Understanding Your BNG Assessment: No Hidden Catches, No Surprises

Tim Hobern December 9, 2024

Initial Assessment: Understanding Your Land’s True Value at This Moment At this point in time, landowners may wonder about their land’s true value for biodiversity. While some might hope their site can benefit from BNG, others seek to understand how species diversity plays into the bigger picture. Our purpose is to talk through this process, address challenges and take responsibility for getting land registered as a habitat bank while focusing on practical benefits that literally shape your land’s contribution to the natural world. Beyond Surface Features: From Ground Level to Full Scope We will first, for free, have a desk-based look at what habitats appear to be currently present on the land and gauge a preliminary idea about what biodiversity uplift may be possible. During the initial scoping assessment, we will visit your land, assess every existing habitat in your site and record what possible scenarios there are available for improving their biodiversity value. Based on our ecological expertise, we will also create and present a site-wide plan for the optimal BNG scheme at the site based on the context of the site, demand in the area and financial viability. This won’t be a fixed plan, it will function as a start point to create an optimal layout plan which works for the landowner and works best functionally for ecology. Documentation and Value: A Focus on Real Benefits Our team has listened to countless landowners’ concerns and queries and brought together practical solutions. We act with purpose, understanding that proper habitat assessment, creation and enhancement means more than just ticking boxes – it’s about producing thorough ground surveys and management plans that benefit both landowners and biodiversity targets. England-wide, we help can integrate your site’s features into broader ecological goals. Making Progress: Clear Guidance, Real Understanding The scope of BNG assessment can seem overwhelming at first thought. That’s why we’ve created a process that means you’ll never feel left in the dark. Whether you’re seeking advice about basic habitat features or complex habitat baselines, our team provides the support needed to understand every step. Looking Forward: A Decade of Experience As requirements evolve and new challenges emerge, we maintain our focus on understanding what’s happening in the world of biodiversity. Your site’s potential goes beyond just meeting planning targets – it’s about creating lasting benefits for future generations. Take the Next Step Today Contact us to discuss your land’s potential. With years of experience guiding landowners through the BNG assessment process, we ensure you have access to clear, practical guidance without hidden catches. Ready to transform your understanding of BNG? Get in touch to start your journey with confidence.

Why BNG Units Are a Game-Changer for Agricultural Income

Tim Hobern December 9, 2024

As an increasing number of farmers and landowners discover new income streams, biodiversity net gain (BNG) is emerging as a vital opportunity in land management. Since becoming a legal requirement in February 2024, we’ve been working closely with landowners to transform their land use through biodiversity units, creating valuable partnerships that benefit both nature and agricultural businesses. The Evolution of Farm Income While traditional farming remains subject to market fluctuations, biodiversity units represent a game-changer for agricultural income. Unlike carbon credits or other environmental schemes, BNG offers farmers and landowners guaranteed returns through habitat creation and restoration. Our experience in developing these opportunities shows how off-site biodiversity units can provide stable income while supporting natural habitats. Understanding BNG Units When developers need planning permission but can’t achieve biodiversity benefits on their development sites, they have several options: Developers can organise the delivery of biodiversity units themselves on land outside of their development site (e.g blue line land) Purchase biodiversity units from habitat creation are funded offsite e.g. on farmland Purchase statutory biodiversity credits for the government This creates opportunities for landowners to access new income streams while supporting vital environmental goals. The Growing Market for Natural Habitats We’re seeing an increasing number of developments requiring biodiversity net gain (BNG) units. Working closely with local authorities and developers, we help assess and create valuable habitats that: Enhance existing natural habitats Provide sustainable income for farmers Contribute to climate change mitigation Maximising Your Land’s Income Potential When considering BNG, farmers often ask us about comparing traditional agricultural yields with biodiversity unit income. While yields vary significantly based on land type, crop selection, and market conditions, BNG offers guaranteed income that’s protected from weather risks and market fluctuations. For example, marginal agricultural land that might generate unpredictable returns can provide stable, 30+ year income through BNG agreements. Additionally, we’re seeing increasing opportunities for ‘stacking’ different environmental benefits. While biodiversity units are our primary focus, your land might also qualify for other environmental schemes depending on your specific situation. However, it’s important to note that not all environmental payments can be combined, and we always recommend seeking professional advice about your specific circumstances. Our role is to help you understand the BNG opportunity clearly while working with your other advisors to optimise your overall land management strategy. However, if you can stack on top of BNG, we are very open to this and will take no cut from the funds you can earn from stacking. Transform Your Land’s Future Your site could be generating secure, long-term income through biodiversity units while supporting vital environmental goals. Our professional approach ensures: Expert ecological advice Access to established markets Partnership opportunities Ongoing support Contact us today to assess your land’s potential for creating biodiversity units. Our team is experienced in working closely with farmers and landowners to develop successful schemes that achieve both environmental and financial objectives. Ready to explore how biodiversity net gain could transform your agricultural business? Contact us to discuss developing your opportunity.

