Biodiversity Net Gain Soil Analysis

Geckoella has expertise in soil analysis to support BNG. We can do the lab tests and set the results in context to evidence the potential for the delivery of credits within a reasonable timescale. Testing soils first also helps to manage risk for credit providers, to help avoid BNG contractual shortfalls. Where soil sampling has already been done, we can produce a report relating the results to BNG options. Watch this page for further updates on the services provided. 

As an example, Geckoella has been supporting Stantec’s work with Guildford Borough Council, undertaking ecological, geological and soil analysis studies to inform Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) calculations. 

At Burpham Court Farm, Guildford, a desk study described the geological and pedological context of the site; fieldwork included collection of soil samples by  transects to ensure representative samples for areas highlighted for potential BNG enhancements whilst avoiding intrusive sampling of heritage features (ridge and furrow). Chemical analysis was undertaken by an external laboratory; soil texture and sedimentological analysis was completed at Geckoella’s Geological Workshop in Watchet. This enabled an in depth assessment of available phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, total nitrogen, organic matter, pH along with soil classification type and texture. 

Geckoella’s in-house ecological and geological expertise enabled the implications of local soil properties on BNG options to be described and interpreted in detail, with recommendations on how to increase the likelihood of success of proposed enhancements. All work followed best practice (Natural England’s Technical Information Notes 035, 036 and 037). 

Similar work at nearby Tyting Farm helped underpin evidence to demonstrate BNG as ‘added value’ for a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace site (SANG). This comprised part of the baseline evidence at Public Inquiry in 2022 in support of Guildford Borough Council’s proposal to adopt 20% BNG target as standard in their new local plan. This policy was formally adopted in March 2023. This work contributed to economic and social benefits as well as biodiversity, by facilitating development in an area with complex policy and biodiversity constraints, looking after wildlife by directing public access to nature away from sensitive Thames Heath SPA sites. Positive site management work is now underway at Tyting Farm.

Helen Evriviades, Technical Director – Ecology of Stantec says: “Geckoella’s excellent understanding of the links between geology, soil chemistry and ecology was invaluable in informing the approaches to management and potential biodiversity outcomes available at these two sites”