Capability Statement

Richard Green Ecology is a leading independent ecological consultancy, delivering expert environmental planning and biodiversity management through sustainable solutions for clients, where society and the natural environment are respected and enhanced. We have extensive understanding of local authority and other public bodies regarding their estate and needs in relation to biodiversity duties under the NERC Act, Environment Act and Habitats Regulations, including Habitat Regulations Assessment, Biodiversity Net Gain and Town and Country Planning requirements. Our knowledge, people skills and customer care ensure that the needs of both the environment and the client can be met, and we have a proven track record of delivering successful and sustainable outcomes.

Consultancy Services to Support Planning

• Ecological Surveys and Assessments: Expertise in Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Protected Species Surveys, Ecological Impact Assessments, BREEAM, River Condition Assessment/MoRPh Survey, Nutrient Neutrality and Habitat Regulation Assessments (HRAs).
• Biodiversity Net Gain: Strategic planning and implementation to meet legislative requirements and enhance biodiversity value, helping developers and authorities meet legal obligations, whilst enhancing the ecological value of development sites and the wider landscape.
• Mitigation Strategies: Design and delivery of robust mitigation measures for protected species and habitats, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• Planning Support: Preparation of detailed ecological reports to inform planning applications, including Environmental Impact Assessments.
  Monitoring and Compliance: Long-term ecological monitoring services to ensure project success and adherence to legal and ecological requirements.
• Preparation of biodiversity checklists tailored to local authority areas and local Biodiversity Action Plans. Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and solutions, plus production of Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans.
• Guidance on the consideration of impacts on protected areas and sites.
• Comprehensive ecological surveys for habitats and species, including support in the local development planning process. Qualified in tree climbing, confined space entry and advanced level bat surveys.
• Obtaining protected species mitigation licences for bats (registered to AL3 under Bat Earned Recognition Licence), badger sett closure/damage, dormice, beaver dam removal and water vole displacement.

What Sets Us Apart

• With an established reputation of excellence, particularly in the Southwest, we understand the unique environmental challenges and priorities faced by local planning authorities.
• We have successfully supported local authorities in delivering sustainable ecological outcomes for projects, including highways capital and maintenance schemes, social housing developments, historic building restoration, supplementary planning guidance for nature conservation, management of land for nature conservation and planning support.
• We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every project is approached with a tailored and flexible strategy that addresses specific needs, constraints, budgets and opportunities, ensuring all requirements are met.
• A dedicated project manager ensures seamless communication and support throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism.
• Our team includes CIEEM-accredited professionals and specialists with expertise in a wide range of ecological disciplines including certificates and accreditations such as Field Identification Skills Certificate (Level 4), Modular River Physical Survey (MoRPh), Level 2 Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue, Medium Risk Confined Space Entry, and CSCS card holders.
• Integration of cutting-edge equipment and technology, such as GIS mapping and drone surveys, for accurate and efficient assessments.
• We strive to be a step ahead through continuous professional development, ensuring our staff remain at the forefront of industry best practices and legislative changes.
• We build trust through clear communication, timely delivery, and unwavering professionalism.

Key Achievements and Skills

• Delivered ecological services for large organisations and infrastructure projects, including road, rail and energy projects, such as The National Trust, Natural England, Highways Agency, Tetra Tech, Jacobs, and local authorities including Devon County Council, Exeter City Council, East Devon District Council and Somerset District Councils.
• We have been providing advice on measures to attain over 10% Biodiversity Net Gain using various iterations of the BNG metric since 2015.
• Successfully navigated complex planning applications involving protected species and habitats.

Our Process

We work collaboratively with clients and local planning authorities to streamline the planning process.

Initial Consultation

• Understanding the project scope objectives, and any specific planning challenge.
• Provide a preliminary review of ecological considerations and potential constraints.

Survey and Analysis

• Conduct thorough desk-based study and on-site ecological assessments using advanced tools and methods.
• Identify key ecological features, risks, and opportunities.

Report Submission

• Deliver clear, actionable reports, complete with maps and recommendations, aligned with planning legislation.

Ongoing Support

• Provide expert advice and support throughout the project lifecycle, including post-planning monitoring and compliance checks.