Chelmsford’s BNG level is set at 10%.

The NPPF states: "applicants are encouraged to consider biodiversity net gain early in the development process and factor it into site selection and design. Where appropriate, they should discuss the biodiversity net gain requirements for their development upfront with the relevant local planning authority utilising any pre-application advice services offered by them. This could help establish whether development proposals would be subject to biodiversity net gain and, if they are, enable feedback on the proposed strategy for achieving the biodiversity gain objective and consideration of the Biodiversity Gain Hierarchy to inform the design of the proposals"

Please note, If you work for the LPA and wish to add additional information, please inform the Joe's Blooms team here.

Chelmsford’s pre-application advice service can be foundhere.

Chelmsford is part of the Greater Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Information can be foundhere.

Specific BNG requirements are set out in Policy 3.28 of the Local Plan (adopted 27 May 2020).

In line with national policy and the Evidence Base, the policies and allocations in the Local Plan will ensure that new development takes place in a sustainable way (by balancing economic, social and environmental priorities). This includes ensuring that Chelmsford can accommodate its future growth requirements and minimise the effect on the environment for example by promoting development of previously developed land in Chelmsford’s Urban Area. The Local Plan will also protect and enhance local distinctiveness and plan positively for the creation, protection and enhancement of networks to ensure a net gain for biodiversity and green infrastructure in line with the Council's Green Infrastructure Strategic Plan.

See also the Chelmsford BNG page.

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