The national award from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) recognises best practice across the ecology and environmental management profession.

Chalksole Farm is a flagship BNG project transforming 33 hectares of formerly intensively managed arable and pastureland.

Located between two parcels of ancient woodland within the Lydden, Alkham and Swingfield Woods SSSI, the project was designed to create and enhance habitats at a landscape scale across the North Kent Downs, delivering 233.49 area-based biodiversity units and 26.42 hedgerow units by year 30.

The project was developed collaboratively by Biodiverse Consulting, landowner John Newbury, Natural England and Dover District Council, combining ecological evidence and local land management expertise to deliver a high-integrity approach to nature recovery.

Vicki Mordue, Managing Director of Biodiverse Consulting, said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to receive the award for Large-Scale Project Mitigation, Compensation and Enhancement. We were up against some impressive projects, so we’re all the prouder of what we have achieved together.

“John Newbury came to us with the ambition of creating the most ecologically meaningful habitat bank possible in the North Kent Downs, and Chalksole is the result of that ambition, realised through the passion, expertise and collaboration of Biodiverse Consulting, John, Natural England and Dover District Council.

“Taking a collaborative approach has not only brought John’s vision to life but has made Chalksole a much stronger project by bringing together valuable perspectives and expertise.”

Chalksole Farm was formally registered on Defra's Biodiversity Gain Site Register in March 2025 and has already unlocked BNG solutions for 17 local developments.

The project's impact extends beyond the site, with Chalksole hosting farmers, practitioners and international visitors to share learning and encourage ambitious habitat creation elsewhere.