Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now a mandatory requirement for most developments in England, ensuring that projects leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before development. At Wold Ecology, we provide end-to-end BNG services that help clients meet statutory obligations while delivering meaningful, long-term benefits for nature.
Our approach is pragmatic, transparent, and proportionate, integrating biodiversity into development design from the earliest stage to reduce risk, cost, and delay.
What Biodiversity Net Gain Involves
BNG requires developers to demonstrate a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity value, calculated using a recognised metric and secured for at least 30 years.
We establish the pre-development ecological baseline through:
Detailed habitat surveys aligned with UK Habitat Classification
Condition assessments for all habitats on site
Identification of hedgerows, watercourses, and priority features
Ground-truthing to ensure accurate classification
This forms the foundation of the BNG calculation
Biodiversity Metric Calculation
Using the latest Defra Biodiversity Metric, we:
Quantify existing habitat units, hedgerow units, and watercourse units
Model post-development habitat proposals
Identify any biodiversity shortfall early in the design process
This allows informed decisions on layout, habitat retention, and enhancement.
On-Site Biodiversity Design & Enhancement
Where possible, we prioritise delivering BNG on site, integrating biodiversity into the development layout through:
Creation of species-rich grassland
Woodland, scrub, and hedgerow planting
Wetlands, ponds, and SuDS designed for wildlife
Green corridors and buffer zones
Enhancement of retained habitats
These measures help maximise ecological value while complementing site function and aesthetics.
Off-Site BNG & Statutory Credits
Where on-site delivery alone cannot achieve the required uplift, Wold Ecology advises on:
Off-site habitat creation opportunities
Third-party biodiversity units
Statutory biodiversity credits as a last resort
We help identify the most cost-effective and policy-compliant route to achieving net gain.
Biodiversity Gain Plan & Planning Support
We prepare the Biodiversity Gain Plan required for planning approval, setting out:
Baseline and post-development biodiversity values
Habitat creation and enhancement proposals
Management and monitoring commitments
Legal mechanisms securing delivery for 30 years
Our clear, defensible reporting supports smooth progression through the planning process.
Long-Term Management & Monitoring
BNG is secured over the long term. Wold Ecology provides:
Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs)
Condition monitoring at agreed intervals
Adaptive management recommendations
Ongoing ecological support to ensure compliance
This ensures biodiversity gains are delivered, maintained, and evidenced
Integrating Biodiversity Net Gain Into Development
At Wold Ecology, we view BNG as an opportunity rather than a constraint. Our work focuses on:
Early identification of ecological opportunities
Aligning biodiversity delivery with landscape and drainage design
Reducing reliance on off-site units
Creating robust, deliverable habitats that meet policy requirements
Supporting developments that are both viable and environmentally responsible
By combining technical expertise with a practical understanding of development, we help clients achieve BNG in a way that is efficient, compliant, and beneficial to nature.