Biodiversity Net Gain changes from August 2026: What Lincolnshire landowners and developers need to know
Thu 23 Jul 2026
Defra has confirmed changes to the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements in England, which will apply to planning applications submitted from 6th August 2026.
The amendments are intended to reduce regulatory burdens for smaller developments while continuing to protect important habitats and support biodiversity improvements. For landowners and developers across Lincolnshire, understanding how these changes may affect a proposed development before submitting a planning application could help avoid unnecessary delays, additional costs or unexpected requirements.
Key changes:
0.2-hectare exemption
Development on sites of 0.2 hectares or less will no longer be required to deliver mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain, provided the development does not negatively affect any onsite priority habitats.
Temporary development exemption
Temporary developments will also be exempt from mandatory BNG requirements where the land will be fully reinstated within five years or less, provided priority habitats are not adversely affected.
Removal of the self-build and custom-build exemption
Self-build and custom-build developments were previously exempt from mandatory BNG requirements. From 6 August 2026, these developments will be assessed under the same rules as other qualifying developments.
This may introduce additional considerations for anyone looking to bring forward individual residential plots or smaller bespoke schemes.
Greater flexibility for minor developments
Qualifying minor developments larger than 0.2 hectares will have greater flexibility in how they deliver biodiversity gains. Previously, schemes were expected to prioritise onsite enhancements before considering offsite options, whereas the updated approach allows offsite delivery from the outset where appropriate.
What does this mean in practice?
For applicants with sites close to the 0.2-hectare threshold, the timing of a planning application could have a significant impact on the requirements that apply and the associated costs involved.
It is important to note that the changes do not remove the need to consider biodiversity as part of the planning process and that local planning authorities will continue to expect well-designed proposals that incorporate appropriate biodiversity measures.
For landowners across Lincolnshire considering residential development, rural diversification or bringing forward land through the planning process, early advice remains important. Understanding biodiversity requirements at the outset can help ensure schemes are designed appropriately and avoid unnecessary complications later.
These amendments will only apply to planning applications submitted from 6th August 2026 onwards. Applications submitted before this date, along with planning permissions already granted, will continue to be considered under the existing BNG requirements.
These are the first changes to emerge following Defra’s consultation on Biodiversity Net Gain, with further reforms still under consideration.
How Masons can help
Planning policy changes can create uncertainty, particularly where proposals involve land, biodiversity and development opportunities.
Lauren Chamberlin, our Planning & Development Specialist at Masons Rural, works with landowners and developers across Lincolnshire, providing practical planning advice to help clients understand opportunities, requirements and the steps needed to progress their proposals.
If you are considering a planning application or would like advice on how the latest Biodiversity Net Gain changes may affect your project, please get in touch with Lauren and she would be happy to help.
Read the full Defra publication here.
Lauren Chamberlin
Planning & Development | Rural Property Sales
Mobile: 07534 551320