Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

Our Preliminary Ecological Appraisals identify important habitats, protected species and other ecological constraints at an early stage, helping projects avoid delays and unnecessary survey costs.

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, commonly known as a PEA, provides an initial assessment of the ecological features present, or potentially present, within a site and its surrounding area.

A PEA is often the first ecological assessment undertaken for a development, land-management project or proposed change of use. It can identify potential ecological constraints early enough for them to be considered in the project design and programme.

Richard Green Ecology’s Preliminary Ecological Appraisals normally include:

• A review of the proposed works and available project information
• A proportionate search for designated sites, protected species records and other relevant biodiversity information
• A walkover survey using UK Habitat Classification
• Mapping of habitats and important ecological features using GIS
• Assessment of habitat suitability for protected and notable species
• Identification of priority habitats and ecological networks
• Recording of invasive non-native species where relevant
• Identification of further survey or assessment requirements
• Initial advice on avoidance, mitigation and enhancement measures

The survey area is based on the likely zone of influence of the proposal rather than simply the application boundary. Features outside the site may therefore need to be considered where they could be affected by lighting, noise, hydrology, access, pollution, habitat fragmentation or other indirect effects.

What happens after the appraisal?

Where sufficient information is available, the PEA may conclude that no further ecological work is required. In other cases, it will identify the detailed habitat or species surveys needed to support design, planning or licensing.

A PEA is a preliminary assessment. It may not provide enough information to determine a planning application where detailed botanical or protected-species surveys, Ecological Impact Assessment, Biodiversity Net Gain calculations or Habitats Regulations Assessment are required.

Many ecological surveys are seasonally constrained. Undertaking a PEA early can therefore help avoid delays to a planning application or construction programme.