The difficulty for a prospective client, is determining which company to trust to undertake this increasingly important and complex function on their behalf. Our expertise is based in practical, workable experiences, not flashy websites and soundbites.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) was trialled in Cornwall, so we have been familiar with it since February 2020. Considerably longer than the vast majority of ecological consultancies in the Country. Consequently, we have a secure understanding of the ins and outs of applying BNG within the planning process. 

Our knowledge will assist in ensuring that not only are the baseline assessments accurate, but that onsite BNG can be maximised in a sustainable, practical and realistic manner.

A number of our staff were imbedded within Mid-Devon Council for six months to help them prepare for and commence fulfilling their BNG statutory requirements. This role is now provided by Devon County Council who have expanded their ecology support to provide both ecological and BNG advice to most the District Councils with Devon.

Be aware

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and its implications for development is starting to gain attention. Indeed, a number of companies are starting to advertise their expertise in this field. However, some of the claimed ‘expertise’ appears theoretical at best. 

A plethora of ‘BNG’ companies has sprung into existence since 2024. Most claiming expertise in the BNG planning process, from site assessments, through to providing offsite BNG Units. Most claim to be able to provide the service using a combination of ai and google aerial images. I’ve even read reports which accredit the author as a ‘BNG Scientist’! 

Along with many Local Planning Authorities we doubt the efficacy of such claims by BNG ‘experts’. 

How an aerial image can possibly provide sufficient data to undertake vegetation / botany surveys, to assess the baseline of a site, is simply not plausible. 

Grasslands have several characteristics which must be considered in arriving at a habitat ‘value’.

• Species present (indicates habitat type and soil conditions)
• How many species per square metre (indicates habitat quality)
• Height of sward (indicates potential for other species to be present)
• Management regimes etc …

Similarly, hedgerows are assessed on the number of species present, height and width, understory species, hedgebanks etc

Can you realistically assess a hedgerow with a photograph taken 250 – 300 miles above the earth?

Don’t risk your planning proposal –

Consult a qualified and experienced ecologist. 

If not us, then another professional consultancy.

Be the change you wish to see