Projects and Resources

Information that may may be of interest to clients undertaking development or conservation based projects is provided below.

We would of course be delighted to answer any specific questions that you may have. Please do contact us for more information.

The Great Crested Newt

The great crested newt is an amphibian that breeds in water during the spring. It is the largest newt in Britain and is believed to be declining across much of its range. The great crested newt is strictly protected under both UK and European legislation. More Information.

Amphibians

Amphibians are vertebrate animals that breed in water, but spend much of their lives on land. The more widespread amphibian species (e.g. common frog) are protected against trade and sale.

Reptiles

Reptiles are vertebrate animals that possess a scaly skin and reproduce on land. The sand lizard and smooth snake have a very restricted UK distribution and are strictly protected under both UK and European legislation. The more widespread reptile species (e.g. slow-worm) are protected against deliberate killing, injury and sale.

Habitat Suitability Index

A Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) is a tool that can be used to predict the likely presence of a species within a survey area. Calumma Ecological Services has used this technique to accurately predict the likely presence of great crested newt. More information.

Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9)

PPS9 supercedes the former PPG9 and provides guidance to local authorities when considering biodiversity and geological interests that relate to development. More Information.

Kent and Medway Structure Plan

The Kent & Medway structure plan, jointly produced by Kent County Council and Medway Council sets out the strategic planning framework for the protection of the local environment, major transport priorities, and the scale, pattern and broad location of new development including provision for new housing and major economic development across Kent and Medway.

More information is available from Kent County Council.