Are Local Planning Authorities ready to monitor mandatory BNG?
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) has published an article based on joint research by Verna and a group of seven Local Planning Authorities (LPAs).
The piece, co-authored by Leeds City Council ecologist Richard Marsh and Verna’s Ecology Director Mikael Forup, explores the opportunities and challenges created by the introduction of Biodiversity Net Gain – which becomes mandatory for all LPAs to manage from November.
The article includes a deep dive into the underappreciated burden of monitoring 1000s of BNG projects for 30 years after they are consented.
It also highlights potential solutions, including new policies and processes (such as those being created in Leeds), and tailormade software such as Verna’s Mycelia tool.
You can read the full article on the CIEEM website.
Update: The findings from this research were explored further in a free webinar on 12 September, with speakers from Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, and Oxford University. You can view a recording of the webinar on YouTube here (opens in new tab).