Ecological Planning Support for a Wildlife-Friendly Garden Development
Protected species surveys, great crested newt eDNA testing and habitat enhancement at The Yews, near Stroud
Client:
Scott and Chris Sissons
Location:
The Yews, Stroud
Services:
- Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
- HSI and eDNA survey of onsite pond
- Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
- Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
Overview:
Wildwood Ecology supported a planning application for the construction of a new residential dwelling with associated parking and garage modifications within the garden of The Yews, near Stroud.
Following an initial Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and Preliminary Roost Assessment, Wildwood Ecology provided ecological advice relating to protected species, habitats and potential planning constraints. This included recommending a Habitat Suitability Index assessment and eDNA survey of the onsite pond, advising on pond relocation, and identifying opportunities for habitat creation and wildlife enhancement.
The ecological surveys and recommendations helped inform a robust planning submission while supporting the continued value of the garden for wildlife.
Challenge
The proposed development footprint included an existing pond, which presented a potential constraint due to the risk of great crested newts being present. As great crested newts and their habitats are legally protected, the loss or disturbance of a potential breeding pond could have triggered licensing requirements and delayed the planning process.
Timing was also a key issue. The eDNA survey season was close to ending, meaning a rapid response was needed to establish likely presence or absence and provide clear advice to the client.
The garden itself supported a range of valuable habitat features, including the pond and allotment area. The proposed development therefore needed to be carefully considered to avoid unnecessary impacts on wildlife and to identify practical opportunities for ecological enhancement within a constrained residential site.
The site’s location within a sensitive conservation area also required careful attention to lighting, particularly to protect local character and minimise impacts on nocturnal wildlife.
Approach
Wildwood Ecology acted quickly to recommend and complete the appropriate pond assessments within the seasonal survey window. An HSI assessment and eDNA survey were undertaken to establish whether great crested newts were likely to be present and whether further licensing requirements would be needed.
Alongside this, Wildwood Ecology advised on the relocation of the existing pond and the creation of replacement and enhanced habitat features, including hibernacula. These recommendations were designed to maintain the garden’s value for amphibians and other wildlife after development.
A sensitive lighting strategy was also proposed, helping to retain dark corridors and reduce potential impacts on bats and other nocturnal species.
Throughout the process, Wildwood Ecology maintained clear communication with the client, explaining the available options, ecological risks and recommended next steps in a practical and accessible way.
Outcome
The eDNA survey returned a negative result, indicating the likely absence of great crested newts. This provided a rapid, evidence-based outcome and enabled the client to proceed without the need for a great crested newt licence or further seasonal survey delays.
Wildwood Ecology supported the careful relocation of the pond, including the translocation of flora, sediment and any amphibians present, following best-practice methods. The works were completed successfully with no harm to wildlife.
The project resulted in a stronger, evidence-led planning submission and included practical measures to protect and enhance biodiversity within a small residential development site. Through timely surveys, clear advice and sensitive habitat design, Wildwood Ecology helped the client progress their plans while maintaining the garden’s ecological value.
Wildwood Ecology have been very efficient at providing a thorough Ecological and Tree Survey needed as part the planning process. They have also provided follow-up phone advice concerning relocation of a wildlife pond, and suggestions as to how to further encourage wildlife in our new garden. We can wholeheartedly recommend this company for surveys and professional advice.
Experts in Ecology
Ecology
- Ecological site assessments
- Biodiversity Net Gain
- Protected species surveys
- Protected species mitigation design and licence applications
- Habitat Regulations Assessment
- Ecological Clerk of Works