A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal makes up a part of the planning process, As the Planning Authority are required to take into account biodiversity value of a site, this will be in the form of a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal which follows in accordance with The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) PEA Technical Guidance.
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal is also known as:
- Phase 1 Habitat Survey
- Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
- Ecological Walkover Survey
- Ecological Scoping Survey
- Baseline Ecology Survey
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal comprises two distinct parts, one desk based, and one field based. These are:
1. A desk study to search for records of any protected species or habitats within the area, this investigated by contacting the Local Biological Record Centre and in office investigations.
2. A walkover of the site to evaluate and map the habitats present and to assess any suitability for protected species such as great crested newts or bats.
The site survey and the desktop study which makes up the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal will identify if any further surveys are required as this is important not just in terms of the law but in timing as there is seasonal constraints of many protected species.
