Ecological Impact Assessment guidance has been updated with emerging changes in approaches to valuing nature as well as mitigation. The main changes that are found within the new guidance consist of the inclusion of ecosystem services and natural capital as important ecological features to be considered and the inclusion of Biodiversity off-setting as a ‘last resort’ compensation measure.

The National Planning Policy Framework requires all schemes to show an ecological enhancement. This can sometimes cause problems when designing masterplans especially if layouts have been fixed before ecological input is sought. We have provided a summary of easy wins and dos/don’ts when designing your development layout. 

Natural England have created a new tool that measures Impact Risk Zones for Sites of Special Scientific Interest that will benefit developers when undertaking impact assessments for proposed construction works. 

Built developments and mineral extraction can bring social benefits. However, if developments decrease biodiversity there could be a net loss of human well-being. Planning policy is devolved and a new POSTnote sets out how the information on impacts of proposed developments on biodiversity is given to planners in England. It also summarises approaches to enhance biodiversity and avoid, mitigate and compensate for negative impacts.