What is a Phase 1 Habitat Survey? Ecological Appraisals may be required as a planning
condition before a site can be developed. Any ecological work should be factored into
the project's time-scale at an early stage of planning to avoid possible delays
due to seasonal constraints for survey work. Our ecological appraisals are based on Natural England's (formally JNCC's) Phase 1 Habitat Surveys which map out existing habitats using standardised codes. This 'Extended' Phase 1 Habitat Survey provides a description and record of species of conservation concern (e.g. protected species) and suitable habitat for such species using target notes to identify such areas. A desk based study is usually undertaken to acquire information about the site and the surrounding area involving liaison with the Biodiversity Records Centres (BRCs) and local wildlife groups. This will help to understand the dynamics of the site in a wider ecological context and will often pick up on constraints that may not have been obvious with just a walk-over survey alone. The Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading System (HEGS) is included as part of the Ecological Appraisal which is a standard procedure for assessing ecologically valuable hedgerow habitat. The outcome of an Ecological Appraisal will determine the requirements for additional ecological work if necessary. If no ecological constraints are found then further work may not be required. if you require an Ecological Appraisal, contact us and we will be happy to help, alternatively if you require a species specific survey, follow the link below: |  |
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Phase 1 Habitat Surveys (Extended) |