Farming with the environment

ON-SITE BNG ASSESSMENTS

Our Approach

Our on-site BNG assessments are designed to provide a clear understanding of your site’s existing ecological features and how they can be enhanced or compensated for, in line with the Environment Act 2021 requirement.

With a deep understanding of both ecological principles and development processes, we bridge the gap between environmental requirements and practical project implementation. Our team is dedicated to providing clear actionable insights clearly and quickly.

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Our Range Of services

  • Baseline Habitat Surveys: We conduct detailed surveys to catalog existing habitats and condition, establishing a comprehensive ecological baseline.

  • BNG Metric Calculation: Utilising the latest DEFRA Biodiversity Metric, we quantify the current biodiversity value of your site, providing a measurable benchmark.

  • Impact Analysis: We assess how proposed development activities may affect existing habitats and identify opportunities for on-site enhancements.

  • Mitigation Strategies: Our team develops practical strategies to avoid, minimise, or compensate for biodiversity losses, in line with the mitigation hierarchy ensuring compliance with the mandatory 10% net gain requirement.

Benefits of Our On-Site BNG Assessments

  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure your development meets local planning authority requirements and national biodiversity legislation.

  • Informed Decision-Making: Gain insights into the ecological constraints and opportunities of your site early in the planning process.

  • Cost Efficiency: Identify potential biodiversity enhancements that can be integrated into your project design, potentially reducing the need for off-site compensation.

  • Enhanced Sustainability: Demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship, which can improve stakeholder relations and project approval prospects.

Our Process

  • Initial Consultation: We begin with a discussion to understand the development site, project timeline, and any known planning or ecological constraints. This ensures our assessment is targeted and aligned with your objectives.

  • Desktop Review: Before we visit the site, we review aerial imagery, mapping data, and any available ecological reports to identify existing habitat types and possible enhancement opportunities.

  • Site Visit and Habitat Survey: Our ecologists carry out a detailed on-site assessment, using UKHab classification methods to document the type, extent, and condition of all habitats within the red line boundary.

  • Biodiversity Metric Calculation: Using the latest DEFRA Biodiversity Metric (currently v4.0), we quantify the baseline biodiversity value of the site and assess potential gains or losses based on the development proposal.

  • Impact Analysis and Recommendations: We assess the impact of the proposed development on baseline habitats and identify opportunities for on-site retention, enhancement, or creation to maximise biodiversity outcomes.

  • Reporting and Strategy Advice: We deliver a clear, user-friendly report to accompany planning applications.