GREEN & BLUE INFRASTRUCTURE
MAXIMISING BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN WITH ‘LIFETIME’ LIVING WALLS
BY STEVE MCINTYRE, PRINCIPAL URBAN ENVIRONMENT CONSULTANT AT GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALISTS, ANS GLOBAL The government has announced that all developments in England must demonstrate a 10% increase in biodiversity. Not only that, but the habitats put in place must be managed for at least a 30 year lifespan. With this new focus not just on protecting but enhancing natural habitats, and putting into reverse years of decline in plant and animal species, how can landscape and urban designers find creative solutions to meet these requirements?
60
www.landud.co.uk
What is biodiversity net gain? Biodiversity net gain is an approach to development that leaves biodiversity in a better state than before. The Environment Bill, currently making its way through Parliament and expected to receive royal ascent this year, will mandate that all developments in England demonstrate a 10% increase in biodiversity in or near development sites, after a two-year transition period.
The new minimum biodiversity net gain legal requirement means developers will be looking to landscapers and designers for find solutions where space to create habitat on site may be limited, or the viability of a site could be affected, especially in urban developments.
Follow us @ludmagazine
