Does My Planning Application Need an Ecological Report?

When submitting a planning application, protecting biodiversity is a statutory duty for local planning authorities. Whether you’re planning a barn conversion or a large-scale housing development, your application will likely require ecological information about your site, along with strategies to mitigate impacts and enhance biodiversity.

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A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) provides the essential information you need to identify, protect, mitigate, or enhance biodiversity, ensuring compliance with relevant wildlife legislation and policies.

 

When Should I Obtain a PEA?

The best time to arrange an ecological appraisal is at the very beginning of the planning process, before finalising your site design. Early assessments allow biodiversity considerations to be thoughtfully integrated into your plans, avoiding delays in your application process.

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Although appraisals may be undertaken throughout the year, conducting surveys between March and September is generally preferred, as this period allows for more thorough outcomes. Seasonal limitations outside of these months may require additional surveys, potentially leading to extended project timelines.

 

What Can I Expect from a PEA

A PEA is a thorough assessment of habitats and wildlife on and around your site. Our ecological appraisals cover:

• Site Survey: Using Phase 1 Habitat Survey methods, we map key habitats—hedgerows, watercourses, mature trees, grasslands, woodlands—and identify any field signs relating to protected species.

• Desk-Top Study: We review historic biological data and records of protected species and locations of designated sites, either within or in proximity to the development site.

• Non-native invasive plant species identification: We identify and record the location(s) of any invasive plant species, such as Japanese knotweed or Himalayan balsam, and outline your environmental obligations.

• Expert Advice: We provide mitigation strategies and biodiversity improvement recommendations based on the findings of the site survey and desktop study.

• Comprehensive Reporting: Our detailed reports include findings, compliance guidelines, maps, and supporting data for planning authority submissions.

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Additional surveys for protected species (e.g., bats, birds, and otters, etc.) may be required, depending on seasonal requirements. For larger projects, these appraisals set a baseline for master plans or Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), providing robust support for your application.

 

Key Biodiversity Considerations for Planning Applications

While each site is ecologically distinct, they share common considerations:

 

Designated Wildlife Sites:

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are prime wildlife conservation areas.

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are protected areas for birds in the UK.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Local Nature Reserves (LNRs).

County Wildlife Sites.

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Protected and Other Key Species:

Bats, badgers, otters, and water voles.

Nesting birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

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Who Is Qualified to Conduct a PEA?

Engaging a qualified ecologist to assess your site and deliver expert advice tailored to your application is of paramount importance. An experienced consultant can conduct a comprehensive PEA and advise on any additional surveys that may be necessary.

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Involving Northern Insight Ecology at the earliest stage of your planning process helps mitigate delays, minimise unforeseen challenges, and ensures your project remains compliant with environmental regulations.