Government updates this month are reshaping how Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) will work for both small sites and major infrastructure projects. With the next round of NPPF revisions due, here\u2019s what planning teams need to know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Small sites get new flexibility<\/strong> A general exemption is being introduced for sites with a red\u2011line boundary of 0.2ha or less<\/strong>, reducing the regulatory burden on minor and brownfield schemes. Temporary developments up to five years<\/strong> will also be exempt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Offsite units now equal to onsite gains<\/strong> For minor development, the biodiversity gain hierarchy is being relaxed \u2014 offsite units will carry the same weight as onsite habitat creation. This is aimed at simplifying delivery and speeding up approvals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 NSIPs face earlier biodiversity planning<\/strong> BNG will apply to Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects from 2 November 2026<\/strong>, with a more front\u2011loaded process requiring biodiversity impacts to be addressed at pre\u2011application stage. Expect increased competition for offsite units.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Direction of travel: simplification<\/strong> The government isn\u2019t strengthening or weakening BNG \u2014 it\u2019s smoothing early implementation issues and removing barriers for SMEs and brownfield developers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Planning teams should prepare for these changes ahead of the 31 July deadline, especially where small\u2011site exemptions may accelerate summer submissions.<\/em><\/p>\n