Ecology

Ecological surveys aren’t just part of being friendly to the environment – they’re often a legal necessity. We carry out a full range of ecological surveys, including Preliminary Ecological Assessments (PEAs) and Phase 2 protected species surveys.

These assessments cover species commonly found near rivers and canals — from bats and badgers to water voles and nesting birds. They’re designed to cover the requirements of planning authorities and licensing bodies.

If your project involves construction near a canal, river, or wetland, or has the potential to impact wildlife or vegetation, then yes — an ecological survey is likely required. We’ll help you understand what’s needed, when to do it, and how to stay compliant without holding up your build.

Key legislation includes:

• Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 — protects species and habitats from harm or disturbance.

• Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 — requires licences for work affecting European Protected Species (EPS).

If we find protected species like bats or water voles, we’ll advise on the necessary next steps — which may include a Phase 2 survey, licensing application, or habitat mitigation. Our team handles everything from reporting to implementing practical solutions, so your project stays on track.

Yes. We provide full support for ecological licensing — including Natural England applications, method statements, and mitigation plans. We also deliver practical site works, such as exclusion fencing or habitat creation, to meet planning conditions and ecological obligations.

As early as possible. Ecological factors, if not properly considered, can affect design, timing, and budget – especially when species surveys are seasonal. The last thing you want is to get through the design stage only to learn your site is a nesting spot for migratory birds.

We recommend getting a licensed ecologist involved during early planning stages to flag potential issues and develop a clear path to compliance.

That depends on the type of survey, the species involved, and the time of year. A PEA is typically completed within 1–2 weeks of the site visit. Protected species surveys may take 4–8 weeks or longer, depending on seasonal windows and species-specific requirements.

You’ll also need to consider the time of year. Different species are visible during specific periods, meaning you need to wait until the next active season if you miss them.