Biodiversity Net Gain

At Co-ecology we have been preparing Biodiversity Net Gain assessments for a variety of different sites and development scenarios and made an early policy decision to undertake all of our habitat surveys using the UK Habs classification system which underpins the BNG calculation. We have a team of ecologists with more than sufficient botanical expertise to conduct UK Habs surveys and complete the necessary condition assessments for all habitat types.

As part of the planning application process your project will have to clearly demonstrate how biodiversity net gain will be achieved and must do so by following the published and most up to date methodology.

In order that this is easily replicable and comparable between different schemes, Natural England have published the statutory Biodiversity Metric 4.1 which provides a framework through which value is represented by biodiversity units. The metric looks solely at habitats, using a matrix of distinctiveness, condition and strategic value, to calculate the number of biodiversity units that a particular parcel of land provides. What is not considered as part of this calculation is the importance or significance of any notable plant or animals species which may reside on the site.

We have ecologists who have been accredited under the River MoRPh Professional and River Condition Assessment (RCA) training course which combines the user-friendly MoRPh field survey with a geomorphological River Type desk study. This 6-week CPD RCA training course is accredited by the (Royal Geographical Society) and is a formal requirement needed for Biodiversity Metric assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain reporting.

We are pleased to be able to highly recommend Iford Biodiversity Project for any off-site habitat units that may be needed for your scheme to fully reach the mandated 10% gain. The Iford Estate were among the first in the UK to turn over areas of their land solely for habitat creation and management and have done so across 1200ha of farmland in the South Downs National Park, funded by the sale of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Units for developers.

Partner with Co-ecology Ltd to make a positive impact on biodiversity while achieving your development goals. Our comprehensive BNG services are designed to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your projects not only comply with regulations but also contribute to the enhancement of our natural environment.
Comprehensive BNG Baseline Surveys - We conduct thorough survey of your site and any other land that may be affected, our ecologists collect plant and habitat data following the UK Habitats classification system and an individual condition assessment for each linear or area habitat or watercourse present.
Our detailed reports provide a clear understanding of existing habitats and species, identifying key areas for enhancement and opportunities for gains. This includes planning, undertaking and reporting on a wide range of protected species and habitat surveys to ensure that species specific requirements are fully considered and incorporated into the designs.
Tailored BNG Strategies - Our specialists develop customized BNG strategies that align with your project's goals and regulatory requirements. We design practical and effective plans to enhance biodiversity, incorporating innovative solutions and best practices to maximize net gains.

Habitat Creation and Restoration - We offer expertise in design, creating and restoring habitats to support BNG objectives. From wildlife corridors to establishing native plant communities, we ensure that our interventions lead to substantial and sustainable biodiversity improvements that are also realistic and achievable.
Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation - Effective stakeholder engagement is crucial for successful BNG implementation. We ensure that we work alongside landscape architects and designers at an early design stage to ensure that highly distinctive and valuable habitats are avoided, and enhancements achieve maximum benefits for biodiversity. Our experts work with regulatory bodies to ensure that project designs are in line with local and national policies.
Policy and Regulatory Guidance - Navigating the regulatory landscape for BNG can be challenging. Our experts stay abreast of the latest policies and guidelines, providing you with up-to-date advice and ensuring that your project meets all legal requirements.
Monitoring and Reporting – As part of the BNG process, we provide bespoke design reports to accompany the BNG pack that guide the LPA assessors through the design process and reasoning behind the final design.
Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan – To provide the legal framework for the 30-year BNG commitment and describe how measures will be implemented, ensuring the successful implementation of BNG initiatives. Our team provides ongoing monitoring services to track the progress of habitat establishment and deliver regular reports and updates, ensuring transparency and demonstrating compliance with BNG commitments throughout the project lifecycle.