Biodiversity Net Gain
Important Update - Changes to Biodiversity Net Gain Requirements
The Government has confirmed a number of changes to the mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regime, including a new exemption for sites of 0.2 hectares or less and the removal of the self-build exemption. These changes are expected to come into force on 31 July 2026. Until then, the current BNG requirements and exemptions remain applicable. We will update this page once the legislation is enacted and guidance is published.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach that allows developers to work with local governments, landowners, and wildlife groups to support local nature priorities in order to leave biodiversity in a better state than before the development. It aims to deliver measurable improvements to biodiversity through enhancing existing habitats or by creating new ones.
Biodiversity Net Gain is a material consideration for planning applications under the National Planning Policy Framework. From 12th February 2024 in England a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain is required under a statutory framework introduced by Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (inserted by the Environment Act 2021) for all major developments and from the 2nd April 2024 for all minor developments, unless an exempt development
Please refer to Devon County Council Biodiversity Net Gain for further information.
Our requirements for validation are :
Devon BNG Statement for Validation
Please note: the preferred option is that you provide a map as a separate PDF and not embedded in the metric.
Self-build and custom build applications
Proforma for schemes that are self-build or custom housing
Please fill this form out in detail if your scheme is self-build or custom housing: ensure you fill out all the sections and provide as much detail as possible.
Right to Build guidance notes - AN 5.3 - 06.2024 Biodiversity Net Gain and Custom and Self-BuildV2.pdf (righttobuild.org.uk)
Biodiversity Gain Plan
What must be included in a Biodiversity Gain Plan?
For validation purposes, 'draft' Biodiversity Gain Plans are acceptable at application stage. Final Biodiversity Gain Plans will be agreed through the discharge of condition process prior to commencement.