Biodiversity Net Gain Consultants for Planning in England
Planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy
ACP Consultants provides planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) surveys, assessments and consultancy for developments across England. Our ecologists prepare UKHab habitat surveys, statutory biodiversity metric calculations, Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans to support planning applications and post-permission requirements.
- Planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy from survey to planning approval.
- Trusted by developers, architects, planning consultants and landowners across England.
- UKHab Habitat Surveys
- Statutory Biodiversity Metric Calculations
- Biodiversity Gain Plans
- Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans
- Planning Application Support
Every development presents different ecological constraints, planning policies and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements. Our consultants review your site, proposed development and planning stage before recommending the most appropriate BNG assessment, surveys and planning documents.
Our consultants support developers, architects, planning consultants, landowners and local authorities with practical advice throughout the planning process. From baseline habitat surveys to Biodiversity Gain Plans and long-term habitat management, we provide coordinated support from one experienced team.
Choose the Biodiversity Net Gain Service You Need
Whether you require a single habitat survey or complete Biodiversity Net Gain support, ACP Consultants provides planning-focused services throughout England. Explore our specialist services below or contact us for advice on the most appropriate solution for your project.
Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment
Our Biodiversity Net Gain assessments identify the ecological requirements for your development before planning submission. We review the proposed scheme, establish likely survey requirements and recommend the most appropriate strategy to achieve planning compliance while supporting practical development objectives.
UKHab Habitat Surveys
UKHab habitat surveys establish the baseline habitat conditions needed for Biodiversity Net Gain. Our ecologists map habitats using the UK Habitat Classification system, providing the information required for statutory biodiversity metric calculations and planning assessments.
Statutory Biodiversity Metric
We prepare statutory biodiversity metric calculations to quantify existing and proposed biodiversity units. These calculations help developers demonstrate measurable biodiversity gain while identifying practical opportunities for habitat enhancement.
Small Sites Metric
Some developments qualify for the Small Sites Metric. We assess eligibility, prepare the required calculations and produce planning-ready documentation using the simplified metric where appropriate.
Biodiversity Gain Plans
A Biodiversity Gain Plan explains how your development will achieve the required biodiversity uplift and satisfy the statutory biodiversity gain condition before development begins.
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans
Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans provide the long-term management strategy for newly created and enhanced habitats. We prepare practical plans that support planning compliance and successful habitat delivery.
Planning Reports & BNG Documentation
Our planning-ready Biodiversity Net Gain reports combine habitat surveys, statutory biodiversity metric calculations and planning recommendations into a clear technical report suitable for submission.
Off-site Biodiversity Units
Where developments cannot achieve sufficient biodiversity gain on site, we advise on off-site biodiversity units, statutory biodiversity credits and the most appropriate delivery strategy.
Expert BNG Consultants
Our experienced consultants provide practical Biodiversity Net Gain advice from initial feasibility through to planning submission, habitat enhancement and long-term compliance. We work closely with developers, architects and planning consultants to deliver commercially realistic solutions that satisfy statutory BNG requirements.
Our Biodiversity Net Gain Process
Every development has different Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, planning constraints and ecological considerations. Our structured process ensures you receive the appropriate surveys, assessments and planning documentation for your project while keeping the process straightforward and transparent.
01
Step 1: Discuss Your Project
Send us your site location, proposed plans or planning information. We'll review your development, identify the likely Biodiversity Net Gain requirements and provide a fixed-fee quotation for the work required.
02
Surveys & Assessment
Once instructed, our ecologists undertake the required habitat surveys, statutory biodiversity metric calculations and technical assessments. We keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate any additional ecological requirements where necessary.
03
Planning-Ready Documentation
We prepare clear, planning-ready reports, Biodiversity Gain Plans, Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans and supporting documentation suitable for submission to the local planning authority.
Trusted by Developers, Architects & Planning Professionals
ACP Consultants provides planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy throughout England. We prepare robust habitat surveys, statutory biodiversity metric calculations and planning documentation for residential, commercial and infrastructure developments. Our practical approach helps clients satisfy statutory Biodiversity Net Gain requirements while supporting commercially realistic development.
Our work supports developers, architects, planning consultants, landowners and local authorities across England.
