As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, so does the importance of integrating biodiversity considerations into our planning and development processes. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a crucial aspect of this integration, ensuring that development leaves our natural habitats in a measurably better state than before. Here, we'll explore what BNG entails and how it applies to local councils, offering a roadmap for enhancing biodiversity through thoughtful planning and community involvement.

My name is Andrew Maliphant, and I bring over 25 years of experience in regeneration programmes and project management. Currently, I serve as the Environmental & Sustainability Advisor for the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and I am also Chairman of The Place-Based Initiative Ltd, which has taken over the development of the Great Collaboration. My goal is to help councils improve their local environments and respond effectively to climate change. I am excited to share insights from my recent webinar on Biodiversity Net Gain and how it applies to Town and Parish Councils.

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WEBINAR AND SLIDES

💁 My webinar is available into two parts, the main talk is available on youtube here (27mins) and the Q&A available here (30mins). You can view and download my slides here, and finally don't forget to join The Great Collaboration!

Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

BNG is a principle introduced in the Environment Act 2021, mandating that all qualifying planning permissions in England deliver at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity. This means that any new development must result in an improvement of biodiversity, measured through a specific metric. The goal is to ensure that habitats for wildlife are enhanced and preserved, fostering a richer and more diverse natural environment.

The Approach in England

In England, BNG applies to various types of development, including:

• Single dwellings or more (excluding housing extensions)
• Commercial development over 1,000 square metres or 1 hectare
• Minerals or waste-related development
• Nationally significant infrastructure projects (though thresholds are defined under Sections 15-30A of the Planning Act 2008, these are not yet included)

Developers must confirm BNG applicability, calculate the biodiversity value of the site, describe any irreplaceable habitats, and provide a habitat plan. Local councils should scrutinise these applications to ensure accuracy and explore alternatives if necessary. They should assess the extent of on-site and off-site biodiversity gains and review draft habitat management plans.

The Approach in Wales

Wales takes a slightly different approach to biodiversity net gain. The Welsh Government emphasises a "net-benefits for biodiversity" approach, which does not use a strict metric. Instead, it focuses on proactive consideration of biodiversity and wider ecosystem benefits within a placemaking context early in the design process. This approach encourages a more integrated and holistic view of development and its impacts on the environment.

The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 also plays a significant role. It requires all local authorities to think about the future of their communities in very clear ways, emphasising sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. This forward-thinking legislation sets a strong framework for biodiversity efforts in Wales.

Key Aspects of BNG for Local Councils

1. Biodiversity Duty: Local councils play a pivotal role in promoting biodiversity. They should start by noting existing efforts to conserve and enhance biodiversity and review biodiversity or nature recovery plans from other local authorities. Establishing a clear biodiversity policy is essential, as is engaging with local voluntary groups focused on nature conservation. Conducting a biodiversity audit of council landholdings and gathering expert advice on potential actions are important steps. Drafting an action plan will help outline the council's initiatives and support other activities in favour of biodiversity.

2. Planning Applications: BNG is applicable to various types of development, including single dwellings, commercial projects over 1,000 square metres, and significant infrastructure projects. Developers must confirm BNG applicability, calculate the biodiversity value of the site, describe any irreplaceable habitats, and provide a habitat plan. Local councils should scrutinise these applications to ensure accuracy and explore alternatives if necessary. Councils should also assess the extent of on-site and off-site biodiversity gains and review the draft habitat management plans.

3. Words of Caution: Councils should be vigilant about developers' claims regarding biodiversity on-site. Proposals including private gardens as part of the solution might not be binding on households, and the option to buy "biodiversity credits" might result in improvements happening far from the local area. Early local proposals are essential to counterbalance these potential pitfalls.

Practical Steps for Councils

To foster biodiversity effectively, councils can take several proactive measures:

• Engage with existing wildlife and conservation groups.
• Invite those groups to participate in annual parish meetings to discuss biodiversity.
• Organise talks by specialists and local experts.
• Conduct a Bioblitz to document and monitor local biodiversity.
• Map the results alongside other planning considerations.
• Implement site management practices such as reduced mowing, avoiding artificial fertilisers, and increasing tree and hedge planting.

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Bioblitz

A Bioblitz is an immersive, community-driven event where participants of all ages come together to identify and record as many species of plants, animals, insects, and fungi as possible within a designated area and timeframe. These events typically take place in local parks, nature reserves, or other natural spaces, fostering a deep connection between participants and their local environment. Equipped with binoculars, field guides, notebooks, and cameras, community members work alongside scientists, naturalists, and educators to document biodiversity, learn about different species, and contribute valuable data to conservation efforts. The atmosphere is lively and educational, promoting environmental stewardship and awareness while highlighting the rich diversity of life that exists in even the most familiar settings. By involving the community in hands-on scientific research, Bioblitz events not only enhance public understanding of biodiversity but also inspire ongoing efforts to protect and preserve natural habitats.

Managing Sites for Biodiversity

Effective biodiversity management includes several best practices:

• No Mowing in April or May: Avoid mowing during peak flowering times to support pollinating insects.
• Rotational Mowing: Mow different sections at different times to protect hibernating insects and ground-nesting birds.
• Avoid Artificial Fertilisers: Use natural alternatives to maintain soil and grassland quality.
• Plant More Trees and Hedges: Trees are crucial for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
• Explore Alternatives to Pesticides: Minimise pesticide use to protect local ecosystems.

Challenges and Solutions: Insights from the Q&A

During the Q&A session, several pertinent issues were raised that are worth highlighting.

