Delivering 10% Biodiversity Net Gain for Critical Healthcare Infrastructure
E3 Ecology provided a full EcIA and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessment for a high-priority hospital helipad refurbishment just outside Newcastle.
E3 Ecology.
Expert BNG metrics for planning success.
E3 Ecology was instructed in 2024 to undertake an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessment to support a planning application for a newly refurbished helipad at a hospital just outside of Newcastle.
Baseline ecological surveys identified relatively few ecological constraints on the site. However, in line with national planning policy, the development was required to demonstrate a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity. Due to the nature and location of the site, there was no opportunity to deliver this net gain using off-site land, meaning all biodiversity enhancements needed to be achieved within the red line boundary of the development.
Biodiversity Enhancements
E3 Ecology worked closely with the project landscape architect and the wider design team to integrate biodiversity enhancements into the scheme at an early stage.
This collaborative approach enabled the development to achieve the required 10% biodiversity net gain through the enhancement of existing grassland areas, which were designed and specified to be converted into species-rich wildflower grassland of increased ecological value. Tree and shrub planting was avoided due to the anticipated increased risk of potential bird strikes.
The Biodiversity Net Gain assessment was subsequently approved by the Local Planning Authority. A Landscape and Ecology Management Plan (LEMP) was also prepared and agreed, setting out how the proposed habitats would be established, managed, and monitored over time to ensure that the targeted habitat condition and biodiversity outcomes are successfully delivered. A Biodiversity Gain Plan was submitted and approved prior to commencement of works, allowing the development to proceed.
This ensured that a vital emergency services facility could be delivered efficiently and within a short timescale, while remaining fully compliant with planning and biodiversity legislation.
How Can E3 Ecology Help?
If you require support with an ecological appraisal, EcIA or Biodiversity Net Gain assessment, E3 Ecology would be happy to help; please get in touch to discuss your project.