Our Core Values – Built on TRUST
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a statutory planning requirement in England that aims to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state following development. Most qualifying developments must demonstrate at least a 10% increase in biodiversity value, measured using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric. The requirement encourages developers to avoid habitat loss, minimise ecological impacts and create or enhance habitats that provide long-term environmental benefits.
BNG should be considered at the earliest stages of project design. Understanding the Biodiversity Net Gain process and the current BNG legislation and guidance helps developers, architects and planning consultants identify ecological constraints before planning applications are submitted. Early consideration often reduces planning delays, improves development layouts and creates opportunities for practical habitat enhancement.
Although every development is different, Biodiversity Net Gain generally follows a structured process that includes baseline habitat surveys, biodiversity metric calculations, planning documentation and long-term habitat management where required. Our BNG User Guide provides a practical overview of how the legislation applies to different development types and explains the key stages involved in delivering Biodiversity Net Gain successfully.
Need advice for your development?
Not every development follows the same planning route, and exemptions may apply in some circumstances. We can review your proposal and advise whether Biodiversity Net Gain is required before surveys or planning documents are commissioned.
When Does Biodiversity Net Gain Apply?
Most planning applications in England are now subject to mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), although some exemptions apply. The requirement was introduced through the Environment Act 2021 and forms part of the planning process for most qualifying developments. Developers should establish whether Biodiversity Net Gain applies before preparing ecological surveys or submitting a planning application.
Considering Biodiversity Net Gain at the earliest design stage allows ecological constraints to influence the development layout before plans are finalised. This often reduces planning risk, improves biodiversity outcomes and helps avoid unnecessary delays during planning determination. Understanding the statutory requirements early also makes it easier to identify the surveys, assessments and planning documents that may be required.
Although Biodiversity Net Gain applies to most developments, the exact requirements depend on the type of proposal, planning route and whether any exemptions apply. Some developments may qualify for the Small Sites Metric, while others may benefit from the dedicated BNG for Small Developers Guide. Planning authorities also apply local validation requirements when reviewing Biodiversity Net Gain submissions, so understanding BNG guidance for Local Authorities and the latest BNG legislation and guidance helps developers prepare planning-ready documentation from the outset.
Early discussions with an ecologist often identify whether Biodiversity Net Gain applies and what level of assessment is likely to be required before planning applications are submitted.
How is Biodiversity Net Gain Measured?
Biodiversity Net Gain is measured using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, which provides a standardised method for calculating biodiversity value before and after development. The metric assesses habitat type, habitat condition, distinctiveness, strategic significance and habitat area to calculate biodiversity units. This enables planning authorities to assess whether a proposed development delivers the required biodiversity uplift using a consistent national methodology.
Accurate biodiversity calculations depend on correctly identifying habitat types and assessing their ecological condition. Understanding how biodiversity units are calculated and completing a thorough BNG Condition Assessment ensures habitats are assessed consistently before and after development. This provides a reliable baseline for biodiversity metric calculations while identifying practical opportunities for habitat retention, enhancement and creation.
Some developments require additional ecological assessments to complete biodiversity calculations accurately. Sites containing watercourses may require a River Condition Assessment, while developments affecting drainage features may also require a Ditch Condition Assessment. Habitat mapping using BNG GIS Mapping Tools also supports accurate biodiversity calculations, habitat management planning and planning-ready documentation for larger or more complex developments.
Using the metric throughout the design process allows different development layouts to be assessed before planning applications are submitted. Early ecological input often helps maximise on-site biodiversity gain, reduces planning risk and minimises the need for more costly mitigation measures later in the project.
What Biodiversity Net Gain Documents Are Required for Planning?
Every development is different, and the documents required depend on the site, proposed development and planning stage. Preparing the correct Biodiversity Net Gain documentation before submitting a planning application helps reduce delays, supports planning compliance and ensures local authority validation requirements are met.
The documents required will vary depending on the development, but they often include habitat surveys, biodiversity metric calculations, planning reports and long-term habitat management strategies. Our consultants prepare planning-ready documentation in accordance with current BNG planning validation checklists, BNG templates and the BNG monitoring framework, providing practical advice throughout the planning process to minimise planning risk and avoid unnecessary delays.
UKHab Habitat Survey
A UKHab habitat survey establishes the baseline habitat conditions across the site. This information provides the foundation for Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, biodiversity metric calculations and planning recommendations.
Statutory Biodiversity Metric
The Statutory Biodiversity Metric measures biodiversity value before and after development. It calculates biodiversity units and demonstrates whether a proposal achieves the required Biodiversity Net Gain.
Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment
A Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment explains how a proposed development affects biodiversity and identifies the measures required to achieve planning compliance.
Biodiversity Gain Plan
A Biodiversity Gain Plan sets out how Biodiversity Net Gain will be delivered and maintained. It demonstrates compliance with the biodiversity gain condition before development begins.
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans describe how newly created and enhanced habitats will be managed, monitored and maintained to ensure long-term Biodiversity Net Gain.
Planning-Ready BNG Report
Our planning-ready BNG reports combine habitat surveys, biodiversity metric calculations, technical assessments and practical recommendations into a clear document suitable for planning applications and local authority validation.
Biodiversity Net Gain Opportunities for Landowners
Biodiversity Net Gain also creates opportunities for landowners to generate long-term environmental value by creating and managing habitats that deliver measurable biodiversity improvements. Land can be enhanced, registered and managed to provide biodiversity units that support developments unable to achieve sufficient biodiversity gain within their own site boundaries.
Landowners considering Biodiversity Net Gain should understand the legal, ecological and long-term management requirements before creating a habitat bank or offering biodiversity units for sale. Establishing a successful Biodiversity Gain Site requires careful planning, robust habitat management and an appropriate legal agreement to secure habitat delivery throughout the required management period.
Our consultants work with landowners, farmers, estates and habitat providers throughout England, advising on BNG for Landowners, registering a Biodiversity Gain Site, the sale of BNG Credits and Units, and the most appropriate legal mechanism, including Conservation Covenants and Section 106 Agreements, to secure long-term habitat management.
Whether you are exploring Biodiversity Net Gain as a new income opportunity or already managing land with ecological value, we can help you understand the process, prepare the necessary documentation and identify opportunities to provide Biodiversity Credits and Units for Sale through compliant habitat bank projects.
Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain in Practice
Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain starts with good site design rather than adding habitats after a development has been designed. Considering biodiversity early helps avoid unnecessary habitat loss, reduces planning risk and creates opportunities to enhance biodiversity throughout the development.
Many developments achieve Biodiversity Net Gain by retaining valuable habitats, improving existing ecological features and creating new habitats within the site. These measures follow the Biodiversity Net Gain Hierarchy and are assessed using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric to demonstrate whether the required biodiversity uplift has been achieved.
Where sufficient biodiversity gain cannot be delivered within the development boundary, developers may need to secure off-site biodiversity units. In limited circumstances, statutory biodiversity credits may also be available as a measure of last resort. Early planning provides greater flexibility and often results in more practical and cost-effective Biodiversity Net Gain solutions.
Depending on the development, achieving Biodiversity Net Gain may also require conservation covenants or Section 106 agreements to secure long-term habitat management. Our consultants advise on the most appropriate delivery mechanism and work alongside planning consultants, landowners and legal teams throughout the process.
Our consultants work closely with developers, architects and planning consultants to identify practical Biodiversity Net Gain strategies that support planning approval while balancing ecological enhancement with the commercial objectives of the development.
Explore Our Biodiversity Net Gain Knowledge Centre
Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain is about more than completing habitat surveys and biodiversity metric calculations. Developers, architects, planning consultants and landowners often need guidance on legislation, planning validation requirements, ecological best practice and the practical delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain throughout the planning process.
Our Biodiversity Net Gain Knowledge Centre brings together practical guidance, technical resources and planning advice to help you understand statutory requirements, prepare planning-ready documentation and successfully deliver Biodiversity Net Gain. Whether you are starting a new development or reviewing an existing proposal, these resources provide additional information to support every stage of the project.
BNG Process Guide
Follow our step-by-step guide explaining how Biodiversity Net Gain is delivered from the initial habitat survey through to planning approval and long-term habitat management.
Legislation & Guidance
Understand the statutory planning requirements, Environment Act provisions and current Biodiversity Net Gain guidance affecting development projects in England.
Templates & Downloads
Access practical Biodiversity Net Gain templates, example documents and downloadable resources to support planning applications and project delivery.
Planning Validation Checklist
Check the information commonly required by local planning authorities before submitting Biodiversity Net Gain documentation with your planning application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Biodiversity Net Gain, planning applications, surveys, biodiversity units and statutory requirements.
Case Studies
Explore real examples of Biodiversity Net Gain projects and see how practical ecological solutions have supported successful planning outcomes.
