An ecological designer is an ecologist who has specialist skills in translating ecological survey data into practical habitat creation designs. Since the mandatory biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirement came into force under the Environment Act 2021, ecological designers have become a key part of the development team for most new planning applications in England. They design the native planting schemes, wildflower meadows, hedgerow networks, pond systems and green infrastructure that enable developers to demonstrate a 10% improvement in biodiversity value and secure BNG approval from the local planning authority.
What they do
- Design native planting schemes and habitat creation for BNG compliance
- Prepare habitat management plans for 30-year BNG monitoring periods
- Design green infrastructure and wildlife corridors for development sites
- Specify locally native provenance seed mixes and plant species
- Design pond, wetland, hedgerow and woodland creation schemes
- Advise on biodiversity net gain metric calculations
- Review and comment on landscape architect planting schemes for ecology
- Support pre-application discussions with local authority ecologists
When you need one
An ecological designer is needed for development projects requiring biodiversity net gain, or where planning conditions specify ecological planting or habitat creation.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Ecological planting scheme | £700 - £2,500 |
| Habitat management plan | £600 - £2,000 |
| Green infrastructure design | £1,000 - £4,000 |
| Native wildflower seeding specification | £400 - £900 |
| Ecological design review of landscape scheme | £500 - £1,500 |
| Hourly rate | £65 - £110 / hr |
Costs increase with site size and complexity. Large strategic development sites requiring comprehensive BNG strategies and green infrastructure masterplans will be at the upper end or beyond these ranges. The 30-year habitat management plan must account for ongoing monitoring costs in addition to the design fee.
Qualifications to look for
Chartered ecologist status (MCIEEM) is the professional standard for ecologists in the UK. Ecological designers should hold MCIEEM and ideally have a demonstrable portfolio of BNG and habitat creation design projects. Check membership at cieem.net.
Some ecological designers hold dual MCIEEM and CMLI membership, reflecting a combined ecology and landscape design background. This combination is particularly valuable for integrated BNG and landscape design.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an ecologist and an ecological designer?
An ecologist surveys and assesses wildlife and habitats. An ecological designer uses ecological principles to design habitats and landscapes that support biodiversity. The two roles often overlap in professionals who do both survey work and habitat design.
What plants are used in ecological design?
Native species are preferred as they support the most invertebrates and therefore the widest range of wildlife. Locally native provenance seed and plants - from the same region of the UK - are specified for habitat creation to preserve local genetic diversity and ecological function.
What is a habitat management plan?
A habitat management plan is a document specifying how created or enhanced habitats will be managed over a 30-year period to maintain or increase their biodiversity value. It is required by most planning authorities as a condition of biodiversity net gain approval under the Environment Act 2021.