Standard 6 - Biodiversity

The NSfS detail that it is expected that a site-specific biodiversity risk and opportunity (BRO) assessment is produced and approved. This should be submitted with all outline and full planning applications, as a reflection of the need to consider biodiversity at the outset of the design process.

It is expected that this will be completed by a competent person (like an ecologist). The BRO assessment should cross reference and integrate with biodiversity net gain requirements and metrics.

It is suggested that the BRO assessment is appended to the drainage statement for ease of reference.

For full and reserved matters planning applications, which determine the scale and layout of the proposed development, the applicant must also demonstrate how biodiversity is enhanced by the SuDS. This means that the competent person will have assessed the SuDS design and identified how it meets the NSfS. This assessment will be appended to the drainage statement.

Small site exceptions

Sites that are exempt from meeting the statutory BNG requirements do not need to submit a BRO assessment or an ecologist's assessment of the SuDS design. However, the SuDS design should still use features that will enhance biodiversity, and this should be referenced by the designer in their drainage statement.