London, 4th December, 2025
Global Ecology and Environmental Group has announced today the acquisition of Burton Reid Associates, a Devon-based ecological consultancy that delivers practical expertise to clients across the housing, development, construction, energy, education and planning sectors.
Founded in 2013 by Director Jenni Reid, Burton Reid Associates has established itself as a trusted partner for planning and development teams across the UK. The business has also been twice recognised as “Highly Commended” in the CIEEM Small Consultancy of the Year Award (2019 and 2022), testament to their skill and confidence in tackling ecological challenges.
The business is trusted by clients across England, including Bellway Homes, The National Trust, Ethical Power and local planning authorities across the UK, and they deliver services from protected species surveys to expert witness, which in turn expands Ecology Group’s client service offering.
Burton Reid Associates Founder and Director, Jenni Reid said:
“The Burton Reid team and I are absolutely thrilled to be joining Ecology Group. The opportunities this brings, to expand our services, work alongside other companies within the group, and combine our expertise so that we can all excel and grow, are hugely exciting.
We’re delighted to be part of a larger team of specialists, enabling us to diversify and respond collectively to the challenges and opportunities ahead. We can’t wait to meet everyone and do what we love most, collaborate.”
The acquisition of Burton Reid Associates is demonstrative of Ecology Group’s ambition to become a global leader in ecology and environmental consultancy, and this comes at a time of huge growth for Ecology Group, with this being one of four new acquisitions in the business’ first year of operation.
Ecology Group Chief Financial Officer, Chris Heyes said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Burton Reid Associates to Ecology Group, and at a time when we’re seeing such stark growth. The Burton Reid team bring a track record in collaborating with their clients to solve challenges with practicable ecological solutions. With their regional, sector, and service expertise, the team are a valuable addition to the Group.”
Ecology Group brings together specialist firms with strong foundations in ecology and environmental services to build on their existing success and impact by integrating them into the wider group, while valuing and preserving their unique expertise and services.
With this model, Ecology Group invests in the organic growth of each business they welcome into the Group with, providing the resources and support necessary to enhance their operations, expand their service capabilities, and extend their positive impact.
In the Spring of this year, Ecology Group announced the acquisition of MKA Ecology, an award-winning ecological consultancy providing expert solutions across the UK since 1998, and last week the business welcomed the bespoke environmental advisory firm, Earth Active and Living Earth, and the expert ecology and environmental consultancy, Johns Associates.
About Ecology Group
At Ecology Group, we know that ecological and environmental protection is no longer just a conservation issue, it’s a business imperative with 55% of global GDP dependant on nature.
This is why we’re combining best of breed consultancies to build a market leader in ecological and environmental services. We are committed to placing biodiversity renewal at the heart of our business. Our purpose-led approach ensures that every project we undertake contributes positively to the environment and helps foster sustainable ecosystems. This purpose-led commitment translates into high-value, sustainable strategies that benefit both our clients and the planet.
About Burton Reid Associates
Founded in 2013 by Jenni Reid, an Approved Building with Nature Assessor, Burton Reid Associates has grown into a trusted partner for planning and development teams across the UK. We’re proud to be a values-led consultancy, known for our practical expertise, collaborative approach, and deep commitment to delivering the best outcomes for both people and nature. Twice recognised as “Highly Commended” in the CIEEM Small Consultancy of the Year Award (2019 and 2022), we bring clarity and confidence to even the most complex ecological challenges.