Biodiversity Net Gain Explained: A Clear Path Forward for Farmers

Tim Hobern December 9, 2024

Implementing biodiversity net gain (BNG) has been transforming England’s planning process since February 2024. Development sites now must deliver measurable net gains in biodiversity value, creating new opportunities for farmers through habitat creation and enhancement. This fundamental shift in how local planning authorities approach planning permission has established an active market for biodiversity units. The Current BNG Landscape Under the Environment Act 2021, most development proposals must now complete a biodiversity gain plan demonstrating at least a 10% gain in biodiversity value. This applies to: Major development sites requiring planning permission Development proposals impacting existing habitats Projects needing outline planning permission Most planning applications, with limited exemptions Small sites have been included since April 2024, expanding the need for biodiversity credits and units. How the Planning Process Works Now The statutory biodiversity metric calculates both pre-development biodiversity value and development biodiversity value. Developers must: Submit a biodiversity net gain plan to their relevant local planning authority Meet the biodiversity gain objective through: On-site habitat creation Off-site biodiversity gains Statutory biodiversity credits as a last resort Local nature recovery strategies guide where habitat enhancement delivers the most value, while conservation covenants and SE106 agreements ensure protection through legal agreements. The Role of DEFRA’s Biodiversity Metric The biodiversity metric calculations provide the following: Standardised ecological value assessment Clear development proposals evaluation Post-development biodiversity projections Framework for measuring biodiversity gains Opportunities in the BNG Market Creating a Biodiversity Gain Site Farmland can be registered on the biodiversity gain site register to offer: Natural environment enhancement Protected species habitats Measurable net gains Long-term conservation value Support for local communities Transform Your Land’s Potential: The BNG Opportunity With mandatory biodiversity net gain now embedded in the national planning policy framework, farmers have a clear path to generate sustainable income while enhancing biodiversity. The market for biodiversity units continues to grow as development projects seek to fulfil their planning obligations. The planning process for farmers, BNG has demonstrated several key benefits: Secure 30+ year income through planning obligation commitments (BNG unit sales) Professional habitat management advice and ecological expertise Clear legal agreements protecting landowner interests Support for natural capital and ecological value Contribution to local nature recovery strategies For farmers interested in joining those already benefiting from BNG, consulting with a professional broker can help navigate registering your land as a habitat bank, interpreting the guidance, and maximise your land’s potential. Frequently Asked Questions: What minimum size of land do I need for biodiversity net gain? Generally, we look for sites of around 10 hectares or more. However, this doesn’t need to be a single plot – we can work with multiple smaller parcels of land that total 10 hectares. Equally, we don’t have a maximum site size! Feel free to contact us to have a conversation about what’s possible on your land. Do I lose control of my land under a BNG agreement? No. When working with a landbank broker like Civity, you retain ownership of your land. The agreement is typically a lease arrangement where specific areas are designated for habitat enhancement. You stay in control of the habitat management on your land and maintain overall ownership rights. How long do BNG agreements last? BNG agreements must secure biodiversity gains for a minimum of 30+ years. This provides a guaranteed long-term income stream. During this period, the landbank broker takes on the liabilities and risks associated with maintaining the biodiversity value of the site. What happens if the habitat creation fails or is damaged? When working with a professional landbank broker, you bear no risk. As long as the management outlined in the Habitat Management Agreement is undertaken by the landowner (if they wish to sign and undertake a Habitat Management Agreement). The broker assumes all responsibility for meeting biodiversity targets, including managing risks from weather events or other natural factors. You continue to receive your agreed payments regardless of any unforeseen challenges with habitat management.

