Purpose

GMEU are suitably qualified and experienced
ecologist. GMEU currently provide specialist ecological advice to,
and on behalf of, Wyre Council to support current ecological and
biodiversity requirements within Development Management section of
the planning department.

The GMEU service is delivered by Tameside MBC on behalf of all
Greater Manchester Authorities. They also provide ecological
services for other local authorities within the North-West.

GMEU have developed local ecological knowledge and expertise in
Wyre. The consultants currently appraise planning applications and
have local knowledge, skills and expertise. The use of GMEU to
support the planning policy section of the planning department will
result in time and cost saving compared to developing the local
knowledge and expertise with a new consultant.

The use of the same ecological consultants to support the local
plan and development management sections of the planning department
will also ensure consistency in the planning process from site
allocations through to subsequent decisions on planning
applications.

GMEU have provided a quote for the work estimated at £23,470.
This is on the basis of the assessment of a specific number of
sites, of which an assumption at this stage is made on the basis of
which site may need further detailed assessment. This additional
assessment work would not be known until the first phase of the
commission is completed. A fee for additional site assessment has
been estimated and would be included within the contract.

Decision

To directly appoint Greater Manchester
Ecological Unit (GMEU) to undertake site specific ecological
assessment, including Biodiversity Net Gain assessment to support
the emerging Wyre Local Plan.

Alternative options considered

An open tendering exercise was considered and
rejected due to the additional time it would take which would not
offer a satisfactory alternative without additional work being
necessary at additional cost and time. It would also not allow for
consistency ecological advice within the council.