Need help finding something?
Benacre & Kessingland Flood Management Project
Protecting Wildlife – Benacre & Kessingland Flood Management Project
Before construction began on the Waveney, Lower Yare and Lothingland IDB’s Benacre & Kessingland Flood Management Project, an essential early step was taken to safeguard the local wildlife that depends on the site’s unique habitat.
(grass snake image) Particular care was given to reptiles and other cold-blooded species, such as grass snakes, which rely on warm, sheltered environments to thrive. To support this, specialist ecologists implemented a carefully planned monitoring and relocation programme across the site.
Temporary “refuge pads” were placed on the ground to create inviting spots for reptiles seeking warmth and shelter. These simple but highly effective tools allowed ecologists to monitor wildlife activity in a controlled and non-intrusive way. Each morning, the pads were checked, and any reptiles found were safely and carefully relocated to suitable nearby habitats, away from future construction areas.
Alongside reptile mitigation, targeted measures were also put in place to protect other important species on site. This included works to safeguard water voles, a protected species whose habitats can be particularly sensitive to disturbance. Appropriate mitigation ensured that their environments were preserved and that any risks associated with construction activity were carefully managed.
In addition, an artificial badger sett was constructed in a suitable nearby location. This provides a safe alternative habitat for badgers, supporting their continued presence in the area while allowing construction to proceed without disturbance.
This proactive and multi-layered approach ensures that vulnerable species are protected before any groundworks begin, reducing the risk of harm and supporting the preservation of local biodiversity.
Taking these steps at the outset has been vital in balancing the delivery of much-needed flood protection with environmental responsibility. It reflects the project’s ongoing commitment to not only minimise its impact on the natural environment but also to protect and enhance it wherever possible.
As the Benacre & Kessingland Flood Management Project progresses, environmental stewardship will remain a key priority—ensuring that both local communities and the surrounding ecosystems are supported for the long term.
