Approach

The following techniques were applied:

• Egg searches – submerged vegetation was checked for folded leaves
• Dusk torchlight surveys – searching for newts using high-powered torches
• Bottle-trapping – traps placed around the pond edges in the evenings and checked the following mornings for great crested newts

Outcome

No Great Crested Newts were recorded and there was considered to be a negligible risk of impacts to this species. The Phase 1 report nonetheless set out a range recommendations to reduce wider ecological impacts, including:

• Security fencing design to ensure site permeability to mammals
• Precautionary working methods to avoid impacts to reptiles
• Standard construction phase mitigation measures to prevent impacts to trees, nesting birds, mammals, and ecological light pollution
• Habitat creation, including: wildflower meadow planting; nectar-bearing climbers on the security fence; native species hedgerow enhancement; hibernacula for amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles; and a Biodiversity Management Plan for ongoing site maintenance.

The site subsequently received planning permission and the installation is due to come on line in spring 2015. If you’re thinking of submitting an application for a site in your portfolio, and want to know the site’s ecological value or the implications for development, please contact us now.