Digital tools are guiding small sites’ applications and driving nature recovery across England, as SME developers comply with biodiversity net gain (BNG).
Since its launch in March 2024, the “Biodiversity Net Gain Tool” by tech start-up Joe Blooms, has been used over 1,000 times by different small developers, architects, and planning consultants, demonstrating the value of this tool in helping them navigate the small sites BNG process.
The Biodiversity Net Gain Tool streamlines the BNG process, producing all the site-specific data and legal documents developers of small sites need to secure planning permission under the scheme in minutes.
Who is BNG designed for?
Specifically designed for property developers, contractors, and planners, it has been developed to save time and money by offering a digital solution that avoids project delays under the new rules.
North Yorkshire, Sheffield, and Cornwall are the top three local authorities where planning applications have been submitted using the tool. In total, the tool has supported developments in 259 local authorities, helping to make cities, towns and villages across the country greener.
What is the key driving force behind BNG?
According to Joe Blooms, small sites are not only a key driving force behind BNG, but they produce biodiversity uplift higher than the minimum 10%, hence boosting natural habitats across the country. Recent analysis from Joe’s Blooms of 100 detailed case studies shows that nearly two thirds (64%) produced net gain of 15% or higher.
This milestone underscores the important role small sites play in achieving the Government’s biodiversity goals. Official planning data suggests that small sites cover 80% of permissioned residential sites, and 90% of non-residential applications, demonstrating the essential role that small sites play in meeting international biodiversity commitments.
As digital tools simplify the process, small and medium-sized businesses who may have been apprehensive about meeting BNG regulations can meaningfully contribute to habitat creation and restoration targets.
Why is it a significant milestone?
Oliver Lewis, Founder of Joe’s Blooms said: “Reaching over 2,000 unique users is a significant milestone for Joe’s Blooms, and it highlights the growing impact of digital tools in supporting BNG. Our platform is simplifying the process for SME developers, helping them to create meaningful contributions to nature recovery, even on smaller sites. Since launching in March 2024, we’ve seen consistent engagement from developers, with many returning multiple times, proving that small sites are not only key to BNG compliance but are also driving biodiversity uplift beyond the required 10%.”
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