Following the release of the 2026 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), our team shared their initial thoughts on some of the most significant changes affecting planning, development and the environment. In her commentary, Principal Landscape Architect Fran Keith, highlighted what she believes is a particularly important shift.
On 6th August 2026, a number of changes to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations came into play, affecting developments of different kinds across England.
Exemptions were introduced for some developments and removed for others. We also saw greater flexibility for some schemes in how they achieve BNG compliance.
Read the full summary of the key changes below and what they mean for your project.
Whether to use scrub or shrub may sound like a minor planting decision, but for developers it can affect biodiversity units, planning outcomes and long-term management requirements.
When Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory in February 2024, there was a lot of uncertainty around unit costs, supply, and how the market would meet growing demand for suitable off-site biodiversity mitigation. Over two years on, the question isn’t whether effective off-site mitigation can be achieved, but how developers can source the right one for their development.
Following recent government updates and forthcoming changes to the planning framework, our team outlines the key developments shaping the future of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
We’re excited to introduce the talented team leading the way at our new Kent office.