What is the Small Sites Metric?

The Small Sites Metric is a streamlined tool created by Natural England to calculate biodiversity value and net gain for smaller development sites. It's part of the UK government's commitment to leaving the environment in a better state than we found it, while still allowing for necessary development.

Key features of the SSM include:

• Simplified data entry and calculations
• Designed for non-ecologists to use
• Focuses on the most common habitat types found in urban and suburban areas
• Provides a clear yes or no answer on whether a project achieves 10% net gain

When can you use the Small Sites Metric?

The SSM is applicable for developments that aren’t considered ‘major’ under planning regulations. This typically includes:

• Residential developments of one to nine dwellings on sites less than 0.5 hectares
• Commercial developments creating less than 1,000 square metres of floor space or on sites less than one hectare

There are some additional criteria however:

• The site must only contain habitat types available within the SSM
• No priority habitats should be present (except some hedgerows and arable field margins)
• No statutory protected sites or habitats on-site
• No European protected species present

If your project meets these criteria, the SSM could be the perfect tool for you. 

How does the Small Sites Metric Work?

The SSM uses a simplified version of the biodiversity unit calculation found in the full Statutory Biodiversity Metric. 

Here's a basic breakdown:

• Baseline assessment: You'll input data about the existing habitats on your site, including type, area and condition.
• Post-development plan: You'll then enter information about the proposed development, including any habitat retention, creation or enhancement.
• Calculation: The tool automatically calculates the change in biodiversity value, expressed in ‘biodiversity units’.
• Net gain determination: The SSM will clearly indicate whether your project achieves the required 10% net gain in biodiversity.

Benefits of using the Small Sites Metric

For smaller developments, the Small Sites Metric offers a streamlined approach to biodiversity assessment. It’s a practical tool that brings several key advantages to the table:

• Accessibility: You don't need to be an ecologist or professional to use the SSM. It's designed for planners, developers, and even homeowners to use with some basic training.
• Cost-effective: For smaller projects, using the SSM can be much more cost-effective than hiring an ecologist to complete the full Statutory Biodiversity Metric.
• Faster process: The simplified nature of the SSM means you can often complete the assessment more quickly, potentially speeding up your planning application.
• Clear results: The SSM provides a straightforward yes/no answer on whether your project achieves net gain, making it easier to understand and act upon the results.

How Joe's Blooms can help

At Joe's Blooms, we specialise in helping small-scale developers and homeowners navigate the Biodiversity Net Gain process using the Small Sites Metric. 

Our services include:

SSM Assessment

We'll guide you through the process of completing the SSM for your project, supporting accurate data entry and interpretation of results.

Habitat enhancement planning

If your initial assessment doesn't meet the 10% net gain requirement, we'll work with you to develop practical, cost-effective solutions to enhance biodiversity on your site or find appropriate off-site solutions. 

Documentation support

We'll help you prepare the necessary documentation for your planning application, including the completed SSM and other key supporting evidence.

Ongoing advice

As you move through the planning and development process, we're here to answer questions and provide guidance on implementing your biodiversity enhancements.

Looking Ahead

As Biodiversity Net Gain becomes mandatory for all new developments in England, tools like the Small Sites Metric will play a central role in guaranteeing that even smaller projects contribute to our collective goal of enhancing biodiversity. By simplifying the process for smaller developments, the SSM helps to level the playing field and allows everyone to play their part in creating a greener, more biodiverse future.

We're committed to helping you navigate this new landscape with confidence. Whether you're planning a small housing development, a commercial renovation or even just an extension to your home, we're here so that your project not only meets the required standards but actively contributes to enhancing our local ecosystems.

Summing up: SSM

Achieving Biodiversity Net Gain is about creating better, more sustainable spaces for both people and nature. With the Small Sites Metric and Joe's Blooms on hand, you can turn this requirement into an opportunity to make a real, positive impact on your local environment.