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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Nottinghamshire

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Nottinghamshire

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Nottinghamshire — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Nottinghamshire

Most developments in Nottinghamshire now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Nottinghamshire, the type and depth of ecological evidence requested by planners is often shaped by recurring landscape characteristics:

  • river corridors and floodplain habitats along the Trent and Idle

  • brownfield regeneration sites around Nottingham, Mansfield and Worksop

  • hedgerow-dominated agricultural land in rural districts

  • mixed woodland and pasture near Sherwood Forest

  • canal and waterway networks with linked habitat corridors

  • edge-of-settlement growth around Nottingham, Newark and Retford

Regardless of site location, early confirmation of baseline value and realistic uplift options helps maintain a clear and defensible planning process.

We work throughout Nottinghamshire, including Nottingham, Newark, Mansfield, Worksop and nearby towns and villages.

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Why planning officers in Nottinghamshire request BNG Assessments 

Nottinghamshire LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Nottinghamshire Site May Need BNG Evidence

Rural field with a metal farm gate, small shed, and leafless trees

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Nottinghamshire’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

BNG baseline mapping was undertaken for a mixed-use development in Nottinghamshire, where retained hedgerows and drainage features influenced uplift targets. By integrating habitat values into the landscape strategy, the scheme delivered an 11.2% net gain entirely on site.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Nottinghamshire Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Nottinghamshire

Why are Biodiversity Net Gain assessments required for development in Nottinghamshire?

In Nottinghamshire, BNG assessments are required to demonstrate compliance with national planning policy where development affects habitats such as hedgerows, watercourses, grassland, or woodland edges.

You can check local planning guidance here: 

Nottinghamshire County Council – https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/

Speak to Our Team

BNG is triggered in Nottinghamshire for most major and many minor developments where habitat loss or change occurs as part of the proposal.

 

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Hedgerow networks, drainage ditches, river corridors and semi-improved grassland frequently influence BNG outcomes in Nottinghamshire.

 

Can Biodiversity Net Gain be delivered on-site in Nottinghamshire?

In many cases, on-site delivery is achievable in Nottinghamshire through landscape-led design and early baseline mapping.

 

Secure Expert Report

A clear BNG assessment gives planners confidence that biodiversity impacts are understood and mitigation is secured.

 

Request Report Quote

BNG assessments should be prepared by competent ecologists using the latest DEFRA metric.

 

Speak to Our Team

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Sussex

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Sussex

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Sussex — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Sussex

Most developments in Sussex now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Sussex, planning authorities frequently tailor evidence requirements based on prevailing landscape patterns:

  • river valleys and wet grassland associated with the Arun, Adur and Ouse

  • former industrial and coastal regeneration sites

  • intensively managed farmland with historic hedgerow networks

  • woodland and downland mosaics near the South Downs

  • linear habitat corridors following railways and waterways

  • greenfield growth areas around Crawley, Horsham and Lewes

Establishing baseline constraints and achievable enhancement early helps avoid uncertainty later in the application process.

Our services cover locations across Sussex, supporting schemes in Crawley, Horsham, Lewes, Worthing and surrounding communities.

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Sussex request BNG Assessments 

Sussex LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Sussex Site May Need BNG Evidence

Countryside landscape featuring a grassy field and weathered farm shed

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Sussex’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

For a mixed-use scheme in Sussex, baseline habitat assessment identified interconnected hedgerows and wet features that raised biodiversity expectations. Aligning baseline outputs with the landscape framework allowed the design to achieve an 11.2% net gain without reliance on off-site provision.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Sussex Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Sussex

Why do planning authorities in Sussex require Biodiversity Net Gain assessments?

In Sussex, BNG assessments are required due to the sensitivity of downland, river valleys and coastal habitats affected by development.

You can check local planning guidance here: 

East Sussex County Council – https://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/

West Sussex County Council – https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/

Speak to Our Team

Most new developments in Sussex that result in habitat loss or alteration must demonstrate at least 10% BNG.

 

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Grassland, hedgerows, woodland edges and wetland habitats commonly influence BNG calculations in Sussex.

Is on-site Biodiversity Net Gain achievable in Sussex?

On-site BNG delivery is often possible through integrated landscape design, particularly on edge-of-settlement sites.

 

Secure Expert Report

It provides evidence that biodiversity impacts have been quantified and addressed in line with policy.

 

Request Report Quote

BNG assessments in Sussex should be completed by qualified ecologists familiar with local habitat character.

