About Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)
This is the standard baseline ecological survey required for many development projects. The survey typically includes a desk top study, a single site survey, habitat mapping and classification, lists of higher plant species present and invasive species survey. Where appropriate it will also include badger survey, water vole survey, a preliminary bat roost assessment etc. and any other survey that can be completed during a single site visit at the appropriate time of year. The collection of robust and accurate habitat and species data, along with historical site research and its ecological evolution, allow us to make a thorough evaluation of each site’s ecological significance and context / importance within the wider landscape.
Our Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) Services
Our PEAs are undertaken by highly experienced surveyors who have many years experience surveying the full suite of UK habitats, including; coastal, wetland, grassland, woodland, moorland, heathland, farmland and urban environments. In addition to detailed habitat mapping, recording plant species and protected species surveys / issues, we have, through years of experience, developed a deep intrinsic understanding of these habitats, their origins, key components, evolution and management in the UK landscape.
With the aid of National, County / Local guidelines and other recognised tools, we are able to accurately evaluate the significance of these habitats and therefore the sites that we survey. These surveys can be applied at any scale and on any site throughout the UK, from major linear projects such as proposed pipelines or roads crossing considerable distances, right down to the small plot and residential garden scale.
Examples of our work with Preliminary Ecological Appraisals
BAE Systems Ltd
We have undertaken numerous PEAs associated with the Government Enterprise Zone and associated developments at the former Salmesbury aerodrome site and BAE Systems Warton, Lancashire site. These surveys have informed ecological management planning for the sites habitats and floristic diversity, improving breeding habitat for important ground-nesting birds and other protected species such as great crested newts.
Chorley Borough Council
We have undertaken PEAs of the Council’s Local Nature Reserves including Withnell and Hic Bibi. Currently we are undertaking PEAs in relation to major flood defence schemes within the Borough.
United Utilities Plc
Numerous PEAs are undertaken in relation to site remediation and water treatment works throughout the North-West region, including Manchester Ring Main and the Thirlmere, Haweswater aqueducts.
Lancashire County Council
PEAs across the county in relation to major road infrastructure projects, sale of land assets for future development, re-development of school sites and strategic land planning.
Taylor Wimpey Plc
PEAs of residential development sites across Cheshire and Lancashire.
PEA Case Study
Gleeson Homes, Deer Park, Carlisle
A PEA was undertaken for a proposed housing development in Carlisle. The study identified a number of ecology issues requiring more detailed surveys and assessment. These included great crested newt surveys and bat activity surveys. Bat roosts were confirmed and a requirement for a European Protected Species Licence application.
Blackburn With Darwen Council, Chapels North, Darwen
One of a number of sites surveyed for Blackburn Councils Development Team relating to major economic, housing and infrastructure projects. A complex mosaic of habitats were mapped and evaluated. The site supports Japanese knotweed which was subject to a comprehensive on-going control programme undertaken by Pennine Ecological along with 15 other sites across the Borough.
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If you would like to discuss how Pennine Ecological can help you, please get in touch with us.