Case Studies

Our role: In 2003 Ecosulis were commissioned by Huntsmans Quarry to undertake ecological surveys associated with the proposed phased extraction of further material from the Kineton Thorns site and the subsequent re-instatement of the land back to agriculture. Surveys included an extended Phase 1 habitat survey with recommendations for great crested newt survey, Cotswold pennycress survey, badger survey and botanical survey.

As a result of these surveys the following works were undertaken:

• Application for a great crested newt Natural England development licence
• Implementation of associated mitigation works, including erection of temporary and permanent great crested newt fencing, installation of pitfall traps and great crested new translocation exercise
• Enhancement of site lake and ponds, habitat management and destructive searches
• Identification of areas that support Cotswold pennycress (a rare species in Britain protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981)
• Contribution to an agricultural management plan aimed at protecting Cotswold pennycress in the long term
• Ongoing surveys of great crested newt populations