Its ok, you can say it … not newts again!
Ecology can seem like a real drag when bringing forward a site. It is possible, however to minimise disruption and cost and turn ecology into planning gain via early consideration of ecology survey requirements.
If ecological interests are identified late in the day, requirements for surveys can have a very tangible impact on project timescales and costs. Certain surveys can be undertaken at any time of year, but many are subject to seasonal constraints which can slow submission and construction programmes.
We are now fast approaching the start of the season for many species and it is therefore an excellent time of year for developers and their agents to consider their ecology survey needs for the year ahead and ensure that key survey windows are not missed.
When to survey?
Some species can only be identified when they are active (fauna) and above ground (flora). For others, multiple surveys may be required which may need to be spread throughout the survey season. This spread of information is needed to provide sufficiently robst data to inform a planning application.
Early instruction of ecology surveys maximises opportunities to combine survey effort at a site, thereby minimising project costs, helps to avoid any last minute requests for survey data from planning authorities and, in many cases, can identify simple and low cost opportunities to provide planning gain using ecological enhancement.
Our timetable for ecology surveys, shown here, sets out the suitable periods for the most commonly requested surveys. We will be very happy to help you to identify any specific requirements for your site. If we can be of assistance, please give us a call on 0117 923 0455 or contact us via email at enquiries@thelandmarkpractice.com
