Thomson Environmental Consultants explains the opportunities and responsibilities that Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) presents to SME contractors undertaking small-scale and custom builds
With many more new homes required to tackle the housing crisis, concerns are being raised about the potential impact this will have on wildlife habitats. Thomson Environmental Consultants new survey reveals that habitat loss from urbanisation and smaller housing developments is a leading reason why people believe they are seeing less wildlife in their gardens.
The survey found that many homeowners believe that nearby land development is contributing to the decline in native wildlife. Respondents say new housing estates, hard landscaping, and the removal of lawns for parking and artificial grass are reasons for less wildlife. Comments such as “a housing estate has been built next to our garden, decimating nature” and “land building nearby destroyed their habitat” clearly show public perceptions about local development’s impacts on biodiversity.
Dan Reynolds, Director at Thomson, says: “Building new homes is necessary to solve the housing crisis, and well-planned development does not have to be at the cost of biodiversity. Whilst poorly controlled development could have an impact on wildlife, particularly in the green belt, carefully planned and sensitively executed small-scale and custom builds can bring about positive enhancement for native species and habitats.
For SME contractors, adopting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) principles represents both a responsibility and an opportunity. BNG, a government-mandated approach, requires developers to mitigate habitat loss and actively enhance biodiversity. Since February 2024 for major developments – and April 2024 for minor ones – BNG has been mandatory, ensuring that all projects leave the natural environment in a measurably better state post-development.
Dan adds: “BNG principles enable developers, including SMEs working on smaller sites, to positively impact biodiversity. By creating or improving habitats, contractors can play a key role in reversing wildlife decline while delivering housing that meets community needs. These measures can include features like wildflower planting, wildlife corridors, and integrated solutions such as bat and bird boxes.”
For smaller sites, such as custom builds, incorporating BNG measures could help address issues of habitat loss and wildlife decline without adding significant costs or delays. Dan continues: “Simple, cost-effective solutions such as leaving areas of green space, reducing impermeable surfaces, or installing features like hedgehog highways can make a huge difference. These measures don’t just support wildlife; they also enhance the appeal of new homes for prospective buyers. SME contractors and smaller developers can leverage this to differentiate their projects in a competitive market.”
The new BNG regulations align with growing homeowner interest in wildlife conservation. Thomson’s survey found that many Brits are willing to support biodiversity by planting native species, creating pond habitats, or installing bird feeders. SME contractors can align with this public enthusiasm by promoting eco-conscious features in their projects. In doing so, they can not only comply with regulations but also add value to their developments, creating goodwill among buyers and local communities.
Dan comments: “While developments, including small-scale and custom builds, are vital for addressing housing needs, we must ensure that this does not come at the expense of our natural environment. BNG provides a roadmap for SME contractors to contribute positively to biodiversity while delivering high-quality homes. By balancing growth with environmental stewardship, smaller developers can demonstrate that housing solutions don’t have to conflict with ecological priorities.”
To learn more about wildlife and habitat conservation, visit https://www.thomsonec.com/news/the-state-of-uk-garden-wildlife-2024/.
