We're thrilled to announce that we’ve taken a significant step towards meeting the new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) planning obligations by purchasing our first offsite habitat units.

After an extensive design review, it became clear that achieving a 10% biodiversity gain at our Harold’s Wood site near Romford wasn't feasible. To meet the BNG Statutory Framework requirements, we've partnered with Nattergal, a leading nature restoration company, to provide the necessary additional gains.

Harold's Park Wildland with City of London Skyline. Photo credit: Nattergal

Nattergal is dedicated to channelling private finance to support the ‘30% by 2030’ Global Biodiversity Framework goals. Its mission is to become a world leader in nature restoration, delivering vital societal benefits and sustainable financial returns.

Our collaboration with Nattergal extends beyond BNG. They will also create a new habitat for a population of slow worms currently residing at Harold’s Wood, ensuring their safe relocation to facilitate development.

This integrated approach to nature mitigation is a cornerstone of Bellway’s BNG+ promise, which aims to exceed the minimum 10% biodiversity gains, delivering more ambitious and positive outcomes for nature and communities.

Neil Beamsley, Group Head of Biodiversity, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to start our BNG delivery journey working with Nattergal. It’s been inspiring to see the diligence and integrity with which they approach their work, and Bellway is more than happy to support this.”