Developing principles for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

Overview

Our Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) working group have developed a set of principles to ensure Oxfordshire's biodiversity net gain is implemented effectively to support nature's recovery.

The problem

Research conducted by Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery, part of University of Oxford, shows that biodiversity net gain (BNG) has the potential to contribute 13% of the total cost of nature recovery in Oxfordshire. However, to realise that potential it is necessary to ensure that implementation is as effective as possible. Without guidance, there is also potential for BNG funds to have no impact on nature's recovery.

What we're doing

The Oxfordshire Local Nature Partnership proposes that Oxfordshire's Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) adopt the principles the working group, which includes representatives from local authority planning departments, have developed for Biodiversity Net Gain implementation. Their underlying intent is to ensure that Biodiversity Net Gain is implemented in a way that supports the spirit of the Environment Act 2021 and maximises Biodiversity Net Gain’s potential impact on nature recovery in Oxfordshire. They are designed to facilitate a harmonised approach across all local authority areas, recognising that some local variations may be inevitable and indeed beneficial. Our aspiration is that they will provide a common framework within which local authorities, developers, conservation bodies, farmers and landowners work together to protect and restore our county’s nature.