Proposed Equestrian Development Including New Stables and Menage with Change of Use of Agricultural Land
Client: AMLI Design Ltd
Site Name: Lower Leesthorpe Farm, Stapleford Road, Leesthorpe, Leicestershire, LE14 2XQ
Site Type: Housing
Services Provided: Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report
The presence of potential protected habitats and species on site triggered the requirement for a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) to identify ecological constraints and inform appropriate mitigation and enhancement measures.
Precautionary working methods were advised for the construction stage, thereby negating the need for additional surveys prior to the planning determination and ensuring a timely progress without delays for the client. These methods included sensitive vegetation clearance to protect badgers, amphibians, reptiles, and nesting birds. Minimising tree removal and implementing compensatory woodland planting while removing habitats in stages under the supervision of a qualified ecologist to avoid harm to protected, notable or invasive species. Pollution prevention measures were also recommended to be included in the site’s Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to avoid construction impacts to surrounding habitats.
Through these recommendations within the ecological reports, it proved beneficial for the client as this allowed the planning and development process to continue and be completed in a fluent and timely manner.
The Leicestershire County Council Ecologist commented on our ecological work that it was acceptable, and as a result, planning consent was secured on first submission as the Local Planning Authority granted planning permission with conditions to AMLI Design.
Planning a development? Our expert Ecology and Arboriculture services are here to support your application and help secure planning consent—Contact us to learn more.
Elton Ecology are a Registered Practice of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), committing us to industry leading standards of professional practice. We deliver the best outcomes for our clients and reduce risk for planning applications.
