Promoting biodiversity

Biodiversity in planning

We expect developers, architects, agents and consultants to support biodiversity through the planning process.

What the guidance covers

Our Biodiversity Enhancement Planning Guidance explains how to:

  • conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity through planning
  • meet the requirements of National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4)
  • apply relevant national and local planning policies
  • use NatureScot’s Developing with Nature Guidance where appropriate

You should use this guidance when preparing planning applications.

View the Biodiversity Enhancement Planning Guidance

Page last modified: 12 January 2026