What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach to development that aims to ensure the natural environment is left in a better condition than it was before development took place.
Under the Environment Act 2021, most new developments in England are required to achieve a minimum 10% increase in biodiversity value, subject to certain exemptions.
This means that developers must demonstrate how their proposals will improve biodiversity by creating new habitats, enhancing existing habitats or securing biodiversity improvements elsewhere.
BNG is intended to support nature recovery, improve habitats for wildlife and deliver long-term environmental benefits.
How does Biodiversity Net Gain work?
Developers can meet their BNG requirements through a combination of:
- On-site biodiversity improvements: Creating or enhancing habitats within the development site.
- Off-site biodiversity units: Securing biodiversity improvements on land outside the development site, including purchasing biodiversity units from registered habitat banks.
- Statutory biodiversity credits: Purchasing credits from the Government as a last resort where the required biodiversity gain cannot be achieved through other permitted options.
Biodiversity improvements are calculated using the statutory biodiversity metric. Off-site biodiversity gains must be secured and managed for a minimum of 30 years.
Biodiversity Net Gain in Bolton
Bolton Council is developing opportunities to deliver Biodiversity Net Gain through the creation and enhancement of natural habitats on Council owned land.
This includes exploring the establishment of habitat banks that could provide off-site biodiversity units for developers seeking to meet their BNG requirements.
The Council’s approach aims to:
- Protect, restore and enhance natural habitats across Bolton.
- Support local wildlife and biodiversity recovery.
- Provide opportunities for developers to secure off-site biodiversity units.
- Generate investment to support the long-term management of natural habitats.
- Ensure that environmental improvements provide lasting benefits for Bolton’s communities and natural environment.
These opportunities are being developed in line with the Council’s Greenspace Strategy and the Greater Manchester Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Purchasing biodiversity units from Bolton Council
Bolton Council welcomes initial enquiries from developers, planning consultants, ecologists and other organisations interested in purchasing off-site biodiversity units.
We are currently developing a programme of potential habitat bank sites. Information about the types, quantities and availability of biodiversity units will be provided as individual sites progress.
Developers interested in potential future opportunities are encouraged to contact the Council at an early stage so that their requirements can be considered.
All potential transactions will be subject to unit availability, appropriate agreements and the necessary registration and allocation requirements.
Register your interest or make an enquiry
If you are a developer or an organisation interested in purchasing biodiversity units, please contact our Biodiversity Net Gain team.
Email: BNGenquiries@bolton.gov.uk
To help us respond to your enquiry, please provide the following information where available:
- Your name, company and contact details.
- The location of the proposed development.
- The planning application reference, if available.
- The number and type of biodiversity units required.
- The anticipated timescale for purchasing the units.
Our team will review your enquiry and contact you regarding potential opportunities and next steps.
Further information
For more information about the national requirements for BNG, visit:
Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain – GOV.UK
For information about the Council’s wider biodiversity commitments, visit: