Orange sunset sky with structure silhouette

Ecology, planning & landscape design

Clear, practical ecological assessment and nature-friendly landscape advice to support planning applications and better outcomes for wildlife and people.

What we offer

We provide ecological and landscape advice, ideas and practical solutions to support proposals and planning applications. We advise on relevant legislation and present the required information in clear, concise reports.

Woodland stream and bridge
Design

Landscape design

Client-led schemes combining practical layouts with nature-friendly planting and thoughtful design.

Wildflower meadow planting
Portfolio

Project portfolio

A selection of ecological, landscape and planting projects across public and private sites.

We are also happy to advise on other aspects of nature conservation where required.

Service detail

Ecological Management Planning

An Ecological Management Plan sets out the strategies and measures required to manage and/or mitigate ecological impacts associated with a specific project, activity or organisation. These plans are commonly required for large-scale developments, industrial activities and infrastructure projects where there may be significant impacts on habitats or wildlife.

Ecological Management Planning can also be valuable for smaller-scale land-use changes, such as creating space for nature or setting out how conservation aims and objectives will be achieved through the long-term management of a site.

Preliminary Ecological Assessment (PEA)

A Preliminary Ecological Assessment has two main purposes: to identify any ecological constraints associated with a proposed development, and to identify opportunities for habitat creation or enhancement.

For many sites, a PEA provides a sufficient and comprehensive assessment of potential impacts, mitigation and enhancement measures, and is often all that is required to accompany a planning application.

Ecological Impact Assessment (EIA)

An Ecological Impact Assessment is often carried out following the findings of a PEA and is required to evaluate the likely ecological effects of a proposed development.

An EIA establishes whether habitats, wildlife or protected species may be affected by a project and includes details of site survey findings and data collected. It also helps to identify measures to avoid or minimise biodiversity loss.

EIA reports can be shared with stakeholders and third parties to ensure all involved have access to up-to-date and accurate information. Where necessary, we can also provide mitigation measures to offset any unavoidable ecological impacts.

Landscape design

Our landscape design services are client-led. We take your ideas and combine them with nature-friendly planting and thoughtful design to create spaces where people and wildlife can coexist in harmony.

Bespoke planting & seed mixes

Bespoke planting and seed mixes suited to local soil conditions. We help clients create pollinator-friendly flower beds, ponds, and nature-rich spaces designed for relaxation and wellbeing.

About

Long Meadow Ecological Consultants is a Manx business with strong local knowledge of the Island’s environment, legislation and planning system. Our expertise has been gained through many years of working with both the Manx Government and on private sector projects. Our strength lies in listening carefully to what clients need, offering clear and practical advice where required, and delivering work in a timely, concise and professional manner.

We support individuals submitting planning applications who are required to include an ecological assessment as part of their application. We can advise on what is needed, liaise with the Planning Department on the client’s behalf, and undertake the necessary survey work and report writing to meet planning requirements.

Our clients range from homeowners wishing to make small changes to their land or the curtilage of their home, to businesses looking to change the use of a site, manage land for wildlife conservation, or enhance their grounds for nature. This can include creating pollinator-friendly flower beds, ponds, or nature-rich spaces designed for relaxation and wellbeing.

Our landscape design services are client-led. We take your ideas and combine them with nature-friendly planting and thoughtful design to create spaces where people and wildlife can coexist in harmony.

Woodland stream and bridge

About us

We are a team of biodiversity and communication specialists with a shared passion for ensuring that the world’s natural resources are used sustainably.

Dr Erica Spencer

Dr Erica Spencer

Senior Ecologist

Member of CIEEM and the British Ecological Society. Extensive experience advising on environmental and ecological matters for the Isle of Man Planning Department, DEFA, Manx National Heritage, the Manx Wildlife Trust and local interest groups.

Philip Payne

Philip Payne

Landscape & planting

Horticultural Manager with over 25 years’ professional experience. Diploma in Horticulture, BSc (Hons) Landscape Management and Certificate in Garden and Planting Design. Specialises in planting design that extends flowering seasons and supports climate-resilient, wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Lydia Spencer

Lydia Spencer

Communication & Ecology

Experienced in supporting people to identify the best approach to achieve their goals. A part-time member of the team and also studying ecology, contributing up-to-date knowledge on emerging practices and initiatives.

Portfolio

This portfolio presents a selection of ecological, landscape and planting projects delivered across a range of contexts, including protected sites, historic landscapes, public land and private gardens.

Each project is shaped by its specific setting, with careful consideration given to ecological value, site conditions, long-term management and practical delivery. Our work combines clear assessment, thoughtful design and proportionate solutions that respond to both environmental objectives and client needs.

Projects range from ecological surveys and management planning to bespoke planting schemes and landscape interventions, with a shared emphasis on resilience, biodiversity and clarity of purpose.

Calf of Man Management Plan cover Commemorative stamps marking the 70th anniversary of the Manx National Trust

Calf of Man Management Plan

Preparation of the Calf of Man Management Plan for Manx National Heritage, alongside the accompanying written content produced to support the publication of commemorative stamps marking the 70th anniversary of the Manx National Trust.

Field surveys for Atlantic salmon

Atlantic Salmon Survey

Field surveys for Atlantic salmon carried out in collaboration with DEFA Inland Fisheries, contributing to the monitoring and management of freshwater habitats.

Shearwater in flight over sea

Ayres Nature Reserve Management Plan

Ecological surveys, including bird surveys, undertaken to inform the Ayres Nature Reserve Management Plan and support long-term conservation objectives.

Bespoke seed mix at Cregneash Village Flowering display from bespoke seed mix at Cregneash Village

Bespoke Seed Mix – Cregneash Village

Design and implementation of a bespoke seed mix for Cregneash Village, created to provide a long succession of flowering while supporting pollinators and reflecting the character of the historic landscape.

Woodland development plan

Woodland Development – Santon

Woodland development project focused on structure, species selection and long-term resilience, enhancing biodiversity while integrating with the surrounding landscape.

Garden meadow in Ballasalla

Garden Meadow – Ballasalla

Creation of a large garden meadow designed to maximise seasonal interest and ecological value, using carefully selected species suited to local soil conditions and ongoing management.

Contact

For a no-obligation chat or to arrange a meeting to discuss your project, please contact us:

Email: Longmeadowiom@hotmail.com  •  Phone: 07624 337670