Claire Gilby

Principal Ecologist

Claire has 10 years of experience in ecological surveying, over 9 of which have been within Consultancy. Claire’s project experience includes Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) and Environmental Statement (ES) Chapters, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments, protected species surveys and mitigation design, and input into feasibility assessments. Claire takes the lead on ecological input for project bids including large framework tenders and the coordination of sub-contractors. Claire uses QGIS to produce a range of ecological constraints maps, Phase 1 Habitat Plans, protected species survey results maps, and BNG Assessments. 

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

Claire has taken the lead on developing the teams Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) capabilities. Her role includes leading habitat surveys using UK Hab classification, condition assessment, and GIS mapping, input of baseline data into the Metric, calculating losses and gains, and scenario testing to enable the client to provide the best opportunities for their site. I have also assisted with developing the BNG report template for our team using published guidance from CIEEM and BS 8683: Process for designing and implementing biodiversity net gain – Specification. Claire has led both in-house and client presentations focusing on ‘Biodiversity Net Gain: An Engineers Guide’ to raise awareness of the legal and practical aspects of BNG across various project types.

Industry Interests:

Claire is a member of her local bat group and is experienced in conducting bat box checks, emergence and activity surveys and harp trapping surveys as part of the National Bat Monitoring Programme. Claire is also a member of her local mammal group and spends time working with them to complete dormouse checks as part of the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme.