Detailed Habitat Assessments
Phase 2 Surveys - National Vegetation Classification
Where a scoping study shows that a rare or particularly complex or diverse habitat or range of habitats are present at a site, a more in-depth botanical survey may be recommended. The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) system enables detailed assessment of all UK habitat types and compares survey information to nationally recognised plant communities to allow us to advise on habitat complexity and rarity in local to national contexts. Clear’s botanists are highly skilled in this field and maintain a high level of training to enable our exacting standards to be upheld.
River Corridor Surveys
For rivers and streams, River Corridor Surveys may be recommended to fully understand the ecological value of 500m stretches of riparian habitats within the zone of influence of proposed development sites. The information produced is often required to make informed decisions relating to waterfront developments and EIAs. Clear have experienced River Corridor Surveyors in-house and use Safe Systems of Work to safely undertake these surveys.
Hedgerow Surveys
Hedgerows are protected by the Hedgerow Regulations (1997) and all native species dominated hedgerows are UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitats, making them material considerations of planning under the Natural Environmental and Rural Communities Act (2006), Our hedgerow survey capability assesses hedgerows using the Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading System and to the criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations, so that both the conservation value and ‘Importance’ of a hedgerow is known to make informed judgements as to the impacts of proposals on hedgerows.
Where hedgerows are required to be removed a Hedgerow Removal Notice may be needed to be applied for to the Local Authority. Clear have completed such applications on numerous occasions where Permitted Developments have impacted hedgerows, such as pipeline replacement schemes.
Invasive Plant Surveys
Clear’s ecologists have many years of experience surveying for and advising on invasive plant infestations. The most frequently surveyed for species are Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed. Each of these plants are particularly pernicious and spread rapidly. We are able to survey for these and other invasive plants, compile management plans to eradicate infestations and act as Contract Administrators to liaise between our clients and specialist sub-contractors.
It can take several years to eradicate these species in a cost effective manner. Last minute ‘dig & dump’ methods are very costly both financially and environmentally. Early action by specialist ecologists can save tens of thousands of pounds.
