Paragraph 8 Biodiversity net gain

No part of the authorised development may commence until a biodiversity net gain strategy has been submitted to and approved by the relevant planning authority for that part, in consultation with the relevant statutory nature conservation body.

The biodiversity net gain strategy must include details of how the strategy will secure a minimum of 20% biodiversity net gain for habitat units, a minimum of 20% biodiversity net gain for hedgerow units and a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain for watercourse units, calculated using the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ Statutory Metric (July 2025), or if this is withdrawn or replaced, a biodiversity metric approved by the relevant planning authority in consultation with the relevant statutory nature conservation body and must be implemented as approved.

The biodiversity net gain strategy must be substantially in accordance with the framework landscape and ecological management plan and must be implemented as approved and maintained throughout the operation of the relevant part of the authorised development to which the plan relates.