© Andy Bartlett
Biodiversity Net Gain
BNG and your Business
During the last decade there has been a growing awareness and understanding at an international level that nations need to work together to take immediate action to protect and enhance the natural world. This critical undertaking must begin at a grassroots level for us here in the North West.
The Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations that came into force in England in 2024 were billed as the biggest change to planning rules in decades. From a nature recovery perspective, they were also an exciting change, offering a new, credible means of funding. Six months on from BNG’s launch, and with the recent announcement of the Government to restore mandatory housing targets, (which will rise to 370k new homes per year), we argue that government, Local Planning Authorities, and developers alike should embrace BNG and aim above the current mandated 10% net gain.
How does BNG work ?
BNG means that developers must now deliver a minimum of 10% biodiversity net-gain for new developments, or, in other words, a measurably positive impact (‘net gain’) on biodiversity, compared to what was there before development. This measurable impact is calculated through DEFRA’s Statutory Biodiversity Metric.
The requirement of BNG is a huge step forward and can be achieved through the restoration or creation of habitats on the same site as the development or at other sites. As a very a last resort, developers can purchase statutory BNG credits from the Government.
The mitigation hierarchy is key to delivering effective BNG, it means that BNG should only be considered once the planning mitigation hierarchy (avoid, reduce, mitigate and compensate) has been fully and sequentially followed at both strategic and site base level. If done well, BNG should support both the protection of important nature sites and provide new funding to support nature's recovery.
These regulations become mandatory in England for Town and Country Planning Act (1990) developments in February 2024. Soon afterwards, in April, BNG was extended to small sites too, and is due to come into effect for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) from late 2025.
Why invest in BNG?
Partnering with Lancashire Wildlife Trust for your biodiversity net gain (BNG) needs ensures your business aligns with the UK’s commitment to reversing biodiversity loss while meeting the requirements of the Environment Act 2021. With a trusted history of delivering nature-based solutions, we offer ready-to-go, high-quality land projects designed to meet both mandatory and voluntary BNG credits.
As pioneers in biodiversity enhancement, our initiatives are backed by credible science and rooted in local ecological expertise. Our pre-prepared sites not only streamline the process of meeting your BNG commitments but also ensure long-term environmental benefits, from habitat restoration to sustainable ecosystem management.
With mandatory BNG rolling out UK-wide, businesses must demonstrate measurable biodiversity improvements as part of planning permissions, typically requiring a 10% net gain. Voluntary credits are an additional opportunity for forward-thinking companies to go beyond compliance, enhancing their sustainability credentials and creating a lasting legacy for nature.
By working with us, you gain more than a provider—you gain a dedicated partner invested in creating resilient landscapes that support both wildlife and the communities you serve. Together, we can transform obligations into opportunities to safeguard the UK’s natural heritage while supporting your business's growth and sustainability goals.
The Cutacre conservation gang
Hedge-laying at Cutacre Nature Reserve
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