Birchall Properties set ambitious ESG targets for their fully consented PEAK Gateway project, located on 300 acres of reclaimed land just outside the eastern perimeter of the PEAK District National Park.
The Booth Group were selected for this contract because of our strong alignment with the client’s core values and our own track record in delivering efficient, environmentally beneficial projects. After a rigorous vetting process, we were well-positioned to meet the high standards expected by the client.
For over two decades, The Booth Group has consistently challenged the status quo in the land construction industry, prioritising sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact without compromising cost efficiency. We believe good practices not only preserve the environment but also reduce costs – making sustainability a win-win for both the planet and the bottom line.
Drone Image Of The Development Area Of PEAK Resort
Empowering Teams with Sustainable Knowledge
Integrating sustainability across every aspect of our operations, from environmental preservation and biodiversity to pollution control, and waste management. These are embedded into our training programmes and empower our teams with the knowledge needed to align our shared goals, driving projects forward with a unified commitment to sustainability.
On projects like PEAK, the ability to demonstrate and deliver innovative environmental solutions were key to winning the contract. Our successful track record includes projects such as the restoration of the Mersey Gateway Bridge salt marsh, where we recycled hundreds of thousands of tonnes of material and created new habitats in a tidal area. This required both creative problem-solving and meticulous planning to overcome environmental challenges.
What excites us most about projects like PEAK is the challenges they present. The reclaimed site, previously used for open-cast coal mining and landfill, demands detailed geotechnical assessment to fully understand the properties of the land. By combining our expertise with professional insights, we have developed innovative solutions that not only enhance the projects delivery but also improve its economic viability.
HVO fuel will be utilised in all plant and machinery at the PEAK Resort Development
Carbon Reduction and Nature Gains: A dual Focus
Beyond technical expertise, the client required a focus on minimising carbon emissions and enhancing nature gains throughout the construction process. Earthmoving operations are among the largest contributors to carbon emissions on construction sites, especially on large sites like PEAK. In response, we have implemented comprehensive measures to track and reduce our carbon emissions including:
This real-time tracking allows us to continually measure our carbon footprint and identify further for reduction.
Efficient project planning and material management have been crucial in reducing machinery usage and lowering costs, ensuring sustainability remains at the forefront of every decision.
The Booth Group worked closely with Birchall Properties to ensure our methodology aligned with the client’s vision and the planning approvals for the PEAK scheme. We used historical data and ground investigation reports to tailor our approach and enhance the commercial viability, ensuring that we remained in lockstep with the client’s objectives.
Example of Carbon Tracking Dashboard
Nature Gains and Protection
The scale and historic land use of PEAK provided a unique opportunity for a significant biodiversity net gain. While the 30acre cleared works site represents just 10% of the reclaimed estate, The Booth Group is collaborating with the client to maximise the biodiversity improvements across the entire estate. These efforts will be publicly reported as part of our commitment to transparency and accountability.
In addition, we have established Work Exclusion Zones (WEZ) to protect sensitive habitats, such as badger sets, trees, hedgerows and watercourses. With the Birchall exclusion zones stretching over 2km long, we ensure these areas remain undisturbed, preventing legal violations and safeguarding biodiversity.
Given the increased focus on water management and flood alleviation, managing surface water impact on site is crucial. We’ve developed a comprehensive surface water management plan included in our Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), to ensures that all surface water is intercepted, and local watercourses remain protected from pollution or silting.
Conclusion
At The Booth Group, sustainability is not just an add-on—it’s woven into the fabric of everything that we do. Through thoughtful project planning and innovative solutions, we’re committed to reducing carbon emissions and delivering lasting value for our clients, the environment, and the communities we serve. The lessons learned from Peak Gateway Resort will continue to shape the future of construction, setting a new standard for how projects can be both environmentally responsible and commercially successful.
By helping the UK Government achieve its mission-driven approach to sustainable growth, we strive to contribute to broader societal and economic growth, ensuring that every project we undertake aligns with the principles of long-term sustainability and responsible development.
...It Shouldn't Cost The Earth
