Wildlife Harm & Ancient Woodland The development breaches recommended buffer zones for ancient woodland and veteran trees . Security fencing cuts wildlife corridors , trapping and isolating animals. The scheme also risks fragmenting ancient woodland habitats , which reduces resilience and species diversity, contrary to Natural England’s standing advice on ancient woodland. The scheme prioritises mitigation over avoidance, which is contrary to national and local policy The developer’s claimed “biodiversity net gain” is theoretical — dependent on planting that will take decades to mature. 22