Consultation on Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation

The CLA has responded to the Defra consultation on biodiversity net gain. The consultation page is available here: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/defra-net-gain-consultation-team/consultation-on-biodiversity-net-gain-regulations/

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) will require new development to demonstrate a net increase in biodiversity once the development is complete. This can be achieved either by avoiding or mitigating any damage caused by the development, or by securing biodiversity units as compensation.

The CLA welcomes the introduction of BNG, which we expect will be an opportunity for our members but our response highlighted several areas where further clarification or guidance is needed, or where we disagree with Defra’s proposals.

The CLA Guidance Note on Biodiversity Net Gain is available here: https://www.cla.org.uk/advice/gn37-21-biodiversity-net-gain-an-overview-england-only/