Advanced Bat Surveys for Exeter Flood Defence Scheme

The project The Exeter flood defence scheme is a £32m project that will reduce flood risk to more than 3,000 homes and businesses in Exeter. The project is managed by the Environment Agency with support from project partners Exeter City Council and Devon County Council. Phase 1 of the project is now substantially complete and phase 2 construction starts 2016. Phase 2 will construct intermittent defences on both sides of the River Exe from Cowley Bridge in the north to Countess Wear, Bridge Road in the south. It includes the construction of a sheet pile flood defence wall at Mill Road.

Our involvement Pure Ecology provided specialist ecological services for CH2MHILL, the Environment Agency’s appointed environmental consultants. A study by Pure Ecology of potential bat roosts in trees and structures along the River Exe discovered natterer’s roosts and a greater horseshoe mating roost in Lime Kilns at Mill Road, Exeter. We used advanced bat survey methods that included tree climbing and mist net trapping to survey the site. It allowed us to quickly and efficiently establish detailed baseline data for an ecological impact assessment. The advanced bat survey techniques enabled a comprehensive assessment and accurate interpretation of the use of the site by bats. This was particularly valuable for developing a mitigation strategy and construction management plan to avoid impacts on bat roosts. This had key advantages for the project because it was possible to avoid protected species licensing and unnecessary precautionary mitigation measures.

Client Testimonials

Pure Ecology have been professional, practical and proactive; it has been an opportunity to meet and work with an interesting and informative expert outside of my usual circle.

Roger Moscrop

Pure Ecology offer a completely reliable service, combining robust science with expert advice and reliable delivery and reporting. Importantly they also appreciate and respect the safety and sustainability requirements pertaining to our business and to our clients objectives.

Stuart Hedgecott Principal Consultant CH2MHill

Arup have worked with Pure Ecology since the beginning of 2014, and continue to do so because of the excellent service we have received. Anton has consistently provided sound and pragmatic technical ecological services and advice, in particular with regard to specialist bat services. He is highly competent, very organised and excellent at communicating and interpreting the likely significance of his work throughout the process.â€

Arup

Thank you so so much for your prompt report, such a pleasure to work with such an efficient company and pleasant staff.

Mr James, Homeowner in Monmouthshire.

Pure Ecology provided a comprehensive service and the report was clear and concise. The ecology assessment was well received by the local authority

Capture Energy for a single wind turbine in Camarthenshire

We use Pure Ecology because the are reliable and consistently deliver a high quality of work. They respond quickly, work well with our development team and have successfully negotiated ecological requirements with the planning authority

Lisa Way Development Surveyor, Monmouthshire Housing Association

We have found Pure ecology to be very knowledgeable and well respected. Their approach is both professional, friendly and they are always happy to listen to clients requirements and look for workable solutions

Andrew Carter, Morgan & Horowskyj Architects

Pure Ecology provides a professional and reliable service. Their comprehensive knowledge and understanding of ecological issues within the planning system has been invaluable for the success of several of our schemes.

Joe Burnard, Project Manager for Rea Housing Development