Press Statement: Scrapping Biodiversity Net Gain for small housebuilding projects adds to false narrative on protecting nature

Removing Biodiversity Net Gain requirements for small developments runs completely counter to the promises that Ministers have made on a win-win for house building and nature. It also perpetuates the government’s false narrative that protecting nature is delaying housebuilding – which their own impact assessment refutes. Biodiversity Net Gain can help create happier and healthier communities that co-exist with the natural environment. Proposals to water it down risk poorer outcomes for people and nature, hampering growth by undermining confidence across sectors, and run counter to recent recommendations from the Office for Environmental Protection, which called on Government to reaffirm its commitment to BNG. With the right support, BNG can drive innovation, investment, and nature recovery for a better future.

Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive