Since February 2024, developers must leave the natural environment of any development site in a measurably better state than before any development works took place. If this cannot be achieved on site, developers are able to compensate by creating off-site habitats elsewhere, using what is known as ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ units.
These regulations are governed by the Environment Act 2021 and enforced by the local planning authorities. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, planning permission refusal and legal action.
Cheffins’ experts can help developers understand the full extent of their site-specific BNG obligations and walk them through the process of buying those units.
Katie Hilton, Director based at our Cheffins Cambridge office, explains: “We offer flexible terms and we make the transaction as simple as possible whilst ensuring each developer is meeting their compliance obligations.”
“Through our work with local landowners, we offer a diverse portfolio of BNG units that are readily available for immediate use.”
“Cheffins BNG unit pricing ensures our sites are among the most competitive in the marketplace. We give clear guidance on current market rates so developers know exactly what they can expect to pay.”
Katie concludes: “Ultimately, a developer will come to us to dispense of their BNG obligations in the simplest way possible so that when a transaction completes, the off-site BNG provider becomes entirely responsible for the 30-year delivery. This leaves developers with peace of mind to concentrate on their main priorities.”
To view our portfolio of BNG units, click here.
For an informal discussion, please contact Katie Hilton 0n 01223 271959 or email here.