What is a Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment?
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth. It encompasses all living organisms, from plants and animals to microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form and the genetic diversity within these species. Biodiversity is crucial because it helps maintain ecosystem services, such as clean air, water, food production, and climate regulation, all of which are essential for human survival and well-being. A healthy, diverse natural world also supports resilience, allowing ecosystems to adapt to environmental changes and disruptions. In essence, biodiversity is the foundation of a balanced and sustainable planet.
A Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessment is a process used to measure and enhance the biodiversity value of a site before, during, and after a development project. The goal of a Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Berkshire is to ensure that the project results in a measurable improvement in biodiversity, leaving the environment in a better state than before.
This assessment typically involves evaluating the existing biodiversity on the site, identifying opportunities to increase biodiversity through mitigation and enhancement measures, and then implementing actions to improve the habitat. These actions may include creating new green spaces, planting native species, enhancing habitats for wildlife, or improving soil and water management practices.
The outcome of a BNG assessment is not only to comply with regulations or requirements, but also to contribute to overall ecological sustainability, ensuring that development and nature can coexist and thrive together.
Why are Biodiversity Assessments in Berkshire Required?
- Legal and Planning Requirements: Under UK law, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and local planning policies, developers are often required to assess and mitigate the potential environmental impacts of their projects. This includes assessing the biodiversity value of a site before development takes place. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is increasingly becoming a requirement in planning applications to ensure that developments leave a positive legacy for the environment.
- Environmental Protection: Berkshire is home to a diverse range of habitats and species, some of which are protected under national or international conservation laws. Biodiversity assessments help identify and protect these sensitive habitats and species from harm during development, ensuring that they are preserved or enhanced as part of the project.
- Climate Change and Sustainability Goals: With growing recognition of the importance of biodiversity for mitigating climate change and maintaining ecosystem services (like carbon sequestration, water filtration, and flood prevention), biodiversity assessments play a key role in promoting more sustainable and climate-resilient development practices.
- Local Ecological Health: By conducting biodiversity assessments, developers can contribute to improving the overall ecological health of the area. Enhancing biodiversity ensures that local ecosystems remain resilient, supporting wildlife populations and providing benefits to local communities through green spaces and natural resources.
- Public and Stakeholder Engagement: Local communities and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the impact of development on nature. Conducting a thorough biodiversity assessment demonstrates a commitment to responsible development and helps build trust with local residents, environmental groups, and regulators.
Does it matter what size my development is?
BNGs became mandatory for both major and small developments from the 2nd of April 2024.
As defined by the Land Use Policy team, major developments include:
– Residential developments that include 10 or more dwellings.
– Developments where the site area is greater than 0.5 hectares.
A small site development has been defined as:
– Residential developments consisting of 1 – 9 dwellings.
– Residential developments where the site area if less than 0.5 hectares.
– Commercial developments where the floor space that is being created is less than 1000 square metres.
– Commercial developments where the total site area is less than 1 hectare.
Biodiversity Net Gain assessments in Berkshire will be required for nearly all new applications for planning permission, however there are some exclusions.
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Exclusions for Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments in Berkshire:
While Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments are crucial for promoting sustainable development and environmental protection, there are certain exclusions or situations where a full BNG assessment may not be required in Berkshire (or other regions in the UK). These exclusions typically fall under specific circumstances defined by local planning authorities or regulations. Common exclusions include:
Sites with Minimal or No Biodiversity Impact: If a development is taking place in an area that has very low biodiversity value or where the development has negligible impact on local ecosystems, a full BNG assessment may not be required. However, this would typically need to be assessed and agreed upon by the local planning authority.
Small-Scale Developments: Some smaller projects (e.g., minor extensions or renovations) might be exempt from full BNG assessments if they do not significantly affect the surrounding biodiversity. The threshold for what constitutes a “small-scale” development can vary depending on local regulations.
Previously Developed Land (Brownfield Sites): If the development is taking place on land that has been previously developed and has little to no ecological value, such as urban areas or contaminated sites, the requirement for a full BNG assessment might be waived or reduced.
Temporary Projects: Temporary developments, such as construction for short-term events or infrastructure, may be excluded from the requirement if they are unlikely to result in long-term impacts on local biodiversity.
Emergency or Essential Infrastructure: Certain infrastructure projects considered vital for public safety or emergency response (e.g., flood defenses, utility repairs) might not be required to conduct a full BNG assessment, although mitigation measures may still be recommended where possible.
Exemptions Based on Location: Some specific habitats or land types may have different regulatory requirements. For example, agricultural land or areas outside of designated conservation zones may not require a BNG assessment, though local ecological regulations may still apply.
Sites with Existing Protected Status: If the site is already a designated site of special conservation interest (such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or SSSI), different rules may apply, and a different form of environmental assessment (such as a Habitats Regulations Assessment) may be required instead of a standard BNG assessment.
It is important to note that the final decision on whether a BNG assessment is required will depend on local planning authorities and specific project details. Developers should always consult with relevant planning bodies and environmental consultants to ensure they are meeting all necessary requirements.