Green Space Offsets: What the Planning Bill Could Mean for Your Scheme

Central offsets vs local delivery

Reforms under discussion may let developers contribute to a central biodiversity fund rather than delivering all habitat compensation locally. That could streamline approvals—but it will also sharpen public scrutiny. Schemes that visibly protect and enhance nature on site will still enjoy smoother journeys through planning committees and less risk of judicial challenge.

A Phase 1 Desktop Study provides the defensible baseline needed to decide what is best delivered on site and what—if anything—should be offset. It documents existing habitats, contamination hot‑spots, receptors, and surface‑water context, then ties proposed measures to evidence rather than assertions. If infiltration is part of your SuDS concept, measured Infiltration Testing ensures basins and swales are feasible where shown, strengthening your case.

What planners will scrutinise

Expect questions about how the scheme meets BNG targets, how habitat connectivity is retained or improved, and whether pollution pathways have been addressed. Officers will also check that drainage features double as amenity and ecology where appropriate. Submissions that connect these dots—in a single, consistent narrative—move fastest.

One applicant improved committee prospects by pairing Phase 1 Desktop Study findings with a simple ‘on‑site first’ hierarchy, reserving offsets for genuinely constrained areas. The transparent approach won support and avoided redesign late in the process.

Win support with transparent evidence

EnviroSolution packages baseline data and mitigation in a way that helps both planners and communities see the benefits. With Phase 1 Desktop Study and Infiltration Testing delivered quickly, you can show policy alignment and keep momentum on your programme.