New Environmental Regulations Aim to Boost Biodiversity in England

Date: 3rd April 2025
Author: [Your Name]

In a significant step towards enhancing environmental protection, the UK government has announced new regulations under the Environment Act 2021, set to come into effect on 1st May 2025. These regulations, referred to as the "Environment Act 2021 (Commencement No. 10) Regulations 2025," are designed to integrate biodiversity considerations into the planning permission process in England.

What's Changing?

The key provision coming into force is Section 98 of the Environment Act 2021, which mandates a "biodiversity gain" as a prerequisite for granting planning permission. This means that developers must demonstrate that their projects will lead to an improvement in biodiversity levels, rather than merely maintaining the status quo.

This legislative change is further detailed in Schedule 14 of the Act, which modifies the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The new Schedule 7A outlines specific conditions that will apply to all planning permissions, ensuring that biodiversity objectives are met.

Why It Matters

The introduction of these regulations marks a pivotal shift in how planning permissions are granted, placing environmental sustainability at the forefront. By requiring a biodiversity gain, the government aims to reverse the decline in wildlife and natural habitats, supporting the UK's broader environmental goals.

The regulations represent the tenth set of commencement provisions under the Environment Act 2021, highlighting the ongoing efforts to fully implement this comprehensive piece of legislation.

Implications for Developers

Developers seeking planning permission will need to incorporate biodiversity enhancement measures into their projects. This could involve preserving existing natural features, creating new habitats, or implementing green infrastructure solutions. While this may increase the planning process's complexity, it also provides an opportunity for innovative approaches to sustainable development.

No Immediate Financial Impact

According to the government's explanatory note, these regulations are not expected to impose additional costs on businesses, the public, or the voluntary sector beyond those already anticipated under the Environment Act 2021. A full impact assessment of the Act is available on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' website.

As the 1st May deadline approaches, stakeholders in the planning and development sectors are advised to familiarize themselves with the new requirements to ensure compliance and to contribute to the UK's environmental improvement efforts.