When considering new developments, it is vital that we review and protect existing biodiversity and habitats where possible. Through effective design and planning we can often preserve and enhance the existing characteristics of the local environment.
As part of our most recent Sustainability & Energy Strategy we have targeted specific improvements at a number of our new housing schemes, with a few examples noted below. Looking forward we will continue to regularly review our design requirements and also work closely with partner organisations, including engaging with local Government and other Housing Associations on potential improvements to standards across our sector.
Altona Drive is a new housing scheme in Lisburn, where over 20 bird and bat boxes were installed earlier this year to support local wildlife. In collaboration with Choice Services, a variety of habitats have been created, including single bat boxes, multi-chamber bat roosts, and bird boxes designed for species such as robins, wrens, blackbirds, and blue tits. These installations are located near newly planted wildflower areas, which provide essential food sources for pollinators, birds, and bats. Additionally, swift boxes have been fitted on apartment blocks and hedgehog boxes have been installed, further supporting urban biodiversity.
A number of homes at our new development at Rosses Gate have already been handed over, with hundreds more being developed to help meet housing need in the area. With such a large development it was important to demonstrate our commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity enhancement. The site’s surface water drainage during both construction and operational phases will follow Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) principles. As part of the first phase of this scheme, we have installed 30 integrated swift homes and 5 bat homes to support vulnerable species, alongside 15 swift bricks, 15 swift soffit boxes, and 5 bat soffit boxes. Tree planting across the scheme has been extensive and, once established, these areas will be underplanted with shade-tolerant wildflowers such as red campion, greater stitchwort, and foxgloves, along with bluebell bulbs and wood anemone rhizomes. In total, over 30,000 shrubs and trees have been planted, with plans underway to establish a dedicated wildflower meadow, further enriching the site’s ecological value.
