Biodiversity Net Gain continues to be a defining principle within the UK planning policy, with all planning applications requiring a 10% net gain in biodiversity value, this includes development projects such as new slurry lagoons, silage clamps and livestock sheds. This typically means protecting existing habitats, creating new ones, and ensuring long-term ecological management which can often be accomplished on farm by making modest changes.
It is essential to have a baseline survey undertaken and the Natural England Statutory Biodiversity Net Gain metric completed by a suitably qualified ecologist when submitting your planning application. Details on the type of habitat being lost, the proposed enhancement, stakeholders responsible for creating the habitat and how the new habitat will be maintained should all be considered in conjunction with the local planning authority. We can assist with all these requirements and complete the necessary paperwork.
Simple habitats that the majority of farmers can do include tree and scrub planting, hedge planting or grassland sward improvements for biodiversity.