ECOLOGY

Ecological processes and ecosystem services

Ecological impact assessment is a process of evaluating the potential effects of environmental change that may arise because of intervention into natural systems, by man. Effects can be considered in terms of species, habitats, ecosystems and any other attribute of natural capital.

The 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act and 1992 Habitats Directive set the requirements for the protection and conservation of species and their habitats in the UK.

As professional ecologists, Lepus Consulting has been responsible for the delivery of a large portfolio of ecology projects across both the public and private sector. We deliver constructive advice for land planning solutions and work alongside statutory conservation bodies, the local planning ecologist, ecological stakeholders and the client team to ensure compliance with legislation, whilst delivering innovative solutions.

We provide a range of ecological services including:

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal;
National Vegetation Classification surveys;
Protected species surveys including: great crested newt, hazel dormouse, reptiles, birds (breeding and wintering), badgers, bats, barn owl, otter and water vole;
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments;
Specialist ecological reports, mitigation and enhancement strategies; and
Ecological advice and support for planning applications.

Our in-house expertise and team of licensed surveyors and field ecologists allow us to provide cost-effective options and present clear, honest advice. Ecology is strongly affected by timetable considerations as some species can only be recorded in a meaningful way at certain times of the year. We are able to provide advice on these timetables to avoid delays and ensure effective project planning.