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Biodiversity

Biodiversity net gain strategic significance

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory in early 2024 for some developments. BNG means biodiversity value must be higher after the development than it was before. Developments in our borough must improve biodiversity value by 20% unless they are exempt from BNG.

The government sets the method for calculating habitat value. The evaluation is based on size, condition, distinctiveness and strategic significance. Strategic significance means that some habitat measures count for more in the BNG calculations. These measures are identified by the Surrey Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which was adopted in March 2026. Find out more about the  Local Nature Recovery Strategy (opens new window).

This document sets out our local approach to strategic significance. It was used before the Local Nature Recovery Strategy was adopted Biodiversity Net Gain Strategic Significance (PDF, 194 KB).

Biodiversity Report 2026

The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 places a duty on public authorities to conserve biodiversity. The Environment Act 2021 strengthens this duty to include enhancing biodiversity. It also requires Local Authorities to publish "biodiversity reports" setting out how it has complied with the duty.

Read the Council's Biodiversity Report 2026 (PDF, 457 KB)