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Case Study 4:
E.N.i.M.S.' Ecologists Successfully Translocate Bats on Development Site
The E.N.i.M.S. team, including Licensed Ecologists, were commissioned to provide essential ecological services for David Wilson Homes Southern.
The comprehensive approach and successful outcome of the project was a result of E.N.i.M.S. balancing the needs of the company with those of the wildlife and protected species in the 2.5 acre site.
The sensitive approach to, and subsequent translocation of bats found on the site was a key factor in the development of the site.
The Project Brief
Experts were engaged to carry out ecological species assessments and surveys on a site which had detailed planning permission for 44 dwellings in Reading Road, Winnersh, Berkshire. Existing properties needed to be demolished and vegetation cleared before the development could proceed and there was potential for a number of protected species to be present on the 2.5 acre site, including the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) which is protected through both national and European legislation.
The two main objectives of the project brief were to:
• Conduct and Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
• Manage protected species found at the site and advise the developer accordingly.
Managing Protected Species
E.N.i.M.S. were commissioned to conduct an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the land. Whilst no Great Crested Newts were detected in the survey, aquatic habitats were enhanced on the site and 80 Smooth Newts (Lissotriton vulgaris) and 180 Common Frogs (Rana temporaria) were released into the designated conservation area.
Bat Species Observed
Bat species were observed during the emergence survey and droppings found within the existing buildings confirmed their presence. Specialists from E.N.i.M.S. prepared a report and mitigation strategy, and acted as the liaison between the developer and Natural England to successfully obtain the required licence to allow the development to proceed. Simon Kirk, Technical Director, David Wilson Homes Southern, commented, "E.N.i.M.S. dealt efficiently with our ecological requirements, including a bat survey and scoping survey which included all protective species, furthermore they successfully guided us through the Natural England licensing procedure." Sensitive Translocation of Bats The mitigation included the provision of roosting opportunities through the erection of bat boxes on trees around the boundary of the site prior to development. Licensed ecologists from E.N.i.M.S. were also involved in careful dismantling of the roof tiles by hand to minimise any disruption or injury to the bats, and any bats found were translocated to the bat boxes. The team from E.N.i.M.S. were also responsible for the preparation and erection of information boards to improve public awareness, and input into the landscaping design of the site to enhance its ecological value.
A Successful Conclusion
E.N.i.M.S. worked with David Wilson Homes Southern to confirm that all demolition operations were carried out in accordance with EPS licensed method statement, with demolition occurring under supervision. As Simon Kirk said, "As one of the country's leading house builders, we have a duty to treat environmental concerns earnestly, ensuring a balance between the needs of people and wildlife." Simon Kirk concluded, "All work by E.N.i.M.S. was carried out professionally and diligently with reports being concise and easy to understand. I would have no hesitation in recommending them and look forward to working with them on future projects."
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