How It Works
For Developers
From Obligation to Opportunity: Your BNG Journey with WNC
Biodiversity Net Gain doesn't have to be complicated. At Wellshead Natural Capital, we've perfected the art of making BNG easy for developers. Our comprehensive process ensures you get from initial consultation to fully compliant solution efficiently and effectively.
Ready to Secure Your BNG Units?
Our team of experts are here to help with your project's specific needs.
Step 1
Project Details
After you submit an enquiry, we begin with a no-obligation, in-depth discussion about your project. Our team will:
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Understand your project's scope and location to determine relevant LPA and NCA
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Clarify your unit requirements from your DEFRA metric
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Review your planning application status and timeline
This information helps us determine whether you need immediately available units or if we have time to work with suppliers in the registration process.
Step 2
Unit Sourcing & Proposal
Based on your needs, we'll use our existing network of landowners and farmers to source appropriate off-site units. This involves:
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Identifying suitable units from our database of verified providers
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Conducting new searches if necessary to meet specific requirements
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Preparing a clear, competitive offer detailing unit pricing and next steps
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This approach ensures we find the most suitable and cost-effective BNG solution for your development.
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Step 3
Flexible Purchasing Options
We offer three main purchasing options to suit different project needs:
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Ready-to-Use Land Bank Units
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Built-to-Order Bespoke Schemes
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Option Contracts
Our flexible options allow you to choose the approach that best aligns with your project timeline and specific requirements. You can choose to purchase units at this stage or later in the process.
Ready-To-Use Land Bank Units
Ideal for urgent needs or projects with imminent planning submissions. These pre-verified units from our established habitat banks can be rapidly allocated to your project.
Build-to-Order Bespoke Schemes
For larger developments or specific habitat requirements, we create custom BNG solutions tailored to your exact specifications.
Option Contracts
Secure BNG units now for future projects. Lock in prices and availability, mitigating risks in an evolving market. Ideal for developers with multiple projects or those preparing for potential unit scarcity.
Step 4
Securing Your Units
Once you've accepted our formal quote, we prepare a comprehensive set of documents to support your planning application:​
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You pay an initial deposit to WNC to reserve your chosen BNG units
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We prepare the following documentation:
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Reservation letter or deposit confirmation letter
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Draft 30-year Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan (HMMP) specific to acquired units
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Letter of support for your application​
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This documentation provides clear evidence of your BNG commitment, strengthening your application and increasing the likelihood of approval. Its important to note that you can submit your planning application at this stage without having purchased the units outright.
Step 5
Completing the Process
Following planning approval, we facilitate the final steps of your BNG unit purchase:
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You make the final payment in full to WNC (minus deposit cost)
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WNC arranges the transaction with the landowner, retaining a small commission
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We then provide the following completed documentation:
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Section 106 agreement with LPA, confirming unit sale rights and delivery obligations
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Finalised 30-year Habitat Management Plan (HMMP)
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Confirmation of allocation on DEFRA's Biodiversity Gain Sites Register
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Bilateral Supply & Assurance Agreement between you and the landowner
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You receive a biodiversity credit certificate, discharging your BNG obligations
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The landowner assumes legal responsibility for the project's 30-year term, while WNC provides annual reports its status and integrity.
This final stage ensures full BNG compliance, clear responsibility transfer, and long-term offset management. With your off-site gains officially recorded on DEFRA's register, you can confidently submit your Biodiversity Gain Plan to your LPA for approval, paving the way for your development to proceed.
The Wellshead Difference
What Sets Us Apart
On-the-ground vetting of all BNG sites for ecological suitability and viability
Vetted Sites & Suppliers
Deep understanding of local ecosystems and planning requirements
Local Expertise
From ready-to-use units to bespoke schemes
Versatile Options
Links with local conservation organisations and forward-thinking landowners
Conservation Network
Book Your Free Consultation
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation with our Land Team and discover how natural capital markets can work for your business.