Ecological Habitat Surveys

Southern Ecological Solutions carry out a variety of different ecological surveys including Scoping Surveys and Phase 1 Habitat Surveys. There are four baseline surveys that can be taken to obtain ecological information – they include: ecological desk study, ecological scoping survey, Phase 1 habitat survey and the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey. Each ecological survey can be carried out independently or combined to supplement one another.

Desk Study

This is the common starting place for ecological assessments as it looks for records of protected species and habitats that are available online, or provided by biological records centres and protected species groups. It does not involve a site visit although can be and is often combined with either the ecological scoping survey, Phase 1 habitat survey or the extended Phase 1 habitat survey.

Ecological Scoping Survey

This survey is often undertaken to supplement the desk study. It involves a detailed walkover of the study area to identify any potential ecological constraints, which are scoped and noted. The constraints highlighted by the ecological scoping survey maybe the potential for legally protected species or habitats to be present on site, which can be supplemented with the results of the desk study. This baseline ecological information is often the minimum requirement of the local planning authority when determining or registering planning applications.

Phase 1 habitat Survey

This survey maps the natural and semi-natural habitats present on site and follows JNCC guidance. This survey records plant species within each habitat type and also discusses the potential for legally protected species and habitats to be present within the site. A colour coded habitat map is produced which allow rapid visual assessment of the extent and distribution of different habitat types. This survey is a requirement of code for sustainable homes assessments and can be coupled with desk studies.

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

An extended Phase 1 habitat survey is based on Phase 1 methodology and but is a more detailed survey than the Phase 1 habitat survey or ecological scoping survey. Target notes are produced, providing detailed habitat descriptions and also identifying precise areas with the potential to support legally protected species and habitats and thus requiring further survey if affected by development.

The Next Step for your Project

The desk study, ecological scoping survey, Phase 1 habitat survey and the extended Phase 1 habitat survey allow baseline ecological information to be collected for your site. Depending on the nature of your site we can determine which is the most cost effective and robust option for your project. To discuss your requirements please Contact us or call on 01268 711021.