The site is subject to ongoing detailed ecological survey work, the results of which are summarised below.

The site itself is not subject to any statutory or non-statutory ecological designation. All designations within the local area are separated from the site, and given the nature and scale of the proposals these designations are unlikely to be affected by the proposed development.

The site predominantly comprises grazed grassland, bound by hedgerows of varying quality. Within the northern boundary hedgerow, there are large coppiced stools of Ash and Sycamore which are of notable status with two veteran trees also present, located on the western boundary and along the line of trees in the northern half of the site respectively. Notable and veteran trees will be fully retained and protected under the proposals. The hedgerows will be largely retained and incorporated into the scheme design, and any minor losses offset by new native hedgerow planting.

The site affords potential opportunities for a range of species, and further survey work is ongoing during the appropriate seasons to determine the use of the site by any protected species. A sensitive scheme design will safeguard and retain habitats of elevated value to these species, which alongside appropriate mitigation measures and proposed enhancements, will safeguard protected species within and adjacent to the site.

The proposals present the opportunity to secure a number of biodiversity benefits. This includes wetland creation, additional native hedgerow and tree planting, and the provision of features to provide additional habitat for a range of fauna, including bats, birds and invertebrates.

The ecological survey work to date has guided the proposals to minimise negative impacts. Subject to the implementation of appropriate avoidance and mitigation measures, it is considered unlikely that the proposals will result in significant harm to biodiversity. On the contrary it is anticipated that a number of biodiversity benefits are achievable.