CIC announces joint letter urging retention of BNG requirements for small sites
The Construction Industry Council (CIC) has announced that it is among the organisations that have signed a joint open letter, led by the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC), calling on the government to retain Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements for small development sites and adopt a more proportionate approach to reform. UKGBC notes that BNG is already delivering benefits, with local authorities, developers and industry professionals adapting to the policy and creating new green spaces that reduce flooding, overheating and health risks. The letter adds that exempting small sites could undermine the emerging nature market, weaken local authorities and erode public trust, noting that small sites form a key part of the housing pipeline and play an important role in everyday access to nature. It also highlights the economic case for BNG, citing research suggesting the market could generate £250m a year and support over 2450 full time jobs, while biodiversity-rich developments can attract higher values.