Amid evolving environmental regulations, monitoring and ensuring compliance with biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirements is becoming increasingly nuanced. This article looks at the latest developments designed to streamline the application process and enhance the precision of BNG assessments in the UK.
Understanding the Application Changes from October 2024
Starting 17 October 2024, the system for assessing whether the BNG conditions apply to new developments will undergo significant improvements. This update aims to aid applicants in accurately determining the applicability of BNG to their projects.
Clarifications in Exemption Claims
Data gathered since the cessation of the ‘small-sites’ exemption in April 2024 reveals a notable trend: a vast majority of exemptions are now claimed under the ‘de minimis’ threshold and for small scale self-build and custom housebuilding projects. These categories, having specific legislative criteria, will see refined processes to prevent misuse and enhance clarity for local authorities regarding the validity of exemptions claimed.
Detailed Changes to ‘De Minimis’ Exemption
A pivotal update for the ‘de minimis’ exemption involves an additional verification step, where applicants must specify whether the development site exceeds 25 square metres. For larger sites, further evidence through a completed BNG metric and habitat plans will be necessitated, ensuring that all relevant pre and post-development details are meticulously documented.
Specifications for Self-build and Custom Housebuilding
The criteria for this exemption are also becoming stricter. The updated system will query whether the project:
- Includes no more than nine dwellings,
- Occupies a site with an area under 0.5 hectares, and
- Consists exclusively of self-build or custom house building as per the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015.
Applicants will need to confirm adherence to these conditions or be advised against claiming this exemption.
Implications for Applicants and Local Authorities
The adjustments in the BNG section will necessitate applicants to respond to additional queries for a complete submission. Those with drafts already citing these exemptions should revisit and update their entries accordingly.
For local authorities, the enhancements mean that every submission form will showcase these additional responses, augmenting transparency and compliance verification.
Conclusion
The upcoming enhancements to the biodiversity net gain compliance process are set to make the assessment more robust and clear. Applicants are encouraged to acquaint themselves with the new requirements and prepare their documentation accordingly, ensuring smoother and more effective compliance. Incorporating sustainable practices, as outlined in our article on Sustainable Practices in Quantity Surveying, can further aid in meeting these requirements. Similarly, local authorities can look forward to more streamlined and accurate verification processes by understanding the General Conditions in Construction, reinforcing the objective of conserving biodiversity across development projects.
