Biodiversity Net Gain Milton Keynes: Understanding BNG

BNG applies to both minor and major development sites. This includes housing developments 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 spaces under 1,000m² are required to demonstrate biodiversity improvements.

The aim of BNG is to deliver meaningful, long-term environmental benefits. If biodiversity enhancements can’t be achieved on-site, developers must commit to a biodiversity off-set by purchasing biodiversity units to compensate. All net gain outcomes must be secured 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 Milton Keynes who are unsure how BNG applies to their project should consult the 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 can assess existing habitats using the latest version of Statutory Biodiversity Metric (formerly Defra Metric 4.0) and then convert those findings into a habitat management and monitoring plan that achieves BNG compliance. These findings can help inform supplementary planning documents to support your application for planning permission.

Collington Winter Environmental are ready to support clients in Milton Keynes and across southeastern and central England. Our team of Natural England licensed ecologists has extensive experience in delivering BNG for projects of all sizes. They offer clear advice on biodiversity policy, assist with planning applications, and help ensure developments meet local council requirements for a gain in biodiversity.

To find out more about BNG, or to speak with a biodiversity consultant, contact Collington Winter at Info@collingtonwinter.co.uk or use the contact form below.