The 5-Step Process to Procuring Off-Site BNG Units
Step 1: Quantify the Deficit: Run your baseline and proposed layout through the Statutory Metric to determine exact habitat, hedgerow, or watercourse unit shortfalls.
Step 2: Source Local Habitat Banks: Check Natural England's public register. Sourcing units within your LPA avoids the 0.75 or 0.5 spatial penalty multiplier that inflates required units.
Step 3: Legal Due Diligence: Verify that the habitat bank has an executed Section 106 or Conservation Covenant and a fully funded 30-year habitat management plan.
Step 4: Execute Purchase & Allocation: Pay the unit supplier and receive an official Allocation Reference Number linked to your planning reference.
Step 5: Discharge Planning Condition: Submit the BNG Plan and evidence of allocation to the council to discharge the statutory pre-commencement condition.
| Off-Site Habitat Bank Location | Spatial Multiplier | Deficit Units Needed | Units Required to Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Same LPA or National Character Area (NCA) | 1.0 (No penalty) | 5.0 units | 5.0 units |
| Neighbouring LPA or Neighbouring NCA | 0.75 (25% penalty) | 5.0 units | 6.67 units |
| Anywhere else in England | 0.50 (50% penalty) | 5.0 units | 10.0 units |