Government launches key consultations to streamline planning and biodiversity net gain implementation

Of particular interest to landowners, developers, and rural stakeholders are two consultations focused on improving the implementation of biodiversity net gain (BNG), which cover:

1. BNG for minor, medium, and brownfield developments
2. BNG for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), which are scheduled to be included under BNG regulations from May 2026

Both consultations are open for responses until 24 July 2025.

Background: BNG and current requirements

Introduced in 2023, BNG regulations mark a significant shift in planning policy; requiring most developments to deliver at least a 10 per cent increase in biodiversity post-construction.

This mandate has embedded ecological considerations into the heart of the planning process, with developers needing to follow strict measurement protocols, create or enhance habitats, and implement long-term monitoring.

Key proposals under consultation

The Government is now seeking feedback on a range of proposed updates aimed at reducing complexity and improving flexibility.

These include:

- Exemptions for minor developments, and even removing the BNG requirement altogether in some cases

- Removal of ‘trading rules’ from the Small Sites Metric (SSM), which currently restrict how biodiversity credits can be applied.

- Simplification of habitat categories to reduce the total number of habitat types, making the metric easier to apply.

- Streamlining off-site BNG delivery, including allowing small developers to purchase off-site units without requiring prior planning authority approval.

- Future iterations of the metric are expected to be digitised, with additional guidance provided to support users of the SSM.

Changes to Spatial Risk Multiplier (SRM)

Two options are being explored regarding the Spatial Risk Multiplier, which currently increases the number of off-site biodiversity units required when used outside a local area.

Disapplying the SRM for minor developments buying off-site units

Redrawing the boundaries for ‘local’ areas from the Local Planning Authority (LPA) boundaries to broader Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) boundaries, enabling more flexibility in sourcing off-site units from local providers.

Open Mosaic Habitat (OMH) Updates

Proposals also include changes to the definition and condition assessment of Open Mosaic Habitat, along with greater flexibility in how its loss can be compensated, provided similar ecological outcomes can be achieved.

What does this mean for developers, landowners, and habitat bankers?

The proposed changes aim to reduce administrative burdens and delays, making it easier and more cost-effective for developers to comply with BNG requirements - particularly on smaller or lower-impact sites.

Commenting on what these proposed changes might mean for landowners thinking about entering the BNG market, Rob Hindle, Executive Director at Rural Solutions said:

“Changes that will make it easier and more attractive for developers to buy off site BNG units will be welcomed by farmers and Habitat Bankers. Clarity from Government around their commitment to private nature markets is important to maintain confidence in what is at present very much an emerging sector.”

Digitised tools and simplified processes across the planning system are expected to increase accessibility without compromising ecological integrity, as Nicole Wright, Head of Planning at Rural Solutions explains:

“These benefits will significantly streamline procedures for developers, easing the burden of compliance with BNG regulations. By raising thresholds and simplifying processes, developers can get applications submitted faster with reduced administrative overheads.

The proposed measures, such as the digitisation of metrics and clearer guidance, promise to make the achievement of biodiversity goals more accessible without compromising ecological standards.”

Ongoing support for nature markets is critical

Importantly, proposals to make off-site BNG markets more attractive and practical could provide significant opportunities for farmers and habitat bankers. Greater clarity and ongoing support from the Government will be critical to building long-term confidence in this emerging private nature market.

Get in touch

For more in-depth advice or to discuss a project please get in touch with our team on info@ruralsolutions.co.uk or call us on 01756 797501 for a chat.