Housing Development, Newton Abbot, Devon

The project. A 35 ha residential-led, mixed use scheme on the outskirts of Newton Abbot, Devon. The development is part of an emerging strategic growth area for Teignbridge District Council that aims to transform the western edges of the town.

Our involvementThe scheme benefitted from early involvement to identify potential ecological constraints and required 12 months of protected species survey for the Environmental Statement. The development was a particularly complex scheme and key issues relating to protected species included bat roosts and commuting routes, dormice in hedgerows, cirl bunting farmland birds and amphibians. The site supports strategic bat flightlines for lesser and greater horseshoe bats and these were integrated within the green infrastructure. The flightlines are important dispersal routes associated with the South Hams Special Area of Conservation (SAC), which is a site of European importance for greater horseshoe bats.

We worked with other environmental disciplines, including landscape architects and water engineers to retain key wildlife features and create new habitats. A major challenge for the green infrastructure was ecological functionality to maintain a permeable landscape for wildlife and integrate important features such as veteran trees, hedgerows and wetland habitats. This culminated in a Landscape Ecology Management Plan strategy at the outline planning stage.

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