Park Gate, a flagship development by Vistry at Lea Castle, has received full Building with Nature accreditation, recognising its strong commitment to ecological sustainability and wildlife protection at the heart of the 600-home project.

The accreditation reflects Vistry's efforts to embed green infrastructure into every stage of the development, with a particular focus on enhancing natural habitats and supporting residents’ wellbeing. The site is surrounded by mature woodland that supports a wide variety of plant and animal life, and even the stormwater storage area has become a haven for rare dragonfly species.

Andy Peters, Managing Director for Vistry South West Midlands, said: "The Vistry team worked exceptionally hard at Park Gate to incorporate sustainable practices into this beautiful development, prioritising accessible green infrastructure.

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"It gives me real pleasure to see this development achieve such a prestigious accreditation, which can be summed up in the words of a resident who cited that the natural, woodland setting and the intention to protect and enhance nature were deciding factors in their decision to move to this site.

"I hope that our success at Lea Castle will inspire more initiatives to prioritise both environmental conservation and functional infrastructure."

The Park Gate development incorporates a wide range of green measures designed to support both the local ecosystem and community needs, including:

• Accessible green spaces and nature trails that encourage active lifestyles and foster a connection with nature.

• Wildlife habitats, such as bat barns and dormouse nesting areas, supported by ongoing ecological monitoring.

• High ecological standards, ensuring the design responds positively to the local landscape, urban character, and environmental priorities.

• Biodiversity enhancement, aimed at delivering a measurable net gain in biodiversity through careful planning, mitigation, and habitat restoration.

The development also includes a Landscape and Woodland Management Plan, which maps and protects key species and habitats across the site, ensuring long-term stewardship of the natural environment.