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Landscape Design & BNG

Landscape Design & Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

At Metters & Wellby, we approach landscape design as an integral part of the architectural process—creating outdoor spaces that are functional, visually striking, and aligned with planning policy. 

We offer a specialist landscape design service focused on hardscaping and architectural landscaping—from terraces, driveways, and retaining structures to the careful integration of outdoor spaces with the form and flow of your building.

Led by Expertise

Our landscape design work is led by Dominic Owen, who brings both creative flair and technical rigour to every scheme. Dominic ensures that landscape proposals feel cohesive, robust, and tailored to the site’s context and constraints. 

We also have two Level 4 Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) trained architectural designers, providing us with an understanding of the BNG requirements. We work closely with Ecologists to produce BNG plans for small sites. This is increasingly essential in Cornwall, where local authorities require clear strategies to demonstrate a measurable uplift in biodiversity as part of new development.

What We Offer:

Hard landscaping and external works layout

Integration with architectural design and site levels

BNG assessment and strategy development

Coordination with planting consultants where needed

We’re here to help you create compliant, compelling outdoor environments that work in harmony with your architecture and the natural surroundings.

Why Work With Us?

We’re a small, experienced architectural practice based in North Cornwall. That means you’ll always work directly with a professional team who listens carefully, responds quickly, and designs with both imagination and precision. 

 We work closely with ecologists and planners to shape schemes that not only complement your home but also support biodiversity and meet Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements—creating outdoor spaces that are as thoughtful and sustainable as they are beautiful.

Meet Dominic Owen, our Landscape Design & Conservation Specialist

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Frequently asked questions

What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?

Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to development that aims to leave biodiversity in a measurably better condition than it was before development. Where BNG applies, it needs to be considered as part of the planning and design process.

Does every planning application require Biodiversity Net Gain?

No. There are exemptions, and the requirements depend on the type and scale of development. We can help identify whether BNG is likely to apply and coordinate with an ecologist where required as part of the wider planning process.

When should landscape design be considered?

Ideally, at the same time as the building. Levels, access, terraces, retaining structures, boundaries and planting can all influence how a building sits within its site and may also be important considerations during planning.

Can you coordinate the architecture, landscape and BNG together?

Yes. This is one of the advantages of considering these elements together. We can develop the architectural and landscape proposals as a coordinated design and work with ecologists and other specialists where required. This can be particularly useful for new homes and barn conversions where the relationship between the building and its setting can be an important part of the proposal.