Delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) can be costly and time-consuming for developers. At Environment Bank, we’ve created a new plan. A simple way to meet your off-site BNG obligations which removes all liability and helps to provide certainty for your development projects.
BNG Units
Through establishing a national network of Habitat Banks, we’ve launched BNG Units. This groundbreaking product means we can ensure the availability of BNG Units locally, providing developers with a robust and cost-effective way to deliver net gain, off-site, in a single purchase.
BNG Units are simple to transact and leave the developer with no liability. The developer is not required to enter complex bespoke arrangements, which can be time consuming and result in significant long term obligations and funding requirements.
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BNG Units – the best outcomes for nature
We are establishing a network of Habitat Banks across the UK, at least one in each LPA to raise BNG Units. Strategically placed to create the best possible outcomes for nature – adjacent to pre-existing wildlife corridors and critical ecological networks – our Habitat Banks comprise of a mosaic of high-quality habitats including species-rich meadows, woodlands and wetlands, all designed to restore and protect nature for generations to come.
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No risk or liability
Critically, once the BNG Units are drawn down and the related biodiversity condition discharged, all the liability for BNG mitigation is passed to Environment Bank, you can walk away. We undertake all the monitoring and reporting and ensure complete peace of mind for the full 30 year term. Any issues which may arise, will be the sole responsibility of Environment Bank and not the developer.
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Compliance and Auditability
BNG Units are legally compliant and auditable with both the Environment Act 2021 and the NPPF. All Habitat Banks are secured through Section 106 or conservation covenants, and we liaise with and provide all relevant documentation to the appropriate LPA. We have a dedicated in-house team to manage the entire process so you don't have to.
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Early BNG engagement
With nationwide availability of BNG Units, we can enable early engagement in the planning process, providing all the information you need to know. This provides a smooth and cost-effective transition through the mitigation hierarchy while ensuring scheme viability through the effective use of development land.
To get started on a development project, please complete our BNG Unit request form.
Meet your off-site BNG requirements
Under the Environment Act 2021, all developments in England must deliver a minimum of 10% uplift in biodiversity to meet planning requirements. Complete our BNG Units Request form to find out the options and costs of BNG Units to support your current and future development projects.
