Trees and wildlife 'concerns' for housebuilders

Recently when house builders Leach Homes began considering a planning application for the construction of a new housing development at Kennett Park in Suffolk, two major environmental concerns were immediately identified – bats and trees.

The site contained a number of mature trees, the health and status of which needed careful consideration within all aspects of the design. This situation was further complicated by the fact that some of the trees could potentially have been used as bat roosts.

Having licensed ecological and arboricultural experts at hand, ADAS was quickly and efficiently able to conduct all of the necessary survey work including a BS:5837 tree survey, a tree risk assessment and a bat survey. These surveys were used to ascertain the correct balance between tree safety and management, and the benefit that mature trees could add to the development. The ADAS survey work was used by Leach Homes to present its case for planning to the Local Authority. The conclusions were accepted by the planning committee and consent for the development was given.