Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is the practice's most important area of work. We have been undertaking EcIAs since 1989. Recent projects for which we carried out EcIAs include hotel and leisure resorts, golf courses, roads, a housing and business park and a fishery, plus motorways and opencast coal sites in the last 10 years. We have also commented on the content and quality of EcIAs on behalf of local authorities, community groups and conservation trusts.
nature conservation evaluation of habitats and species
work with team during design phase to avoid sensitive features
drawing up measures to mitigate adverse effects
assessing residual impacts
preparing EcIA chapter for Environmental Statement
Here is a link to a vegetation survey we carried out in a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which was used to in the shaping of a golf course design which retained the most sensitive vegetation types.
A very important part of the process is working closely with client, designer and other environmental professionals, while development plans are drawn up, to reduce impacts on sensitive habitats and species and build in effective mitigation and enhancement.
Subsequent involvement has included giving evidence as an Expert Witness at Public Inquiries, preparing and implementing Habitat Management Plans, Ecological Monitoring and Ecological Clerk of Works service.
