What is Biodiversity Net Gain?

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is an approach to land management and new developments that ensures the natural environment is left in a measurably better state than it was beforehand. Biodiversity refers to the variety of all wildlife - this includes the animals, insects, plants, bacteria and fungi. This has become law in England in 2024, and whilst the Scottish government are taking a slightly different approach, there is a very strong focus on biodiversity in the requirements of planners with landscape proposals made for new developments.

It is critical to avoid, mitigate or compensate for biodiversity losses in every aspect of landscape management - this affects everything from the initial designs by the landscape architects, to the implementation by the landscape contractors, right through to ongoing maintenance by grounds maintenance contractors. Biodiversity Net Gain is enforceable for 30 years after a new development has been built, so having the right maintenance specification and benchmarking system is essential.

Ecologists use a biodiversity metric to measure changes in biodiversity. These metrics assign every habitat on a site a ‘unit value’ according to its biodiversity value which enables a comparison to be made between the existing condition of a site and what it will look like after development has taken place.

Tom is experienced at working with architects and developers, preparing landscape plans that will satisfy the strictest of biodiversity requirements. As well as being a passionate naturalist, Tom is also a former contractor, and so is able to marry the competing demands of biodiversity net gain with the reality of getting projects off the ground in a way that is viable for everyone. Tom’s extensive experience in landscape maintenance means that he has a keen eye for producing planting and landscape management plans that will stand the test of time, ensuring your new developments keep performing cosmetically as well as for the environment.

To discuss any aspect of landscape management consultancy such as biodiversity-focused planting and landscape plans, give Tom a call on 0141 432 1141 or email on tom@tomangel.co.uk