How does BNG affect Developers?

As a developer, you understand the importance of sustainable practices. Now, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is mandatory, it impacts the entire development lifecycle. It influences every development stage, from land acquisition to post-construction management.

BNG isn’t a planning tool – it is something that needs to be carried through the entire development process. Biodiversity needs to be protected at planning and protected through the construction process, and of course, you have to be able to successfully deliver it and manage it.
Land selection: BNG will influence the way that your land teams identify the right plots of land for purchase and development to ensure it is feasible to achieve both BNG and the commercial goals of the development. In some cases, it may mean producing fewer units per site in order to allocate a larger area to green space. The BNG metric is a useful tool for land teams to calculate at the selection stage.

 

benefits of bng
Design and Planning: On-site delivery has to be a priority, along with the amenity of space you are providing for your residents. Your Landscape Architects will work closely with Ecologists and Architects to try to get Biodiversity Net Gain into all elements of design, including the architecture. This may mean that the design process could take longer to complete. BNG compliance might mean adjusting designs. In some cases, prioritising green spaces and habitat creation could lead to fewer housing units.

 

biodiversity benefits
Long-term Management: The Biodiversity Net Gain Legislation requires a 30-year commitment, which means there is a significant shift from the more traditional 5-year period of site management. Developers will need to work with their different management teams, who will be responsible for looking after the sites when the developers leave. BNG calculations need to continue to factor in 30 years of assessments.
For more information, call us on 01256 771222

How can Wildflower Turf Ltd help you through the process?

We’re here to help, giving you BNG guidance every step of the way:


Consultation
With over 20 years of experience, we hold a wealth of expertise in all things wildflower. From site visits, to laboratory tests, to pre-site evaluations, or support with BNG requirements, we can help.
>> Discuss your projects requirements and BNG goals with our experts

Design & Planning
Our quality-guaranteed, reliable product range offers various options. We’ll help you choose the right wildflower product range, wildflower mix or develop a custom solution to meet your site’s unique BNG needs and your budget.
>> Explore our wildflower product ranges

Supply & Delivery
We understand time is money. Reduce the risk of delay. We’ll work with your Landscape Contractor to ensure timely product delivery, so your ground team isn’t left waiting. Top quality products delivered to spec, at a time and date to match your installation schedule.
>> Read more about delivery and collections

Installation & Maintenance
Our proven track record for the longevity of product life instils confidence in achieving the required 30 years of auditing, all with minimal annual maintenance, thereby reducing your overall costs for success. At Wildflower Turf Ltd, our experts can provide training for your Landscape Contractors and site management team to ensure successful installation and long-term maintenance – setting you up for BNG success over the 30-year period.
>> Explore our training courses

Frequently Asked Questions about BNG

How much maintenance do wildflower spaces require over 30 years?

Regardless of the wildflower installation method used, once established, wildflower spaces and meadows are very low maintenance! Compared to a traditional lawn that needs mowing every 6-8 weeks, wildflowers only require one cut per year in the early Autumn – saving you significantly in maintenance costs.

Can I use wildflower seeds to enhance existing baseline grassland space?

Absolutely! You can oversow your existing grassland with wildflower seeds to diversify the number of species the space contains – an efficient way to gain more BNG units.

This also adds wildflowers to your space without needing to remove and replace the existing grassland area.