A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is usually the first step in assessing the ecological value of a site and is required for most smaller planning applications involving the development of land. Larger developments may require an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) .

The PEA consists of a standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey; a walkover of the site (at any time of year) to record habitats present and search for signs of important plant and animal species. The potential of the site to support legally protected species such as badgers and bats and invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed is assessed.

A report is produced suitable for submission to the planning authority, meeting all current best practice guidance (BS42020:2013[i]; CIEEM, 2013[ii]) and including digital GIS maps to make ecological constraints and opportunities at the site clear. The report will include a preliminary impact assessment and advise on mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures. It will make clear what is needed prior to submitting to the planning authority; advising on particular working methodologies, timings and any further species surveys required. Implementation of these measures will ensure the development meets current planning policy and legislation requirements in order to gain planning permission, whilst seeking to deliver maximum biodiversity gain.

It is important to commission a PEA as early as possible to ensure any follow-on surveys can be undertaken promptly. Surveys for protected species can be season-dependent; often within the period May to September

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[i] BS42020:2013 Biodiversity — Code of practice for planning and development. BSI Standards Limited 2013

[ii] CIEEM (2013). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. [Insert external link: http://www.cieem.net/data/files/Resource_Library/Technical_Guidance_Series/GPEA/GPEA_April_2013.pdf].