The Environment Act 2021 is going to be a game-changer when it comes to new developments: from November 2023, any new development must deliver a net gain in biodiversity (BNG) of 10 per cent, either onsite or by offsetting.
But there are fears over its implementation: how can local government or planning officers ensure genuine gains are made? How will it be resourced and what are the business benefits? How will it affect developers?
To tackle these issues, Shoosmiths partnered with Planning Resource to bring together a roundtable of industry experts to look at the gist of the proposals and how everyone from government to developers should be looking to implement them.
The roundtable participants comprised:
- Lisa Tye - planning partner, Shoosmiths
- Emily Cole - biodiversity net gain policy and legislation advisor, DEFRA
- Lucy Greenwood - director, Savills
- Alexa Culver - general counsel, Environment Bank
- Rebecca Moberly - principal consultant – environment, Planning Advisory Service, Local Government Association
- Jackie Sharp – sustainability manager, Berkeley Homes
Click here to read the write up of the discussion in Planning Resource.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. © Shoosmiths LLP 2024.