A Comprehensive Guide to Off-Site Biodiversity Units for Developers

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a mandatory policy for developers in England, requiring them to enhance biodiversity as part of their projects. While on-site improvements are a priority, off-site biodiversity units play a crucial role when on-site solutions aren’t feasible.

What Are Off-Site Biodiversity Units? Off-site biodiversity units represent habitat creation or enhancement projects on land separate from the development site. Developers can purchase these units to offset the biodiversity loss caused by their projects and contribute to broader landscape-scale conservation efforts. Learn more about off-site biodiversity units.

How Do They Work? Creating and selling off-site biodiversity units follows these steps:

1. Baseline Habitat Survey: Assessing biodiversity value using the Defra Statutory Biodiversity Metric.
2. Habitat Enhancement or Creation: Identifying and improving habitats to boost biodiversity value.
3. Biodiversity Unit Valuation: Calculating the number of biodiversity units generated.
4. Biodiversity Gain Site Registration: Registering the site on the national register.
5. Unit Sale: Selling units to developers for BNG compliance.
6. Long-Term Management: Implementing a habitat management plan for 30+ years.

By purchasing these units, developers meet their 10% biodiversity net gain requirement. Explore the process in more detail.

Benefits for Landowners Landowners can generate additional income, support landscape-scale conservation, and promote sustainable land management by creating and managing Biodiversity Gain Sites. Find out how to benefit from biodiversity units.

Challenges and Considerations While off-site biodiversity units offer numerous benefits, it’s essential that all on-site options are explored first. At ILM, we offer tailored solutions to navigate these challenges with expertise in BNG and strong industry relationships.

Ready to Learn More? Off-site biodiversity units are a valuable tool for developers and landowners. To dive deeper into the process and benefits, read the full guide on our website. Read the full article here.