Ecological Surveys & Evaluation

Standardised methods and competent, experienced staff ensure a cost-effective and consistent approach to site assessment and ecological surveys. Our staff, including members of our dedicated Ecology Survey Unit, are highly experienced and professionally qualified. A focus on continuing professional development ensures that all staff continue to receive appropriate training throughout their careers. Operating within IEEM guidelines our approach is professional and tuned to the specific requirements of our clients. We have a reputation for high quality work with the statutory agencies including Natural England and the Environment Agency and Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that enables us to find beneficial solutions.

As well as terrestrial survey assessment RPS also have aquatic survey assessment expertise covering the main biological quality indicators for the Water Framework Directive.

Ecological surveys we undertake include:
  • Site scoping – including Phase 1 Habitat survey and protected species scoping.
  • Detailed surveys – great crested newts, bats, badgers, reptiles, water voles and other protected species, Phase 2 National Vegetation Classification (NVC), ornithology and invertebrates.
  • Specialist ecological surveys – invasive weeds and animal pests, marine and costal habitats, river habitat, lake habitat, aquatic invertebrates and aquatic macrophyte surveys.
  • Monitoring, mitigation, construction, operation and post-construction environmental management plans, site and species surveillance.
Under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, each Planning Authority has a legal duty to consider conservation of species and habitats in all of their decisions. There are steps that can be taken before submitting a development proposal that can increase the likelihood of success, saving both time and money, and ensure that the UK law for the protection of wildlife is not contravened. For further information on Biodiversity reporting requirements and how RPS can assist you please refer to the document below.

Biodiversity and Planning Applications PDF