Pragmatic ecological solutions for all your planning needs
About Essential Ecology
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Essential Ecology is an independent, Worcestershire based ecological planning consultancy which provides a wide range of high-quality ecological services from conception through to completed development on small to large scale projects across the UK. With over 10 years of experience, Essential Ecology is committed to helping you navigate environmental legislation, conduct ecological surveys and provide sound ecological advice to achieve pragmatic and effective solutions in line with best practice guidance.
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Habitat and botanical surveys form a key part of ecological assessments both in terms of terms of understanding the type and value of habitats present, as well as to inform biodiversity net gain assessments. We regularly undertake habitat surveys of a wide range of habitat types throughout the UK and have vast experience in extended Phase 1 Habitat survey and extended UK Habitat Classification surveys. Where sites support notable habitats, we are also able to offer detailed botanical surveys such as National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys and ancient woodland surveys.
Protected Species Surveys
Habitat and Botanical Surveys
Protected Species Surveys
The need for protected species surveys is typically identified during the initial habitat survey and recommendations are largely based on availability of suitable habitat and the species range. Essential Ecology is highly experienced in undertaking a range of protected species surveys in line with best practice requirements and holds a number of survey licences for European protected species. Our team regular undertakes bat surveys, badger surveys great crested newt surveys, reptile surveys and more.
Mitigation and Licensing
Mitigation and Licensing
Protected Species Surveys
Where important habitats or protected species are recorded at a site there is a need to implement effective mitigation strategies. Our team of highly skilled professionals is committed to helping clients navigate complex legislative requirements and implement effective mitigation strategies to minimise impacts. Where European Protected Species are involved, we have a proven record of success when it comes to obtaining the required licenses from regulatory bodies, such as Natural England.
Biodiversity Net Gain
Mitigation and Licensing
Biodiversity Net Gain
The biodiversity net gain legislation for England requires a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity for most major planning applications. The aim is to ensure a development will result in more or better quality natural habitat than before. It is important to involve an ecologist as early on in the project as possible to understand biodiversity net gain requirements which may include the Statutory Metric, Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans. Our team of highly experienced ecologists is proficient in undertaking preliminary and detailed biodiversity net gain assessments of all complexities.
Reports
Mitigation and Licensing
Biodiversity Net Gain
Our team prides itself on providing accurate, well-written reports efficiently in order to meet all your planning needs. We are able to provide a whole range of ecology reports in line with best practice guidance and tailored to the requirements of the site. Commonly required reports include Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), species-specific reports, reports (such as bat reports), reports to discharge planning conditions and more.