BNG: Determining a planning application

Consultation

After we have received a valid planning application, it will undertake a period of publicity and consultation where views on the proposed development can be expressed. As part of this consultation, the information submitted as part of the application, including the minimum biodiversity gain information will be made publicly available for comment.

How is BNG taken into account?

The statutory framework for biodiversity net gain involves the discharge of the biodiversity gain condition following the grant of planning permission to ensure the objective of at least 10% net gain will be met for a development. The determination of the Biodiversity Gain Plan under this condition is the mechanism to confirm whether the development meets the biodiversity gain objective. Development may not be begun until the Biodiversity Gain Plan is approved.

Matters for consideration may include the following (but this is not an exhaustive list):

• the appropriate balance expected between onsite gains, off-site gains and the use of statutory biodiversity credits for the development, taking account of the Biodiversity Gain Hierarchy
• whether the type and location of any significant onsite habitat enhancements proposed for onsite gains are appropriate, taking into account other policies to support biodiversity (including local nature recovery strategies) and other wider objectives (for example policies for design, open space and recreation, and retention of trees)
• any planning conditions which need to be imposed to secure any significant onsite habitat enhancements, including any conditions requiring the maintenance of the enhancement for at least 30 years after the completion of the development
• whether any S106 planning obligations are required to secure either significant onsite habitat enhancements or off-site gains for the development