New implementation date set for Biodiversity Net Gain

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The UK Government has announced the new implementation date for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), which was due to become a mandatory component of the planning system in England this November. The updated timetable will require developers to deliver 10% BNG from January 2024 when building new housing, industrial developments and commercial developments. 

To try and alleviate some of the uncertainty surrounding BNG following this delay the Government have committed to publishing all guidance and regulations relating to BNG by the end of November, including:

  • The statutory biodiversity metric for calculating correct biodiversity gain. 
  • The draft biodiversity gain plan timetable, to help developers prepare for what they will need to complete during the planning application stages. 
  • The Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan template, which will set out how the improved significant on-site habitats will be managed for the long term. 
  • A package of Biodiversity Net Gain guidance that sets out further advice for landowners, developers, and Local Planning Authorities around their role and responsibilities in delivering mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain. 

The Government hopes that this new timetable and guidance will help smooth the transition ahead of Biodiversity Net Gain going fully live in January.