About us

Dale is an Associate Ecologist based in FPCR’s Exeter office, with more than 20 years of experience in ecology, planning and countryside management. He specialises in ecological impact assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and the delivery of ecological advice for complex development projects.

Dale has worked in ecological consultancy for over 12 years and played a key role in establishing and developing FPCR’s Exeter office. He also brings valuable public sector experience, having held Principal Ecologist roles within Local Planning Authorities, where he advised on planning applications, Biodiversity Net Gain delivery, habitat banks and strategic ecological planning. His responsibilities included supporting the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Executive Committee, contributing to the updated South East Devon European Site Mitigation Strategy and undertaking ecological assessments for Local Plan site allocations.

Holding an MSc in Environmental Consultancy and a BSc (Hons) in Conservation Ecology, Dale provides specialist advice on Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Habitats Regulations Assessment and protected species mitigation. He has particular expertise in addressing complex ecological constraints associated with designated sites, including functionally linked land, recreational impacts and air quality considerations.

At FPCR, Dale leads and supports a wide range of residential, mixed-use, renewable energy and habitat delivery projects, including habitat banks and Environmental Land Management schemes. He advises project teams on planning strategy, mitigation design and Biodiversity Net Gain, while also undertaking technical review, quality assurance and mentoring within the ecology team.

His project experience includes major residential developments, renewable energy schemes, habitat banks and a wide range of commercial, agricultural, minerals and waste developments. Alongside his planning and assessment expertise, Dale maintains a strong interest in botanical and ornithological survey work, with extensive experience of habitat assessment, breeding and wintering bird surveys, and ecological monitoring.