Open space management company Meadfleet is proud to have contributed to the Environmental Audit Committee at the Palace of Westminster on 4 June, supporting the UK Government’s inquiry into how proposed planning reforms and housing targets may impact environmental protections and sustainable development.

Invited as a key stakeholder, Meadfleet’s Managing Director, David King, provided expert insight drawn from the company’s 30 years of experience managing public open spaces across more than 350 housing developments in England and Wales.

A central focus of the session was the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations which came into law in 2024. Discussions explored the balance between housing growth — including the Government’s commitment to 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament — and ensuring robust long-term biodiversity outcomes.

Key issues discussed included:

• Financial implications and funding models for BNG
• Resourcing challenges for local authorities
• Enforcement, compliance, and post-implementation monitoring
• Management responsibilities beyond the initial 30-year term
• The viability of offsite measures to mitigate onsite biodiversity loss

David King commented:

“It was a privilege to share our perspective on how long-term, sustainable management of green spaces can support both development and nature recovery. As a sector leader, we remain committed to helping developers navigate BNG regulations and deliver meaningful environmental outcomes.”

Meadfleet continues to support developers with BNG delivery through in-house ecological expertise, practical site management, and a focus on biodiversity-led land stewardship in perpetuity.