Wildlife Circus

    Biodiversity Checklist Hook park, Ecologist qualifications Kingston Council and Ecology Requirements Kingston also references professional competence in its ecology-related planning guidance , often aligned with: The NPPF Natural England standing advice BS42020:2013 Biodiversity – Code of Practice These documents collectively emphasise that ecological information must be prepared by a competent professional , which Kingston interprets as: An ecologist who can demonstrate competence, normally through CIEEM membership and relevant experience In professional practice, CIEEM guidance is interpreted as requiring that: Ecological reports name the author(s) The author(s)’ qualifications and/or CIEEM membership grade are stated This information is normally included: On the report title page, or   In a “Personnel” or “Author details” section Failure to do so can be challenged as non-compliant with CIEEM guidance, particularly in planning and appeal contexts.   ...

I took these photos in August during the 'Covid Years', before reports of developing this 50 acre site hit the headlines. It seemed unlikely that a development on such a scale could go ahead, without access from KT9 1DW, as it would be unrealistic to use the existing narrow access roads. At the time, I had discussions with the Tree Officer, about the different levels created when the lorryloads of spoil/hoggin were brought to the site (planning application 13/10228/FUL & subsequent CEMP 14/10126 requiring the creation of habitat, including woodland). It would be interesting to know how much of the latter - 'here today, gone tomorrow mitigation'- will remain in the new scheme. The oak trees on site are magnificient and a natural asset to the borough. But we know that the developers have said that this site is 'compromised', 'serving no green belt purpose due to its proximity to the A3', and as the focus of many anti-social behavioural issues, should b...