Sweco provides expert ecological consultancy services and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) support across the Bristol area, unlocking sustainable development in a city celebrated for its environmental leadership.
As a former European Green Capital, Bristol is known for its expansive green spaces, wildlife corridors and protected habitats – all of which make ecology a vital consideration in planning and development.
Our Bristol-based ecology team understands the city’s unique ecological makeup. We work closely with developers, planners, infrastructure clients and public bodies to ensure compliance with local and national regulations, while also supporting meaningful environmental outcomes – particularly in relation to the city’s Ecological Emergency Action Plan.
Our focus is on helping clients meet their compliance and sustainability obligations in tandem. Through a complete spectrum of ecological consultancy specialisms, we can advise and act on biodiversity plans in the round, support BNG efforts, promote natural capital protection (and enhancement), address wildlife/habitat conservation challenges and help implement optimum blue/green infrastructures.
When it comes to ecology surveys, local expertise is essential. Sweco’s Bristol-based ecologists bring deep knowledge of the West of England’s landscape, legislation and biodiversity priorities. We provide a full suite of ecology surveys and assessments tailored to the Somerset and Gloucestershire region, including:
Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs): Early-stage site assessments that identify ecological constraints and opportunities.
Phase 1 and UKHab Habitat Surveys: Baseline habitat mapping to inform planning decisions and Biodiversity Net Gain calculations.
Protected Species Surveys: Including bats, badgers, dormice, great crested newts, reptiles, otters, and birds – all commonly found in and around Bristol.
Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA): In-depth reporting to support Environmental Statements and planning applications.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments: Measuring and enhancing biodiversity value in line with new planning requirements.
Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring: Ensuring mitigation measures are implemented effectively and legally.
We also assist with mitigation design, ecological due diligence, BREEAM support for ecology and land use, Natural England licensing and post-construction monitoring – providing end-to-end ecological support throughout your project lifecycle.
By providing green infrastructure that enables the conservation of rare and endangered species and habitats, we have the privilege of being able to have a positive influence on natural capital and ecosystem services – and playing a key role in providing a sustainable future for all.
Bristol-based ecological specialists working as part of our UK-wide network of biodiversity experts, with strong local planning experience
Fully licensed to conduct protected species work
Proven record of successful ecological planning on complex sites
Committed to practical, scalable solutions that meet biodiversity goals
Deep understanding of Bristol’s green infrastructure and ecological sensitivity
Whether your project is in a dense urban centre, suburban green belt or riverside corridor, our services are designed to unlock development while safeguarding nature – to serve people AND the planet as part our our nature positive approach.
FREE Download: Sweco Ecology Calendar
Our exclusive ecology calendar is designed to help clients with project planning throughout the year. Each calendar allows you to uncover vital data at the right times – for example Protected Species Surveys are best undertaken at certain times of the year, and can vary according to the species concerned and the type of survey required.
Together with our clients and the collective knowledge of our 22,000 engineers, consultants and other specialists, we co-create solutions to address urbanisation, capture the power of digitalisation, and make our societies more sustainable. With international multi-disciplinary teams, we can call on the right insight and technical capability at the right time from across Buildings, Infrastructure, Advisory & Planning and Compliance.
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