When clients initially approach us the first thing they often need to know is are there any significant ecological issues? Our scoping assessments provide a preliminary ecological assessment of a site to identify potential ecological constraints and opportunities for biodiversity and to inform decisions regarding further survey work.
Scoping studies are essential for projects that require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or that have an affect at a local or landscape scale. Small scale developments can also often need a preliminary survey, with planning applications requiring scoping surveys for bats in buildings that are being converted or renovated.
Scoping studies are supported by a detailed ecological desk study to identify notable or protected habitats and species that may be affected by the proposal and by thorough field survey to provide robust ecological information. Extended Phase 1 habitat survey techniques are employed for assessing, describing and mapping habitats and for evaluating a site’s potential to support protected species.
We follow the CIEEM Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal when undertaking ecological scoping surveys and subsequent ecological appraisals. Many local authorities publish their own guidelines for ecology surveys and we ensure that our ecological assessments adhere to standards set by the county.