Ecology Services for Planning and Development 

Why Work With HCUK Ecology? 

Clients choose us for: 

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Straight-talking expertise 
We give clear opinions, not caveated reports that avoid conclusions. 

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Thorough, proportionate work 
Our ecological services are detailed and policy-aware but never over-engineered. 

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Commercial awareness 
We understand viability pressure and tight programmes. 

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Senior-led delivery 
Experienced consultants lead your project from start to finish. 

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Partnership approach 
We work as part of your team - from early ecologist survey work through to CEMP delivery and long-term BNG compliance. 

Cross-Disciplinary Ecology Services 

Ecology rarely exists in isolation. 

​Our ecology services sit alongside heritage, archaeology, landscape and arboriculture expertise. 

That means: 

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• Joined-up advice 

• Reduced risk across disciplines 

• Fewer surprises during planning 

• Clearer communication across your project team 

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For developers and planners managing multiple constraints, this integrated approach simplifies decision-making. 

Speak to Our Ecology Team 

If you need environmental surveys, a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment, a Construction Environmental Management Plan or broader ecology services, speak to our team. 

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We will give you clear, practical advice on the next steps and help you move forward with confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and when do I need one? 

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is usually the first step in assessing a site’s ecological constraints. It combines a walkover survey and a review of existing data to identify habitats, protected species risk and likely survey requirements. 

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You typically need one before submitting a planning application - and ideally at acquisition stage. Early clarity reduces the risk of delay and redesign later. 

How do I calculate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for a development? 

BNG is calculated using the statutory biodiversity metric, which measures habitat value before and after development. 

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This involves a baseline habitat survey, metric calculations and designing mitigation or enhancement to achieve at least 10% net gain. Assessing BNG early gives you flexibility in layout and helps avoid expensive off-site solutions later. 

What protected species surveys are required for planning? 

Survey requirements depend on what is present - or likely to be present - on your site. 

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Common surveys include bats, great crested newts, birds, reptiles and badgers. Many are seasonally restricted, so identifying them early is critical to avoiding programme delays. 

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A PEA will confirm what is required. 

How early should I engage an ecology consultant? 

As early as possible - ideally at due diligence or concept stage. 

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Early ecological input helps you understand constraints, programme surveys correctly and factor BNG into layout before costs escalate. Late engagement increases the risk of redesign and delay. 

What’s included in a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP: Biodiversity)? 

A CEMP sets out how habitats and species will be protected during construction. 

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It includes protection measures, timing restrictions, mitigation requirements and site responsibilities. Local authorities often require one to discharge planning conditions. 

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A clear, practical CEMP helps avoid on-site delays and compliance issues. 

How long can ecological surveys delay a project? 

It depends on the species involved. 

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Some surveys can be completed quickly. Others, particularly bat and newt surveys, are limited to certain times of year. 

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If identified early, surveys can usually be programmed without affecting delivery. If identified late, they can delay applications by several months. 

HCUK Group is a Registered Practice of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), specialising in the management of change within the historic environment, as well as specialising in larger residential and commercial schemes across England.  We offer a variety of ecological services across the UK, including baseline Preliminary Ecological Assessments, protected species surveys, Biodiversity Net Gain advice and calculations, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Habitat Regulations Assessments. Our ecologists are full members of CIEEM and hold a number of protected species licences.