Submitting a Biodiversity Gain Plan
Applicants should submit enough information for the local planning authority to understand the site’s existing habitats, the likely impact of the development, and how biodiversity has been considered in the design. Depending on the proposal, this may include habitat survey information. However, in every case, in accordance with our local list of validation requirements a completed biodiversity metric calculation, draft Biodiversity Gain Plan and plans showing existing and proposed habitats. Early engagement with a suitably qualified ecologist is strongly recommended.
Submission of a Biodiversity Gain Plan
Once the initial planning application for a development has been approved, the submission of a Biodiversity Gain Plan is necessary to demonstrate how the development will achieve this requirement. Where the statutory biodiversity gain condition applies, the condition must be discharged via approval of the gain plan in writing by the Local Planning Authority before any development works begin on site.
If the proposal includes significant on-site habitat enhancement, applicants should also provide details of how those habitats will be managed and monitored. This could be through the submission of a Habitat Management Plan or Landscape and Ecological Management Plan. Where off-site units or statutory biodiversity credits are proposed, the Biodiversity Gain Plan must include the relevant evidence and references.
At a minimum, the Biodiversity Gain Plan should propose the following:
- The pre-development biodiversity value of the on-site habitat
- Actions to be taken by the developers to minimise any adverse effects on the existing biodiversity of the on-site habitat
- The completed bio-diversity metric calculation, including the proposed post-development biodiversity value.
- If biodiversity net gain is to be delivered off site, the details of any registered gains that will contribute towards the requirement.
- Where applicable, details of any statutory biodiversity credits.
- Detailed information for the creation/ enhancement of habitats and how they are to be secured and managed long-term.
- Any relevant supporting information which demonstrates compliance with the biodiversity gain condition.
Please refer to the GOV.UK website for more information on the Biodiversity Gain Plan requirements.
Ongoing Monitoring and Long-Term Management
Habitats created or enhanced to deliver BNG must generally be maintained for at least 30 years. This means applicants should think beyond the initial grant of permission and ensure there are realistic arrangements in place for long-term management, monitoring and reporting. Monitoring reports may be required at agreed intervals so that progress can be reviewed and any remedial action taken if habitats are not establishing or performing as expected.