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Biodiversity Net Gain for London’s Councils
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The Concept of Biodiversity Net Gain
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a crucial environmental principle aimed at ensuring that new developments leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than before. It is meant to enhance ecology, preserve biodiversity and implement conservation measures in development projects. It will:
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Compensate for biodiversity losses by restoring or creating habitats elsewhere, often of greater ecological value.
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Enhance natural ecosystems through careful planning and long-term management.
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Promote sustainable development, balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.
BNG is not just about mitigation but about making tangible, positive contributions to biodiversity to protect and enhance habitats.
London Compliance with BNG
The London Plan
London has been home to over 14,000 different species of plants, animals, and fungi, many of which are permanent residents of the city. The UK Government’s Environment Bill mandates a 10% BNG requirement for all new developments, to protect these species. London’s strategic framework, as outlined in the London Plan, emphasises sustainable growth and environmental enhancement.
London Environment Strategy
In addition to the BNG strategy, there have been significant efforts by the Mayor of London and the 32 London Boroughs to restore biodiversity through initiatives like the London Environment Strategy. This strategy includes information about priority habitats and species and identifies actions the Mayor will take to support their conservation. Key components of the strategy include:
Creating new habitat areas to establish and expand natural habitats across the city.
Protecting wildlife sites with policies that will safeguard the most important wildlife areas from development pressures.
Setting a goal to make London the world's first National Park City, with more than half of its area green by 2050.
Incorporating wildlife-friendly features such as including design elements in new developments that support biodiversity, such as green roofs, bird boxes, and native planting.
These comprehensive efforts aim to not only mitigate the impacts of urban development but also to enhance the overall ecological health of London, making it a greener, more resilient city for both its human and non-human inhabitants.
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What Are London’s Councils Doing for Biodiversity?
London’s councils are proactive in promoting biodiversity through a variety of initiatives and policies. These efforts are guided by the London Environment Strategy.
Priority Habitats and Species
The London Environment Strategy outlines targets for creating new habitat areas and includes policies to protect important wildlife sites. New developments are required to incorporate wildlife-friendly features, ensuring the ongoing support and enhancement of local biodiversity.
Local Nature Recovery Strategy
The Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is a new system of spatial biodiversity strategies mandated by the Environment Act 2021. This strategy aims to improve the quality, size, and connectivity of existing wildlife spaces, identifying opportunities for further expansion in and around London.
Rewilding London
Rewilding efforts in London focus on conserving and enhancing the city's core network of Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). There are over 1,600 SINCs across London, covering nearly 20% of the city's surface area. These sites are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and include various habitats such as woodlands, rivers, grasslands, parks, cemeteries, and community gardens.
Examples of Council Initiatives
Hackney Council: Implemented the Dalston Eastern Curve Garden project, transforming a disused railway into a thriving green space.
Camden Council: Promotes the Camden Biodiversity Action Plan, focusing on habitat creation and species protection.
Greenwich Council: Works on the Thamesmead project to restore natural habitats along the Thames.
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BNG for all London Councils
Biodiversity Net Gain is a city-wide commitment, with all 32 London boroughs and the City of London playing a role. Here’s a list of London’s councils committed to enhancing biodiversity through BNG:
Barking and Dagenham
Barnet
Bexley
Brent
Bromley
Camden
Croydon
Ealing
Enfield
Greenwich
Hackney
Hammersmith and Fulham
Haringey
Harrow
Havering
Hillingdon
Hounslow
Islington
Kensington and Chelsea
Kingston upon Thames
Lambeth
Lewisham
Merton
Newham
Redbridge
Richmond upon Thames
Southwark
Sutton
Tower Hamlets
Wandsworth
Waltham Forest
Westminster
City of London
Do you live in London?
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