Preliminary Ecological Appraisals

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) establish baseline conditions and evaluate the importance of any ecological features present (or those that could be present) within the specified site, as far as possible.

With regard to habitats and vegetation PEAs follow Phase 1 Habitat Survey guidelines as set out by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee of the UK.

The Appraisal will:

• gather baseline ecological data using Phase 1 Habitat Survey guidelines (JNCC 2010)
• make recommendations for detailed surveys where required
• identify key constraints to the project and make recommendations for design options to avoid significant impact on important ecological features
• identify any necessary mitigation measures
• identify enhancement opportunities
• aid site management plans by mapping out ecological features
• inform any Code for Sustainable Homes/BREEAM (Land use and ecology credits) reports

The results of baseline appraisals will often form the basis for more detailed or specific ecological surveys, and for the setting of site management objectives.

The PEA can be used as a standalone report or used to inform an outline impact assessment or even a full Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)/Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

It is important to note that most, if not all, planning applications will require an assessment of ecological effects. In most cases a PEA will not provide all of the information required by the regulatory bodies to determine a planning application, but it will be helpful in informing a developer of the key ecological constraints, design options, requirements for further surveys and mitigation measures. It can also be useful in providing a basis for consultation with the determining authority and other stakeholders.