Three black bin liners containing dormouse monitoring tubes have been discovered dumped in the hedgerow beside a public right of way in Skates Lane near Tadley.
The incident, reported to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council as fly-tipping, has raised questions about environmental practices linked to the proposed development of up to 245 houses and a convenience store on the site.
Residents, including a borough councillor, said the discarded tubes resembled those used during ecological surveys conducted by James Blake Associates (JBA) for Bewley Homes, but both JBA and Bewley firmly deny any wrongdoing.
A spokesperson for James Blake Associates stated that all dormouse surveys on the site had been conducted "in accordance with best practices" outlined in The Dormouse Conservation Handbook (English Nature, 2014).
"These surveys, which typically take approximately a year to complete, were concluded in early November and found no evidence of a dormouse population on the site," the spokesperson said.
“The survey tubes are checked once a month for approximately a year. If any damaged tubes are found during the checks, they are replaced or repaired on the spot. Only ecologists who have a dormouse class license are able to check or remove the tubes.
"As part of the survey process, dormouse tubes were used and have been safely stored on-site. These tubes are scheduled for collection during the week commencing 2nd December, as transportation arrangements requiring a van hire have been finalised. None of the tubes have been disposed of on-site, ensuring proper handling in line with established protocols.”
Matt Roberts, strategic land manager for Bewley Homes, said: "Bewley is committed to adhering to all necessary procedures and protocols, working closely with the Local Authority to ensure full compliance with ecological and conservation standards.”
Despite the assurances, residents remain concerned about the origins of the dumped tubes.
"During the Skates Lane study period a number of these were seen hanging vertically in the hedge," said Cllr Kevin Chatburn, who has been a campaigner objecting to the proposed development.
"They would be unlikely to show evidence of use in that position and I would think even less likely for this pile to show evidence of use by Dormice. Unless they have been positioned to provide hotel accommodation for dormice who will soon be looking to hibernate."
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has been contacted for a comment.
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