Biodiversity Net Gain and Planning Permission: What Developers Need to Know

Tim Hobern October 28, 2024

Under the Town and Country Planning Act, biodiversity net gain (BNG) has become a mandatory requirement that local planning authorities must consider before granting planning permission for new development projects. This fundamental shift in development management procedure means that planning permissions will only be granted when proposals can demonstrate a minimum 10% biodiversity gain compared to the site’s existing biodiversity value. Understanding BNG in Planning The introduction of mandatory biodiversity net gain will be rolled out in phases, from what has already begun in February 2024, and fully transforming how planning permission is obtained by 2025. Initially, this requirement applies to major developments, with the scope expanding to include almost all development projects by 2025 – from small sites to nationally significant infrastructure projects. Local planning authorities will carefully scrutinise how development proposals impact natural habitats. Planning conditions will specifically address biodiversity requirements, and green infrastructure must demonstrably support biodiversity enhancement within the development site. Understanding how many biodiversity units your development needs is crucial for preparation. The statutory biodiversity metric provides a standardised calculation method, considering factors such as existing habitat and its condition, habitat presence and its strategic significance, and potential for enhancement. This metric tool calculation helps determine both the current biodiversity value and the improvements that will be required for planning permission approval once the requirements come into force. The Planning Process Under BNG Successful navigation of the planning process begins with thorough pre-application preparation. Developers must evaluate existing biodiversity within their red-line boundary and develop a clear strategy for achieving the required gains. Early engagement with the planning team, and specifically consultant ecologists and local planning authorities, provides crucial guidance on local requirements and expected planning conditions. The biodiversity gain hierarchy guides decision-making throughout the planning process: First, explore opportunities to create biodiversity on-site through habitat creation, enhancement of existing natural habitats, and integration of green infrastructure. When on-site opportunities are limited, consider off-site biodiversity gains through purchasing biodiversity units or establishing legal agreements with landowners. As a last resort, statutory biodiversity credits through Natural England may be necessary to meet requirements. On-Site Solutions and Enhancement Creating biodiversity on-site represents the preferred approach for meeting BNG requirements. Successful integration of natural habitat enhancement with development plans can include sustainable drainage features, tree planting, and the creation of new habitats. This approach offers direct control over outcomes and often simplifies the planning process. While on-site biodiversity gains can provide certain advantages, they represent just one option available to developers. Enhanced green infrastructure may contribute to site sustainability and user experience, though this needs to be weighed against practical considerations and project requirements. When implemented, long-term management commitments must be maintained throughout the mandatory 30-year period to ensure continued biodiversity outcomes. Off-Site Solutions When Needed When development sites present limited opportunities for biodiversity enhancement, off-site solutions provide an alternative approach. Off-site biodiversity units can be purchased through authorised providers who assume full responsibility for creating, maintaining, and monitoring natural habitats for the mandatory 30-year period. This transfers long-term management obligations away from the developer to the unit provider, who specialises in habitat enhancement and