A site over 0.2 hectares does not automatically mean your project needs full biodiversity net gain (BNG). The next step is to establish how your proposal affects the site's habitats and biodiversity value.
Why am I seeing this page?
You've reached the “right BNG route” page because the site area you've confirmed is above 0.2 hectares (2,000 square metres), so the site-size exemption is unavailable.
Your final BNG position still needs to be established. Depending on the habitat impact, your project may qualify for the de minimis exemption, which can apply to proposals with very limited habitat impacts where the relevant conditions are met.
The assessment helps establish which route is supported by the evidence.
What does the small-site assessment do?
Our assessment uses the Small Sites Metric — the government's simpler biodiversity calculation for eligible small developments — to work out how your proposal changes the site's biodiversity value.
The same assessment work can be used to:
Support a de minimis exemption, where the evidence shows it applies.
Complete the BNG calculation, where that exemption does not apply.
You won't need to start again if the assessment shows that BNG applies. We'll explain what the result means and what, if anything, you need to do next.
Why do I need an assessment if my project might be exempt?
At this point, we know your site's size, but we haven't yet established its habitat impact. The assessment provides the evidence needed to understand that impact and support the appropriate route.
Choosing the assessment does not mean you are agreeing that full BNG is required. It means you're taking the next step to establish your project's position.
What does the price cover?
The price displayed on your project page is for the small-site assessment and includes VAT.
If the assessment identifies further BNG work, we'll explain what remains and any additional cost before you decide how to proceed. The displayed assessment price is not a guarantee of the total cost of meeting every BNG requirement for your project.
Can I speak to someone before paying?
Yes. Select “Talk through my project before I decide”. You can choose a 15-minute appointment or request a callback.
The call is free, and there is no obligation to purchase. Our BNG team will review the information you've already provided before speaking with you, so you won't need to explain everything again.
We'll talk through what is already known, what still needs to be established, what the assessment involves, and whether we need anything else from you.
Can your team handle the process for me?
If you'd prefer more help, we can explain our Premium service, where our team handles the process, and discuss whether it suits your project.
If self-service is the best option, we'll tell you that too. You can decide after the conversation.
What should I do next?
Ready to proceed? Select “Continue with the assessment” beside your displayed price to enter the online assessment and payment journey.
Want help deciding? Select “Talk through my project before I decide” to book your free call or request a callback.
Both options are available to you. You can continue online without booking a call, and the information you've already entered will carry forward.