Biodiversity net gain specific pre-application advice
Under the Environment Act 2021, most developments must deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain compared to pre-development levels. This can be achieved on-site, off-site, or through a combination of both.
Plan early to meet biodiversity net gain
Choosing the right site and designing with biodiversity in mind from the start can help you meet the 10% target on-site. If full on-site delivery is not possible, you will need to consider the strategic importance of any off-site provision.
Get advice before you apply
We offer a bespoke biodiversity net gain advice service to support you at every stage of the planning process.
- This is a chargeable service
- Fees depend on the scale of your development – see our fees and charges schedule
- Advice is provided by our city ecologists
Important information
Pre-application advice does not guarantee that your planning application or biodiversity net gain plan will be approved. Ecologists may not be aware of all issues at this stage and cannot consider comments made after your application is submitted.
Page last updated: 9 October 2025