Planning

Biodiversity Net Gain for major infrastructure projects – new guidance 

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Biodiversity net gain, Nature, Planning
View of the Solway Wetlands, Cumbria

From 2 November 2026, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) will become mandatory for new nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP) applications in England. Bringing BNG into the NSIP system is an important next step for nature. It will ensure that much needed major infrastructure …

Laying the groundwork for the Nature Restoration Fund

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: 30by30, Environmental Improvement Plan, Green finance, Nature, Planning
Wildflowers in front of a development of new homes

The Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) is a landmark reform to the way housing and infrastructure developers meet their environmental responsibilities.   Yesterday, 18 June 2026, two sets of secondary legislation were laid before Parliament.    This is an important step towards putting the fund into practice, …

Planning for the future: England’s first Land Use Framework 

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: 30by30, Farming, Land use, Landuse Framework, Nature, Planning

Today the Government has published England’s first ever Land Use Framework, which shows how through smarter planning and the right data and tools communities, farmers, landowners and developers can make informed decisions about land use. In this post, we’ll set out everything you need to know about the framework.

Planning reforms: delivering homes, supporting farmers, and protecting nature 

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Biodiversity net gain, Land use, Nature, Planning
image of house surrounded by nature

Yesterday the government launched a major consultation on planning reform – building on our amends last year this will be the most fundamental rewrite of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) since its introduction over a decade ago.  These reforms will create a clearer, more rules-based planning system, where developments that meet requirements can move forward with greater certainty. …

Share your views on biodiversity net gain, plus more funding for local planning authorities

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Biodiversity net gain, Land use, Planning
Planted sapling in front of housing development.

There are two live public consultations on biodiversity net gain: one on nationally significant infrastructure projects, and one on how we can help smaller developers to deliver the policy. Find out how to share your views.