Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Solihull
Developing or submitting a planning application in Solihull and require Biodiversity Net Gain?
BNG is now mandatory for most developments – we provide compliant, planning-ready reports aligned with Solihull Council requirements.
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Do you need a Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Solihull?
In Solihull, BNG is a key requirement for most developments. Developers must show a net improvement in biodiversity relative to the site’s original condition. This involves conserving habitats along rivers and railway corridors, enhancing green wedges and urban parks, and creating additional planting or wetland areas to support wildlife, fostering sustainable growth while maintaining ecological networks.
Planning officers in Solihull often request BNG information where development may impact important ecological networks. Typical examples include:
- River corridors, such as the River Blythe and River Cole, including associated floodplain habitats
- Brownfield land, particularly in Shirley, Olton, and Chelmsley Wood, supporting regenerating scrub and grassland
- Green corridors, including linear parks, green wedges, and urban parks connecting neighbourhoods
- Rail-adjacent habitats, where embankments and disused railway corridors provide valuable habitats
Clear and correctly presented BNG evidence is essential, as planning applications may otherwise face validation issues or delays.
We cover all areas of Solihull, including the town centre, Shirley, Knowle, Dorridge, Olton, Balsall Common, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Why planning authorities in Solihull request a BNG
Councils in Solihull expect BNG information at an early stage to ensure developments meet the required ten percent increase in biodiversity before finalising the layout. They require a verified baseline, a completed Metric showing the change in biodiversity units, and a clear plan for delivering and securing the gain. This aligns with NPPF Section 15 guidance.
Local Case Insight
How the BNG process works
We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Solihull’s policy expectations.
Key BNG Deliverables for Birmingham Projects
For developments in Solihull, our BNG assessments provide the essential information planning officers require. Each assessment includes:
- A verified UKHab baseline tailored to Solihull habitats
- A clearly justified Metric showing biodiversity unit changes
- A practical, site-specific uplift strategy
- Planning-ready reporting suitable for validation
- Optional long-term management and gain plan material
This approach meets Solihull Council expectations and offers a proportionate method to demonstrate BNG across various types of developments.
Step 1
Habitat baseline surveys
Year-round, with optimal survey seasons
Step 2
Metric 4.0 calculations
Completed once habitat data is verified.
Step 3
Uplift strategy development
Aligned with design progression and layout refinement.
Step 4
Integration with Other Surveys
Only if needed. PEA, EIA, and Protected Species surveys
Next Steps
Contact us, and we’ll confirm exactly what your Solihull site requires. We provide a planning-ready, proportionate route forward.
FAQ - BNG in Solihull
Does Solihull Council require BNG at validation?
Yes, most applications (except exempt categories) must submit BNG evidence.
You can review local planning guidance here:
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council – Local Plan & planning policies: https://www.solihull.gov.uk/Planning/Local-Plan
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council – Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) & development guidance: https://www.solihull.gov.uk/Planning/Planning-policy/SPDs
Are river-corridor sites treated differently?
Yes, rivers like the Blythe and Cole are priority ecological corridors, requiring careful assessment.
Does brownfield land trigger BNG requirements?
Yes, regenerating brownfield sites often support valuable habitats.
Can BNG be delivered fully on-site for small developments?
Often yes, through wildflower areas, wetland creation, and scrub/grassland improvements.
How are rail-adjacent habitats treated?
Disused tracks and embankments can hold moderate-to-high value habitats and require accurate classification.
What evidence reduces planning delays?
Verified baseline, completed Metric, and early uplift strategy submitted at validation.
