Richard joined David Clements Ecology in 2011, having previously worked as the county ecologist for one of the South Wales authorities.

Whilst at the Council, he provided ecological advice to all departments, officers and members; developing an excellent understanding of how local government processes work and why and how biodiversity needs to be considered.

Richard has a detailed knowledge of national and local planning policy and strategic planning as well as development control - having provided advice to the planning authority, screened planning applications and requested and commented on survey work submitted by developers.

Richard has also been an active member of regional and national biodiversity forums and was involved in sub-groups looking at connectivity issues and development of the SINC/wildlife sites system in South Wales. He also co-ordinated his county’s local biodiversity action plan on BARS and represented the South Wales LBAPs on the Wales Biodiversity Partnership Steering Group (the adviser to the Welsh Government).

As well as a strong legislative, policy and planning background, Richard has practical experience in Phase 1 and hedgerow surveys and more detailed survey work for dormice, reptiles, great crested newt and breeding, wintering and nesting birds. He holds CCW licences for work with great crested newt, dormouse and barn owl.

Outside of work, Richard is a keen birder and volunteered for a time as the secretary of the Glamorgan Bird Club. Richard is also a supporter of SEWBReC – South East Wales’ Local Record Centre.

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