 

Speak to Our Team

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Bristol

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Bristol

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Bristol — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Bristol

Most developments in Bristol now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Bristol, ecological scrutiny is often informed by the city’s varied land use and landscape structure:

  • river corridors along the Avon and Frome

  • redevelopment of brownfield and dockland sites

  • green infrastructure links between urban neighbourhoods

  • wooded valley sides and informal open space

  • transport corridors with connected verge habitats

  • outward growth at the urban fringe

Early clarity on baseline value and deliverable uplift allows proposals to move through planning more efficiently.

We assist projects across Bristol, from the city centre and suburbs to adjoining neighbourhoods and fringe locations.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Bristol request BNG Assessments 

Bristol LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Bristol Site May Need BNG Evidence

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Bristol’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

A mixed-use development in Bristol required detailed BNG baseline mapping due to linked green corridors and drainage networks. By embedding habitat values into the landscape design, the project achieved an 11.2% on-site biodiversity net gain.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Bristol Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Bristol

What is a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment in Bristol?

A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment measures the existing habitat value of a site using the statutory Biodiversity Metric and calculates how development will change that value. It confirms whether at least 10 percent measurable uplift can be achieved in line with national legislation.

Speak to Our Team

No. Brownfield land is not automatically exempt. Even previously developed sites may contain habitats such as scrub, grassland or urban mosaic habitats that carry biodiversity value. A BNG assessment must accurately calculate baseline units before modelling development proposals.

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On tight urban sites, baseline habitats are mapped and assessed using the Biodiversity Metric. The proposed layout is then modelled to test whether on site measures such as green roofs, tree planting or habitat corridors achieve the required uplift.

A habitat survey in accordance with UK Habitat Classification is required to identify and map all habitats. In urban environments, careful classification is essential to avoid underestimating ecological value.

Sites near the River Avon may contain riparian habitats or ecological corridors. The assessment must accurately reflect these habitats and ensure that proposals protect or enhance ecological connectivity where possible.

How long does a BNG assessment take for a mixed use Bristol scheme?

Timescales depend on site size and complexity. Urban regeneration schemes often require iterative modelling alongside architectural design to optimise biodiversity outcomes within limited space.

Secure Expert Report

Achieving uplift on site can be challenging in dense urban areas. Green roofs, podium planting and street tree strategies may contribute to uplift, but some schemes require off site biodiversity units to reach compliance.

Request Report Quote

If the assessment identifies a shortfall in biodiversity units, developers may secure registered off site biodiversity units to meet the statutory requirement.

Bristol City Council acts as the Local Planning Authority and reviews Biodiversity Net Gain assessments submitted alongside planning applications.

Planning guidance can be accessed at:
https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/planning-and-building-regulations/planning

ProHort undertakes detailed habitat surveys and Biodiversity Metric modelling tailored to Bristol’s urban regeneration context. We provide clear unit calculations, feasibility advice and practical design input to reduce planning risk and avoid unexpected biodiversity shortfalls.

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Lancashire

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Lancashire

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Lancashire — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Lancashire

Most developments in Lancashire now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Lancashire, the level of evidence requested by planners commonly reflects distinct landscape features:

  • river floodplains and wet grassland along the Ribble and Wyre

  • former industrial and mill town regeneration areas

  • pastoral farmland with dense hedgerow networks

  • woodland and edge habitats near the Forest of Bowland

  • canal corridors with ecological connectivity

  • settlement expansion around Preston, Blackburn and Chorley

Understanding constraints and enhancement potential at an early stage supports a predictable planning outcome.

We support developments across Lancashire, including Preston, Blackburn, Chorley, Lancaster and neighbouring rural areas.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Lancashire request BNG Assessments 

Lancashire LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Lancashire Site May Need BNG Evidence

Rural scene with a small agricultural shed and surrounding fields

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Lancashire’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

BNG baseline mapping supported a mixed-use scheme in Lancashire, where boundary hedgerows and wet ditches increased required uplift. Coordinating habitat baselines with the landscape proposals enabled the delivery of 11.2% net gain on site.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Lancashire Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Lancashire

Why are Biodiversity Net Gain assessments important for development in Lancashire?

In Lancashire, BNG assessments are needed to address impacts on farmland, watercourses and regeneration land.

You can check local planning guidance here: 

Lancashire County Council – https://lancashire.gov.uk/

Speak to Our Team

Most major and many minor developments in Lancashire must demonstrate a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain.

 

Check My Site

Hedgerows, wet ditches, grassland and woodland edges frequently influence BNG calculations in Lancashire.

