JSM has taken a leading role in safeguarding ecological integrity during the development of a project site in High Wycombe. Responsible for managing environmental aspects, we executed a comprehensive programme of reptile translocation and nesting bird protection, aiming to minimise disruption and restore the site post-construction, while upholding the highest standards of safety and compliance.
To support reptile translocation, JSM identified a sunny meadow just beyond the southern boundary as a suitable receptor site. We built hibernacula, installed fencing, and created secure access for slow worm movement. Over 80 slow worms were relocated between March and July 2025 under ecological supervision and Ramboll’s guidance. Due to unexpectedly high numbers, the clear-check period was extended from 11 to 30 days to ensure thorough and humane relocation.
Simultaneously, strict protocols were followed to protect nesting birds during vegetation clearance. Daily ecological checks were conducted, and if active nests were found, a 5-metre exclusion zone was enforced until chicks fledged, ensuring compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Vegetation clearance was done using phased strimming under supervision, allowing careful placement of reptile mats and minimising habitat disturbance. Reptile fencing is inspected bi-weekly and maintained throughout the project.
Claire Parsons, Environmental manager at JSM says:
The reptile mitigation work has been an opportunity for the JSM Environment Team to gain hands-on experience alongside our passionate ecological subcontractors, Plan Ecology and Vertecol, who have worked tirelessly to ensure no slow worm is left behind and that we remain fully compliant with ecological legislation. The steep slopes around the Molins substation build sites required abseiling ecologists (Vertecol) to install fencing, conduct mat checks, and carry out translocations and searches, all from secured ropes. Brilliant effort all round to keep these legless lizards safe.”
JSM’s approach reflects a strong commitment to balancing development with conservation. By embedding ecological considerations into every stage, we’re protecting wildlife and setting a high standard for sustainable construction.