Havering LPA BNG
Expert support for Biodiversity Net Gain in Havering LPA. BNG assessments, habitat mapping & access to local BNG units.
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Biodiversity Net Gain in Havering LPA Local Planning Authority
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Havering, located in the eastern part of Greater London, is a borough characterised by a unique blend of urban areas, extensive greenbelt, and rich natural landscapes. Covering around 113 square kilometres, Havering includes urban centres such as Romford and Hornchurch alongside large expanses of farmland, ancient woodland, parks, and wetlands, notably including parts of the Thames Chase Community Forest.
Aligned with the Environment Act 2021, Havering Council requires most new developments to deliver a minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). This can be achieved through on-site habitat creation or enhancement, off-site biodiversity units, or contributions to strategic ecological networks within the borough.
Havering lies within the Greater Thames Estuary and the Northern Thames Basin National Character Areas. Its natural environment supports a diverse array of habitats including ancient woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and river corridors. The borough is notable for priority habitats such as acid grassland, reedbeds, and wet woodland, contributing to its ecological richness.
The mix of urban development and significant green spaces in Havering presents opportunities for effective BNG delivery, focusing on habitat restoration, green corridor creation, and enhancement of waterbodies.
For developers, landowners, and planning professionals working in Havering, understanding local habitats, biodiversity priorities, and planning policies is key to successful BNG delivery. Our team provides comprehensive support including habitat surveys, metric calculations, and advice on connecting developments to borough-wide biodiversity initiatives.
To learn more or receive updates about BNG units and schemes in the area, get in touch with us.
Habitats in Havering LPA Local Planning Authority
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Havering’s landscape comprises a rich mosaic of habitats recognised under the Biodiversity Net Gain framework.
Grassland Habitats
Acid Grassland: Present on sandy soils and heathland remnants, supporting specialised plants and invertebrates.
Neutral Grassland: Found in parks and meadow areas, supporting diverse wildflower communities.
Amenity Grassland: Common across urban parks and residential areas, with potential for wildflower enhancement.
Woodland and Forest Habitats
Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland: Including Hornchurch Country Park and Havering Country Park, providing key habitats for woodland birds, bats, and flora.
Wet Woodland: Associated with river corridors and wetlands, supporting wetland-adapted species.
Scrub and Secondary Woodland: Found on brownfield sites and transitional habitats.
Wetland and Watercourse Habitats
Rivers and Streams: The River Beam and Ingrebourne River corridors support aquatic and riparian biodiversity.
Ponds, Reedbeds, and Wet Meadows: Important for amphibians, dragonflies, and wetland birds.
Floodplain Grazing Marsh: Present along river valleys, contributing to flood management and biodiversity.
Cropland and Farmland Habitats
Arable Land: Predominantly in the greenbelt, with opportunities for habitat enhancement via field margins and hedgerows.
Temporary Grassland/Leys: Supporting farmland birds and pollinators when managed sensitively.
Hedgerows and Linear Features
Species-Rich Hedgerows: Form critical wildlife corridors linking patches of habitat across the borough.
Ditches and Field Margins: Important linear habitats supporting invertebrates and small mammals.
Havering LPA BNG Planning
High distinctiveness habitats—such as ancient woodland, acid grassland, wet woodland, and river corridors—are key to delivering meaningful biodiversity uplift in Havering and often require careful management and planning consideration.
Lower distinctiveness habitats, including amenity grassland and arable land, offer opportunities for enhancement through planting, habitat creation, and connectivity improvements, providing flexible on-site BNG delivery options.

Romford
Hornchurch
Upminster
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