Big Changes for Consideration of Biodiversity in the Planning System
The Environment Bill and Biodiversity Net Gain – Big Changes for consideration of Biodiversity in the Planning System
Currently the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF 2019) requires that all developments provide ‘net gains for biodiversity’ – defined as leaving biodiversity in a better state than before. The way this has been interpreted to date by Local Authorities is that a requirement for biodiversity enhancements is provided in most T+C Planning Act decisions based around recommendations provided in ecology reports and secured by Landscape Plans. The Environment Bill which was included in the Queen’s Speech at recall of parliament and is anticipated to be enshrined in law in early to mid-2020 will go much further than the existing provisions.
