BES are currently constructing a new research and development facility on an existing brownfield site in Hull. As a part of the planning considerations we have been working in partnership with the client's Ecological Clerk of Works (ECW) to create a very specific type of landscaping scheme with an open mosaic and invertebrate attractive habitat.

The ecological site investigation report, with input from the Yorkshire Naturalists Union, identified that the site is populated by an array of plant species commonly found in Open Mosaic Habitats (OMH), which in turn have attracted a range of rare invertebrates only seen in this area of Humberside. This local flora and fauna holds a high biodiversity value, therefore, it is important to preserve these species. 

We have been working in close collaboration with the ECW to guarantee there is an adequate consideration given to how the site is stripped of topsoil and to ensure an Open Mosaic Habitat is maintained and nurtured into the ground reinstatement works. This approach will help protect these valuable species whilst facilitating the ultimate goal of developing our client's hi-tech European centre for research and development in the field of addiction treatments.   

The OMH areas will be incorporated into the overall landscaping scheme to appear as a deliberate landscape design. This solution will add an aesthetic aspect to the project whilst enabling the local wildlife to thrive once again, in turn, helping deliver a key aim of 'Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England's wildlife and ecosystem services'.