It has now been two years since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory in England, and Meadfleet continues to work closely with housing developers to support the successful delivery and long-term management of on-site habitats.
Meadfleet’s specialist Ecology Team brings extensive experience in the long-term management of habitats, including the monitoring, surveying and reporting required to support Biodiversity Net Gain.
Working closely with developers and stakeholders, the team ensures that approved habitat management plans are implemented effectively, helping developments achieve their target habitats and remain compliant with BNG obligations.
Through ongoing oversight and expert ecological management, Meadfleet supports the creation of habitats that not only meet planning requirements but continue to thrive long term, delivering meaningful biodiversity benefits alongside high-quality residential environments.
The benefits of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain
Well-designed and carefully managed on-site green spaces play an important role in ensuring that towns and cities provide residents with meaningful access to nature. Housing developments that incorporate a diverse mix of habitats can help boost biodiversity, improve wildlife connectivity and encourage people to spend more time outdoors — supporting both environmental outcomes and residents’ mental and physical wellbeing.
Over the past two years, Meadfleet has supported housing developers by providing practical input and advice across all aspects of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain, from early planning through to long-term management.
Key considerations for developers
• Engage early: Seek support from ecologists and landscape architects at the earliest planning stage to successfully integrate BNG into development design.
• Use baseline ecological data: Retaining and enhancing existing habitats can often be more cost- and time-effective than creating habitats elsewhere on site.
• Promote BNG as a selling point: Highlight the health, wellbeing and lifestyle benefits of living close to nature within marketing and promotional materials.
• Plan for long-term delivery: Ensure the appointed management company has the expertise and capacity to manage habitats, monitoring and compliance for the full 30-year BNG period.
Paul Cassidy, Ecology and Conservation Manager at Meadfleet said:
“Biodiversity Net Gain represents an important step in ensuring new developments contribute positively to the natural environment. Our role is to support developers not only in meeting their BNG obligations but in ensuring habitats are managed effectively for the long term so they deliver real and lasting biodiversity benefits.”