What is Biodiversity Net Gain?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a new national legal requirement for development to have a positive impact on nature.

This is done by creating and improving different habitats, leaving the environment in a better state than it was before.

Why has it been introduced?

BNG has been introduced to help reverse the major decline in wildlife and habitats within the UK. Changes in land use due to development is one contributor to our current biodiversity crisis, so developers have a key part to play in nature recovery.

Who does it apply to?

BNG regulations require most new planning applications to show how they will deliver a 10% increase in biodiversity, based on the value of the site prior to development. Smaller applications such as householder, self-build, custom-build and development impacting an area of habitat 25sqm or less (5m or less for hedgerows and watercourses) are currently exempt.

How is it measured?

This is measured by the ‘statutory biodiversity metric’. This tool calculates the existing biodiversity value of the site, (as ‘biodiversity units’) and then the new value of the site after improvements have taken place.

Where does BNG take place?

As far as possible habitat creation and enhancement should be delivered within the development site. The next best solution is creating habitats as close to the development as possible.

The biodiversity metric is designed to discourage the delivery of BNG a long way from the site.

What other projects are taking place to help the biodiversity?

Local Nature Recovery Strategies are currently being drafted by County Councils to map areas that offer good opportunity for biodiversity enhancements. The long-term aim is to connect these areas to produce a wildlife corridor throughout Sussex, in which wildlife can roam and thrive.