Southfield Farm, Oxfordshire -

Client Michaelis Boyd Associates

Services Consultation and advisory services. Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA). Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA). Bat activity surveys. European Protected Species Mitigation Licence (EPSML) application. Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP). Ecological Clerk of Work (EcOW).

Date 2019-2021

Overview

Planning application for the refurbishment and extension of a farmhouse, refurbishment of barn/stables and creation of a swimming pool within the garden and the landscaping of the ménage.

Challenge

Ecological appraisals identified and confirmed the presence of bat roosts within the main farmhouse and barn/stables, and a garden shed. As part of the landscape proposal and ménage, a small number of trees were scheduled to be removed.

The project required detailed discussions on how to deliver both the expectations of the client (in terms of design concept, timescale and budget) and also ensure that the ecological features of the site were protected to meet the requirements of both planning policy and legislation.

Approach

We worked in close association with the architect to design a scope of works that would identify the ecological issues on site. The results of the surveys and our advice helped inform the design concept and establish the timeframe for works to commence. This enabled the client to achieve planning permission, discharge planning conditions and obtain a Natural England bat licence. The site was later sold, and we worked with the new client for minor amendments to both planning and the approved bat licence.

Outcome

The site is now at the development stage. Works are anticipated to commence from April 2021. We will continue our support throughout the construction and in-use stages.