Biodiversity – What You Need to Know

Biodiversity – What You Need to Know

Biodiversity is a hot topic, and rightly so.

But why? How is this important environmental concern impacting architecture and new developments?

Whether you have a residential or commercial property that is being redeveloped or newly built, a new legal requirement around biodiversity needs to be considered.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be looking at biodiversity in detail, providing a guide to help you through this crucial aspect of modern design.

We’ll be considering the meaning of biodiversity and legislation; how you calculate Biodiversity Net Gain (more on this later); and biodiversity in practice.

What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?

According to GOV.UK, “Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to development. It makes sure that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before the development.”

It’s not a nice-to-have, it is a legal requirement.

As part of the legislation, developers must deliver a minimum 10% increase in biodiversity, as noted in the UK Government’s guidance on biodiversity net gain. However, it is important to highlight that exemptions do apply and many local authorities are setting even higher targets.

Legislation

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) marks a significant change in planning regulations. Introduced as part of the Environment Act 2021, it became a legal requirement on 12^th February 2024 – ensuring all developments leave habitats in a better condition than before.

The statutory framework, outlined in Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, was updated through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023. Supporting regulations in 2024, it was refined to align with modern planning needs.

Planning and Biodiversity Net Gain

While a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain uplift is mandatory, each local planning authority (LPA) may require more than the minimum 10% BNG requirement.

So, before you start the planning process, make sure you check with your LPA about their BNG requirements. Unless exempt, developers will be expected to confirm how they will meet their BNG requirements as part of the planning application process.

How Does This Affect Architects and Developers?

As architects, we play a crucial role in supporting our clients in meeting their BNG requirements.

This means ensuring that biodiversity is on the agenda and a key consideration at the feasibility phase of a project.

By integrating biodiversity at the earliest stage possible, we can help our clients get a true understanding of the costs of a project (which includes their BNG).

For architects, this means designing with nature in mind, while considering how our projects can enhance local ecosystems.

Next Edition:

In our next blog, we’ll be looking at how you calculate BNG and what architects can consider when meeting BNG requirements.