October 2025

Nutrient neutrality and biodiversity benefits- Aspect Ecology visits ambitious new wetland on site in Kent

Aspect Ecology has been advising Barratt Redrow on ecological matters at a site in Ashford, Kent. The Crown View Hill development will deliver up to 725 homes and a new school, alongside pioneering benefits for nature.

Due to its proximity to the Stodmarsh Special Area of Conservation, the scheme had to ensure nutrient neutrality in order to avoid polluting runoff from negatively impacting nearby habitats. In an ambitious nature-based solution, a new 3.2-hectare wetland has been created that will filter nutrients from runoff and provide many other benefits for biodiversity.

Ecologists from Aspect Ecology surveyed the site recently and were pleased to find the new wetland has established well. The reedbeds and open water were seen to support a wide range of wetland birds, confirming that the scheme benefits wildlife alongside delivering its nutrient neutrality commitments.

The new wetland shows that with appropriate planning and design, development can both protect sensitive wildlife sites and provide local benefits for biodiversity.

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