On 6th August 2026, a number of amendments to the BNG regulations came into effect. For some projects, this could simplify the planning process.
Since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory for most major developments in England, it has become an integral part of the planning process. Developers, architects and planning teams have had to adapt to new requirements aimed at ensuring development leaves the natural environment in a measurably better state.
On 6th August 2026, a number of amendments to the BNG regulations came into effect. While they don't fundamentally change the requirement to deliver a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain, they do refine how the policy is applied in certain circumstances. For some projects, this could simplify the planning process, while for others it reinforces the importance of considering biodiversity from the earliest design stages.
What's changing?
The amendments introduce several targeted changes to the existing BNG framework, including:
- A new exemption for certain developments on sites of 0.2 hectares or less, provided they do not contain priority habitat.
- A temporary exemption for qualifying temporary developments.
- Changes to the biodiversity gain hierarchy for minor developments.
- The removal of the previous self-build exemption.
These changes are intended to make the legislation more proportionate while maintaining the Government's overall objective of improving biodiversity through development.
What this means for developers and design teams
Although the amendments are relatively focused, they could have a significant impact on how some developments progress through planning.
For eligible smaller developments, the new exemptions may reduce the need for a full BNG assessment, potentially saving both time and cost. However, it's important not to assume that every small site will qualify. Factors such as habitat type, site characteristics and the nature of the proposed development will all influence whether an exemption applies.
For developments that remain within the scope of BNG, the existing obligations continue. Applicants will still need to demonstrate a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain and provide the supporting information required by the local planning authority.
Designing with biodiversity in mind
One of the key lessons since BNG was introduced is that biodiversity should never be treated as a late-stage planning exercise.
Considering ecological constraints early allows design teams to identify opportunities to retain existing habitats, incorporate meaningful enhancements and avoid costly redesigns later in the project. Bringing ecological advice into the design process from the outset also helps to reduce planning risk and provides greater certainty as projects move towards submission.
Even where one of the new exemptions applies, biodiversity remains an important consideration in creating sustainable, well-designed developments.
Looking ahead
Planning policy continues to evolve as environmental considerations become increasingly central to the development process. While these latest amendments don't represent a major overhaul of Biodiversity Net Gain, they do demonstrate that the framework will continue to develop as it matures.
For developers and design teams, staying informed is key. Understanding how the amendments apply to a project before submitting a planning application can help avoid unnecessary delays, ensure the appropriate level of ecological assessment is undertaken and support a more efficient planning process.
As with many aspects of planning and environmental compliance, considering biodiversity early is likely to deliver the best outcomes. Whether a scheme benefits from one of the new exemptions or remains subject to the full BNG requirements, incorporating ecological considerations at the earliest stages of design can help reduce risk, minimise redesign and support more sustainable development.