Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is fast becoming a cornerstone of sustainable development, requiring that natural habitats impacted by construction are left in a measurably better state than before.
BNG ensures any ecological damage from development is offset or improved elsewhere on-site, leading to an overall biodiversity increase.
At ESP, we work closely with partners to integrate BNG into all projects, recognising both the ethical responsibility and the long-term commercial advantages for developers.
- Planning & Compliance
BNG is a legal requirement under the Environment Act 2021. Integrating it early streamlines planning approval and avoids costly delays.
- Reputation & Market Appeal
BNG signals a strong sustainability commitment, improving relationships with authorities and communities while attracting investors, buyers, and tenants.
- Amenity & Quality of Life
Features like meadows, ponds, and wetlands boost biodiversity and enhance living environments. They can also be included in walking routes and learning education and play benefits
- Future-Proofing
BNG reduces flood risk, improves climate resilience, and protects properties through green infrastructure that manages extreme weather runoff.
BNG from a Pond
What it provides:
- Ponds are considered to have strong biodiversity value.
- Even a small new pond can generate a significant uplift in biodiversity units, especially if it’s designed with gradual margins, native planting, and varied depths.
Key Biodiversity Benefits:
- Supports amphibians (e.g., frogs, newts), aquatic invertebrates, dragonflies.
- Attracts birds, bats, and pollinators if surrounded by wildflowers.
- Can serve as part of an integrated SuDS (sustainable drainage system), improving water quality.
BNG from a Swale
What it provides:
- Swales are linear, shallow, vegetated channels that convey stormwater, often integrated into SuDS.
- While less biodiverse than ponds, swales still offer moderate habitat value — especially when planted with native grasses and wildflowers.
Key Biodiversity Benefits:
- Supports invertebrates, birds, and small mammals.
- Acts as a wildlife corridor between habitat patches.
- Enhances resilience of the overall ecological network on-site.
For ESP, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is more than a legal requirement — it’s a smart, future-ready strategy.
We work closely with partners to integrate, approve, and maintain BNG features across our projects.
We support flexible, innovative designs and offer tailored maintenance options to suit each development. BNG delivers environmental value—enhancing habitats and supporting sustainable growth—while offering commercial benefits to developers and long-term well-being for communities.
Partner with ESP to achieve measurable environmental impact—without compromising on practicality, performance, or pounds.
Contact us today to explore how ESP SuDs maintenance options can support ongoing Biodiversity Net Gain for your projects
Email: commercial@espugcom