How Much Does Biodiversity Net Gain Cost?
The cost of Biodiversity Net Gain depends on the size of the development, the habitats present, the planning stage and the level of ecological work required. Every project is different, so the scope of surveys, biodiversity metric calculations and planning documentation should always be proportionate to the development and local planning authority requirements.
Smaller developments may only require a habitat survey, biodiversity metric calculation and a short planning report. Larger or more complex developments often require additional ecological surveys, Biodiversity Gain Plans, Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans, legal agreements and, where necessary, the purchase of off-site biodiversity units. Projects requiring long-term habitat creation may also incur monitoring fees to demonstrate successful habitat establishment throughout the management period.
The best way to reduce Biodiversity Net Gain costs is to consider biodiversity at the earliest stages of site design. Early ecological advice often identifies practical opportunities to retain habitats, reduce biodiversity losses and minimise the need for more expensive off-site compensation measures. Our consultants provide clear fixed-fee quotations wherever possible and explain the scope of work before surveys begin.
Site Size
Larger development sites generally require more habitat mapping, biodiversity calculations and ecological survey effort.
Habitat Complexity
Sites containing woodland, grassland, hedgerows, ponds or watercourses often require more detailed ecological assessment.
Planning Stage
Early ecological advice often reduces redesign costs and helps avoid planning delays later in the planning process.
Off-site Biodiversity Units
Where sufficient biodiversity gain cannot be achieved on site, registered off-site biodiversity units may be required.
Long-term Management
Monitoring, habitat management and legal agreements may influence the overall project cost and delivery programme.
Planning Requirements
Local planning authority validation requirements and project-specific documentation can influence the overall scope of work.
Why Choose ACP Consultants for Biodiversity Net Gain?
Choosing the right Biodiversity Net Gain consultant is about more than completing habitat surveys and biodiversity calculations. Effective BNG advice should help reduce planning risk, support practical development design and provide clear, proportionate documentation that satisfies local planning authority requirements.
ACP Consultants works closely with developers, architects, planning consultants, landowners and project teams throughout England. Our practical approach combines ecological expertise with a clear understanding of the planning process, helping clients achieve Biodiversity Net Gain efficiently while supporting commercially realistic development.
Planning-Focused Advice
We provide practical Biodiversity Net Gain advice that supports successful planning applications rather than unnecessary complexity.
Nationwide Coverage
Our consultants support residential, commercial and infrastructure projects throughout England.
Clear Technical Reports
Our reports are written for planning officers, developers and project teams using clear, proportionate technical advice.
Experienced Ecologists
Our team combines field survey experience with technical expertise across a wide range of development projects.
Fixed-Fee Quotations
We explain the scope of work before surveys begin, providing transparent fixed-fee quotations wherever possible.
End-to-End Support
From early feasibility through to planning approval and post-permission requirements, we provide coordinated Biodiversity Net Gain support.
Biodiversity Net Gain Consultants Across England, Regions and Local Authorities
ACP Consultants provides Biodiversity Net Gain surveys, assessments and planning support throughout England. Our ecologists work with developers, architects, planning consultants, landowners and local authorities on projects ranging from small residential developments to large commercial and infrastructure schemes.
Planning policy, validation requirements and ecological constraints can vary between local planning authorities. Our regional pages provide location-specific guidance while maintaining the same planning-focused approach and technical standards across every project. Explore our regional Biodiversity Net Gain pages below to find information relevant to your development.
Our England hub provides nationwide guidance, while each regional page links to county, city and local authority guidance relevant to that part of England. As our knowledge centre continues to grow, additional county and district pages will be added to provide increasingly local planning advice.
England
Explore our nationwide Biodiversity Net Gain services, planning guidance and ecological support for developments throughout England.
Greater London
Planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain support across Greater London, including all London Boroughs.
South East England
Supporting residential, commercial and infrastructure developments throughout South East England.
South West England
Professional Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy across South West England.
East of England
Ecological surveys, biodiversity metric calculations and planning support across the East of England.
East Midlands
Planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy throughout the East Midlands.
West Midlands
Supporting planning applications and Biodiversity Net Gain projects across the West Midlands.
North West England
Providing Biodiversity Net Gain consultancy across North West England.
Yorkshire & the Humber
Planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain services across Yorkshire and the Humber.
