is suitable for BNG
• Explaining the income potential from biodiversity units
• Setting up and negotiating long-term BNG agreements
• Making sure schemes meet DEFRA guidance and local planning rules

Our experienced BNG land agents work with landowners and developers across Leicestershire. We offer clear, practical advice and assess land using the latest DEFRA biodiversity metrics.

Whether you are a landowner looking to generate new income or a developer needing BNG support, we are here to help.

To find out more or speak to a land agent in Leicestershire, contact us today at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk, fill out the contact form below or call one of the team on 01204 939 608.