A HAMPSHIRE firm which offers “sound ecological advice of the highest quality” has backed developers amid concerns about the scale of a tree felling programme in Whitehill.
Bosses at Ecological Planning and Research (EPR) Ltd are convinced that work being carried out around the A325 Petersfield Road will have a positive effect on biodiversity.
The ecological survey and design consultancy has provided feedback on a range of ecological matters to the Whitehill and Bordon Regeneration Company since its appointment five years ago.
And while the firm appreciates the recent tree felling around the ‘southern gateway’ to the town has angered many residents, staff insist the decision has not been taken rashly. A Habitats Regulation Assessment has been undertaken by the firm with ecological mitigation and enhancement strategies to protect species including badgers, bats, reptiles and nesting birds.
“The integration of ecological concerns when planning new developments is nothing less than a necessity,” said director at EPR Rebecca Brookbank.
“Prioritising the protection of ecologically viable habitats and species, and the creation of new natural green spaces that will be of value to wildlife, is vital for ensuring that human infrastructure does not negatively affect the natural environment.”
She added: “We must work to realise the potential.”
Project manager for the Whitehill and Bordon Regeneration Company Bruce Collinson also highlighted EPR’s input in the bid to transform the community into an “environmentally friendly, happy green town.”
He said: “Over the past five years, EPR has done a great job of surveying the site and reassuring us not only that our plans will not negatively affect the surrounding ecology, but that delivery of natural assets such as Suitable Alternative Natural Green Spaces (SANGS) will have wide-ranging benefits.”
The felling work was agreed by the Forestry Commission and has been carried out by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.
It is hoped the felling will connect two pieces of land inhabited by the rare natterjack toad, a protected species which lives locally and requires open space to thrive.
Even so, a large number of complaints have been lodged by nearby residents with some fearing that the loss of trees will also result in more air, noise and light pollution.