Croydon LPA BNG
Expert support for Biodiversity Net Gain in Croydon LPA. BNG assessments, habitat mapping & access to local BNG units.
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Biodiversity Net Gain in Croydon LPA Local Planning Authority
Croydon, located in South London, is a large and varied borough that includes a dense urban centre, suburban neighbourhoods, and rural green belt land to the south. Spanning approximately 87 square kilometres, the borough encompasses key areas such as Croydon, Purley, Coulsdon, and South Norwood. Croydon is rich in natural assets, including ancient woodland, chalk grassland, and over 120 parks and open spaces that support a diverse range of species.
Aligned with the Environment Act 2021, Croydon Council requires most development proposals to deliver a minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). This can be achieved through on-site enhancements, the use of off-site biodiversity units, or contributions to borough-wide ecological improvement strategies.
Croydon lies within the North Downs and Thames Basin Lowlands National Character Area. Its southern rural zone features chalk escarpments and historic farmland, while the northern areas are more urban, with streams, parklands, and brownfield sites offering varied ecological opportunities.
The borough’s contrasting landscapes provide numerous opportunities for BNG—from enhancing woodland edges and meadow habitats in green belt areas, to integrating green roofs, rain gardens, and street trees in urban redevelopments.
For developers, landowners, and planning professionals working in Croydon, understanding the borough’s habitats, ecological sensitivities, and BNG planning policy is vital. Our team offers comprehensive support including metric assessments, ecological surveys, and guidance on both on-site and off-site delivery options.
To learn more or receive updates about BNG units and schemes in the area, get in touch with us.
Habitats in Croydon LPA Local Planning Authority
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Croydon’s biodiversity is supported by its natural topography, open spaces, and a mix of urban and rural habitat types, many of which are included under the BNG framework.
Grassland Habitats
Chalk Grassland: Found on the North Downs near Coulsdon and Farthing Downs, supporting orchids and butterflies.
Neutral Grassland: Occurs in parks and meadows, offering potential for species-rich enhancement.
Amenity Grassland: Widespread across residential areas, with opportunities for wildflower conversion.
Woodland and Forest Habitats
Ancient Woodland: Found in locations such as Croham Hurst and Coombe Wood, providing habitat for bats, birds, and invertebrates.
Broadleaved Woodland: Located in parks and green corridors, important for nesting and foraging wildlife.
Secondary Woodland and Scrub: Occurs in transitional or unmanaged sites, contributing to ecological structure.
Wetland and Watercourse Habitats
Rivers and Streams: The River Wandle, Norbury Brook, and other tributaries offer riparian habitat and green corridors.
Ponds and Wetlands: Found in parks and nature reserves, supporting amphibians, dragonflies, and wetland plants.
SuDS and Wet Features: Integrated into new developments to support biodiversity and water management.
Urban and Built Habitats
Green Roofs and Living Walls: Increasingly adopted in town centre developments for ecological and climate resilience.
Brownfield Land: Offers habitat for pioneer species and invertebrates, particularly in redevelopment zones.
Gardens and Allotments: Provide refuge and resources for urban wildlife, particularly pollinators and small mammals.
Hedgerows and Linear Features
Species-Rich Hedgerows: Found in rural areas and along historic field boundaries, supporting birds and invertebrates.
Street Trees and Green Corridors: Vital for habitat connectivity across the borough’s urban core.
Croydon
Purley
Coulsdon
South Norwood
Thornton Heath
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