Additional Services

Scoping Assessments.

If you are considering buying land, progressing with a development project or trying to assess suitability of sites for development, we offer a high-level desk-based research service, where we can identify potential constraints and opportunities in relation to:

nearby statutory designated sites;
habitats of conservation significance; and
protected or priority species.

We can also advise regarding biodiversity net gain (BNG) and whether a net gain may be difficult to achieve on site.

Mapping.

GIS mapping often comprises an essential element of ecology-related reporting requirements. At Ecology by Design, we use open-source platforms, including QGIS, alongside industry-standard software, to map various habitat types, including UK Habitat Classification maps and phase 2 protected species survey maps. We can identify constraints and opportunities within proposed development sites including priority areas for conservation, such as protected areas, corridors or biodiversity hotspots.

Using GIS, we can also map and calculate habitat areas before and after development and identify opportunities for biodiversity net gain.

ECoW.

Some projects require an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) to oversee an element of site clearance work which has the potential to cause harm to protected species. At Ecology by Design, we can provide CIEEM registered and CSCS card-holding team members to deliver ECoW services.

Licensing.

Ecology by Design can provide appropriately licensed ecologists to allow the monitoring, trapping, exclusion and translocation of protected species.

Mitigation and Licensing

Urban Greening.

Urban greening involves incorporating green spaces and elements into urban environments to improve the relationship between cities and their inhabitants, as well as deliver environmental and social benefits. At Ecology by Design, we can calculate the Urban Greening Factor of your development and advise on how best to optimise proposals, for instance by incorporating appropriate trees, green spaces, green roofs and walls.

Landholding Evaluation.

Landholding entities such as councils and universities often have a diverse portfolio of undeveloped land and green spaces. Ecology by Design has substantial experience in looking at the whole estate, recommending appropriate surveys and appraisals, and delivering recommendations for BNG, urban greening and site-appropriate development opportunities.

BREEAM Assessments.

A BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) assessment is a method of demonstrating sustainability within infrastructure.

It is an international scheme providing an independent certification of the sustainability of building projects. At Ecology by Design, we assist our clients with one of the ten categories the assessment covers:

Land Use and Ecology.

The results of BREEAM assessment depend on the accumulation of credits through specific sections, provided that prerequisites are fulfilled. A suitably qualified ecologist will guide you through the process and conduct the necessary ecological value calculations for the site before and after the proposed plans.

Completing a BREEAM assessment helps clients to mitigate risk and demonstrate sustainability throughout the planning and construction process. This can reduce costs, maximise the value of the finished properties and attract clients and tenants.