PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL
A preliminary ecological appraisal is the first stage of a site assessment. PEA surveys are usually required to ensure development can be approved. PEA surveys, or Phase 1 Habitat Surveys, include an ecological desk study as well as a habitat survey.
PEAs form part of a wider impact assessment, and based on preliminary findings, the next steps will be considered. A specific protected species survey may be needed if evidence of a certain species is found.
Why do I need a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?
Phase 1 habitat surveys or PEA surveys should be carried out as soon as possible in order to ensure the development isn’t delayed.
Preliminary Ecological Appraisals can help to identify any features of ecological interest, which are required before any planning applications are submitted. A PEA survey and following EcIA help to ensure the best chance of planning approval, as they allow licenced ecologists to devise any mitigation measures necessary.
Book A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
Call Ecology by Design on 01865893346
PEA Survey from Licenced Ecologists
As an experienced ecological consultancy, we will share the findings from our preliminary ecological assessment in a detailed report that outlines the best way forward. This will offer insight into how to minimise or avoid ecological impact and preserve any protected species habitats wherever possible.
You can read more about preliminary ecological appraisals in our PEA guidelines.
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal reports include:
Evaluation of the nature conservation value of a site
An informed impact assessment
Mitigation recommendations
Compensation and enhancement where necessary
GIS Mapping of habitats (Phase 1 Habitat Map)
Photos of ecological features
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal report provides the following information:
Details about the habitats present on site
The species and potential species found on the site
The value and significance of the habitats and species on the site
The potential impact of development on those species and habitats
Any legal and planning policy issues
Ecology survey calendar
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal is often used to inform secondary surveys for protected species with seasonal constraints. Conducting a PEA with plenty of time can avoid costly setbacks and ensure your development can continue as planned. If evidence of species is found, planning permission will not be granted until all necessary steps have been taken. Be sure to check out our ecology survey calendar to find out the seasonal constraints for certain species.
What is included in the site survey?
A walkover or site survey involves recording every habitat on the site, noting features of particular interest.
A greater level of detail than Ecological Scoping
A map of habitats on site
Target notes detailing if habitat supports, or is likely to support protected or notable species
Detailed desk survey and site survey
Use of respected online sources
A detailed list of the plant species is created
You can read more about what’s included in a PEA survey.
Presence of protected species is determined, including the presence of:
We also check whether the site is potentially suitable for protected and important species, and recommend any extra surveys you may need such as a bat survey in order to comply with local and national planning guidelines.