 

Is on-site Biodiversity Net Gain achievable in Lancashire?

Yes, on-site delivery is often possible through landscape-led layouts and early habitat assessment.

 

Secure Expert Report

It provides clear evidence of baseline value, losses and secured enhancements.

 

Request Report Quote

Qualified ecologists using the DEFRA biodiversity metric should prepare BNG assessments.

 

Speak to Our Team

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Worcestershire

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Worcestershire

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Worcestershire — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Worcestershire

Most developments in Worcestershire now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Worcestershire, planners commonly look to landscape context when determining evidence needs:

  • river valleys and wet meadows along the Severn and Avon

  • brownfield and regeneration land within market towns

  • hedgerow-rich farmland across rural districts

  • woodland and pasture mosaics on settlement edges

  • canal networks providing linear habitat links

  • greenfield growth around Worcester, Redditch and Evesham

Clear early assessment of baseline value and enhancement feasibility helps reduce uncertainty at determination.

We operate across Worcestershire, supporting projects in Worcester, Redditch, Bromsgrove, Evesham and nearby villages.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Worcestershire request BNG Assessments 

Worcestershire LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Worcestershire Site May Need BNG Evidence

Farm gate opening onto a green field with distant countryside views

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Worcestershire’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

A mixed-use scheme in Worcestershire underwent BNG baseline mapping, identifying hedgerows and wet features that influenced uplift expectations. Alignment between habitat baselines and the landscape plan delivered an 11.2% net gain entirely within the site.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Worcestershire Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Worcestershire

What is a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment in Worcestershire?

A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment establishes the ecological baseline of a site using the statutory Biodiversity Metric and models proposed development to confirm whether at least 10 percent measurable uplift can be achieved in accordance with national legislation.

Speak to Our Team

Yes. Development within floodplain areas must still comply with statutory Biodiversity Net Gain requirements. Floodplain grassland, wetland and riparian habitats must be accurately classified and assessed within the Biodiversity Metric.

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Sites near the River Severn may contain higher value riparian habitats. The baseline must be carefully surveyed and quantified to ensure realistic modelling of both habitat losses and enhancements.

A BNG assessment is required where development falls within the statutory scope of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain legislation. This includes residential, commercial and mixed use proposals.

Improved grassland and arable land are mapped and assessed for condition. Although often lower distinctiveness habitats, baseline calculations must be accurate to avoid overestimating achievable uplift.

Can edge of settlement housing schemes achieve 10 percent uplift?

Many sites can achieve uplift through meadow creation, hedgerow strengthening, woodland planting and sustainable drainage features. However, early feasibility modelling is important to confirm compliance.

Secure Expert Report

Timescales depend on site size, habitat diversity and design complexity. Larger rural sites may require more detailed mapping and modelling before final metric outputs are confirmed.

Request Report Quote

If the Biodiversity Metric identifies a shortfall in habitat units, developers may secure registered off site biodiversity units to meet statutory requirements.

Depending on site location, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments are reviewed by authorities such as Worcester City Council, Wychavon District Council, Malvern Hills District Council or Wyre Forest District Council.

Planning guidance for Malvern Hills District Council can be accessed at:
https://www.malvernhills.gov.uk/planning

ProHort delivers detailed habitat surveys and robust Biodiversity Metric modelling tailored to Worcestershire’s floodplain and rural context. We provide clear unit calculations, feasibility advice and defensible reporting to support planning applications.

Speak to Our Team

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Merseyside

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Merseyside

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Merseyside — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Merseyside

Most developments in Merseyside now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Merseyside, ecological scrutiny is often influenced by a mix of urban and coastal landscape features:

  • river and estuary corridors associated with the Mersey

  • docklands and industrial regeneration areas

  • urban green corridors linking parks and waterways

  • peripheral farmland with retained boundaries

  • transport infrastructure with linear habitats

  • housing growth around Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens

Addressing baseline constraints and uplift opportunities early supports a smoother planning pathway.

We deliver services throughout Merseyside, including Liverpool, St Helens, Knowsley, Sefton and surrounding areas.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Merseyside request BNG Assessments 

Merseyside LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Merseyside Site May Need BNG Evidence

Quiet rural landscape with a shed, trees, and open pasture

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Merseyside’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

BNG baseline mapping for a mixed-use development in Merseyside identified linear habitats and wet drainage features requiring enhanced biodiversity outcomes. Incorporating these constraints into the landscape design achieved an 11.2% on-site net gain.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Merseyside Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Merseyside

What is a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment in Merseyside?

