Biodiversity Net Gain, guidance for developers and ecological consultants
Introduction
This is initial guidance based on draft regulations and statutory guidance. It will be reviewed and if necessary updated once final regulations and further statutory guidance have been published.
Biodiversity net gain (BNG) (opens new window)is a way of making sure development has a measurably positive impact ('net gain') on biodiversity, compared to what was there before development.
BNG is becoming mandatory under Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as inserted by Schedule 14 of the Environment Act 2021) (opens new window). Developments must deliver a BNG of at least 10%.
This compliments and adds to existing local policy requirements in Gateshead. Policy MSGP37 of the Local Development Plan (LDP) states: "Where appropriate, development proposals must demonstrate how they will:
- avoid/minimise adverse impacts on biodiversity and geodiversity in accordance with the mitigation hierarchy; and
- provide net gains in biodiversity."
The introduction of mandatory biodiversity net gain marks a significant change in the way in which ecological matters are addressed through the planning process, and it is recommended the provision of BNG is given due regard as early in the process as possible to achieve the best results for developers and biodiversity.
A range of guidance concerning biodiversity net gain has been provided by Government; it is not the intention of this guidance to replicate or replace that but to highlight key issues and set out local information requirements for planning submissions.
This guidance may be updated as draft government guidance is finalised. Please check this page for updates to make sure you are referring to the current version.