Dixon Terrace
Water vole activity found during pre construction surveys
Water vole activity was found during pre construction surveys at a social housing development site in Dixon Terrace, Whitburn. Burrows, droppings and footprints were found along the Cultrig Burn which marks the south western site boundary. An exclusion area was created to protect the water vole burrows where no heavy machinery was allowed or ground works were permitted.
An outflow for a SUDS pond with head wall had to be created, this ran within 7m of a burrow so a license had to be obtained to allow these works to be undertaken. We provided ecological advice and assistance with the licence application and on site guidance and advice when the works were undertaken. The outfall was successfully installed with no damage to the closest burrow or damage to any other areas of bank side vegetation which provides cover for the water voles.
Outfall creation adjacent to water vole exclusion
Water vole latrine with footprints
Netting on heras fencing to prevent water voles from accessing construction site
Water vole feeding