Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments
What are Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a planning requirement intended to ensure that development leaves biodiversity in a measurably better state than before. The principle of BNG is that any loss of habitats or ecological value must be outweighed by habitat creation or enhancement, delivering a net improvement for nature rather than simply minimising harm.
In England, most planning applications are now required to demonstrate a minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain, with only limited exemptions. Whitcher Wildlife Ltd supports clients through the full BNG process, from early feasibility through to post-consent delivery. Where a site’s red line boundary lies within 10 metres of a watercourse or within 5 metres of a ditch, these features must also be included within the BNG assessment.
Biodiversity Value Assessment
BNG is calculated using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, which measures biodiversity value in units based on habitat type, size or length, and condition. Our team gathers this information through detailed habitat surveys, carried out in line with UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) Version 2.0, supported by desk-based research and appropriate condition assessments.
Once baseline data has been entered into the metric, Whitcher Wildlife Ltd can quantify the site’s existing biodiversity value. Depending on the stage of the project, we will either provide early advice on how the required 10% net gain can be achieved, or assess both baseline and post-development scenarios where landscape proposals are already available. This allows gains and losses in biodiversity units to be clearly demonstrated and informs any necessary design changes.
Habitat Management & Monitoring
BNG assessments are subject to specific rules, including trading rules, which generally require higher-value habitats to be replaced on a like-for-like basis. Where on-site delivery alone cannot achieve a 10% net gain, off-site options may be required, most commonly through the purchase of biodiversity units from a registered habitat bank. Because BNG can have significant implications for site design, costs and programme, it should be brought into focus as early as possible in the planning process.
Once planning permission has been granted, our team can also support the discharge of the Biodiversity Gain Condition, including preparation of Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs), helping to ensure long-term delivery of agreed biodiversity outcomes.
Why Choose Whitcher Wildlife for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments?
Our team has extensive, hands-on experience delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments on sites of all scales, from simple developments through to complex schemes supporting high-value and rare habitats. Whitcher Wildlife Ltd has in-house ecologists accredited to carry out River Condition Assessments (RCAs) for watercourses, alongside skilled botanists capable of accurately assessing and valuing even the most challenging habitats. This breadth of expertise allows us to provide clear, practical advice and deliver robust BNG solutions that stand up to scrutiny.