Using the Defra Biodiversity Impact Assessment Calculator BNG calculator we provide an assessment of biodiversity value of habitats and linear features of the site before and after development. This will determine the overall habitat biodiversity net loss or gain of the wider site.

The assessment will measure whether the proposed development will make a contribution to or have an impact on the wider ecosystem service of the site. The assessment will create a baseline assessing how distinctiveness and condition of habitats/linear features lost can be retained, replaced and/or enhanced by equally distinctive new habitats/linear features.

We undertake Preliminary Ecological Surveys for sites in Urban, suburban and rural locations across the UK. All survey work inn accordance with recognised guidelines and standards. This includes initial site inspection and habitat mapping. Advice on the requirement for further survey work. Detailed Habitat and species identification using appropriate methodologies. Survey analysis according to both UK and European legislation.

Species surveys for species such as bats, birds, badgers, dormice, watervoles, otters, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates.

Assessment of likely effects of development proposals on flora and fauna including advice on planning policies and legislation associated with ecology appropriate to both UK and European legislation. EcIA and PEA. Advice on mitigation including ecological compensation and enhancement. Expert advice at public inquiries.

Advice on whether the project is likely to have an impact on a European designated site; Outline and detailed proposals for mitigation in order to avoid impacts; and Ecological input to the HRA Screening process to inform the competent authority’s decision making. For example, screening of negative impact on Natura 2000 sites (i.e. SPA’s, SAC’s and Ramsar sites) within agreed buffer zone. The screening would include site analysis, likelihood of impact, mitigation/avoidance measures.

Technical advice on management of land and natural resources, habitats and species. Management plans and strategies including Countryside Stewardship Schemes and other grant schemes. Contract preparation, cost estimation and contract supervision.

Design proposals including environmental compensation and translocation advice. Identifying appropriate end uses. Advice on techniques for habitat creation and restoration.

Advice on UK and European legislation associated with designated sites and protected species. Formulation of environmental strategies, state of the environment reports and advice on national planning policy framework for nature conservation.

Production of Breeam reports for ecology including site inspection reports. Providing information necessary for achieving credit scores related to the development both pre and post construction in accordance with the relevant Building Research Establishment Guidance as well as guidance on species and habitat solutions available to increase scores where possible.

Many of our projects require long-term management to ensure that biodiversity enhancement is successful in the perpetuity. Our projects include a wide range of scenarios including large country estates, public parks, university and school grounds, small and large-scale housing developments and private gardens. We provide on site advice including ecological clerk of works as well as development of detailed prescriptions for future management.