What is a Biodiversity Gain Plan (BGP)?
As Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) becomes a standard part of the planning process, one of the most important documents for any development project is the Biodiversity Gain Plan (BGP).
In this short video, Jen from Biodiversity Units UK explains what a BGP is, why it matters, and how it fits into the wider journey of demonstrating and delivering Biodiversity Net Gain.
What is a Biodiversity Gain Plan?
A Biodiversity Gain Plan is the document that shows exactly how a development project will achieve at least 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
It compares the condition of the site before development to what will exist after, using the Defra Biodiversity Metric to measure both the losses and the gains.
The plan then sets out how the developer will deliver that uplift - whether that’s through on-site habitat creation or, if needed, the purchase of off-site biodiversity units.
What does a BGP include?
Every Biodiversity Gain Plan follows a consistent structure. It will typically include:
Baseline information – what habitats currently exist on the site before any work begins.
Development details – what’s being built and how the works will affect the existing habitats.
The Biodiversity Metric calculation – showing the measured losses and proposed gains.
Enhancement measures – the on-site improvements such as wildflower planting, woodland creation, or green corridors that connect habitats for wildlife.
Habitat Management and Monitoring (HMM) – the long-term management plan outlining how the site’s habitats will be maintained for at least 30 years.
Off-site unit details (if applicable) – when a development cannot meet the 10% target on-site, this section explains how off-site biodiversity units will be used to reach compliance.
Why is the BGP so important?
The local planning authority uses the BGP, along with the biodiversity metric spreadsheet, to confirm that your project meets its statutory 10% Biodiversity Net Gain requirement.
It’s the key document that allows the authority to check the figures, verify your approach, and ultimately discharge your planning condition.
In short, it’s what proves that progress and nature can go hand in hand - ensuring that every new development leaves the environment in a better state than before.
Need help preparing your BGP?
Biodiversity Gain Plans can be highly technical, bringing together data from planning documents, ecology reports, and design teams.
If you’d like help preparing one, our team can guide you through the process or produce the plan on your behalf.
Contact us to find out more about how we can help your project achieve Biodiversity Net Gain compliance.