Experts in Biodiversity Net Gain across Staffordshire
Helping landowners, developers, architects and homeowners to meet Biodiversity Net Gain in Staffordshire quickly & with ease!
Mandatory since February 2024, Biodiversity net gain in Staffordshire is a way of creating and improving natural habitats. We've broken down all the complex steps into three simple phases, so our clients meet BNG legislation quickly.
Phase one
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
A PEA is the first stage in assessing a site’s biodiversity value and is usually carried out as early as possible in the planning process. The purpose of a PEA is to: Identify any potential for; ecological constraints, the need for further ecological surveys, any mitigation measures, and opportunities for ecological enhancement. As well as gaining a baseline for BNG.
Phase two
Biodiversity Net Gain Metric (BNG)
The statutory biodiversity metric is used to calculate biodiversity units and is made up of three modules: Area habitat units, Hedgerow units, and Watercourse units. The value of a habitat is determined by a number of factors, including: The habitat’s size, The habitat’s distinctiveness, The condition and quality of the habitat and The connectivity of the site to other areas.
Phase three
Biodiversity Net Gain Plans & HMMP
A biodiversity gain plan alongside a Habitat management and monitoring plan (HMMP) are documents that show how you will achieve biodiversity net gain (BNG). Both are detailed plans that outline how land will be managed over a period of at least 30 years. The plan helps to create and enhance habitats and to manage and monitor biodiversity net gain outcomes.
BNG in Staffordshire
Using an understanding of every local council, we cover all Staffordshire and further afield. Find your local planning authority from the list below.
BNG and the law
BNG insights
Learn more about biodiversity net gain, the average cost of BNG units, current BNG policies and what the future of BNG looks like.
Our highly experienced, qualified, and licensed ecologists offer a full suite of biodiversity net gain solutions, however big or small your project.
Comprehensive Guide to Biodiversity
Net Gain (BNG) in Staffordshire
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an environmental policy designed to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before a development. Staffordshire, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from urban centres to rural landscapes, is actively embracing BNG, guided by national legislation and local planning policies.
Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain
Biodiversity Net Gain involves enhancing habitats, improving ecological conditions, and creating new natural spaces that benefit wildlife. It mandates developers to deliver measurable ecological improvements, usually quantified by biodiversity units through a Biodiversity Metric.
Key Components of BNG:
Biodiversity Metric: A standard tool used to quantify ecological value before and after development.
Habitat Enhancement: Improvements to existing habitats.
Habitat Creation: Establishment of new habitats to increase biodiversity.
Long-term Management: Ensuring habitats are maintained and managed sustainably.
Legislative Framework for BNG in Staffordshire
BNG is governed by several key pieces of legislation and guidance documents:
Environment Act 2021: Establishes mandatory BNG of at least 10% for developments.
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF): Guides local planning authorities on implementing biodiversity enhancements.
Staffordshire Local Plans: Each district within Staffordshire has specific guidance aligned with national policy to integrate BNG into local development decisions.
Why is Biodiversity Net Gain Important?
Biodiversity loss is a critical global issue, affecting ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. Staffordshire, known for its unique wildlife habitats and green spaces, greatly benefits from implementing BNG to mitigate impacts from urbanisation and industrialisation.
Biodiversity Net Gain in Staffordshire: Local Application
Staffordshire County Council’s Approach
Staffordshire County Council integrates BNG within planning frameworks, expecting developers to proactively assess ecological impacts and deliver tangible improvements. Early engagement with ecologists and planning authorities is strongly advised.
Areas in Staffordshire Impacted by BNG
Notable locations actively implementing BNG include:
Cannock Chase
Staffordshire Moorlands
Lichfield
Tamworth
Stoke-on-Trent
Each district implements BNG uniquely, considering local ecological characteristics and priorities.
Implementing Biodiversity Net Gain: The Process
Preliminary Ecological Assessment: Initial evaluation of ecological value.
Detailed Ecological Impact Assessment: Comprehensive study and biodiversity metric calculation.
Biodiversity Net Gain Plan: Clearly outlines strategies for achieving and measuring BNG.
Implementation and Monitoring: Ensures the planned enhancements deliver measurable improvements.
Staffordshire-specific Considerations
Protected Species: Special attention required for species like bats, great crested newts, and barn owls.
Habitat Types: Priority habitats in Staffordshire include ancient woodland, wetlands, heathlands, and wildflower meadows.
Challenges and Solutions
Common challenges faced by developers:
Complex Metric Calculations: Addressed by consulting ecological specialists.
Securing Off-site Biodiversity Units: Resolved through partnerships with local ecological providers and biodiversity brokers.
Case Studies of Successful BNG Projects in Staffordshire
Case Study: Cannock Chase Restoration Project
Significant enhancements in heathland habitat, improving conditions for rare species and recreational opportunities for residents.
Case Study: Staffordshire Moorlands Housing Development
Implemented innovative ecological enhancements such as green roofs, wildlife corridors, and native planting.
Future Prospects for BNG in Staffordshire
Staffordshire continues to integrate BNG deeper into policy and practice, with potential future expansions into more rigorous ecological monitoring and enhanced community involvement.
Conclusion
Implementing Biodiversity Net Gain in Staffordshire presents an essential opportunity to balance development with ecological enhancement, benefiting both local communities and wildlife.
Fast & Reliable
We understand that speed is of the essence. We’ll respond to your enquiries within a few minutes and have a quote for you within a couple of hours. Usually, we can visit your site within 48 hours.
Recommended
There’s a good chance that you were directed to us by your architect. That’s because our ecology consultancy is recommended by architects, consultants and developers across the UK.
100% Success
We’re proud of our years’ of experience in designing and implementing ecology consultancy solutions with a 100% success in obtaining ecology elements of planning for our clients.