CASE STUDY: BADGER SETT CLOSURE, TREE REMOVAL AND ARTIFICIAL SETT CREATION, BIRMINGHAM.
Project Overview
Our client, a commercial landowner, was preparing for a residential housing development in Birmingham when an active badger sett was identified on-site. Under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, it is illegal to disturb or interfere with an occupied sett. To ensure compliance and avoid project delays, the client engaged Zirkon for professional badger sett closure and tree clearance services.
Challenges & Environmental Considerations
- Legal Protection: The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 prohibits interfering with active setts. A licensed approach was required.
- Ecological Impact: The badgers needed a suitable alternative habitat to prevent disruption.
- Site Clearance Needs: The site required tree clearance and vegetation management to prepare for the development.
Our Approach
As expert site clearance contractors, Zirkon executed a structured plan to relocate the badgers safely while preparing the site for construction. Our work included:
- Installing one-way badger gates to encourage natural relocation.
- Securing the existing sett with badger-proof mesh to prevent re-entry.
- Tree removal & clearance in the artificial sett location.
- Constructing a custom artificial badger sett with:
- 10 nesting chambers
- Interconnected tunnels and access points
- Buried structure at a depth of 1.25m
Outcome & Client Satisfaction
The artificial sett was strategically baited, and within days, project ecologists confirmed badger activity in the new habitat. This seamless transition ensured that:
- The client remained compliant with wildlife legislation.
- No project delays occurred.
- The development moved forward without legal risks.
- The badgers successfully adapted to their new artificial sett.
Why Choose Zirkon for Site Clearance & Ecological Works?
With extensive experience as site clearance contractors, Zirkon ensures that development projects proceed legally, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact. Whether you need tree clearance, habitat management, or wildlife mitigation, our team provides expert solutions tailored to your project needs.
Client:
Commercial LandownerLocation:
Birmingham, West MidlandsProject Value:
£30k + VATServices Provided
- Surveying
- Tree Removal
- Badger Sett Closure
- Artificial Badger Sett
Duration:
2 Weeks
“This project was a great opportunity for ZIRKON to showcase our experience within this environmental sector. The project was a great success and a survey of the artificial sett revealed the badgers using it shortly after installation.”
