Planning Applications

Ecological SUPPORT for Planning Applications

Our particular expertise is obtaining planning permission for our clients. We recognise that no two developments are ever the same and our tailored approach to projects ensures our clients receive a personal, professional, and efficient service every time.

Local planning authorities have legal obligations to take nature conservation into account when determining planning applications. This includes assessing the potential for protected species (such as bats and reptiles) as well as possible impacts on nearby sites designated for nature conservation on an international (SAC, SPA, etc), national (SSSI) or local scale (e.g. SINC).

Our Senior Ecologists all have a minimum of 10 years experience as ecological consultants so you can be guaranteed of the best advice. Our ecologists maintain the highest level of expertise through research and advisory roles and are appropriately skilled, trained and licensed giving us a competitive edge to other consultancies. 

In addition to undertaking smaller schemes, we also provide the ecological input for EIAs and for the masterplanning of large projects. 

We believe in providing rapid and cost-effective solutions for our clients while never compromising on quality.

Ecology: Often last but not least. We can help!

The first published Phase 1 Habitat Survey map. CAD design has come a long way since then!

If left too late, ecological issues could have a significant impact on the progress of your planning application. However, with early planning, it is usually possible for issues to be resolved to allow your planning applications to proceed without delay. Hampshire Ecological Services will ensure that your local authority receive the correct information on first submission, saving you time and money

An initial assessment, also known as a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) or extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, will identify any potential for protected wildlife on your site and we will inform you of the most appropriate way to proceed with your application. Early assessments reduce delays and keep costs to a minimum. Hampshire Ecological Services offer a prompt and efficient service, working with your requirements to a high professional standard to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In some cases, a 1APP Biodiversity Checklist, Ecosystem Services Statement (ESS) or Nutrient Neutrality assessment must be submitted with your planning application. These should be completed by a qualified ecologist and we are always pleased to complete at highly competitive rates. Not all local authorities in the UK have made these forms as explicit as they should be – causing much frustration to applicants who submit applications in good faith, only to find them rejected on the grounds of insufficient ecological information.

We also undertake Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Appropriate Assessment (AA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) screening for larger schemes affecting European designated sites (i.e. SPAs and SACs).

Contact us to see how we can help you with your planning application today.

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