This article explores how BNG can impact development timelines and provides strategies for developers to navigate the process efficiently with minimal disruption.

The growing importance of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) presents both opportunities and challenges for developers. While BNG ensures sustainable development by protecting and enhancing biodiversity, concerns about potential delays and timeline disruption are common, especially for projects with off-site compensation requirements.

Potential Delays

New Consideration: BNG introduces a new layer of planning and approvals, as well as the need for collaboration with industry experts such as ecologists and BNG offset providers such as ILM. Depending on project complexity and local BNG regulations, additional time will be required to conduct ecological surveys, assess existing habitats and develop appropriate BNG strategies.

Habitat Creation and Management: Developers are responsible for all on-site BNG, which can add further complexities to the process as habitats need to be managed for a minimum 30-year period, long after the development has completed.

Off-Site Considerations: Developers must ensure all on-site provision has been accounted for before looking to offset their requirements. Experienced providers like Integrated Land Management can streamline this process.

Potential Time Savings

Early Collaboration and Streamlined Planning: Involving experienced BNG specialists like ILM early in the development phase allows for seamless integration into the existing project plan. Working with ecologists early in this process is a proactive approach that can minimise delays associated with last-minute adjustments or condition discharge hold-ups.

Strategic Off-Site Solutions: While off-site compensation can add complexity, as a leading provider of off-site units, ILM simplifies the process for developers with off-site compensation requirements. Our sites offer units that align with your project’s needs, eliminating the need for lengthy off-site land acquisition and habitat creation. We can efficiently integrate off-site solutions into your BNG strategy, minimising delays and ensuring development stays on track.

How to Minimise Delays and Maximise Efficiency

Here’s how developers can navigate BNG and minimise timeline disruptions:

• Early Engagement. Involve specialists such as ILM as early as possible in the planning process. This allows for comprehensive assessments of the best off-site solutions and the development of a streamlined strategy that integrates seamlessly within your existing timeline.

• Open Communication. Maintain clear and consistent communication with BNG authorities and ecologists throughout the entire process. Their knowledge of regulations, best practices, and available off-site solutions can significantly streamline project timelines.

Conclusion

BNG doesn’t have to be a roadblock for development projects. By acknowledging its potential impact on timelines and adopting a proactive approach with the help of experienced BNG specialists, developers can navigate the process efficiently and ensure their projects stay on track.

Additionally, the long-term benefits of BNG compliance, such as attracting eco-conscious investors and fostering a positive public image, can contribute to the overall success of the development.

Ready to discuss your BNG requirements and explore efficient off-site compensation strategies? Contact ILM today!