Response 3686660

Response to request for information

Reference

3686660

Response date

9 April 2025

Request

Since the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation in February 2024: 

• The number of planning applications submitted to your local authority that were considered (a) large sites, (b) small sites as per the BNG classification 

• What percentage of (a) large sites and (b) small sites had completed and submitted the relevant BNG documentation with their application (e.g. statement of applicability, pre-development biodiversity value of the on-site habitat, description of any irreplaceable habitat, on-site habitat plan)? 

• What percentage of (a) large sites and (b) small sites planned to deliver the BNG (a) through fully onsite habitat creation and enhancement, (b) fully offsite compensation or (c) a combination of onsite/offsite 

• The number of planning applications refused based on biodiversity-related concerns 

• The number of staff working on implementing BNG at the end of 2023 and at the end of 2024. 

Response

The number of planning applications submitted that meet the classification are available to view on our Planning Online website by using the advanced search feature and then inputting the key dates and reviewing the applications submitted since February 2024. It is not information that we hold, and we also do not hold the information in respect of the percentage figures that you have requested.

Planning applications which are refused on biodiversity-related concerns since February 2024 are also available to view on our Planning Online website by searching for those applications which are refused and reviewing the decision notices associated with each application.

The number of staff working on implementing BNG have not altered within the specific dates you refer to.