Changes are on the horizon for development projects! Starting January 2024, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) will become mandatory for most developments. Smaller sites and infrastructure development have delayed implementation dates of April 2024 and November 2025.
What does this mean for you? When applying for planning permission you will need to submit a biodiversity gain statement to the Local Planning Authority. This statement will outline how the proposed development will meet the 10% uplift in biodiversity value.
DEFRA has published a draft biodiversity gain plan template, together with guidance, which sets out the information that may be required to be submitted. The published template is intended for post-permission, pre-commencement submission, in order to discharge a condition attached to the planning consent relating to BNG.
Important to note: The gain plan is separate to the biodiversity gain statement that is submitted with the planning application. The gain statement will set out the intended approach to BNG for the site, while the detail relating to delivery – as well as information relating to off-site mitigation agreements or BNG Credit purchases – which will have to be included in the biodiversity gain plan to discharge the pre-commencement condition.
The template is intended for use with standard permission for major developments. The requirements for smaller sites, phased developments and infrastructure projects will be different.
Currently it is not clear if the gain plan published by DEFRA will be the form required for submission under the regulations, but it is likely that the template will be widely adopted or requested by Local Authorities.
William Young, Director at Newton LDP, shares his insight: " It is good to see that this is finally moving forward and although there is further meat to be put on the bone, it provides additional guidance as to how BNG may be delivered as part of developments."