Background
Cadent Gas are the UK’s largest gas distribution network, managing a network of more than 80,000 miles of pipes, transporting gas to 11 million homes and businesses throughout the North West, West Midlands, East Midlands, South Yorkshire, East of England and North London.
Scope of services
RSK Biocensus were asked to assess the baseline ecological value of four Cadent gas distribution sites (Peters Green, Horndon, Aylesford and West Winch) and provide recommendations for enhancing their biodiversity value. We therefore set about developing a series of site-specific Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs).
These involved:
- A desk-based background data search.
- A detailed survey, using the newly developed UK Habitat Classification system, describing the habitats already present on each site.
- The Defra Biodiversity Metric 2.0 was used to calculate current biodiversity units, based on the extent, distinctiveness, condition, strategic significance and connectivity of habitats found on the site.
- Findings were collated in a report describing actions to enhance the biodiversity value of each site and achieving a net gain. A BAP for each site also specified how existing habitats should be managed and new features created to achieve net gain.
Where possible the site specific BAPs have taken account of local conservation priorities detailing the contribution that the Cadent sites can make to local biodiversity.
Impact
Cadent is committed to demonstrating habitat and biodiversity net gain across its portfolio of sites over the coming years. RSK Biocensus have been supporting this ambition by producing site-specific Biodiversity Action Plans detailing how the necessary improvements can be made.