Environmental

We provide a full range of ecological services, with a focus on enhancing biodiversity and supporting sustainability.

Our Services

What we do

As one of the UK's only rail-dedicated environmental contractors, our years of industry-specific and ecological expertise gives us a unique insight into the habitats and associated challenges that come with managing the lineside estate.

Consisting of experienced and CIEEM-accredited ecologists, we provide a full range of environmental services with a focus on enhancing biodiversity and supporting sustainability.

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is a survey that is typically undertaken prior to the development of a site. The aim of the PEA is to collect data on the existing site ecology, identify any protected species present, and assess the potential impact of the proposed development.
Protected Species Surveys

Protected Species Surveys

Many species, such as birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians and certain plants, are protected by UK and European law. Our licensed ecologists provide a wide range of surveys to establish the likely presence or absence of a protected species.
Habitat Management Plans

Habitat Management Plans

Our team collaborates with Network Rail and other stakeholders, including local authorities, trusts, and other organisations, to design Habitat Management Plans that preserve and enhance the lineside habitats, consider local conditions and comply with relevant legislation.
Invasive Weed Surveys and Remediation

Invasive Weed Surveys and Remediation

Our Property Care Association (PCA) accredited surveyors and technicians develop treatment strategies and management plans for all non-native invasive and harmful species.
Environmental Clerk of Works (ECoW) services

Environmental Clerk of Works (ECoW) services

Our practical and knowledgeable ECoWs provide invaluable guidance on how to manage potential risks to biodiversity while overseeing the delivery of works.
Habitat Creation and Enhancement

Habitat Creation and Enhancement

Aside from our experience in planning and designing habitat creation and enhancement schemes, we also oversee site works, such as the creation of woodlands, hedgerows, and wildflower meadows, so our clients can rest assured that the project will turn out successfully.
GIS Habitat Mapping

GIS Habitat Mapping

Our team of experienced GIS analysts and ecologists uses the latest GPS technology and ESRI ArcGIS to create high-quality maps showing habitat distribution according to the UKHAB classification.
Network Rail Kent habitat trials

Enhancing biodiversity - The Kent Lineside Habitat Trials

Since 2020 the COOMBES environmental team have been involved heavily in the Kent lineside habitat trials. The project aims to create a network of habitats that can support a variety of species and provide a safe, healthy environment for them to flourish, with the hope that the findings from these trials can be applied to both the wider Southern Region and nationally.

COOMBES Environmental

Meet the team

Craig MillsCraig Mills

Craig Mills

Environmental Manager
Elizabeth Boxall QCIEEMElizabeth Boxall QCIEEM

Elizabeth Boxall QCIEEM

Junior Ecologist
Joanna EastmanJoanna Eastman

Joanna Eastman

Environment Administrator

How we work

What makes us unique?

Rail focussed

As one of the UK's only rail-dedicated environmental contractors our years of industry-specific and ecological expertise gives us a unique insight into the habitats and associated challenges that come with managing the lineside estate.

Single-source integrated services

With in-house expertise in forestry, civils, vegetation management, and on-track plant, we have the ability to self-deliver a wide range of works. This diversity of capabilities allows us to provide comprehensive project management and reporting, as well as flexible, resilient, and real 'out-of-the-box' innovative solutions to our clients.

Collaborative and helpful

Effective collaboration and open communication with our clients and supply chain are essential to the success of every project. By working closely and being honest with our clients, we can better understand their needs and goals, overcome challenges and achieve the best possible results.

Experienced & Knowledgeable teams

Our team is made up of experienced professionals who are committed to getting the job done right. We invest in upskilling our team, so they have the knowledge and expertise to complete projects efficiently and effectively. We believe in the power of an informed and knowledgeable team, and we take pride in our commitment to providing quality service.

Our Accreditations

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