Our national Ecology team provides specialist advice on ecological constraints and opportunities, identifying nature-based solutions through bespoke mitigation and integrated design strategies.
We undertake a full suite of field surveys of terrestrial and aquatic surveys across all sites and markets including greenfield, grey belt and brownfield sites. Protected species, such as badger, bats, dormouse, otter, water vole and great crested newt require careful consideration where there is potential for disturbance from development.
Our ecologists hold Natural England Licences for the survey and handling of protected species, and are skilled in the techniques used to determine their likely presence or absence. We utilise the findings of the surveys to evaluate the site in a planning context and inform ecological ‘constraints’ and ‘opportunities’ advice to our clients.
Where ecological issues are a concern, we develop retention/mitigation strategies, devise and implement management plans and carry out post development monitoring. Our specialists can provide expert witness services for planning inquiries, including Secretary of State call-ins and Appeals, concerning ecology, nature conservation, biodiversity net gain (BNG) and other environmental issues. Production of evidence for these Inquiries is based on rigorous background research, with robust professional opinion based on significant technical and industry experience.
We take an integrated approach to the co-ordination and production of Environmental Statements (ESs) to reconcile the often-conflicting pressures of land use changes at different site locations. Outside of the built environment, we have extensive expertise in the natural environment, advising on sustainability services surrounding our natural and heritage resources, specifically national, European and internationally important resources.
Our ecologists are highly experienced in navigating the requirements of the Habitat Regulations 2017 (as amended) from HRA screening to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment and subsequent stages when necessary. With an extensive urban regeneration portfolio, we are experienced in addressing the likely significant effects of increased recreational and nitrogen loading that can arise from new residential developments. We are adept at understanding our clients’ constraints and seeking opportunities to maximise biodiversity potential to provide future-proofed solutions that work with nature.
We provide bespoke services advising our clients of the requirements for BNG, and wider environmental net gain opportunities at a strategic and project level. With the passing of the Environment Act 2021, and mandatory BNG, we can help our clients navigate through these regulations to maximise the benefits for their developments and for nature.
In addition, we complete natural capital assessments and ecosystem service analysis for major transport infrastructure developments.
Taking a truly collaborative approach, we work closely with our in-house engineering colleagues and environmental specialists in landscape architecture, drainage design and flood risk to devise effective nature-based solutions addressing climate, biodiversity and carbon targets.