conservation. Working with environmental organisations or land managers to secure off-site gains can provide a clear path to achieving biodiversity targets. These arrangements require proper legal agreements and must demonstrate benefits for local conservation efforts. While statutory biodiversity credits remain available as a last resort through Natural England, local planning authorities generally prefer solutions that deliver biodiversity benefits within their jurisdiction. Essential Documentation for Planning Permission Securing planning permission requires comprehensive documentation centred around the biodiversity gain plan. This crucial document must detail the following: Current habitat assessment and biodiversity value Proposed enhancement measures and creation Metric tool calculations demonstrating a 10% gain and fulfilling the trading requirements Long-term management commitments Monitoring arrangements Supporting evidence should include ecological surveys, detailed design proposals, and management plans that demonstrate commitment to maintaining biodiversity value. These documents form part of the planning conditions and provide a reference point for compliance monitoring throughout the development project. Working with Local Planning Authorities Success in navigating planning requirements depends heavily on effective collaboration with local planning authorities. Early engagement helps developers understand specific local requirements and align their proposals accordingly. Regular communication throughout the application process helps address concerns promptly and maintains momentum in the planning process. Local planning authorities appreciate applications which demonstrate a clear understanding of BNG requirements and present well-documented proposals aligned with local biodiversity objectives. This collaborative approach often results in more favourable planning outcomes and achievable implementation timelines. Overcoming Common Challenges Space constraints within development sites often present significant challenges for achieving BNG requirements. Innovative approaches such as vertical greening systems, roof gardens, and creative habitat enhancement can help deliver biodiversity value even in tight urban spaces. These solutions can satisfy planning conditions while maximising development potential. Cost management remains crucial in BNG implementation. Early assessment of enhancement options allows developers to build realistic budgets and explore cost-effective solutions. Value engineering can identify approaches that deliver required biodiversity gains while maintaining project viability. Long-term Success and Management Future-proofing development projects requires careful attention to long-term management commitments. Successful biodiversity gain plans include clear provisions for ongoing monitoring and maintenance, ensuring enhanced habitats continue to deliver intended biodiversity value throughout the mandatory period. Regular monitoring helps identify and address issues before they impact compliance with planning conditions. Adaptive management approaches allow for adjustments based on habitat performance, ensuring sustained biodiversity improvements over time. Navigating BNG: Your Path to Planning Permission Success The integration of biodiversity net gain into the planning permission process represents a fundamental shift in development practices. Success requires developers to embrace this change, planning effectively for biodiversity enhancement from the earliest stages. Understanding these requirements and working proactively with local planning authorities helps ensure smooth approval processes and successful outcomes. Whether pursuing on-site gains or exploring off-site biodiversity units, early engagement with experts and local authorities helps identify the most appropriate path forward. As the industry adapts to these requirements, developers who embrace the opportunities presented by BNG often create more valuable and sustainable developments that benefit both their commercial objectives and the natural environment.

