Balancing progress and preservation: The impact of the ecological survey calendar on developers

Published: 3 March 2025

Progress often comes hand in hand with responsibility – particularly when it comes to preserving the natural environment. Developers play a pivotal role in ensuring that construction projects harmonise with the surrounding ecosystems. The ecological survey calendar guides developers in navigating the complexities of ecological assessment and conservation.

For developers, the ecological survey calendar serves as a roadmap, offering insights into the seasonal rhythms of the natural world and the optimal timing for conducting biodiversity assessments. By aligning construction schedules with key ecological events, such as bird nesting seasons or bat roosting periods, developers can minimise disturbance to wildlife habitats, mitigate potential environmental impacts, and meet legislative requirements.

Ensure compliance with regulations

One of the primary benefits of adhering to the ecological survey calendar is the ability to identify and safeguard legally protected species and habitats. Stringent regulations govern the conservation of species such as bats, great crested newts, and nesting birds, as well as international and national designated sites such as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Sites of Species Scientific Interest (SSSI). By conducting surveys at the appropriate time of the year, developers can ensure compliance with these regulations and implement measures to avoid or minimise harm to protected species and habitats.

Spring

Spring heralds the awakening of nature after the cold grip of winter. As temperatures rise and daylight hours lengthen, a flurry of activity begins.

In March, birdwatchers eagerly await the return of migratory species such as swallows and willow warbler, signalling the start of the breeding season. Meanwhile, botanists venture into woodlands and meadows to witness the emergence of bluebells, primroses, and other spring ephemerals.

This season marks the ideal time for surveys focusing on nesting birds, early flowering plants, and the emergence of hibernating reptiles and amphibians as rivers and ponds come alive with the chorus of frogs, toads, and newts, making this the perfect time for freshwater biodiversity surveys.

Summer

As spring transitions into summer, the landscape bursts into full bloom. Hedgerows teem with life as bees, butterflies and dormice flit from flower to flower, facilitating essential pollination processes. With more floras present, the summer is the best period to undertake habitat surveys.

The long days and warm weather also make it ideal for conducting surveys related to bat activity, as these nocturnal creatures take flight in search of insects during the twilight hours.

Autumn

The arrival of autumn brings a kaleidoscope of colours as leaves turn golden and crimson. This season is crucial for surveying fungi, as mushrooms and toadstools proliferate in woodlands and grasslands. September also signals the start of bird migration, with flocks of geese and ducks making their journey southwards. Ecologists seize this opportunity to conduct bird counts and monitor population trends, providing valuable insights into avian conservation efforts.

Winter

Winter may seem like a dormant period, but it offers unique opportunities for ecologists surveying certain species. Winter provides an ideal window for conducting surveys related to hibernating mammals, such as bats, as well as monitoring wintering bird populations along coastal areas and estuaries. However, there are restrictions in disturbing hibernating animals like reptiles and dormice.

Maximise efficiency

Integrating ecological surveys into the planning and design phase of development projects can result in cost savings and efficiency gains in the long run. By proactively identifying potential environmental constraints and opportunities early in the process, developers can avoid delays, redesigns, and costly mitigation measures that may arise from unexpected ecological issues later.

Bringing ecologists in at design stage for biodiversity net gain requirements will facilitate achieving the required 10%. This proactive approach not only streamlines the development process but also enhances the overall sustainability and resilience of the project.

Provide social value

Beyond regulatory compliance and cost considerations, embracing the ecological survey calendar can also enhance the reputation and credibility of developers within the community.

In an era of increasing environmental awareness and activism, stakeholders – including residents, conservation groups, and governmental agencies – increasingly expect developers to demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

By demonstrating a proactive and transparent approach to environmental assessment and mitigation, developers can foster trust, goodwill, and positive relationships with stakeholders, ultimately enhancing their social license to operate.

Effective communication is essential

While the ecological survey calendar offers invaluable guidance, its effectiveness ultimately depends on proactive engagement and collaboration between developers, ecologists, and other stakeholders.

Effective communication and consultation at the start of a project are essential for identifying and addressing potential environmental risks and opportunities, as well as fostering mutual understanding and trust among all parties involved.

Balancing progress and preservation

The ecological survey calendar plays a crucial role in guiding developers towards environmentally responsible and sustainable development practices. By aligning construction schedules with the seasons and proactively integrating ecological considerations into the planning and design process, developers can minimise environmental impacts, enhance project efficiency, and build positive relationships with stakeholders.

As we strive to balance progress and preservation in the built environment, our experts can help you leverage the insights and guidance provided by the ecological survey calendar to create a more harmonious and sustainable future for all.