Gain an understanding of the range of protected plant and animal species found on and in historic buildings and their sites. Obtain guidance on current wildlife protection legislation, the importance of biodiversity, and implications for the management of historic sites including survey and work windows and potential funding streams.

Flora and fauna contribute to the aesthetic appeal of sites and are valuable educational resources. The course looks at flora and fauna of historic structures and their settings, how to use vegetation to protect exposed, ruined wall tops (“soft capping”), and how to cope with “problem” and invasive species. The course includes illustrated lectures and local site visits within the West Dean estate including the Devil’s Jumps Scheduled Monument and Local Nature Reserve, the environs of the private Victorian railway station and West Dean Gardens. It also includes unique access to a bat hibernation site accompanied by a licensed bat handler.

This course is intended for anyone engaged in the conservation and management of historic buildings and sites, from building professionals, architects, surveyors, engineers, to contractors and site managers.

West Dean College is pleased to offer a 10% discount for IHBC staff and members – use code IHB010 when booking.