New major developments must now prove they can improve biodiversity in habitats before building can begin.

As of February 12, all major developments need to demonstrate their ability to enhance biodiversity by a minimum of 10 per cent.

This newly employed measure focuses on enhancing biodiversity – the variety of animal and plant species, habitats and ecosystems on the planet.

This approach, known as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), aims to leave land in a better state than before.

BNG utilizes a metric by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to quantify biodiversity.

This allows, in a measurable manner, planners and developers to ensure habitats are being meaningfully created and improved.

All plans for major developments in England must outline how they will deliver a minimum of 10 per cent BNG.

The local planning authorities must approve these plans before any construction can start.

This requirement will extend to smaller developments from April 24.

Developers are advised to retain existing habitats on planned building land wherever possible, if not, they should establish a replacement habitat either on the development site or other nearby land they own.

This replacement habitat must be preserved and monitored for at least 30 years.

If developers can not create new habitats, they would need to purchase replacement units from other providers.

Government credits can also be purchased where local provider does not have units or they are not available, allowing government to generate habitats elsewhere in the country.

In addition to other landowners, North Somerset Council is preparing to provide its own BNG service for developers to purchase replacement units.

The council's plans will be accessible on their website once finalised.

Expressing her enthusiasm for this new initiative, councillor Annemieke Waite, the executive member for climate, waste and sustainability at North Somerset Council, said: "We’re committed to building a greener North Somerset, and Biodiversity Net Gain will help us make sure future developments are protecting and improving the environment, ensuring habitats thrive for years to come.

"It was a privilege to attend the legislation’s national launch on February 12 at Belmont Estate in Wraxall.

"I’m particularly excited to see what happens with North Somerset Council’s plan to introduce our own BNG scheme, which should benefit local land that we all use and enjoy."

For more information, visit www.gov.uk/government/news/new-housing-developments-to-deliver-nature-boost-in-landmark-move.