Ecology Surveys – Ecological Consultants
Elmhurst Energy & ECMK Accredited Assessors
Services available nationwide. Fast-Track available.
Save up to 50% compared to private building control companies
48-hour turnaround from the site visit
Ecology Surveys for Planning Success
Our range of ecology surveys is designed to meet the diverse requirements of local councils and help you secure planning permission for your development proposal. Our ecology consultants are industry experts with years of experience, committed to providing high-quality services at cost-effective prices for all clients.
Ecology surveys come in various categories, each serving distinct purposes. However, the common outcome of any ecological assessment is providing the necessary evidence to local planning authorities to support planning applications.
With over a decade of experience serving clients throughout the country, our development project team has encountered and successfully resolved a wide range of challenges related to ecological features, protected species, planning applications, and the development process.
Ecological Survey and Assessment
In an ecological survey, a trained ecologist meticulously examines the site, taking note of critical habitats and species present at the time of assessment. This survey identifies potential constraints caused by protected species on-site, ensuring that development proposals aren’t delayed due to ecological concerns.
Our ecology consultants use a mitigation hierarchy to determine the best course of action for existing habitats and ecological conditions. This hierarchy prioritises avoidance, ensuring that valuable habitats are retained without harm. If avoidance is not possible, we opt for minimising harm by adjusting development plans. Restoration or rehabilitation is the third option, where part of the site is altered to restore its original condition. The last resort in the hierarchy is offsetting, where we compensate for biodiversity losses by creating new habitats and natural assets outside the development site.
As a final step, our ecological consultants draft a comprehensive report. This report includes observations about the site, identified ecological features, and recommendations for further survey work, providing local authorities with the necessary information to support planning applications.
Get an Ecology Survey Quote
Ready to get started? Contact Focus 360 Energy today for a comprehensive Ecology Survey quote. Our online system makes it easy to schedule an assessment, and our team of ecology consultants will guide you through the process.
Objectives of an Ecological Survey
To complete a successful ecological assessment, our ecologists follow several key considerations:
- Conduct a prior desk study to gather information on existing animal and plant habitats.
- Undertake field surveys to identify present animal and plant habitats.
- Consider potential constraints to development caused by animal and plant habitats.
- Determine whether further surveys are required.
- Formulate appropriate mitigation and compensation measures to allow development to proceed despite the presence of animal or plant habitats.
- Develop reports as evidence of ecological surveys taking place.
- Assist in any European protected species licence (EPSL) applications to Natural England / Natural Resources Wales, if required.
- Ensure compliance with UK legislation, planning requirements, regulator guidelines, environmental policies, and the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP).
The Importance of an Ecological Survey
Ecological surveys play a pivotal role in property and land development for several reasons. They are essential in satisfying local planning authorities’ nature conservation policies, ensuring that the minimum requirements for a successful planning application are met.
Protected species, such as badgers, barn owls, bats, birds, and various plants, are of particular concern. Legislation, like the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2019, the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, safeguards these species. Failure to address their presence can lead to legal repercussions.
Additionally, ecological assessments contribute to achieving biodiversity net gain (BNG) on the site. BNG is a planning policy that requires a 10% minimum increase in biodiversity quality post-development compared to pre-development. By addressing ecological impact early in the development process, developers can meet these requirements and ensure planning success.
Ready To Enquire?Â
We specialise in all aspects of energy efficiency. View our other services to see how we can help you elsewhere with your project.Â
Ecology Surveys for Planning
Ecology assessments provide a comprehensive analysis of a proposed development site. They help bridge the gap between developers and their obligations to ecological and environmental management, ensuring that environmental targets set by local authorities are met.
Ecological surveys also identify ecological constraints and impact on rare, valuable, or delicate protected habitats, allowing developers to plan and mitigate environmental impact effectively.
Ecology Surveys for Developers
While it’s the developer’s responsibility to arrange an ecology survey, our ecological consultants, with their expertise, manage the process to ensure the inspection and additional surveys are conducted correctly.
Protected species found on-site are carefully assessed, and any issues caused by development are addressed. This guidance helps developers avoid legal breaches and progress their projects successfully.
Ecology Reports at Focus 360 Energy
At Focus 360 Energy, we specialise in ecology reports and ecological consultancy services. With our extensive experience and expertise in the field, we’re dedicated to providing clients with the necessary information to support their planning applications.
Our approach prioritises environmental responsibility, addressing the needs of both the developer and the ecosystem. We ensure that ecological surveys are conducted with care and accuracy, resulting in thorough reports that meet all regulatory requirements.
Our team of ecology consultants is ready to assist you in every step of your planning application process. From initial surveys to final reports, we’re here to make the path to planning success as straightforward and efficient as possible
Book Your Ecology Survey for a Greener Tomorrow
Are you ready to turn your eco-friendly vision into a reality?Â
It all starts with an Ecology Survey.Â
At Focus 360 Energy, we’re here to guide you on your journey towards sustainable development.Â
Our experienced ecology consultants are committed to helping you meet local planning authority requirements and environmental responsibilities. Invest in your future, where development coexists harmoniously with nature. Book your Ecology Survey now.
Related Content
Guide to Party Walls and SAP
Your Ultimate Guide to Party Walls and SAP Have you ever wondered how the concept of party walls and the intricate calculations of SAP intertwine to create energy-efficient homes? Well, wonder no more, because in this comprehensive guide, we'll unravel the mysteries...
Focus Insights: Understanding SAP Ratings
Imagine stepping into a home that not only radiates warmth and comfort but also champions energy efficiency, lowering your carbon footprint. In this blog post, we'll explore the realm of SAP Ratings, unraveling the secrets to crafting an energy-efficient haven that...
The Guide to Finding Your SAP Assessor
This article is your comprehensive guide to finding the perfect SAP Assessor. We'll demystify the role of a SAP Assessor, why they are crucial for assessing and improving energy efficiency, and spill the secrets on finding the ideal one for your needs. But first,...
Guide to Party Walls and SAP
Your Ultimate Guide to Party Walls and SAP Have you ever wondered how the concept of party walls and the intricate calculations of SAP intertwine to create energy-efficient homes? Well, wonder no more, because in this comprehensive guide, we'll unravel the mysteries...
Focus Insights: Understanding SAP Ratings
Imagine stepping into a home that not only radiates warmth and comfort but also champions energy efficiency, lowering your carbon footprint. In this blog post, we'll explore the realm of SAP Ratings, unraveling the secrets to crafting an energy-efficient haven that...