How the New Biodiversity Net Gain Legislation Affects Developers & Managing Agents
Introduction
Biodiversity Net Gain is a relatively new piece of legislation, mandatory since February 2024, that developers must adopt and adhere to. It ensures that all new projects contribute positively to biodiversity, promoting sustainable development practices.
Below, we explore the reasons why meeting this requirement is important beyond compliance, but first it’s important to know what this legislation entails.
What is the Biodiversity Net Gain Legislation (BNG)?
Simply put, it’s a new piece of legislation for planning applications that aims to improve natural habitats in a measurable way. Specifically, the government guidance states “developers must deliver a BNG of 10%” and is calculated using the Biodiversity Metric. This can include (but is not limited to) the size, location and quality of the habitat(s).
It is recommended that large development projects discuss plans with an ecologist who will be able to measure the current biodiversity and find ways to increase it at least by 10%.
The biodiversity net gain’s positive impact on society and the environment is shaping a brighter future, with developers increasingly embracing these changes.
Developers, It Benefits You
In our previous blog post, we outlined the developers, land managers and LPAs who must adhere to this legislation. While some may view the biodiversity net gain legislation as another checkbox to fill, it is important to recognise that it has been introduced by the government to improve the environment and offers additional benefits.
Communities love it:
Incorporating green spaces boosts residents’ mood and well-being, attracts potential tenants and buyers, and is increasingly important as awareness of sustainable living grows. These spaces can also improve air quality and provide recreational areas that promote physical activity, both leading to healthier lives for the inhabitants.
Improved reputation
Contributing positively to the environment can resonate with the growing number of residents who value sustainability. Exceeding legislative requirements can further enhance your reputation and differentiate your brand in the competitive market.
Sustainable and durable
Developers can contribute to the longevity of their projects by incorporating features like wildflower areas which can reduce maintenance costs since they only need to be cut twice a year.
Resident engagement
Green spaces can offer valuable learning opportunities for residents, allowing them to better understand the connection between them and their environment, and the benefits of sustainable practices. At POD management, we demonstrate this at our Elizabeth Gardens development, which we talk more about below.
The Responsibilities of the Managing Agent
While Managing Agents aren’t directly responsible for delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), their role is important in ensuring the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of such areas. At Elizabath Gardens, a bountiful, landscaped site we manage in Essex, we explore the things POD needs to do year-round to ensure we meet the requirements:
Compliance with the Landscape Management Plan
At POD, we strictly follow the landscape management plan provided by the developer when green areas are handed over to us. Our landscapers use only non-toxic treatments for weeds and invasive plants, which helps wildflowers flourish and insect habitats thrive.
We also identify and protect animal habitats, like fox dens and badger runs, ensuring these areas remain undisturbed. Furthermore, we maintain ‘hedgehog highways’ and clean bird and bat boxes, ensuring that wildlife can safely use these spaces as their homes and travel corridors.
Maintenance
During the Spring and Summer months our team mows, prunes and trims 2-3 times per week to keep grass, foliage and flora looking pristine. As the seasons progress to Autumn and Winter, we tackle larger, one-time cutbacks of wild areas, allowing these areas to flourish for a full year before revisiting them.
In addition, we are responsible for the upkeep of all ponds. We perform annual pond maintenance by cutting and treating greenery and reeds to make sure the pond is in top condition. This work is carried out outside the nesting season to protect birds, frogs and newts from being disturbed.
Resident Engagement
The biodiversity net gain legislation presents a unique opportunity to show residents of all sorts of ages the beauty of their local garden and its wildlife.
At Elizabeth Gardens, we have installed beautiful signage that highlights the diverse wildlife in the area, including information about the trees, landscaping requirements, and maintenance regimes. These signs are incredibly helpful in educating residents about the importance of biodiversity and how to maintain it. By providing this information, we aim to garner a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local ecosystem, encouraging residents to actively participate in preserving and enhancing the natural environment.
Signage from Elizabeth Gardens, an Essex development we manage.
Get in Touch
Delivering biodiversity net gain is an important legal requirement rooted in a commitment to safeguard ecosystems, promote long-term ecological resilience and reinforce our responsibility to protect our world for future generations.
In order to stay compliant and uphold the highest standards for natural habitats, the appropriate managing agent must be appointed. With our recent 5-star health & safety rating and as Managing Agent of the Year 2024, we at POD Management are well-equipped to handle the increasing demands that this new biodiversity net gain legislation brings.
For expert property management that consistently exceeds expectations, contact us below:
● Fill out our business enquiry form
● Email us at relationships@podmanagement.co.uk
● Call us on 0333 577 6656
We look forward to hearing from you!