Wildlife and Ecology
Protecting and enhancing local habitats
Understanding the Site
Over four years, ecologists surveyed the site for protected wildlife including bats, newts, dormice, reptiles and nesting birds. These surveys followed national guidelines and covered all seasons.
Key Survey Findings
Great Crested Newts
DNA testing of ponds confirmed this protected species is not present on site.
Bats
No bat roosts were found. Bats do use hedgerows and woodland edges for feeding, and these areas are being kept.
Dormice
No evidence found over five months of surveys using 100 nest tubes across the site.
Reptiles
Only one grass snake was seen across seven survey visits, indicating very low reptile activity on site.
Birds
Woodland and hedgerows support common nesting birds. Most of these habitats are staying as part of the development.
What We're Keeping
- Mature trees and veteran oaks
- Established hedgerows around field boundaries
- Woodland along the edges of the site
- The stream along the northern boundary
- Existing ponds within the open spaces
- The proposals will deliver a minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain
What We're Creating
- New native hedgerows and tree planting
- Wildflower meadows
- Wetland areas and ponds
- Bat and bird boxes built into new homes
- Gaps in garden fences so hedgehogs can move freely
Continue the Consultation
Learn more about the other aspects of our proposals.
Vistry Homes Hookwood
Public consultation website for Vistry Home’s reserved matters application for Land West of Reigate Road, Hookwood.
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