There are lots of things happening in the world of planning and development, but one of the biggest changes is the move towards greening developments, by seeking that each new proposal will achieve a “net biodiversity gain”. From November 2023 major applications “ten houses or more” will be required to provide a minimum of 10% biodiversity enhancement. This 10% calculation is set on a baseline of the environmental status of the site in 2020 as to discourage land clearance prior to planning applications being submitted. As part of the planning application process, projects will need to demonstrate how the site enhancements are managed for the long term, to ensure biodiversity gain is maintained in perpetuity.
The requirement for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) will extend to minor planning applications in April 2024 and this means that even single new house projects will need to incorporate details about how an increase of 10% in biodiversity will be achieved. More information and guidance about BNG can be found on the Government’s website: Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain.
Even if your project doesn’t require BNG, it is a good idea that all planning proposals set out their sustainability credentials, with many planning authorities now seeking planning applications to include a sustainability statement. These statements set out how the design and construction of a project has taken steps to lower the project’s carbon footprint and has considered how the development will meet the needs of climate changes in the future. Energy sources, water savings, sustainable materials and long-term landscape management are all now important parts of even a small planning application.
READING LIST:
- Biodiversity Net Gain, Good Practice principles for development. Baker, J. Hoskin, R. Butterworth, T. CIRIA 2019
- DEFRA Introduction to Biodiversity Net Gain – YouTube video