Protected creatures to grow in numbers thanks to Ludlow conservation habitat

BNG provider Environment Bank is establishing a haven for native flora and fauna to build across 40 acres over the coming years, transforming an area previously made up of low-yielding pasture and arable land.

The Ludlow Habitat Bank lies within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Two watercourses flow through the site.

In particular, Environment Bank anticipates the growth of several protected species including farmland birds of conservation importance such as skylark and yellowhammer along with amphibians, notably great crested newt.

Catherine Spitzer, CEO of Environment Bank said: “Working alongside local farmers and landowners, Environment Bank has 27 Habitat Banks already live, generating over 4,000 Biodiversity Units. Securing legal agreements for these sites is the final step in unlocking the supply of Biodiversity Units.

“With developers required to ensure their projects benefit nature overall, this marks a significant milestone in the implementation phase. Now with supply unlocked, we can meet growing demand. This is a really positive step in helping this fledgling market thrive.”

Conservation covenant agreements with a responsible body are one of two types of legal agreements to secure land for Biodiversity Units. The other is a planning obligation (section 106) with an Local Planning Authority (LPA).

Developers are required by law under the Environment Act 2021 to ensure that all significant developments must deliver a minimum 10% increase in biodiversity, and they can do so by purchasing Biodiversity Units from Habitat Banks created off-site.

Any landlords interested in exploring how a Habitat Bank could benefit their land can visit environmentbank.com/registry/landowners/