The Major Works projects focus on improving facilities for local communities, increasing the number of places available for pupils and enhancing the overall education experience. Several projects have been selected as pilots, aiming to deliver facilities with enhanced energy efficiency and sustainable credentials. LUC’s ecologists are working with each project’s design team to help deliver compliance with wildlife legislation and deliver ecological enhancement across each project.

In the heart of small rural communities, schools serve as vibrant centres for social and educational activities. They provide important amenities such as opportunities for sport, pastoral care, and community integration, amongst others.

The primary focus of our ecologists is the comprehensive ecological surveying of the school estate. This involves identifying and assessing the status of habitats and protected species, such as bats and badgers, within these areas. The aim is to understand how these species interact with the existing infrastructure and surroundings. Through careful data interpretation, and collaboration with the wider design team, we ensure each project demonstrably contributes to nature recovery, while smoothing the path to planning consent.

LUC is proud to be part of the team guiding Northern Ireland’s pursuit of a sustainable future in education.