What is biodiversity net gain (BNG) in planning?

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is a planning requirement that ensures new development leaves habitats in a measurably better state than before works begin. It uses standardised biodiversity metrics to compare pre- and post-development habitat value and to demonstrate that a defined uplift has been achieved on-site, off-site or via habitat banking.

Why does biodiversity matter for my planning application?

Biodiversity is now a material planning consideration for most developments. Planning authorities need clear evidence that habitats have been assessed properly, that impacts are understood, and that proportionate mitigation or habitat creation is in place. Without this, applications often face validation queries, extra conditions or delays while additional biodiversity information is provided.

How does ProHort support biodiversity and BNG requirements?

ProHort provides planning-ready biodiversity reports that match what local planning authorities and consultees expect to see. We assess existing habitats, apply the appropriate biodiversity metrics, prepare biodiversity net gain plans, and develop habitat management and monitoring plans. Our role is to give you clear next steps, proportionate recommendations and documentation that integrates with your wider design, arboricultural and ecological work.

What biodiversity services does ProHort provide?

Our biodiversity services cover the full planning route, including biodiversity net gain assessments, biodiversity screening for planning applications, biodiversity gain plans and habitat management and monitoring plans. Each service is designed to support a different stage of the planning process, from early risk screening through to long-term post-consent management and monitoring.

Biodiversity Net Gain

Planning-ready ecological assessments for development projects — delivered with proportionate methods, clear reasoning and predictable survey timings across the UK.

Before design moves, ecology needs clarity. Whether you’re preparing a planning submission, refining a layout or coordinating works on site, the right evidence keeps your project steady.
Our team helps you see what’s required, when it’s needed, and how to keep progress predictable, not reactive.

What Survey Do I Need? (Your Quick Guide)

Most ecological requirements follow clear triggers.
Match your site conditions to the survey most likely to apply.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessment

When: development must achieve or evidence ≥ 10 % gain.

Purpose: quantify ecological change and define uplift routes.

Timing: baseline year-round.

Biodiversity Gain Plan

When: after baseline/BNG assessment, once layout and habitat proposals are broadly fixed.

Purpose: set out how required BNG units will be delivered, managed and secured.

Timing: usually post-permission, pre-commencement to discharge BNG conditions.

Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan (HMMP)

When: once BGP or BNG strategy is agreed and habitats are defined.

Purpose: detail how habitats will be managed, monitored and reported over 30+ years.

Timing: typically required alongside or shortly after the BGP for condition discharge.

Biodiversity FAQs

What is Biodiversity Work in Planning?

Biodiversity work covers the assessments, plans and evidence needed to show how a development avoids harm, protects habitats and delivers measurable biodiversity outcomes in line with national policy.

Why does biodiversity matter for planning applications?

LPAs need clear ecological evidence to validate applications, discharge conditions and confirm that developments meet Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements. Strong biodiversity inputs reduce delays, redesign and compliance risks.

What biodiversity evidence do I need for my project?

Requirements vary by site and authority, but most projects need one or more of the following:

Biodiversity Screening Assessment (initial risk-check)
BNG Assessment (metric-based evaluation)
Biodiversity Gain Plan (mandatory from 2024)
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan (for long-term delivery)
We confirm which applies after a short site review.

When should biodiversity work be carried out?

Earlier is always better.
Screening and BNG assessments can be completed at pre-app or early design stages. Habitat plans are typically needed for validation, condition discharge, or before works begin.

Does biodiversity link with ecology and protected species surveys?

Yes. Biodiversity assessments often rely on ecological baselines, habitat mapping and protected species inputs. Coordinating these streams prevents duplicated work and keeps the programme predictable.

Can BNG be delivered on small sites?

Often yes. Small-scale gains can be met through proportionate planting, onsite enhancements, or—where necessary—offsite or credit-based options. We assess feasibility first.

How does ProHort support my biodiversity obligations?

We provide planning-ready evidence, proportionate recommendations and clear sequencing guidance so your design, ecology and landscaping work together without creating avoidable conditions or delays.