Innovative Ecological Design for an Award-Winning Eco-Village
Great House Farm, Cardiff
Client:
LivEco
Location:
St Fagans, Cardiff
Services:
- Consultation and advisory services
- Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
- Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
- Protected species surveys (bats, reptiles)
- Biodiversity Net Gain
- Ecological Design
- Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP)
- Protected Species Mitigation Licence
- Ecological Clerk of Work (ECoW)
Overview:
Wildwood Ecology applied its expertise in ecological surveys and sustainable design to support LivEco in successfully delivering a multi-award-winning eco-village on the edge of Cardiff. The Great House Farm project exemplifies ecological sustainability, seamlessly integrated with innovative residential design to create a community that harmonizes with nature.
Challenge
LivEco set out to develop an innovative eco-village on the outskirts of Cardiff, prioritizing sustainability and a strong connection to the natural environment. However, the site presented several ecological challenges. The former farmhouse was in a derelict state, complicating surveys for bats and nesting birds. To overcome this, Wildwood Ecology deployed innovative survey techniques, including infrared cameras, to safely monitor bat activity.
Additionally, the ecological requirements had to align precisely with strict construction timelines, requiring meticulous planning to manage potential risks associated with protected species. Ensuring a smooth, legally compliant development process without delays became a key priority.
Approach
Wildwood Ecology developed advanced ecological survey techniques to safely and accurately assess bat activity within the deteriorating farmhouse structure. Upon confirming bat presence, a comprehensive mitigation strategy was devised. This included the installation of bat and bird boxes, bee bricks, wildflower meadows, and ecologically sensitive landscaping within the development.
Further assessments addressed potential constraints posed by great crested newts and badgers. Fortunately, their absence was confirmed, allowing efforts to focus on reptile conservation, particularly for grass snakes. Extensive consultations with Cardiff County Council and Natural Resources Wales ensured that all ecological requirements were met while keeping the project on schedule.
To enhance biodiversity net gain, Wildwood Ecology identified and implemented strategic ecological enhancements, embedding sustainability at the core of the project.
Outcome
Wildwood Ecology’s early intervention and strategic approach enabled LivEco to proactively manage ecological challenges, aligning biodiversity improvements with the project’s sustainability goals. The result was the successful, timely completion of a pioneering low-to-zero carbon residential eco-village in St Fagans, Cardiff. Today, Great House Farm stands as a benchmark for sustainable housing developments, demonstrating how biodiversity net gain can be effectively integrated into modern residential design.
Testimonial
“We approached Wildwood Ecology after experiencing issues with previous ecological consultants who provided unjustified recommendations and lacked local knowledge. Wildwood Ecology quickly reassured us with their professionalism, responsiveness, and expertise. Their high-quality reports, proactive communication, and approachable nature significantly contributed to the project’s success. I highly recommend Wildwood Ecology’s services and customer-led approach.” — Daniel Ball, Director, LivEco
Experts in Ecology & Arboriculture
Ecology
- Ecological site assessments
- Biodiversity Net Gain
- Protected species surveys
- Protected species mitigation design and licence applications
- Habitat Regulations Assessment
- Ecological Clerk of Works
Arboriculture
- Tree surveys and arboricultural reports (British Standard BS5837:2012)
- Arboriculture Method Statements
- Arboriculture Clerk of Works
- Woodland and Parkland Management Plans
- Veteran and Ancient Tree Assessments