For developers and their ecologists
Off-site biodiversity units for your planning application
We find farmland near your site that can supply the units your biodiversity gain plan needs.
How it works for developers
- 1
Tell us the units, habitat type and council you need.
- 2
We find suitable farmland nearby and send you a quote.
- 3
Accept the quote; the units are allocated to your development.
Our fee: £500
Payable only when you accept a quote. Asking costs nothing. The unit price is agreed with the landowner.
Developer questions
Based on official guidance at 28 October 2026. This is not legal or planning advice.
What is a biodiversity unit?
A unit is the measure of habitat value used for Biodiversity Net Gain. It depends on the habitat's type, size, condition and location. Most developments in England must show at least a 10% gain in units. If you cannot achieve this on site, you can buy off-site units from a land manager.
Sources: gov.uk/guidance/make-off-site-biodiversity-gains-as-a-developer · gov.uk/guidance/understanding-biodiversity-net-gain
Which metric is used?
The statutory biodiversity metric, completed by a competent person, usually an ecologist. Use it to work out how many off-site units you need.
Source: gov.uk/guidance/calculate-biodiversity-value-with-the-statutory-biodiversity-metric
Do the units need to be on the register?
Yes. The land manager registers the site on Natural England's biodiversity gain sites register, and the units are allocated to your development there. You can agree a purchase before, during or after registration.
Sources: gov.uk/guidance/register-a-biodiversity-gain-site · gov.uk/guidance/make-off-site-biodiversity-gains-as-a-developer
Does the land's location matter?
Yes. Under the metric's spatial risk multiplier, units count in full (1.0) within your local planning authority or National Character Area. They count at 0.75 in a neighbouring one and 0.5 further away. Watercourse units use catchments instead. Buying near your site means you need fewer units.
Sources: gov.uk/guidance/make-off-site-biodiversity-gains-as-a-developer · gov.uk/guidance/calculate-biodiversity-value-with-the-statutory-biodiversity-metric
Request units
Tell us what your application needs. Only your name, email and consent are required.