North East England
Professional Biodiversity Net Gain surveys and planning support across North East England.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every development is different, and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements often vary depending on the site, planning stage and local planning authority. Below are answers to some of the most common questions asked by developers, architects, planning consultants and landowners about Biodiversity Net Gain in England.
Is Biodiversity Net Gain mandatory?
For most qualifying developments in England, Biodiversity Net Gain is now a statutory planning requirement. Most developments must demonstrate at least a 10% measurable increase in biodiversity value using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, although some exemptions apply.
When should a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment be completed?
Biodiversity Net Gain should be considered at the earliest stages of project design. Early ecological advice helps identify constraints, influence site layout and reduce planning risk before planning applications are submitted.
What documents are usually required?
Requirements vary between developments but commonly include habitat surveys, biodiversity metric calculations, Biodiversity Gain Plans, Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans and planning reports.
Can Biodiversity Net Gain be achieved off-site?
Yes. Where sufficient biodiversity gain cannot be delivered within the development boundary, developers may secure off-site biodiversity units. In limited circumstances, statutory biodiversity credits may also be available where no suitable off-site solution exists.
How long must Biodiversity Net Gain habitats be managed?
Habitats created or enhanced for Biodiversity Net Gain are generally required to be maintained for at least 30 years through appropriate habitat management and legal agreements.
How much does Biodiversity Net Gain cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the development, existing habitats, planning stage and the documentation required. Early ecological advice often reduces overall project costs by identifying practical biodiversity enhancements before planning applications are submitted.
Do all developments require Biodiversity Net Gain?
Most developments require Biodiversity Net Gain, although some developments qualify for exemptions or may use the Small Sites Metric where applicable.
Can ACP Consultants help throughout the planning process?
Yes. We provide planning-focused Biodiversity Net Gain support from early feasibility through to planning approval and post-permission requirements, including habitat surveys, biodiversity metric calculations, Biodiversity Gain Plans, Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans and ongoing ecological advice.
Can Biodiversity Net Gain delay planning permission?
Biodiversity Net Gain does not usually delay planning permission when it is considered early in the design process (see your local council planning validations checklist). Delays are more likely where ecological information is incomplete, surveys are undertaken too late or the required planning documentation has not been prepared. Early ecological advice helps identify potential issues before a planning application is submitted.
Can Biodiversity Net Gain be designed into a development?
Yes. The most successful developments consider Biodiversity Net Gain during the earliest design stages. Retaining existing habitats, improving habitat connectivity and incorporating new ecological features into the layout often provides better biodiversity outcomes while reducing planning risk and the need for costly redesigns.
Who prepares Biodiversity Net Gain reports?
Biodiversity Net Gain reports should be prepared by experienced ecologists familiar with the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, UKHab habitat classification, planning policy and current Biodiversity Net Gain guidance. Reports should provide proportionate technical evidence that supports planning applications and demonstrates compliance with statutory requirements.
How long does a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment take?
Timescales and costs vary depending on the size of the site, habitat complexity, seasonal survey requirements and the planning stage. Smaller developments can often be assessed quickly, while larger or more complex sites may require additional ecological surveys and supporting documentation. Seeking advice early helps avoid unnecessary delays and ensures the correct information is available before planning submission.
Useful Biodiversity Net Gain References
- DEFRA – Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain
- DEFRA – Statutory Biodiversity Metric
- GOV.UK – Biodiversity Net Gain Planning Practice Guidance
- Natural England – Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan Template
- CIEEM – Biodiversity Net Gain Good Practice Principles
- UK Government – Environment Act 2021 (Schedule 14)
Testimonials
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Need Biodiversity Net Gain Advice?
Whether you’re preparing a planning application, designing a development or exploring Biodiversity Net Gain opportunities as a landowner, our consultants can help.
- Last Updated:
- September 2026
Disclaimer: The information on this page has been prepared by ACP Consultants’ in-house specialists using current legislation, published guidance, recognised industry standards and environmental best practice available at the time of writing. It is provided for general information only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for project-specific professional advice. Planning legislation, Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, local validation criteria and planning authority guidance may change over time and can vary between local planning authorities. Every development site is different and may require different surveys, assessments, calculations or mitigation measures depending on its individual characteristics. While every reasonable effort is made to keep this information accurate and up to date, ACP Consultants accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, planning outcome or decision arising from reliance on this information without first obtaining project-specific professional advice.