Deconstructing Biodiversity Net Gain
Nearly a year since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory and enforceable through the Town and Country Planning Act, our panel of experts will discuss how this new legislation is impacting and creating opportunities for development and construction projects.
They'll focus on:
- The requirements and how they are being interpreted.
- Key challenges the new legislation has brought about in practice.
- Potential positive impacts through strategic visioning.
We will be joined by:
Joanna Lilliott, Senior Solicitor - Homes & Hills
Jo works with national developers, landowners, local authorities as well as planning consultants to provide expert advice on complex matters concerning s106 planning obligations and highways law. In addition to s106s, having previously worked for Essex County Council, Jo specialises in all aspects of highways law and regularly provides developers and landowners with highways law advice. Jo is personally recognised by both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading specialist in her field, being described as 'unrivalled'.
Richard Webber-Salmon, Principal Ecologist and Ecology Team manager - Sweco UK
Richard is an experienced Ecologist and Team Leader for Sweco’s south ecology team. He has over 10 years’ experience working in the field, and specialises in freshwater ecology (including otter, water vole, crayfish, WFD assessments) and biodiversity net gain, along with extensive experience in leading and mitigating for species such as great crested newts, reptiles, bats, badgers, and habitat regulations assessments for statutory sites.
Nicol Perryman, Senior Associate Planner - Ingleton Wood LLP
Nicol is a highly regarded Chartered Town Planner who has a wealth of experience working with a range of clients across East Anglia. She has played an instrumental role in award winning schemes within the region. Nicol has been advising clients and presenting at industry events on the prospective implications of Biodiversity Net Gain for the planning system since the introduction of the Environment Act 2021.
Naomi Andrews, Project Manager - Essex Wildlife Trust
Naomi has a wealth of experience within the charity and business development sector, and a passion for conservation and nature, Naomi joined the Essex Wildlife Trust as a project manager in January 2024. Working with the existing ecology and conservation team, Naomi is developing the Trust’s first BNG habitat bank and rewilding the former 290ha arable farm at Abbotts Hall in Great Wigborough.
Speakers will present on the current position and then close the event with a Q&A session and panel discussion.
