BNG changes: what this means

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) changes came into effect on Thursday 6th August 2026. Here’s what it means for planned developments:

• • Smaller developments: Developments of 0.2 hectares or below will generally be exempt from mandatory BNG requirements, unless priority habitat is affected.

• • More flexibility for minor developments: Eligible minor developments will be able to consider on-site and off-site biodiversity gains at the same time, rather than demonstrating on-site options first.

What isn’t changing

• • 10% Biodiversity Net Gain remains
• • The biodiversity metric remains
• • The mitigation hierarchy still applies
• • Habitat management requirements continue

Need guidance on how these updates impact your current or future planning applications?

Working closely with clients, consultants and landowners, our specialist team have extensive knowledge and expertise on delivering biodiversity net gain assessments for developments, and are here to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

Get in touch with our friendly team of specialists to learn more.