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. Local planning authorities must identify which habitats are most important for strategic significance. These will count for more in the BNG calculations.
This document sets out our approach to strategic significance: Biodiversity Net Gain Strategic Significance (PDF, 194 KB)
This will be the approach until the Surrey Local Nature Recovery Strategy is adopted, expected in June 2026. Find out more about the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (opens new window).
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)