Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
What is a PEA?
- Identify the likely ecological constraints associated with a project;
- Identify any mitigation measures likely to be required;
- Identify any additional surveys that may be required to inform an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA); and
- Identify the opportunities offered by a project to deliver ecological enhancement.
When can a PEA take place?
A PEA should be undertaken as early as possible in the planning process to prevent unnecessary delays to your project. PEAs can be undertaken all year round, however, it is advised they should be conducted between April and September. If they occur outside this period, there may be seasonal constraints requiring additional surveys.
About our PEA service
A PEA generally comprises of a desk based assessment and an extended phase 1 habitat survey.
During the desk based assessment we collate data on statutory environmental designated sites (which are legally protected) including Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) etc. Local Development Plans are also searched for details on non-statutory environmental designated sites. A GIS map is then produced detailing the location of each site within the relevant study areas from the Application Site
We also contact the local biological records centre (for areas where these centres are present) to obtain details of locally designated sites for wildlife and existing records of protected and priority species in the vicinity of the Application Site.
R & D Ecology undertake PEAs in accordance with best practice guidance set by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management:
https://cieem.net/resource/guidance-on-preliminary-ecological-appraisal-gpea/
Our surveyors are all members of CIEEM.
Arrange a PEA with us today
Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your project requirements
