Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)

The primary objective of a PEA is to assess the ecological features present, or potentially present, within a site and its surrounding area, in relation to a specific proposal. We offer PEAs for a range of projects.

This service includes an in-depth desk study prior to visiting the site to identify basic initial information regarding the site and the surrounding area; providing an indication of the habitats and species likely to be present and identification of any designated ecological sites within the zone(s) of influence for the proposal. The desk study is followed by a walkover survey of the site which includes an assessment of the possible presence of protected species, or the likely importance of habitat features that could support protected species, a conditional assessment of the habitats present (usually with an accompanied habitat map) and recordings of any further ecological features, species observations or signs. A report is provided to present the findings of the desk study and walkover survey, alongside any likely ecological constraints, possible mitigation measures, recommendations for further surveys required, and any potential or necessary ecological enhancements. The findings of the PEA can be reported in different ways depending on the scope of the works.

Some Local Planning Authorities refer to PEAs as a Wildlife Report or Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey. These mean the same thing.