Biodiversity/ Ecological Surveys
The Green Business Centre is able to provide a wide range of biodiversity/ecological surveys delivered by trained ecologists to support you in advancing your development process, minimising any environmental impacts and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Ecological surveys are required to inform planning applications, by identifying habitats and species (including protected species) within the area of a proposed development. The earlier an ecological survey is carried out in the planning process the better, as it can help decrease costs, delays, avoid complications and ensure compliance with legislation. Proposed developments can include the modification, demolition, conversion, construction or removal of buildings and structures.
Biodiversity Action Plan
A Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) is a plan developed by an organisation to both protect and enhance the biodiversity of environments over which they have control. UK public bodies are legally required to conserve biodiversity, and a BAP is one popular method of ensuring compliance. The Plan includes an assessment/inventory of habitats and species present, aims, objectives and targets, opportunities and risks, an action plan and notes on monitoring and continuous improvement. The Green Business Centre can prepare a Biodiversity Action Plan for your organisation. Please contact for further information.
Phase 1 Habitat Survey/Extended Survey
A Phase 1 Habitat Survey identifies and maps habitats and features of importance to wildlife. They can also provide recommendations for any further surveys that may be needed. Firstly, a site survey is carried out, followed by a Phase 1 Habitat Map which details the different habitat types and site components, and to conclude an Ecological Assessment Report is completed. Based on the conclusions of the report, recommendations can be made to avoid or reduce the impact of development and on how to introduce enhancement measures.
Ecological Impact Assessment
An Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is used to assess the potential significant ecological effects of a proposed project/development. The information derived from the assessment is used to produce an EcIA report. This report can form part of an Environmental Impact Assessment or chapter in an Environmental Statement.
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) provide an overview of the habitats and ecological features present at the site and of the likelihood of finding rare or protected species present. PEA reports are based on Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey data.
Protected Species Surveys
In the UK it is illegal to disturb or cause the damage/death of any protected species and their habitats. As a result, a licence may be required before any developments can go ahead and mitigation strategies may need to be put in place. These surveys are carried out where a Phase 1 Habitat Survey has found evidence of protected species or habitats that could support protected species. They typically require repeat surveys to confirm the likely presence/absence of a species and to identify the size of any populations present. Protected Species Surveys can include surveys for bats, great crested newts, badgers, otters and many more.
Environmental Impact Assessment
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is carried out to assess the potential environmental impacts of public or private projects. It ensures that all potential environmental impacts arising from a project/development are properly considered. Discussions with local planning authorities should be entered into as early as possible to determine whether an EIA is required
To find out more, please contact the Green Business Centre via phone on 02920 344049 or via email at info@greenbusinesscentre.org.uk.