Designing Wildlife-Friendly New Builds: Going Beyond Biodiversity Net Gain
New housing developments have a huge opportunity to support nature recovery by embedding biodiversity into their design. While government legislation mandates a minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain, innovative developers can do much more to create truly wildlife-friendly homes and communities.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requires new developments to leave biodiversity in a better state than before construction. But minimum compliance can be just a starting point.
Going Beyond Compliance: Creating Real Ecological Value
Forward-thinking developers are incorporating:
• Orchards and wildflower meadows that attract pollinators
• Rain gardens to manage water naturally
• Biodiverse roofs and living walls that provide habitat and insulation
• Species-rich hedgerows that act as wildlife corridors
Embedding Wildlife Homes into Buildings
Innovative features like bee bricks, bat roosts, and cavity nest boxes can be built into homes, offering safe, permanent shelter for a range of species including sparrows, swifts, pipistrelles, and leafcutter bees.
Benefits to Residents and Wildlife
Integrating nature benefits everyone — residents enjoy greener, healthier environments, and local wildlife flourishes alongside.
Case Study: Oakfield Swindon
The Oakfield development exemplifies how biodiversity can be woven into modern housing, featuring diverse habitats and wildlife-friendly design that support community wellbeing.
Final Thoughts: Shaping Sustainable Communities
Developers have the chance to lead the way in nature recovery by designing green spaces that deliver more than just minimum requirements — creating homes and neighbourhoods that truly support biodiversity.
Are you a developer or planner interested in wildlife-friendly design? Get in touch to explore how we can help make your next project a nature-positive success.
Blog: Russell Hartwell
Image: Nationwide Building Society
