England · National documents
Biodiversity net gain
Explains biodiversity net gain through the planning process, including which permissions are in scope, exemptions and biodiversity gain plans.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Biodiversity net gain (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 74-001-20240214
Check scope before preparing a gain plan
Subject to exceptions, the statutory biodiversity gain condition requires the objective of at least a 10% increase in biodiversity value to be met. The guidance describes a gain plan approved before commencement, with exemptions and transitional arrangements checked separately.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 74-001-20240214
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.