A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (sometimes called an 'Extended Phase 1 Survey') is a scoping / constraints assessment that is carried out at an early stage in the development of a plan or project. This process usually involves:
- Reviewing existing desktop information and conducting a brief site inspection
- Identifying and evaluating any potential ecological constraints (e.g. protected areas, structures that may be used by bats)
- Consulting with relevant public authorities (where appropriate)
- Assessing whether any additional surveys or reports may be required
Preliminary appraisals of this type are often conducted for large public developments that have iterative design processes, such as national road projects and Strategic Environmental Assessments of development plans. However, an increasing number of P.E.A.s are now being requested as an elective measure to assist with the design and planning of smaller private developments. Project managers often find that it gives them greater control during the design of a development, and can help to avoid nasty surpises late in the planning process, such as onerous planning conditions, requests for further information, or third-party objections.
Overlap with other ecological reports
The P.E.A. is usually issued directly to the client as an internal report. If any ecological reports are required by the planning authorities, the P.E.A. can easily be adapted into an Ecological Impact Assessment, Natura Impact Statement / Habitats Directive Assessment, BREEAM Ecologist's Report or Protected Species Survey. If no ecological constraints are identified, the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal report can also be submitted to the planning authority to demonstrate that ecological issues have been considered.
If you would like a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal please contact us for a quote or further advice.