Changing Hearts and Minds: A key challenge is convincing those who prefer manicured lawns to embrace more natural, biodiverse environments. Effective communication is essential. Engaging schools and young people can be a powerful strategy, as they can influence their families. Additionally, community events focused on biodiversity can help raise awareness and shift public perception.

Integrating Biodiversity into Neighbourhood Plans: Integrating biodiversity policies into neighbourhood plans can be straightforward. Utilising available examples from other areas’ plans, and following guidelines, such as the model biodiversity policy, can provide a good starting point. Collaboration with local environmental groups and leveraging their expertise can also enhance these plans.

Addressing Off-Site Biodiversity Gains: One concern is ensuring that off-site biodiversity gains are genuinely beneficial and not just a checkbox exercise. It is crucial to identify local sites that can benefit from biodiversity improvements and advocate for their inclusion in developers' plans. Regular monitoring and maintaining communication with planning authorities can help ensure that these commitments are honoured.

Impact of Large-Scale Developments: Large-scale developments, such as artificial sports pitches, pose a significant challenge to biodiversity. It's important to engage with relevant authorities and organisations to find sustainable solutions. Collaboration with sports clubs and raising awareness about the environmental impact of such developments can help mitigate their effects.

Seeking Further Advice and Collaboration

Councils are not alone in this endeavour. Numerous resources and organisations are available to provide guidance:

• Complying with the Biodiversity Duty
• Model Biodiversity Policy
• Local Nature Action Plans and Field Guides
• Bioblitz Organising Tips
• Community Engagement Strategies

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The Great Collaboration 

Additionally, the Great Collaboration offers a platform for councils to share best practices and seek expert advice. We run weekly Zoom sessions to host presentations, gather suggestions, and foster greater involvement in climate action and biodiversity initiatives.

By working together and leveraging available resources, local councils can make significant strides in enhancing biodiversity. This collaborative approach not only benefits the environment but also strengthens community ties and promotes sustainable development practices.

For more information and to get involved, visit The Great Collaboration and SLCC's Climate Action.

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Share Your Insights

The Great Collaboration are looking to gather stories and feedback from current and potential users of the Great Collaboration website to help further develop the available guidance. To Councils interested, they would like you to share your community goals and how the Great Collaboration can help you to achieve them.

Download The Great Collaboration's story prompt to get started.

Contact Information: Andrew Maliphant, Environmental & Sustainability Advisor for SLCC
Email: office@greatcollaboration.uk

Embracing biodiversity net gain is not just a regulatory requirement but a commitment to preserving and enhancing our natural world for future generations. Let's take this journey together to create a thriving, sustainable environment.

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Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) FAQs

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Q: What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and why is it important?
A: BNG ensures that development projects result in a net positive impact on biodiversity. While the principle is promising, it requires careful monitoring to prevent developers from exploiting loopholes with token measures that provide minimal ecological benefits.

Q: Why do biodiversity gains often occur outside our parish?
A: It's a common issue that planning authorities may approve biodiversity gains outside the immediate parish. To address this, councils can identify non-development sites within their own parish that need a biodiversity boost and share these with planning authorities and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Q: What should be included in a simplified biodiversity policy?
A: Even for councils wanting a basic policy, it’s recommended to include background information, a definition of biodiversity, and essential aims and objectives. Monitoring sections are crucial to ensure regular policy reviews, and involving the local community can add significant value.

Q: Why wasn’t our parish council involved in the S106 agreement for a local development?
A: Parish councils are typically not signatories to Section 106 agreements, which are between the borough council and developers. However, having a neighbourhood plan in place can help secure a larger share of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds for local projects.

Q: How can one become qualified to calculate BNG for an area?
A: Competency in calculating BNG can be obtained through formal qualifications, training, or professional experience. Competency is aligned with British Standard BS 8683:202, which provides guidelines for implementing BNG. Specialized tasks, such as river condition assessments, require additional training and accreditation.

Q: Should trees just outside a development site be included in BNG calculations?
A: No, only trees within the red line boundary of the development site are included in the baseline biodiversity calculation.

Q: Can our parish council designate land as a BNG offset location?
A: Yes, this is a great idea! If your parish council designates land for biodiversity offsetting, be sure to share it with the planning authority and those developing the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Q: Why does our planning department charge a fee for BNG? Can’t we handle the planting ourselves?
A: Fees for BNG are not always required and should be a last resort. Developers should aim to deliver BNG onsite or through the private market before purchasing government credits to cover any shortfall.

Q: Should parish councils propose BNG sites during planning applications?
A: Absolutely. It’s highly recommended that councils suggest potential BNG sites when responding to planning applications and also contribute to the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Q: How can we challenge a developer’s BNG calculation?
A: BNG assessments can be challenged just like any other planning proposal. Consulting an independent ecologist or BNG expert will help ensure the calculations are accurate and can highlight any errors in the developer’s report.

Q: What is required to unlock the BNG fund?
A: Local planning authorities have been informed about their 2024/25 grants and how to claim them. The grants are paid in arrears, based on evidence of completed work.

Q: What metric do planning departments use to measure BNG?
A: Planning departments and developers use the statutory biodiversity metric. However, for smaller developments, the small sites metric may be applicable, which is defined on the UK government website.

Q: Do we need a BNG report before undertaking urgent tree work?
A: BNG requirements only apply to development projects that require planning permission. If your tree work doesn’t fall under this, then a BNG report is not necessary.

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