Planning Permission Bristol: BNG Requirements
When embarking on a new development project, specific procedures must be followed in order to facilitate the project’s progression. Obtaining planning permission can be a complex but necessary process for those wishing to start a new development project.
Since February 2024, BNG became mandatory for most new developments in England as part of the planning process. Developers must demonstrate that their projects will achieve at least 10% net gain in biodiversity compared to the site’s baseline condition.
Planning permission, Bristol: The process
Once you are ready to proceed, submit a planning application to the local planning authority. Applications can be submitted online through the Planning Portal or directly to the local authority.
The local planning authority will validate the application, checking if all necessary application documents and information are provided. Incomplete applications may be returned.
Some applications may require a public consultation period, where neighbours and other stakeholders can express their views on the proposed development. Anyone can view and comment on planning applications on the public access planning website.
The local planning authority will make a decision based on planning policies, relevant considerations, and public input. The decision can be approval, approval with conditions, or refusal.
More information regarding planning permission, Bristol, can be found on the Bristol City Council website.
Biodiversity Net Gain for planning permission, Bristol
Biodiversity net gain is now a mandatory requirement for obtaining planning permission, Bristol. When submitting a full planning application, including a BNG assessment as part of the proposal will now be required.
As of February 2024, BNG was made mandatory for new planning applications in Bristol for major developments. Major developments include residential developments with 10 or more dwellings or if the site area is greater than 0.5 hectares.
Biodiversity net gain was made mandatory for small sites in April 2024. Small sites include residential developments where the number of dwellings is between 1 or 9 or if the site area is less than 0.5 hectares.
Small sites also include commercial developments where floor space created is less than 1000 square metres or the overall site area is less than 1 hectare.
How can Collington Winter assist with planning permission in Bristol?
Collington Winter Environmental believe in a pragmatic approach to development management. We meet the needs of developers whilst ensuring positive outcomes for wildlife. We believe that an early consultation and in-depth knowledge of ecological best practice is the best way to improve your chances of obtaining planning permission, Bristol, and ensuring your project complies with Bristol City Council requirements.
If you are interested in our services, contact us using the form below. You can also contact our Ecology Director, Olivia Collington, via email at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk.
Contact Us
Registered Address
23 Bark Street East, 1st Floor, Bolton, BL1 2BQ
Cambridge Office
Future Business Centre, Cambridge Campus, Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2HY
Telephone
Head Office: 01204 939 608
Dumfries Office: 01387 378208
