Natural England requires all new developments in designated catchment areas with high nitrogen and phosphorus levels to be nutrient neutral. Developers must demonstrate nutrient neutrality to obtain planning permission.
At Schema we have extensive experience in creating Nutrient Neutrality and Mitigation Strategy Reports (NNAMS) for all the impacted catchment areas. We offer tailored solutions to ensure your development meets the required standards. We work closely with clients to maximise the use of their existing assets to generate mitigation, while protecting the environment and prioritising sustainable, nature-based solutions wherever possible.
Initial calculations are carried out to determine the nutrient load generated by the proposed development. Alternatively, we can review and verify the client’s own estimates to confirm their accuracy. Our approach focuses on minimising the overall nutrient load while ensuring compliance with the relevant agreed methodologies.
Assessment
It measures how much nitrogen and phosphorus a proposed development will add to the local environment.
We are familiar with all local methodologies and the regional variables that apply, whether the area is sensitive to nitrogen, phosphorus, or both.
Mitigation
If the assessment shows an increase, you must off set this with on-site measures or off-site solutions.
Potential solutions may include high-tech onsite sewage treatment systems, constructed wetlands, rural and urban sustainable drainage systems, and agricultural mitigation measures such as livestock yard improvements and land use changes.
Once an appropriate solution has been developed, a detailed report is prepared outlining the approach and recommendations.
- Fast, Reliable Service
- Experienced with Natural England and Local Planning Authority Guidance
- Proven Planning Success
- Septic Tank Replacement: Effective for schemes where land-based mitigation is not viable.
- High-Tech Onsite Sewage Treatment: Advanced systems to manage waste efficiently.
- Wetlands: Natural filtration systems to reduce nutrient levels.
- Sustainable Drainage Systems: Both rural and urban solutions to manage water runoff.
- Agricultural-Based Mitigations: Including livestock yards and land use changes.
- Shadow Habitats Regulations Assessment
If you’re looking for a responsive and experienced team to support your project, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or request a proposal.



