Why is an ecological appraisal survey needed?
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) survey is needed to determine what habitats are present at a site, assess the likelihood of protected species being present and inform the developer of any constraints. This preliminary survey can be used to inform the planning process as well as any further survey requirements where necessary. This survey provides information which a Council can use to determine a planning application and in some cases impose conditions on planning permission.
What is a PEA survey?
A PEA survey includes a site walkover and Phase 1 habitat survey to assess the habitats and their potential importance for nature conservation. During the walkover, signs of protected species are recorded and any evidence is collected. A desktop study is carried out prior to and after the survey and this provides supporting information which can include nearby protected species records and any priority habitats which could be impacted.
Seasonality
A PEA can be completed year round but winter months are considered sub-optimal for surveying plant species because some are not actively growing.
Who can do the survey?
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) states that PEA surveys should be carried out by qualified and experienced professionals with an understanding of nature conservation legislation and planning. An inexperienced surveyor could result in planning refusal and costly delays.
Survey cost
Ecological appraisal prices are from £400 inc. VAT – please enquire for a quote here.
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