8 Adequate ecological baseline, habitat survey and condition assessments Provision of full baseline and condition assessment survey information (dates, personnel, methods) undertaken using UK Hab and the appropriate habitat condition assessment and the statutory metric. This must be undertaken in the correct survey season and by a competent ecologist. Limitations on survey methods and other assumptions made regarding proposed habitat creation and enhancement and their implications must be clearly explained. BNG Report, baseline habitat survey report, with metric excel spreadsheet and completed condition assessment spreadsheets provided

9 Provision of achievable uplift in biodiversity value A full statutory metric completed for the site of the habitat bank for which units are to be released. Habitat creation and enhancement proposals within the Defra metric should be based on a realistic scenario (i.e. it is better to aim for habitats in worse condition that can later be upgraded, than an unachievable higher condition and face subsequent enforcement action). Have appropriate soil tests been undertaken linked to criteria 18 Excel of metric completed and justification text for why habitats and specific conditions are proposed

10 Irreplaceable Habitats Confirmation that proposals will not negatively impact irreplaceable habitats or other features or species of existing conservation interest, including protected and notable species and/or habitat. A statement in the text and provision of metric which flags these in red

11 Competence Can the ecological advisors and others involved in the scheme provide proof of their competence in BNG? This should include brief paragraph of experience and skills to undertake relevant BNG surveys and provide appropriate habitat management recommendations as well as membership of an appropriate professional membership body that signs up to a code of professional conduct (e.g. CIEEM). Competence should be in line with definitions provided by We would expect a statement in the text to highlight the competence of all professional persons involved in the delivery of BNG as per the statutory metric definition on competency. This could include professional memberships, training and experience.