Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
Why might you need a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is most often the first step in ecological assessment of a site. If you have been asked for an ecology survey, walkover or extended phase 1 survey, this will usually be what is required. In some cases the preliminary ecological appraisal may be all that is required for a planning application, however it will usually identify potential constraints and allow recommendations for further survey work to be made, such as for protected species.
Commissioning a preliminary ecological appraisal for your project at as early a stage as possible is recommended, as this allows us to input into site design, identify key constraints and avoid costly delays by allowing you to plan for additional survey work to be carried out, which can be time constrained depending on the types of survey required.
What should you expect to happen?
The preliminary ecological appraisal will involve a desk study, to assess aerial imagery and carry out consultation with Local Records Centres as needed. We will also carry out a site visit to map habitats present on site, using industry accepted methodologies of a Phase 1 Habitat Survey. We will also assess the site for potential presence of protected and otherwise notable species and make recommendations for additional survey work required in order for your development to be legally compliant.
Initial feedback will be provided promptly, following the survey, followed by a draft ecological report. This report can be updated iteratively with results of additional surveys and impact assessment and mitigation requirements updated as the site design evolves. More information on this process can be found on the Ecological Impact Assessment page.
When can surveys be carried out?
The optimal time of year is in the spring and summer to coincide with key botanical growing periods, however preliminary ecological appraisals can be carried out at any time of year.
What experience do E3 have?
All members of the E3 team can carry out preliminary ecological appraisals to a high standard, covering a broad range of sites, no matter how small or large. The company has worked on almost 5000 projects since its formation, with preliminary ecological appraisal forming the key initial step in the majority of this work.
