Experts in Biodiversity Net Gain in Warwickshire
Helping landowners, developers, architects and homeowners to meet Biodiversity Net Gain in Warwickshire quickly & with ease!
Mandatory since February 2024, Biodiversity net gain in Warwickshire 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 Warwickshire
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 Warwickshire
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) ensures development projects contribute positively to the natural environment, leaving biodiversity in a measurably improved state. Warwickshire, known for its rich natural landscapes and historic towns, actively embraces BNG policies aligning with national guidelines and local environmental priorities.
Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain
BNG demands measurable ecological enhancements from development projects. These enhancements are quantified through the Biodiversity Metric, ensuring accountability and clarity in achieving biodiversity improvements.
Key Elements of BNG:
Biodiversity Metric: Tool for calculating ecological value and biodiversity improvements.
Habitat Enhancement: Improving existing ecological habitats.
Habitat Creation: Establishing new habitats to boost biodiversity.
Long-term Management Plans: Ensuring sustainable ecological benefits.
Legislative Framework for BNG in Warwickshire
BNG implementation in Warwickshire is governed by:
Environment Act 2021: Mandates at least a 10% biodiversity net gain.
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF): Guides local planning authorities.
Warwickshire County Council Local Plan: Integrates national policies within local planning guidelines.
Importance of Biodiversity Net Gain in Warwickshire
Warwickshire faces pressures from urban growth, infrastructure projects, and agricultural intensification. BNG provides critical ecological benefits, protecting wildlife, enhancing habitats, and ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Local Implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain
Warwickshire County Council’s Approach
Warwickshire County Council incorporates BNG within the local planning processes, requiring proactive ecological assessments and clear biodiversity strategies from developers.
Key Areas Actively Implementing BNG:
Stratford-upon-Avon
Rugby
Warwick
Leamington Spa
Nuneaton and Bedworth
North Warwickshire
Each area tailors BNG to local ecological features and conservation goals.
Implementing Biodiversity Net Gain: Step-by-Step
Initial Ecological Survey: Identification of existing habitats and species.
Detailed Ecological Impact Assessment: Comprehensive analysis using the Biodiversity Metric.
Formulating a BNG Plan: Clear strategies and targets for ecological enhancements.
Implementation and Monitoring: Ensuring planned biodiversity improvements are realised.
Warwickshire-specific Ecological Considerations:
Protected Species: Special attention to bats, great crested newts, and rare bird species.
Priority Habitats: Ancient woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, and wetlands.
Overcoming Common BNG Challenges
Typical issues include:
Metric Complexity: Solved through early involvement of ecological specialists.
Securing Off-site Biodiversity Opportunities: Achieved via collaboration with local landowners and biodiversity brokers.
Case Studies of Successful BNG Projects in Warwickshire
Case Study: Stratford-upon-Avon Habitat Restoration
Restoration and expansion of meadow habitats, significantly benefiting local pollinators and birds.
Case Study: Rugby Housing Development
Creation of wildlife corridors, enhanced green spaces, and wetland habitats integrated within a residential development project.
Future of Biodiversity Net Gain in Warwickshire
Warwickshire plans to strengthen BNG practices further through enhanced policy frameworks, greater community engagement, and innovative ecological solutions.
Conclusion
Implementing Biodiversity Net Gain in Warwickshire represents an essential opportunity for ecological stewardship, balancing development with nature conservation and community benefits.
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
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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.