Biodiversity net gain: nationally significant infrastructure projects
Information about biodiversity net gain (BNG) for nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs).
This page lists guidance that’s relevant to biodiversity net gain (BNG) for nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs).
In England, BNG will be mandatory for NSIPs from 2 November 2026.
NSIP developers who apply for a development consent order on or after 2 November 2026 will need to deliver at least 10% BNG.
In May 2026, Defra published biodiversity gain statements for NSIPs. These set out the details on how NSIPs will need to calculate, deliver and report on BNG.
The guidance listed on this page provides further information about how to meet the requirements that will be set out in the biodiversity gain statements.
Mandatory BNG for NSIPs is introduced by Schedule 15 of the Environment Act 2021, which inserts Schedule 2A into the Planning Act 2008.
If you need information about BNG for developments that need planning permission, go to the main BNG collection.