A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment establishes the baseline ecological value of a site using the statutory Biodiversity Metric and models the proposed development to confirm whether at least 10 percent measurable uplift can be achieved in accordance with national legislation.

Speak to Our Team

No. Port and dockland sites are not exempt. Even heavily developed land can support habitats such as scrub, grassland or urban mosaic features which must be properly surveyed and quantified within the Biodiversity Metric.

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Sites near the River Mersey may be influenced by estuarine habitats or tidal corridors. The baseline must accurately classify any associated habitats and reflect their ecological value within the assessment.

Yes. Coastal residential, commercial or logistics schemes must demonstrate measurable uplift. The BNG assessment must quantify any habitat losses and model realistic enhancements.

Former industrial land often supports temporary grassland or scrub. A detailed habitat survey is required to establish the true baseline before development modelling takes place.

Can high density urban schemes achieve 10 percent uplift on site?

In dense urban areas, space for habitat creation may be limited. Green roofs, tree planting and sustainable drainage may contribute, but some schemes require off site biodiversity units to reach compliance.

Secure Expert Report

Sites within flood risk zones may include grassland or wetland habitats. The assessment must reflect realistic deliverability of enhancements without conflicting with flood mitigation design.

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Common issues include underestimating baseline habitat value on brownfield land, over specifying roof habitats without meeting Biodiversity Metric criteria, and failing to model estuarine influence accurately.

Depending on site location, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments are reviewed by authorities such as Liverpool City Council, Wirral Council, Sefton Council, Knowsley Council or St Helens Borough Council.

Planning guidance for Liverpool City Council can be accessed at:
https://liverpool.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning/

ProHort undertakes detailed habitat surveys and robust Biodiversity Metric modelling tailored to Merseyside’s dockland and estuarine context. We provide clear unit calculations, early feasibility advice and defensible planning documentation to minimise biodiversity compliance risk.

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in London

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in London

Planning-ready BNG assessments for London — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in London

Most developments in London now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across London, planners regularly tailor evidence expectations to the capital’s complex urban landscape:

  • river corridors along the Thames and its tributaries

  • redevelopment of brownfield and intensification sites

  • interconnected green spaces and urban habitats

  • historic parkland and mature boundary planting

  • rail, road and canal corridors with ecological value

  • outer-London growth and redevelopment zones

Early clarity on baseline conditions and achievable enhancement is key to maintaining a defensible application.

We support schemes across Greater London, working in inner and outer boroughs as well as adjoining neighbourhoods.

 

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Why planning officers in London request BNG Assessments 

London LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your London Site May Need BNG Evidence

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to London’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

For a mixed-use scheme in London, baseline habitat mapping highlighted the role of retained boundaries and drainage features in shaping BNG targets. Integrating habitat values into the landscape strategy resulted in an 11.2% net gain without off-site compensation.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for London Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in London

Is a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment required for developments in London?

Yes. Where development falls within the statutory scope of Biodiversity Net Gain legislation, applicants must demonstrate at least 10 percent measurable uplift using the statutory Biodiversity Metric as part of the planning submission.

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The statutory requirement is national, but borough level validation requirements and planning expectations can vary. The BNG assessment must align with the relevant borough’s planning documentation and submission standards.

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Baseline habitats are mapped and assessed using the Biodiversity Metric. The post development layout is then modelled to confirm whether measures such as green roofs, podium planting and tree strategies achieve the required uplift in habitat units.

Urban Greening Factor requirements are separate planning policy tools. While some features may contribute to both, the BNG assessment must independently demonstrate measurable uplift using the Biodiversity Metric.

Yes. Redevelopment of housing estates must quantify existing habitat value, including grassed areas and trees, before modelling new layouts to ensure the 10 percent requirement is met.

Can tall building schemes realistically achieve 10 percent uplift on site?

Achieving uplift on constrained vertical sites can be challenging. Roof habitats, terraces and tree planting may contribute, but careful metric modelling is required to avoid unit shortfalls.

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Sites adjacent to the River Thames may include riparian habitats or contribute to ecological connectivity. The baseline must accurately classify any associated habitats and reflect their value within the assessment.

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Shortfalls often arise where baseline habitat value is underestimated or where roof and podium habitats are over specified without meeting Biodiversity Metric criteria. Early stage modelling reduces this risk.

 

Biodiversity Net Gain assessments are reviewed by the relevant London borough council, such as Camden Council, Southwark Council, Tower Hamlets Council or the Royal Borough of Greenwich depending on site location.

