We can support you by identifying the ecological surveys required for your project.  Our team will design and undertake surveys in accordance with best practice guidelines utilising the latest techniques and technology.

Obtaining the correct baseline data early within the process is essential for identifying constraints and opportunities and for preparing a robust planning application.

Our survey experience and competence covers a range of protected species. We also specialise in Extended Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and provide National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys and botanical surveys.

We are experienced in undertaking Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) in accordance with CIEEM guidelines.

We tailor our approach according to the nature and scale of the development proposed and the sensitivity of the location.

We have extensive experience of working on developments with the potential to affect internationally designated sites, including Special Protection Areas, Special Areas of Conservation and Ramsar sites.

We can advise on UK protected species. Our team can work with you to help your project navigate the process of preparing mitigation strategies and securing mitigation licences in relation to a wide range of protected species, including badgers, bats, crayfish, great crested newts and dormice.

We have an in-house Registered Consultant who can administer Natural England’s Bat Mitigation Class Licence (formally known as the BLICL) to accelerate the process, where circumstances permit.

Our team is experienced at undertaking Biodiversity Net Gain calculations. The DEFRA offsetting calculator has been used for Local Planning Authorities that have adopted the approach.

We ensure that we highlight the net gain consideration early within the process. By doing so, any potential cost implications and timing constraints can be clearly understood.

We work proactively with design teams and statutory consultees. Our team provides pragmatic advice to clients as early as possible in the process to minimise the risk of delays and to ensure that projects meet the net gain principle.

We can test options and liaise with third parties where necessary, should off-site compensation measures be required.

We can support you by undertaking ecological monitoring and management to ensure that measures are being implemented as anticipated and achieving the desired outcomes. Ecological monitoring is often a key requirement of a protected species licence. The preparation of robust ecological or habitat management plans can often unlock complex sites for planning progress, or are required to discharge planning conditions.

We can work with you at a strategic level, providing ecological advice, input, review and assessment of strategic plans and programmes.

We have experience in the very early stages of project planning, providing strategic ecological advice and Green Infrastructure planning, assessment of alternatives and feasibility studies.

We can work with you to identify existing and potential green and blue infrastructure assets which have the capacity to enhance the character, amenity and biodiversity value of your site as well as delivering essential cost-effective infrastructure. We can provide strategies to either enhance existing, or establish new, green infrastructure and nature recovery networks as part of high-quality proposals that deliver added value to projects.

We can provide advice through all stages of the development process to help you maximise sustainable outcomes. We have experience in helping secure and evidence the award of credits through the BREEAM assessment process, including BREEAM Infrastructure (formerly CEEQUAL).

We can work with you and provide input to Construction Environmental Management Plans, Landscape and Ecological Management Plans and other such plans that may be required for your project.