At Ecology Consulting Ltd., we have extensive experience providing ecological support on 400kV overhead electricity transmission line refurbishment schemes across the UK. Our team has recently delivered projects in Wales and Scotland, with further schemes expected in the future.
These build on our long history of working on major National Grid and Scottish energy projects in England, Wales and Scotland where we ensure safe, compliant and sustainable delivery for nationally significant infrastructure.
Our Expertise in Transmission Line Ecology
Refurbishment of overhead lines often passes through ecologically sensitive landscapes, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Special Areas of Conservation. Our role is to ensure that these essential infrastructure upgrades proceed with full ecological compliance. We carry out protected species surveys covering bats, badgers, barn owls, great crested newts and otters.
Furthermore, we design mitigation and licensing strategies, act as Ecological Clerk of Works during construction, liaise with statutory consultees and local authorities and prepare Habitat Management Plans, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and Biosecurity Management Plans. Alongside this, we provide technical assurance to keep projects aligned with programme requirements, cost expectations and legislation.
Case Study: North Wales 400kV Refurbishment
On behalf of MES, we are currently acting as Lead Ecologist and Lead Ecological Clerk of Works for the 4ZB overhead line refurbishment project in North Wales. Our responsibilities include designing ecological mitigation strategies, securing a great crested newt development licence in a short timeframe, undertaking specialist bat surveys using tree climbing techniques, monitoring badger activity and implementing species protection plans.
We are also coordinating ecological supervision for ground investigation and rewiring works. Through close liaison with Natural Resources Wales, we have ensured the scheme progresses smoothly while protecting sensitive species.
Case Study: Central Scotland 400kV Refurbishment
Between Glasgow and Edinburgh, we are currently providing full ecological input into the XH/XJ refurbishment scheme. This includes badger survey work, monitoring and mitigation assessments, the development of species protection and habitat management plans and the preparation of a biosecurity management plan to prevent the spread of invasive species. Our pragmatic and solution-focused advice has enabled programme certainty while maintaining strong environmental commitments.
Proven Experience Across Major Infrastructure
Our Director, Lee Bagnall BSc CEnv CEcol MCIEEM, brings over 20 years of expertise as a Chartered Ecologist and Chartered Environmentalist. He has acted as Ecology Technical Lead on nationally significant projects including HS2, National Highways schemes and multiple National Grid transmission projects.
His background includes being a named ecologist on protected species licences, providing technical assurance for Environmental Statements and Habitats Regulations Assessments, leading ecological compliance audits on sensitive schemes near SACs and SSSIs and delivering biodiversity enhancement initiatives along major highways and energy corridors. This depth of experience underpins our trusted reputation in the energy and infrastructure sector.
Why Choose Ecology Consulting Ltd.?
We bring specialist knowledge of overhead line refurbishment projects, combined with a proven ability to deliver fast and reliable licensing solutions that keep programmes on track. Our expertise in stakeholder engagement further ensures positive relationships with statutory bodies, while our hands-on technical delivery covers everything from surveys and assessments through to on-site supervision. Our clients can rely on us to achieve legislative compliance while delivering positive environmental outcomes.
Get in Touch
If you require expert ecological input for a 400kV overhead electricity transmission line refurbishment scheme, please contact us today. At Ecology Consulting Ltd., we combine technical rigour with practical, client-focused solutions to support the safe and sustainable delivery of essential national infrastructure.