Planning guidance for Camden Council can be accessed at:
https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning

ProHort undertakes detailed habitat surveys and robust Biodiversity Metric modelling tailored to London’s high density planning context. We work with architects and planning consultants to optimise layouts, reduce biodiversity unit deficits and provide clear, defensible calculations for submission.

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Cornwall

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Cornwall

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Cornwall — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Cornwall

Most developments in Cornwall now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Cornwall, landscape context plays a significant role in shaping planning evidence requirements:

  • river valleys and wet grassland inland

  • coastal habitats and associated buffer zones

  • former industrial and mineral sites

  • small-field farmland with historic boundaries

  • woodland and pasture mosaics near settlements

  • greenfield housing growth around towns and villages

Early understanding of baseline constraints and enhancement opportunities supports a clear planning strategy.

We work throughout Cornwall, supporting projects in Truro, Falmouth, Penzance, St Austell and surrounding communities.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Cornwall request BNG Assessments 

Cornwall LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Cornwall Site May Need BNG Evidence

Countryside view showing a field, bare trees, and a small shed

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Cornwall’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

BNG baseline mapping was completed for a mixed-use scheme in Cornwall, where retained boundaries and wet features influenced uplift requirements. Aligning baseline outputs with the landscape design achieved an 11.2% net gain on site.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Cornwall Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Cornwall

What is a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment in Cornwall?

A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment establishes the ecological baseline of a site using the statutory Biodiversity Metric and models the proposed development to confirm whether at least 10 percent measurable uplift can be achieved in accordance with national legislation.

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Yes. Development near coastal cliffs or headlands must comply with statutory Biodiversity Net Gain legislation. Baseline habitats such as coastal grassland or scrub must be accurately classified and quantified before modelling development proposals.

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Sites near estuaries or tidal inlets may contain higher value habitats. The assessment must carefully map and classify these features to ensure baseline units are correctly calculated within the Biodiversity Metric.

Moorland and heathland fringe habitats may carry higher distinctiveness values. Accurate field survey and condition assessment are essential to avoid underestimating baseline biodiversity units.

Yes. Lodges, caravan parks and tourism developments must demonstrate measurable biodiversity uplift using the Biodiversity Metric where they fall within the statutory scope of the legislation.

Can small rural housing schemes achieve 10 percent uplift?

Often yes, but feasibility depends on site constraints and baseline habitat value. Early stage metric modelling is important to confirm that sufficient habitat units can be delivered on site.

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Shallow soils and exposed coastal conditions can limit the type of habitats that can realistically be created. The BNG assessment must reflect genuine deliverability rather than theoretical planting assumptions.

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If the Biodiversity Metric identifies a shortfall in habitat units, the applicant may secure registered off site biodiversity units to meet statutory requirements.

Cornwall Council acts as the Local Planning Authority and reviews Biodiversity Net Gain assessments submitted alongside planning applications.

Planning guidance can be accessed at:
https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning/

ProHort undertakes detailed habitat surveys and robust Biodiversity Metric modelling tailored to Cornwall’s coastal and moorland context. We provide clear unit calculations, feasibility advice and defensible reporting to support planning applications.

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Somerset

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Somerset

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Somerset — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Somerset

Most developments in Somerset now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Somerset, ecological evidence is often guided by recurring landscape patterns:

  • river corridors and wet meadows within low-lying areas

  • brownfield and regeneration land in market towns

  • hedgerow-dominated agricultural landscapes

  • woodland and pasture mosaics near settlement edges

  • canal and drainage networks with habitat connectivity

  • greenfield expansion around Taunton, Bridgwater and Yeovil

Early clarity on baseline value and uplift feasibility helps maintain planning certainty.

We cover the whole of Somerset, assisting developments in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Frome and nearby villages.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Somerset request BNG Assessments 

Staffordshire LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Somerset Site May Need BNG Evidence

Rural pasture bordered by a gate and weathered wooden shed

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Somerset’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

For a mixed-use development in Somerset, baseline habitat assessment identified hedgerows and drainage features that shaped biodiversity targets. Integrating these findings into the landscape strategy delivered an 11.2% net gain without off-site units.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Somerset Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Somerset

Why do developments in Somerset require Biodiversity Net Gain assessments?

In Somerset, BNG assessments address impacts on farmland, wetlands and settlement-edge habitats.

