The Biodiversity Net Gain Hub is set to offer complete end-to-end service to revolutionise the way developers approach biodiversity net gain (BNG)
The BNG Hub, launched by South Yorkshire-based environmental consultancy Wildscapes CIC and supported by parent company Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust, offers biodiversity net gain assessments to the supply of biodiversity units.
The centre aims to boost the understanding and adoption of mandatory BNG measures.
It hopes to restore and enhance biodiversity in the face of development.
Mandatory biodiversity net gain came into force in February 2024
Mandatory biodiversity net gain is set to ensure steps are taken to protect and enhance vital habitats and wildlife in the UK.
As part of the requirement, developers must now measure and quantify their impact on biodiversity.
They will also have to devise a long-term plan to restore at least 10% more of the biodiversity that will be negatively affected.
The initiative aims to create a sustainable balance between development and the preservation of natural ecosystems.
The new centre will guide developers through the regulations
The BNG Hub offers a vast range of services, inviting developers to hand over the entire process – including purchasing units, conducting BNG baseline assessments of the development land, implementing BNG plans, and meeting the 30-year monitoring requirements.
Developers can pick and choose from any of the different elements.
Commenting on the launch of the BNG Hub, BNG development officer at Wildscapes CIC, Jihanna Bonilla-Allard, said: “We’ve been supporting clients with biodiversity net gain for some time now, and over the last couple of years, we’ve worked hard to create a package that will support developers to meet the new mandatory BNG requirements.
“We want to take the stress away from our clients whilst ensuring nature can thrive alongside development.”
