{"id":723017,"date":"2023-12-12T05:49:34","date_gmt":"2023-12-12T05:49:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/?p=723017"},"modified":"2023-12-12T11:14:46","modified_gmt":"2023-12-12T11:14:46","slug":"in-practice-designing-with-nature-in-mind","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/specification\/in-practice-designing-with-nature-in-mind","title":{"rendered":"In practice: Meeting the new biodiversity net gain obligations"},"content":{"rendered":"

The introduction of the government\u2019s new biodiversity net gain (BNG) regime to ensure developers protect, preserve and promote nature on their schemes has been delayed. Instead of coming into force last month as originally planned, the legislation will come into effect for large projects in January 2024, and for smaller sites in April next year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There is a little more time to prepare for incorporating and enhancing the presence of the natural world in projects. So it is worth taking another look at what is required of landowners, developers and the planning departments of local authorities under the new rules \u2013 and at the powerful role civil engineering can play in meeting targets.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"

Downlands Park<\/p>\n\t

Source:Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt<\/p><\/div>\n

What is biodiversity net gain?<\/h3>\n

Putting it simply, creating BNG means leaving the land on and around a new development in better condition, with respect to nature, than before construction started.<\/p>\n

Many developments will need to implement a minimum BNG of 10 per cent, although more may be required for specific sites. This is calculated using the Biodiversity Metric, which examines habitats to assess an area\u2019s value to wildlife.<\/p>\n

If developers cannot create sufficient biodiversity net gain on a site, they can deliver it either on other land they own, or by buying Biodiversity Units from a land manager. Should neither of these avenues be available, statutory credits must be bought from the government as a \u2018last resort\u2019. In the event this route is adopted, the government will invest in habitat creation elsewhere in England. The legislation says developers may combine elements of all three options, but it will require the involvement of an ecologist to prove why going for a single option was unsuitable.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"

Downlands Park<\/p>\n\t

Source:Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt<\/p><\/div>\n

Why is biodiversity net gain important?<\/h3>\n

The stimulus to incorporate BNG into new developments is to protect, preserve, and enhance the natural world where it interacts with a development. By creating areas where animals, insects and plants can thrive, developers are in the position to \u2018give back\u2019 to nature. Recent research suggests such protections could deliver around 15,000ha for biodiversity every year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Do not think of biodiversity net gain obligations as a burden. They are a means to improve a development<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

BNG can also help in other ways. Sensitively handled, creating areas for nature can benefit those using a development. Interacting with nature, even to a small degree, can be hugely beneficial for a person\u2019s physical and psychological wellbeing. Developers in the senior living and care home market are already harnessing the benefits of increasing biodiversity on their sites. A great example is Downlands Park, a scheme Symmetrys is working on with architects Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt and BOX Architects for Eden Retirement Living. Set on a 6.35-acre site at the edge of Haywards Heath in Sussex, the plans include allotments, outdoor kitchens and social spaces to encourage residents to engage with the outside environment, aimed at supporting residents\u2019 physical and mental health.<\/span><\/p>\n

Biodiversity strategies can also improve wellbeing in workplaces. Construction company Keltbray Group is developing a new headquarters at Breakspear Road South in Ickenham, Uxbridge, with the intention of exceeding the new BNG targets. They believe that sustainable development \u2018is a source of competitive advantage\u2019, due to the benefits it provides to their employees.<\/p>\n

When a developer exploits the benefits of BNG they are effectively providing an amenity, with wide-ranging benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n

The key role of civil engineering<\/span><\/h3>\n

A<\/span>s recent storms in the UK have illustrated, the UK is becoming increasingly vulnerable to climate change and flooding. While some civil engineering solutions \u2013 such as plastic attenuation crates, or concrete pipes embedded in the ground to assist water flows \u2013 are practical options, they aren\u2019t necessarily good for the environment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nature-based drainage solutions, also known as green or sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), are generally considered to be the preferred option by civil engineers to create the most sustainable and resilient urban developments. It is a comprehensive approach to stormwater management and derives inspiration from the natural water cycle. Instead of relying on plastic crates or underground pipes to divert stormwater, SuDS encourages infiltration, attenuation and passive treatment in urban landscapes by mimicking natural drainage processes. The most effective SuDS solutions occur when they have been designed to integrate so well into the landscape that their drainage and flood mitigation functions seemingly go unnoticed.<\/p>\n

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Breakspear Road south<\/p>\n\t

Source:Campbell Architects<\/p><\/div>\n

SuDS comprise a range of devices, including green roofs, rain gardens and constructed wetlands, which mimic their natural counterparts and offer habitats for diverse species, while effectively treating stormwater. Of these options, the biggest boost to biodiversity will usually be achieved by creating wetlands. Certainly, that is the view of the ecologists Symmetrys<\/span> works with.<\/p>\n

When designing and constructing artificial wetlands, civil engineers must ensure that the design features effectively manage the volumes and flow rates, taking into account the water quality and quantity, nutrient cycling, amenity and biodiversity. This involves creating different zones within the wetland for different ecological and water treatment functions, with the aid of hydraulic components.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"

Breakspear Road south<\/p>\n\t

Source:Campbell Architects<\/p><\/div>\n

While much of this falls within the expertise of civil engineers, successful implementation requires an interdisciplinary approach. Input from landscape architects and ecologists is often crucial in guiding the shape and planting of these features to create habitats where biodiversity will flourish.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our experience with BNG<\/span><\/h3>\n

At Breakspear Road South, which has recently received planning consent, an overhaul of buildings of the former 4.87ha industrial site has provided the opportunity to add environmental and social value through a biodiversity strategy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Working with Campbell Architects, we identified three areas where we will locate ponds that will not only encourage wildlife and plant growth but also assist with the flow and slow discharge of water in the event of heavy rains. The landscape has been designed to complement these sustainable drainage solutions, with the aim of boosting biodiversity on the site by fostering the habitats of the many species present. \u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

At another site currently in the planning process we are exploring providing additional biodiversity by forming wetland on a neighbouring estate. The benefits are multifold. It would increase the estate\u2019s biodiversity and reduce the risk of flooding, while also allowing the developer to provide additional amenities and increase the BNG above and beyond what is already on site.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"

Breakspear Road south<\/p>\n\t

Source:Campbell Architects<\/p><\/div>\n

An opportunity, not a cost<\/span><\/h3>\n

Do not think of biodiversity net gain obligations as a burden. They are a means to improve a development so that it works in harmony with the environment, and biodiversity then becomes a selling point for the scheme.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As well as environmental and social benefits, nature-based drainage solutions can also provide economic benefits. Assets that support wellbeing and sustainability will ultimately be more sought-after. By reducing the risk of flooding and water damage, efforts to fulfil BNG obligations can help protect buildings and reduce maintenance costs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Trees also reduce the flood risk on a site by slowing down and absorbing rainwater. Urban trees have been found to reduce heating and cooling costs while also being counted in the Biodiversity Metric.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Where projects are likely to be small, focusing on providing green roof spaces to encourage biodiversity, while also creating natural landscapes and nature-based solutions to prevent flooding \u2013 such as rainwater gardens and swales \u2013 can also enhance the value of a scheme.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the drive towards securing biodiversity net gain, nature-based drainage solutions epitomise a harmonious approach to urban water management. In addressing environmental concerns, such systems underscore the potential of working in tandem with nature to craft healthier, more climate-resilient and liveable cities.<\/p>\n

Ashwin Halaria is an associate director at structural and civil engineer Symmetrys<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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