Why You Need an Ecology Survey Before Planning Permission

Planning a new housing estate, commercial building, or road?
You’ll likely need an Ecology Survey to identify protected species and habitats before proceeding.

Failure to address ecological concerns can block or delay planning applications.

When Is an Ecology Survey Required?

You will usually need one if:

• The site includes trees, hedgerows, ponds, or grassland
• Development might disturb bats, badgers, newts, reptiles, birds
• It’s near designated nature reserves or protected areas

Local councils insist on up-front surveys to protect biodiversity.

Types of Surveys We Offer

• Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)
• Protected Species Surveys (bats, reptiles, amphibians)
• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments

We also assist with Invasive Plant Management if Japanese Knotweed or other species are present.

🌳 See our full Arboriculture services too — often needed alongside ecological reports.

FAQs

Q: When should I commission an ecology survey?
👉 As early as possible — ideally during the first design stages.

Q: How long do surveys take?
👉 Some species (like bats) require seasonal surveys between April–October.

Don’t Risk Planning Delays

Get your ecological assessments done early and professionally.
👉 Speak to our ecology team today.