You can check local planning guidance here: 

Somerset Council – https://www.somerset.gov.uk/

Speak to Our Team

BNG applies where habitat loss or change occurs.

 

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Grassland, hedgerows, wet ditches and woodland edges are key drivers.

 

Can Biodiversity Net Gain be delivered on-site in Somerset?

On-site delivery is commonly achievable with early ecological input.

 

Secure Expert Report

It provides evidence-based assurance of policy compliance.

 

Request Report Quote

BNG assessments should be completed by experienced ecologists.

 

Speak to Our Team

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Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment in Leicestershire

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in Leicestershire

Planning-ready BNG assessments for Leicestershire — clear metrics, proportionate uplift strategies and predictable progress through planning.

Speak To Our Team

BNG Requirements in Leicestershire

Most developments in Leicestershire now require a mandatory 10% biodiversity net gain under the Environment Act 2021.

Local planning authorities expect clear baseline data, a defensible Metric 4.0 calculation and a proportionate uplift strategy before your application can progress. 

Across Leicestershire, planners frequently consider landscape context when assessing evidence needs:

  • river corridors associated with the Soar and Welland

  • former industrial and regeneration sites

  • intensively managed farmland with retained hedgerows

  • woodland blocks and pasture on settlement edges

  • transport and canal corridors acting as habitat links

  • residential expansion around Leicester and market towns

Confirming baseline conditions and enhancement potential early helps avoid late-stage complications.

We support projects across Leicestershire, including Leicester, Loughborough, Melton Mowbray and surrounding settlements.

 

Check My Site

Why planning officers in Leicestershire request BNG Assessments 

Leicestershire LPAs request BNG evidence early because many developments sit close to watercourses, settlement edges or regeneration land, where small layout changes can noticeably affect habitat value and connectivity.

Officers want verified baseline habitats and clear Metric 4.0 scoring before designs progress, so uplift options can be understood without late-stage compromise. The county’s focus on canal corridors, historic field patterns and woodland-edge mosaics also means uplift feasibility needs to be established upfront.

Early Indicators Your Leicestershire Site May Need BNG Evidence

Open field with farm gate and shed under an overcast sky

On the ground, site-level features signal when BNG evidence will be needed:

  • semi-improved grassland or species-rich margins 
  • hedgerows that link into wider networks 
  • wet ditches, streams or floodplain edges 
  • brownfield mosaics with herb-rich patches 
  • woodland edges or scattered trees 
  • PEA recommendations for botanical verification 
  • layout changes affecting habitat parcels 

Providing this clarity early prevents validation queries, redesign instructions and delays during casework. 

Speak to Our Team

BNG Requirements — Delivered in a Predictable Sequence

We produce planning-ready BNG Assessments aligned to Leicestershire’s policy expectations.

Case Insight

BNG baseline mapping supported a mixed-use scheme in Leicestershire, where hedgerow networks and wet features increased required uplift. Coordinating habitat baselines with landscape proposals resulted in an 11.2% on-site net gain.
Request Report Quote

What We Deliver for Leicestershire Projects

 Every report includes:

  • verified UKHab habitat mapping

  • defensible condition and distinctiveness scoring

  • full DEFRA Metric 4.0 calculation

  • uplift strategy shaped around LPA priorities

  • integration with layout, drainage and protected species

  • clear, structured reporting for validation and negotiation

Step 1

Habitat baseline surveys

Year-round, with botanical elements best May–September.

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 PEA, EIA or protected species

Used where additional clarity is needed around baseline or constraints.

Our approach keeps evidence proportionate, technically robust and predictable through the full planning sequence.

Secure Expert Report

Next Steps

Contact us and we’ll confirm exactly what your site requires and support a planning-ready, proportionate route forward. 

0800 494 7479

[email protected]

LinkedIn

FAQ - BNG in Leicestershire

Why are Biodiversity Net Gain assessments required for development in Leicestershire?

In Leicestershire, BNG assessments address impacts on farmland, waterways and settlement-edge habitats.

You can check local planning guidance here: 

Leicestershire County Council – https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/

Speak to Our Team

BNG applies where development results in habitat loss or alteration.

 

Check My Site

Hedgerows, grassland, wet features and woodland edges often influence calculations.

 

Can Biodiversity Net Gain be delivered on-site in Leicestershire?

On-site delivery is often achievable with coordinated landscape design.

 

Secure Expert Report

It provides clarity on biodiversity impacts and enhancements.

 

Request Report Quote

BNG assessments should be prepared by qualified ecologists.

 

Speak to Our Team

Related Services

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