Closed consultation

Improving the implementation of biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development

Applies to England

We are analysing your feedback

Visit this page again soon to download the outcome to this public feedback.

Detail of feedback received

We received a large number of responses to this consultation and are currently analysing the feedback. A full response will be published in due course.

Any changes made in response to the consultation will be communicated in advance of their implementation, with expected timescales. The current BNG requirement remains in place and developers should continue to follow existing guidance and legislation when delivering BNG.

Summary

We are seeking views on improving the implementation of biodiversity net gain (BNG) for minor, medium and brownfield development.

This consultation was held on another website.

This consultation ran from
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Consultation description

We want to know what you think about the implementation of biodiversity net gain (BNG) for minor, medium and brownfield development.

BNG is a way of creating and improving natural habitats. BNG makes sure development has a measurably positive impact (‘net gain’) on biodiversity, compared to what was there before development.

This consultation includes options around extending exemptions, simplifying the small sites metric and increasing ease of access to the off-site market. It also addresses specific challenges for brownfield developments.

The government is committed to encouraging economic growth through new development, while also supporting nature recovery. We think amending BNG to more efficiently embed nature-positive approaches within the planning system will help achieve this mission.

We are also consulting separately on BNG for nationally significant infrastructure projects.

Updates to this page

Published 28 May 2025
Last updated 21 October 2025 show all updates
  1. We received a large number of responses to this consultation and are currently analysing the feedback. A full response will be published in due course. Any changes made in response to the consultation will be communicated in advance of their implementation, with expected timescales. The current BNG requirement remains in place and developers should continue to follow existing guidance and legislation when delivering BNG.

  2. First published.

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