Atom Bank launches funding for BNG habitat banks
Summary
Atom Bank has launched a Natural Capital lending product to support the creation and refinancing of Biodiversity Net Gain habitat banks in England. The initial funding has backed three sites that have generated BNG units registered with Natural England, with the article noting the wider applicability of BNG requirements across development types and the future extension to NSIPs in 2026.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in development, land valuation and planning support need to understand how BNG habitat banks are being financed and delivered, as they affect site viability, land use and transaction assumptions. The article also highlights a growing specialist lending market that may influence land assembly and development appraisals.
Key points
- Atom Bank has launched a Natural Capital lending proposition for BNG habitat banks.
- Three initial sites have created 480 BNG units and are registered with Natural England.
- BNG obligations apply beyond housing to commercial, industrial, logistics, renewables, minerals and waste schemes.
- The requirement will extend to NSIPs from 2 November 2026 with a minimum 10% uplift.
- Loans are available for land purchase or refinance in England, subject to lender criteria.
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