Land Agent in Devon: Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain

The rural landscapes across Devon offer a rich and varied blend of productive farmland, rolling countryside, and well-managed estates. This unique environment creates valuable opportunities for landowners to develop land use strategies that deliver strong commercial returns while enhancing and protecting the natural environment.

As agriculture and rural enterprises continue to face economic and regulatory pressures, many landowners in Devon are exploring ways to diversify their income streams. This includes balancing traditional farming practices with more sustainable approaches and alternative land uses. At the same time, evolving planning policies and environmental regulations are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping how land can be managed and developed.

At Collington Winter Environmental, we provide clear advice to landowners and developers across Devon. From initial consultation through to project delivery, we work closely with clients at every stage, helping them unlock the full potential of their land.

A land agent plays an essential role in supporting farmers and estate owners to manage their land effectively, maintain compliance, and achieve long-term goals. With the growing complexity of rural land management, professional guidance is more valuable than ever.

In Devon, a land agent can assist with:

Estate management and planning – Providing strategic advice on how to optimise land use while protecting environmental value and maintaining long-term sustainability.

Assessing land value and opportunities – Identifying potential for alternative income streams, including environmental schemes, renewable energy projects, and habitat creation.

Buying and selling land – Supporting efficient and well-managed transactions, working alongside estate agents and legal professionals.

Diversification – Exploring new opportunities such as leisure uses and conservation initiatives that complement existing farming operations.

Risk management – Offering guidance to help reduce financial and operational risks across land-based projects and developments.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now a key component of planning policy in England. Most new developments are required to deliver at least a 10% measurable improvement in biodiversity compared to the site’s original ecological baseline.

Where developers are unable to achieve this uplift on-site, they must secure biodiversity units elsewhere. For landowners in Devon, this presents a significant and growing opportunity.

With continued development across the region, demand for off-site biodiversity units is expected to remain strong. BNG schemes can provide a reliable, long-term income stream while contributing to meaningful environmental improvements.

However, these projects require careful consideration. Land used for biodiversity enhancement is typically subject to legally binding agreements and must be managed for ecological purposes for a minimum of 30 years. This long-term commitment makes it essential for landowners to fully understand the implications before entering into any agreement.

A habitat bank is an area of land that is managed specifically to create, restore, or enhance wildlife habitats over the long term. The value of these habitats is measured using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, which determines the number of biodiversity units that can be generated and sold.

In Devon, habitat banks may include:

• Restoration of species-rich grassland
• Creation of wetlands, particularly in low-lying or poorly drained areas
• Planting of native woodland
• Hedgerow restoration and expansion
• Other habitat improvements tailored to the local landscape

These initiatives not only contribute to biodiversity recovery but can also generate additional income through agreements with developers who need to offset their environmental impact.

Is BNG suitable for all farmland?

Not all land is appropriate for BNG schemes. Suitability depends on factors such as the existing ecological condition, surrounding habitats, and the potential for meaningful biodiversity enhancement. A professional ecological assessment is essential to determine whether a site is viable.

How long do BNG agreements last?

BNG agreements typically require land to be managed for biodiversity purposes for a minimum of 30 years. This ensures that environmental benefits are delivered and maintained over the long term.

Can BNG work alongside farming?

In some cases, biodiversity projects can be integrated with farming activities, particularly where lower-intensity land uses are involved. However, more intensive habitat creation schemes may require land to be taken out of agricultural production. Careful planning is essential to strike the right balance.

You can find more FAQs regarding biodiversity net gain here.

At Collington Winter Environmental, we specialise in providing ecological and land management services to landowners and developers throughout Devon. Our approach combines technical expertise with practical, commercially focused advice.

Our goal is to deliver solutions that are both environmentally responsible and financially sustainable, ensuring that your land continues to provide value for years to come.

For expert advice from a land agent in Devon, contact Collington Winter Environmental at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk or call 01204 939608.