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The Ecological Impact
The applicants have taken an entirely professional approach to the ecological factors as part of the planning application process but:
- It has been stated that the habitats are of ‘no ecological importance’. Why, given the variety of wildlife on the estate?
- Habitat survey has covered, amongst others: water vole, otters, bats, and badgers. Whether these surveys covered only the land subject to the planning application, or the wider adjoining area, as well, is not clear.
- Reference to ‘a limited range of habitats within the application area’ is hard to accept in view of the various old trees, mature woodland, ditches, streams and other habitats around the estate (including the walled garden) that will be home and feeding places for the wildlife.
- 6 species of bat have been identified – slits in old trees, and cracks in old buildings are likely sites for their roosts. The report acknowledges the estate as being of importance for its bat populations but the planning application states that there will be no impacts on protected species!
- Birds are synonymous with grassland, trees & hedges. Quarrying & development will impact on their habitat!
- Good grassland ‘earth’ contains worms that are an important element a badger’s diet. Quarrying will take out a large foraging area.