Ecological impact assessment for a strategic residential development in Chalfont St Giles

An ecological impact assessment to support an outline planning application for a large residential development in Buckinghamshire, identifying ecological constraints and setting out mitigation and enhancement measures to avoid significant long-term impacts.

The project

The project involved around 4.8 hectares of land on the edge of Chalfont St Giles, proposed for the development of around 100 new dwellings with associated access, infrastructure and areas of open space. The site comprised a mix of grassland, scrub, hedgerows, woodland and existing buildings. Due to the scale of the development and the range of habitats present, a detailed ecological assessment was required to inform the planning process and guide the design of mitigation and enhancement measures.

Our role

Wessex Ecology was commissioned to do a full ecological impact assessment, supported by a preliminary ecological appraisal and a comprehensive programme of species surveys. This included bat activity surveys, breeding bird surveys, reptile surveys, badger surveys, ground level tree assessments for bat roost potential and desk studies of designated sites and protected species records. The work assessed ecological constraints and potential impacts, and informed the development of proportionate mitigation and biodiversity enhancement measures in line with planning policy and wildlife legislation.

Outcome

The assessment identified a range of ecological features on and around the site, including bat foraging and commuting activity and suitable habitat for a variety of protected and notable species. With the adoption of the recommended mitigation, licensing approaches and habitat enhancements, the assessment concluded that the proposed development would not result in significant long-term ecological impacts. Biodiversity net gain measures were identified to offset habitat losses and deliver ecological enhancements as part of the scheme, enabling the project to progress through the planning process with a clear and robust ecological strategy.

Key facts

Location: Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire

Sector: Residential

Site type: Greenfield land with mixed habitats

Services provided: Preliminary ecological appraisal, ecological impact assessment, protected