leading ecological consultancy in the uk
Oxfordshire based and working UK-wide, Ecology by Design have 16 years’ experience in all areas of ecology.
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What is a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?
A preliminary ecological appraisal also commonly known as a ‘phase 1’ or ‘phase 1 habitat survey’ is part of an assessment undertaken to inform a planning application to gain planning permission. A phase 1 is a type of ecology survey that involves assessing the habitats on a site and quite often is combined with an assessment for the potential of protected species to be present on site such as bats or great crested newts and a search of historic records of species in the area.
The combined surveys including:
Phase 1 survey;
protected species assessment; and
biological records search
are then used to produce a preliminary ecological appraisal report to submit with your planning or listed building consent application. It can also be a useful initial survey when buying a site or considering a strategy for when and what additional species specific surveys may be needed such as a detailed bat survey.
We are often asked ‘how much does a preliminary ecological appraisal cost?’ this can vary depending on the size of the site and ease of access but often is most cost effective when undertaken by an experienced local survey. We are also often asked ‘can you do a preliminary ecological appraisal near me?’, the answer is yes and we would be excited to work with you utilising our local surveyor to complete the work effectively.
Who Ecology by Design Are
We are a highly respected team of ecologists with an enviable track record of delivering outstanding projects based on sound science and robust practical solutions.
The business has grown from humble roots in Oxfordshire to working across the UK with an outstanding team of experts who can help you maximise the benefits of your project.
How We work
Contact us to discuss your project
We will be thrilled to discuss your project with you and agree a suitable approach, explaining everything along the way. We will send you a no obligation quote for to your peruse at your leisure.
work our magic
If you are happy all you need to do is complete the commission form sent with your quote and we will arrange survey dates so we can jump straight onto your project. Our clients are our life blood so expect to receive amazing customer service.
What we deliver to you
We will discuss the survey findings with you, agree a pragmatic, elegant solution that satisfies your requirements, meets legislative or planning needs and then deliver a bespoke report to you in a timely manner.
““Ecology by Design are a brilliant practice - we have worked together on many projects, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the team for any Ecology needs. One of the best things however is that these guys are very down to earth and a great bunch of people who are a pleasure to engage with.”
- Hannah Smart, Edge Urban Design”
Ready to remove the risk from ecology?