We are delighted to report our recent win of the Smart Motorways Programme (SMP) Alliance Outcome Award for Enhanced Environments, having been recognised for our contribution as part of the New Emergency Areas Retrofit (NEAR) South Team.
The award was made to the NEAR South Team, of which Thomson is a key supplier of ecological consultancy services. Supporting Balfour Beatty, Thomson has been delivering habitat and protected species surveys, advice and licensing support since May 2023.
How did Thomson EC support Balfour Beatty in gaining dormouse licenses?
The Enhanced Environments award was made in recognition of the dormouse licensing works undertaken by the NEAR South Team in which Thomson played a pivotal role in license applications. Thomson had also delivered the large-scale dormouse surveys undertaken across four scheme areas to inform the licensing process.
With dormice recorded in several locations, Natural England dormouse licenses were needed for critical path works across NEAR South. At the time this was the biggest risk to scheme delivery because of the timescales for issuing licenses.
Through a truly collaborative approach, Balfour Beatty, Thomson environmental consultants, DED and Natural England worked through the requirements to achieve the licenses being issued in unprecedented timescales.
Our approach and the hard work from everyone involved not only allowed works to continue throughout the summer, having completed site clearance in critical areas, but also enabled the delivery team to start working in one area ahead of programme.
The citation for the award stated about the works that “it has set a new benchmark for how we can work with Natural England to achieve what some deemed ‘impossible’”.
How can Thomson EC support your project with dormouse surveys?
Our expert terrestrial ecology team can undertake dormouse surveys for a wide range of projects, including rail infrastructure, utilities, commercial and residential development and highways infrastructure.
Once dormouse surveys have been completed, we can advise on suitable mitigation options and/or apply for a dormouse license on your behalf to ensure the legal compliance of your project.
Find out more about our experience by exploring our case studies, or get in touch to discuss your requirements for undertaking a dormouse survey or obtaining a dormouse license.
