Biodiversity is no longer a ‘nice to have’—it’s a legal requirement. Under the Environment Act 2021, all new developments must deliver at least 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and commit to maintaining it for 30 years. For housebuilders, this means rethinking landscapes, planting schemes, and long-term green space management.
But here’s the challenge: most developers aren’t experts in biodiversity.
That’s why businesses within the garden and horticulture industry—landscapers, plant nurseries, retailers, and designers—are in a prime position to become essential partners in shaping the future of new-build developments.
In a recent episode of The Underground Podcast, we spoke to Neil Beamsley, Group Head of Biodiversity at Bellway Homes, and Debi Holland, garden writer and professional gardener, about how biodiversity is being integrated into the built environment. Their insights highlight a major shift in the industry—and a huge opportunity for businesses that understand how to create and sustain green spaces.
Why Biodiversity is Now a Business Imperative for Housebuilders
Historically, green spaces in housing developments have been an afterthought. A few trees, a neatly mown lawn, and maybe a small play area. But with the introduction of BNG regulations, developers must now quantify biodiversity improvements—it’s no longer just about aesthetics, it’s about measurable ecological value.
So, what does this mean in practical terms? According to Neil Beamsley:
“Biodiversity Net Gain is a new approach to development that leaves the biodiversity of an area in a measurably better state than it was before.”
This means that:
- Developers need to preserve and enhance existing habitats rather than clear and replant.
- They must integrate wildlife corridors, native planting, and green infrastructure into their designs.
- They must demonstrate a 10% biodiversity increase—and commit to sustaining it for three decades.
This shift raises the bar for landscaping and opens the door for garden-focused businesses to step in with solutions.
The Big Opportunity for the Garden Sector
Biodiversity may be new to housebuilders, but it’s second nature to the garden industry. Businesses that understand soil health, climate resilience, pollinator-friendly planting, and sustainable water management have exactly the expertise that developers now need.
Some key areas where the garden sector can provide commercial value to housebuilders:
Sustainable Planting Strategies
Developers now require native, high-value planting schemes to meet biodiversity targets. Many are partnering with plant nurseries and landscapers to create species-rich landscapes that thrive over time.
“If you take an arable field, it often has very little biodiversity. A well-designed back garden can contain far more.”
Neil Beamsley
What this means for businesses: Growers can supply BNG-compliant native plants. Landscape designers can help integrate biodiversity seamlessly into developments. Retailers can create educational campaigns to support new homeowners in maintaining their gardens.
The Rise of the ‘Wildlife-Friendly’ Homebuyer
Homebuyers are increasingly eco-conscious—but many lack the knowledge to create a wildlife-friendly garden. Developers are responding by integrating biodiversity-enhancing features into their homes, such as:
- Hedgehog highways
- Swift bricks & bat boxes
- Rainwater gardens & permeable driveways
- Native meadow planting instead of traditional lawns
“We’re making sure customers understand the benefits of biodiversity. We’ve introduced wildlife-friendly show gardens and give new homeowners simple steps they can take to create greener spaces.”
Neil Beamsley
What this means for businesses: Garden retailers can create starter kits for wildlife-friendly gardening. Content creators can work with developers to produce biodiversity education materials for new homeowners. Brands can partner with housebuilders to supply sustainable gardening products.
Collaboration Between Developers & Garden Centres
Garden centres have an untapped opportunity to become partners in long-term biodiversity delivery. Developers must prove that their BNG commitments will be maintained for 30 years—but they aren’t equipped to support homeowners in sustaining these spaces.
“We need partnerships. Whether it’s garden centres, landscape companies, or conservation groups—biodiversity is a shared responsibility.”
Neil Beamsley
What this means for businesses:
Developers need trusted partners for ongoing green space management. Garden centres could offer ‘new home biodiversity packs’ with BNG-approved plants. Landscaping businesses can secure long-term maintenance contracts for biodiversity management.
The Bottom Line: Housebuilders Need Garden Expertise
The shift towards nature-first developments is not a passing trend—it’s now a legal requirement. Developers who fail to meet BNG regulations risk delays, planning rejections, and reputational damage.
At the same time, homebuyers are demanding greener, more sustainable places to live. Developers who go beyond the legal minimum will set themselves apart in a competitive market.
The garden industry has the knowledge, products, and services to help developers succeed—whether through expert-led planting schemes, product partnerships, or homeowner education.
This is a golden opportunity for garden-focused businesses to:
- Position themselves as biodiversity consultants.
- Develop new revenue streams through housebuilder partnerships.
- Play a role in reshaping urban green spaces for future generations.
Now is the time for cross-industry collaboration—because the future of development is green, and the garden sector is perfectly placed to lead the way.
What are your thoughts on how the garden industry can support biodiversity in new developments? Join the conversation in the comments or on our social channels.
Check out the full episode of The Underground Podcast, featuring Neil Beamsley below: