The new regulations mean that wildlife habitat must be left in a better state than it was before a development took place.

With one in six species at risk of extinction in the UK, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is welcoming the new legislation, but has emphasised the need for a joined-up approach in order to address the severity of the continuing nature crisis.

David Cadman, Head of Nature Recovery Networks, explained: “It is vital that BNG delivery is targeted in a way that delivers the best outcomes for nature, and that any habitat that is restored or created is done in priority areas in line with the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS). The LNRS is a countywide plan that is being drawn up to set out what needs to be done to halt and reverse nature’s decline in Staffordshire.

“Over the last 12 months we’ve been discussing BNG implementation with local authorities across the county. We are working hard to stress the vital importance of having a BNG policy in place within Local Plans and other strategies, to ensure that BNG is targeted in the right places and that nature positive development becomes the norm.

“A healthy, thriving natural world is in everyone’s best interests. It is fundamental to addressing climate change, as well as bringing huge benefits for people’s health and wellbeing. We must ensure that BNG lives up to its potential and makes a real difference to nature recovery on the ground.”

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has developed a new web-based tool called Net Gain Staffordshire (www.netgainstaffs.com) to help make sure that the new rules lead to the best outcomes for nature. The platform is underpinned by the latest ecological data from around the county and will help local authorities, developers and landowners with BNG delivery.

The new BNG regulations do not replace existing requirements to avoid impacts to wildlife. Nor do they give developers free rein to damage habitats on a promise that harm can be rectified elsewhere. However as a last resort, where damage to habitats cannot be avoided, developers will be legally required to ensure an increase of at least 10% more biodiversity in addition to the required compensation. This will be achieved through the enhancement, restoration, or creation of new habitats with an obligation to ensure these gains are managed and maintained for at least 30 years.