BNG just got easier for smaller rural projects
- Since February 2024, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has been a mandatory part of most planning applications, requiring a measurable increase in biodiversity value on site, off site, or through statutory credits. For a lot of the smaller rural projects we work on, this added extra cost and complexity to what should have been a straightforward application.
- From 6th August 2026, that's changed. Developments with a site area of 0.2 hectares or less are now exempt from mandatory BNG altogether, provided the site doesn't affect any on-site priority habitat.
This could make a real difference for the kind of projects we see regularly including new agricultural development, redevelopment of existing sites, equestrian projects, change of use projects and many more.
Every site is different, give us a call and we can talk through where you stand.
