United Utilities is seeking supply chain interest in an upcoming tender for a Biodiversity Net Gain contract - to ensure compliance with the Environment Act and planning regulations, the water company needs to procure Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units.

The units represent certified ecological enhancements that offset habitat loss caused by development activities.United Utilities said securing the units is essential for meeting its statutory obligations, avoiding project delays, and maintaining the organisation's reputation for environmental responsibility.
The scope includes sourcing government registered BNG units from approved providers to deliver measurable biodiversity improvements in line with legal and sustainability commitments.
The purchase supports the utility’s strategic objectives by enabling project delivery without risk of non-compliance for Biodiversity Net Gain.
Current estimated start and end dates for the dynamic market contract are 24 February 2026 to 23 December 2034.
The contract is being tendered in the following Lots:
Lot 1 - BNG Units – Habitat
Definition: Any terrestrial or aquatic environment that supports biodiversity, such as grasslands, woodlands, wetlands, and scrub.
Examples:
• Woodland: High distinctiveness, often high unit value.
• Species-rich grassland: Medium to high distinctiveness, good for pollinators.
• Urban green space: Lower distinctiveness but still contributes to connectivity
Lot 2 - BNG Units - Hedgerows
Definition: Linear habitats composed of shrubs and trees, often forming field boundaries.
BNG Metric • Hedgerows are assessed separately from area-based habitats. • Factors include length, condition, and connectivity. • Higher scores for species-rich hedgerows and those linking priority habitats.
Lot 3 - BNG Units - Watercourses
Definition: Natural or artificial channels where water flows, including rivers, streams, ditches, canals, and culverts. BNG Metric: • Uses the Watercourse Metric (part of the statutory biodiversity metric). • Assesses condition, connectivity, and species diversity •
Applies if development is within 10 meters of a watercourse
Click here to access the procurement portal for further information and the related tender documents. https://uk.eu-supply.com/app/rfq/rwlentrance_s.asp?PID=101195&TID100106436&B=
Documents under the header 'Publicly Available Documents' can be downloaded without the need to login or register.
Documents listed as 'Only available after expression of interest' can only be accessed if suppliers are registered and/or logged in on the portal as a participating supplier.
Deadline for submission of responses is 5.00pm on 30 January 2026.
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