How does BNG affect Landscape Contractors?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is transforming the landscape industry, placing a greater emphasis on ecological design and long-term maintenance. This presents exciting opportunities for Landscape Contractors and Landscapers alike.

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.

Shifting Focus: Traditionally, landscapes might have prioritised aesthetics or functionality. Now, Contractors and Landscapers will need to factor in creating biodiverse environments. This might involve using native plants, safeguarding existing habitats and employing sustainable landscaping practices. Wildflower Turf Ltd are here to help you adapt.

Collaboration: BNG requires more collaboration between Landscape Contractors, Landscape Architects and Ecologists from project inception. Ecologists will assess the site’s existing biodiversity and develop plans with Landscape Architects to achieve a 10% net gain, and the Landscape Contractors will be responsible for implementing those plans.

Following Specified Designs: The Landscape Architect’s plan, informed by ecological expertise, will dictate the plant species, materials, and features needed to achieve BNG targets. While there might be some flexibility for minor adjustments, the core elements are pre-determined and won’t be able to be value-engineered. This ensures the project aligns with BNG’s goals.

Long-term management plans: BNG sites require a 30-year commitment. This means Landscape Contractors may be tasked with maintaining all living aspects of the project, creating long-term opportunities. This includes replacing failed plants, repairing damaged areas, and ensuring BNG targets are met during regular audits. In some cases, collaboration with the Landscape Architect may be needed during this period to adjust designs or management plans if targets aren’t being met.

For more information, call us on 01256 771222

How can Wildflower Turf Ltd support you?

Product specifications and bespoke offerings: Once you have the Landscape Architect’s designs or tender documents, we can help you match the species list for any wildflower areas from one of our ‘off-the-shelf’ wildflower mixes or by creating a bespoke mix. You can easily access information on our product ranges and mixes, including bespoke options to suit specific BNG plans.
>> Explore our product mixes.

 

Effortless Quotes: Request a quote for your projects day or night here. Alternatively, our team of passionate and knowledgeable experts are ready to assist you on 01256 771222 during weekday opening hours.

>> Request a quote.

 

Products to match your price point: We have three product ranges with different installation methods, however, rest assured they contain the same wildflower mixes to match your BNG required specifications. We can advise you on the correct product range that best suits your price and establishment timescales.
>> Learn about the differences between our product ranges

 

biodiversity benefits
Installation and Maintenance Support: BNG creates a demand for skilled professionals who can install, and maintain landscapes, including contractors who specialise in creating habitats like wildflower spaces and green roofs. We offer comprehensive training courses to equip you with the knowledge to install and maintain wildflower spaces.
>> Explore our range of training courses at Wildflower Turf Ltd.

 

BNG Training and Awareness: With over 20 years of experience, Wildflower Turf Ltd holds 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 as your BNG delivery partner.
>> Discover training opportunities related to BNG principles

 

Become an Accredited Partner: Expand your network and join over 400 companies already signed up and reaping the benefits of our accredited partner programme. You can also enjoy up to 20% OFF trade prices, industry-leading training, job referrals, marketing exposure, seasonal advice and much more.
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Frequently Asked Questions about BNG

What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a way of creating and improving natural habitats. BNG ensures new developments have a positive impact on biodiversity of at least a 10% increase compared to the biodiversity prior to development; it must be maintained for a minimum period of 30 years.

What is a BNG assessment?

Classification of the type, distinctiveness, condition, connectivity and strategic significance of habitats by a professional prior to and post development.

Do I need a biodiversity report?

Local authorities (excluding parish councils) and local planning authorities must publish a biodiversity report. Alongside that, development sites that are being built either on or next to an area of importance for biodiversity will require a biodiversity report and survey to publish alongside the planning application.

How is biodiversity calculated?

Biodiversity index is calculated by finding the total number of species in the designated area and dividing that by the total number of individuals in that area. The scientific equation is dividing species richness by species evenness.

How much does a BNG credit cost?

BNG credits have a range of prices dependent on the habitat that is being disturbed. They are categorised into low, medium and high habitat distinctiveness (HD), as well as broad and specific habitat type and, finally, tier. Credits start at a cost of £42,000 for low HD and tier A1. In the medium HD section, prices range from £42,000 for Heathland Shrub at tier A1 to £125,000 for sparsely vegetated land and other inland rock and scree at tier A4.

At high HD, prices again begin at £42,000 for wetland and reedbeds at tier A1 and range up to £650,000 for lakes and peat lakes in tier A5. Additionally, there is also a section for various HD for hedgerows at £44,000 and all watercourses at £230,000.