Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain in Middlesbrough
The introduction of biodiversity net gain (BNG) into UK law through the Environment Act 2021 has transformed the way that developments are planned and approved. The principle is to ensure that any development leaves biodiversity in a measurably better state than before, creating long-term improvements to the natural world.
For most applications for planning permission in Middlesbrough and across the country, meeting BNG legislation is now a legal requirement rather than an optional target.
For developers in Middlesbrough in the north east, this means working with qualified ecologists to measure the pre development biodiversity value of a site and its post development biodiversity value. The results are compared to identify any shortfall, with a minimum of 10% net gain required.
How to achieve BNG
Incorporating biodiversity net gain can be achieved through on-site habitat enhancement, off-site habitat creation, or a combination of both, but the approach must be clearly evidenced and approved by Middlesbrough Council or the relevant local planning authority.
Since February 2024, BNG requirements have been fully embedded into the planning system, supported by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and guidance from Natural England, local nature recovery strategies, and conservation bodies. Developers in Middlesbrough should factor biodiversity net gain into their project plans from the earliest stage to avoid costly delays.
Wildlife and Habitats in Middlesbrough and the Tees Valley
Middlesbrough and the wider Tees Valley area contain a rich mix of urban green spaces, industrial heritage land, riverside habitats, and coastal ecosystems. From the banks of the River Tees to nearby estuary mudflats, saltmarshes, and grassland reserves, the area supports a wide variety of protected species. Notable examples include water voles, otters, great crested newts, breeding waders, bats, and migratory bird species that rely on the Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast Special Protection Area.
Nature Conservation Projects
Balancing the need for regeneration and development with the protection of these habitats is a significant challenge. Middlesbrough Council has key links with the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Tees Valley Nature Partnership and local wildlife organisations, all of which are actively working to enhance biodiversity through improved ecological connectivity, habitat restoration, and long-term nature conservation projects. This means biodiversity net gain plans in Middlesbrough will be closely reviewed to ensure they deliver real, lasting benefits for the local environment.
How a BNG Assessment Works
Before a planning application can be approved, a BNG assessment must be carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist. This starts with a baseline biodiversity survey, where the site’s existing habitats are mapped, assessed for condition, and measured using the government’s Biodiversity Metric tool. This process also includes identifying habitat types, assessing their ecological value, and noting any protected or priority species present.
The ecologist then forecasts the site’s biodiversity value after development, taking into account proposed landscaping, new wildlife habitats, and management measures. If there is a shortfall in the biodiversity value, additional measures must be planned to meet the 10% requirement by incorporating biodiversity net gain. These could include creating new habitats or enhancing existing ones on a development site, or securing biodiversity units from registered off-site providers.
The mitigation hierarchy must be applied; this prioritises avoiding impact on the natural environment, and if this is not possible, measures must be taken to minimise impact and compensate for it. Such measures include a habitat management and monitoring strategy that will typically extend across 30 years.
On-Site and Off-Site BNG Delivery Options
In Middlesbrough, as elsewhere in the UK, the preference is to deliver biodiversity net gain on-site wherever possible. This could involve habitat enhancement such as native planting schemes, wetland creation, introducing green infrastructure, green roofs, or wildlife-friendly drainage systems.
If on-site delivery cannot achieve the required net gain, off-site solutions may be used. This involves purchasing biodiversity units from a registered habitat bank in the Tees Valley or further afield, ensuring the gains are still relevant and beneficial to local ecological priorities. These off-site units must meet strict legal requirements and be secured for a minimum of 30 years.
Integrating Protected Species Surveys with BNG Plans
For many sites in Middlesbrough, BNG plans will need to be combined with protected species surveys to meet planning requirements. This could include bat surveys, great crested newt surveys, reptile surveys, water vole surveys, or bird surveys. These assessments help identify the presence of protected wildlife and ensure that habitat protection and mitigation measures are incorporated into the biodiversity net gain plan from the outset.
By addressing both habitat and species considerations together, developers can create a more robust and compliant plan that satisfies local planning authority requirements and supports the area’s local biodiversity and nature recovery objectives.
Professional Support for Biodiversity Net Gain in Middlesbrough
Our ecology consultancy provides expert biodiversity net gain assessments and plans in Middlesbrough, the wider Tees Valley, and across the UK. Our clients include property developers, landscape architects, and private homeowners and we work on minor development projects and major development schemes.
We have extensive experience preparing compliant BNG reports, from the first site visit through to submission, ensuring that your project meets all legal and planning policy requirements. We manage the process from start to finish, including baseline habitat surveys, Biodiversity Metric calculations, habitat creation advice, and long-term management plans.
Where off-site biodiversity units are required, we can guide you to ensure all documentation is in place according to the requirements of Middlesbrough Council and other relevant authorities.
Our ecological consultants are widely experienced in producing bng reports to satisfy local councils and are affiliated to the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
Free Quote for BNG Assessments in Middlesbrough
If your development project in Middlesbrough requires a biodiversity net gain assessment, we can provide a free quote tailored to your site and planning requirements.
We work closely with developers, architects, and planners to integrate biodiversity into project design from the start, helping to avoid delays and ensuring planning success.
Get in Touch
To discuss your biodiversity net gain needs in Middlesbrough, contact us today via our application form – you can also telephone or email us for more information using the contact details on this page. Once you accept our quote, we will arrange a site visit at a convenient time and provide clear advice on the next steps.
Following our assessment, we will prepare a comprehensive, compliant biodiversity net gain plan to help your application move smoothly through the planning process and secure planning permission.