LUC has carried out ecological appraisals of proposed developments throughout the UK, and evaluated their potential to secure BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Credits LE3 to LE6 (Land Use and Ecology). We provide ecological advice to inform the evolving design of both the built and planted environments to help our clients achieve the targeted credits.
BREEAM is the most frequently encountered method for design and assessment of sustainable buildings. It is a credited assessment of the sustainability ‘performance’ of the building(s) across a range of environmental criteria, ranging from siting to materials to energy and water use. ‘Performance’ is considered through the design, construction and operation stages. A minimum rating of ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’ may be included as a condition when planning consent is granted.
LUC provides ecological evidence towards siting of the development, retention of features of ecological interest, mitigation of potential impacts, enhancement and long term management. Under each of these ‘credits’, we work with the wider design team to incorporate creative design. We strive to maximise the BREEAM credit score whilst achieving genuine benefit to biodiversity.
Our ecological input to BREEAM assessment ensures sustainability is considered holistically, across a broad spectrum of environmental disciplines, throughout the lifetime of each development. Benefit to biodiversity invariably results in benefit to the users of, and neighbours to, the development. Valuing green space within the urban environs brings multi-faceted gains, contributing to a higher standard of design and greater appreciation of use.