Developer’s Guide: Biodiversity Net Gain Units For Sale and Land Opportunities

Tim Hobern October 28, 2024

Since the Environment Act made mandatory BNG a reality, the private market for biodiversity units has become crucial for development projects across England. As habitat bank operators and specialists in biodiversity net gain (BNG), we’re here to guide developers and land managers through the complexities of purchasing and selling biodiversity units. Understanding the BNG Market Landscape The Fundamentals of Biodiversity Units Biodiversity units represent measurable biodiversity value, calculated using the statutory biodiversity metric developed by DEFRA (building upon previous versions created by Natural England). These units form the foundation of how we: Measure biodiversity gain Assess development site impacts Calculate off-site biodiversity units needed Monitor habitat enhancement progress Why Off-Site Units Matter For many development projects, achieving significant on-site gains isn’t feasible. Off-site biodiversity units provide a solution by: Meeting planning authority requirements Simplifying the planning process Providing immediate biodiversity gain Reducing ongoing management responsibilities Supporting local nature recovery strategies Purchasing Biodiversity Units for Developers How Many Biodiversity Units Do You Need? The number of units required depends on several factors: Development site size and current biodiversity value Planned on-site habitat enhancement Local authority requirements Specific development impacts Presence of irreplaceable habitats Our BNG Unit Offering As established habitat bank operators, we: Sell biodiversity units that meet statutory requirements Manage multiple habitat types Ensure long-term habitat management Handle monitoring and reporting Support the planning process The Purchase Process Initial Assessment Review development site requirements Calculate required units based on the Statutory Biodiversity Metric associated with the planning application Assess the local nature recovery context Unit Selection Match available units to your needs Consider habitat types (in terms of trading rule requirements) Align with local authority preferences Legal Agreements Receive BNG Unit Sale Agreement upon purchase Establish planning obligations Secure necessary legal documentation Implementation Register on the biodiversity gain site register Confirm management and monitoring plan Support planning permission process Land Opportunities: Selling Biodiversity Units Benefits for Land Managers As a land manager or estate manager, selling biodiversity units offers: Long-term income streams A habitat management agreement Support for nature recovery Potentially environmental payments Expert guidance throughout What Makes Land Suitable? We look for sites that: Support local nature recovery strategy objectives Offer potential for habitat enhancement Can generate sufficient biodiversity value Provide long-term management opportunities Complement existing habitat banking networks Our Partnership Approach As your ecological partner from start to finish, we: Provide comprehensive ecological advice and reporting from day one Serve as your dedicated monitoring ecologist throughout the 31-year period Take full responsibility for registering your site on the National Register Manage unit sales and tracking Support developers in finding and purchasing biodiversity units Deliver ongoing ecological expertise and monitoring reports The Technical Framework Management and Monitoring Requirements Successful BNG sites need: Detailed management and monitoring plan Regular habitat assessment Professional oversight Clear reporting structure Long-term commitment Working with Local Authorities Supporting Local Nature Recovery We align our approach with the following: Local nature recovery strategies Planning authorities’ priorities Natural England guidance Local biodiversity plans Regional conservation goals Planning Process Integration Our team supports: Biodiversity gain plan review and feedback Planning permission applications (in terms of offsite BNG considerations) Local authority consultation Monitoring plan approval Ongoing compliance Market Dynamics and Opportunities Understanding Unit Values Unit prices reflect: Habitat types involved Local market conditions Creation and management costs Regional supply and demand Future Market Development We anticipate: Growing demand for off-site units Expanded habitat banking networks Enhanced monitoring technologies Streamlined legal processes Integrated nature recovery approaches Practical Guidance For Developers Key steps: Early engagement with consultant ecologists and, therefore, assessment of BNG requirements Evaluation of on-site vs off-site options Engagement with planning authorities Securing appropriate units Implementing biodiversity gain plans For Land Managers Important considerations: Site potential scoping and creation of a long-term management plan (Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan) Long-term commitment evaluation Legal framework understanding Management capacity review Financial planning Risk Management and Compliance Ensuring Long-term Success Through Partnership We focus on: Full ecological partnership from project initiation through 31 years of monitoring Registration and management of Habitat Bank on the National Register Unit sales coordination and tracking Developer matching and assistance for biodiversity unit requirements Regular monitoring and ecological reporting Adaptive management oversight Managing Responsibilities Clear allocation of: Ongoing management duties Monitoring requirements Legal obligations Reporting responsibilities Compliance oversight Expert Support Throughout Our team provides: Technical guidance Legal support Planning assistance Ecological expertise Ongoing partnership Partnering for Success Whether you’re seeking to purchase biodiversity units for development or explore opportunities as a land manager, we provide comprehensive support throughout the BNG process. Our experience in both selling biodiversity units and establishing habitat banking sites ensures reliable, compliant solutions for all stakeholders. Success in the BNG market requires professional ecological advice and monitoring, careful and methodical management, and long-term commitment. By partnering with experienced habitat bank operators, both developers and land managers can navigate these requirements effectively while contributing to meaningful nature recovery outcomes. For specific advice about buying or selling biodiversity units or to discuss land opportunities, contact our team to explore how we can support your objectives.

hello@civitynge.com

0208 050 6076

CIVITY NGE Blog

Understanding Your BNG Assessment: No Hidden Catches, No Surprises

Why BNG Units Are a Game-Changer for Agricultural Income

Biodiversity Net Gain Explained: A Clear Path Forward for Farmers

Biodiversity Net Gain and Planning Permission: What Developers Need to Know

Developer’s Guide: Biodiversity Net Gain Units For Sale and Land Opportunities

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hello@civitynge.com

0208 050 6076