Understanding The Spatial Risk Multiplier: Balancing Local and Practical BNG Solutions
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) prioritises not just achieving a net gain in biodiversity, but also ensuring those gains happen in the right places. This is where the spatial risk multiplier (SRM) comes in.
What is the Spatial Risk Multiplier?
The spatial risk multiplier is a rule-based system that affects the number of off-site biodiversity units a developer needs to provide based on the distance between the development site and the off-site habitat creation or restoration project (Biodiversity Gain Site).
Why is it used?
The spatial risk multiplier incentivises developers to prioritise more local biodiversity enhancements. Local Biodiversity Gain Sites offer greater ecological benefits for the development site’s surroundings. Habitats close together can create vital corridors for wildlife movement and support a more connected ecosystem.
How does it work?
The number of off-site biodiversity units a developer needs depends on the location of their off-site units relative to the development site. The information below offers a clear breakdown of the spatial risk multiplier categories and scores applied to off-site biodiversity units:
Within (1.0): Compensation is within the same Local Planning Authority (LPA) or National Character Area (NCA) of the development site (no penalty).
Neighbouring (0.75): Compensation is outside the LPA or NCA of the development site, but within a neighbouring LPA or NCA.
Outside (0.5): Compensation is furthest away, located outside both the developer’s LPA or NCA and any neighbouring ones.
What does this mean for developers?
While the BNG hierarchy prioritises on-site habitat improvements before off-site solutions, there may be situations where off-site options become necessary. Here’s how developers can navigate the spatial risk multiplier:
Finding Biodiversity Gain Sites/Units closer to the development site.
Working with provider like Integrated Land Management, who has a network of biodiversity gain sites across the country, can help developers find suitable locations
Understanding the market.
As an evolving market, developers are encouraged to engage with BNG specialists such as Integrated Land Management as early as possible in the planning process. This allows for a proactive approach to identifying suitable biodiversity gain site locations and securing the necessary units.
Ensuring proper documentation.
Having all the necessary legal agreements and documentation in place is absolutely vital for successful BNG delivery. Integrated Land Management can also assist developments in navigating this aspect, with extensive experience in this field.
Conclusion
The spatial risk multiplier is a key element of BNG, ensuring that off-site solutions contribute to local biodiversity whenever possible. Choosing a BNG provider with a deep understanding of the legislation, the spatial risk multiplier, and the DEFRA Metric is crucial.
Integrated Land Management’s expertise can guide developers through the BNG process and ensure their chosen solutions are compliant and deliverable while maximising positive local and practical outcomes. Contact us today to discuss your project and explore how we can help you navigate the complexities of the spatial risk multiplier.
