Specialists from our Real Estate team have advised Bellway Homes, a residential property developer and housebuilder, on its first purchase of offsite habitat units to meet new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements which became mandatory for major developments in February 2024.

After conducting an extensive design review of Bellway's Harold's Wood development, it become clear that a 10% biodiversity net gain would not be achievable onsite, necessitating the purchase of offsite habitat units from Nattergal, a leading nature restoration company, to exceed BNG requirements.

The Real Estate team was led by Partner, Ben Stansfield, with support from Legal Director Andrew Beresford and Principal Associate Sarah Hollis. 

Ben Stansfield commented: "We are pleased to support Bellway Homes on the purchase of its first offsite Biodiversity Net Gain habitat units. The purchase underlines Bellway Homes' commitment to deliver positive outcomes for nature and communities."

Neil Beamsley, Group Head of Biodiversity at Bellway Homes, said: "I’m delighted that we have been able to start our BNG delivery journey working with Nattergal. It’s been inspiring to see the diligence and integrity with which they approach their work, and Bellway is more than happy to support this. Thanks to Gowling WLG for their support on this project"

To learn more about the new rules for Biodiversity Net Gain, watch our webinar.

Gowling WLG is home to one of the UK's largest real estate practices. For further information, visit our Real Estate page.