Advance planning of ecology issues is critical to prevent delays both in achieving planning consent and to the overall build programme.
Legislation protects many species within the UK, and with different habits, habitats and characteristics, it isn’t possible to apply a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to surveying. Each species must be surveyed in accordance with industry guidance and standards and at the appropriate time of year, otherwise you risk rejection from consultees and stakeholder, which in turn risks the progress on your project.
If the correct ecological surveys are not undertaken at the correct time, a developer may be exposed to legal action and inordinate delays as well as potentially abortive work. It is therefore vital that a ‘correct-first-time’ approach is adopted to survey work.
Having an in-depth understanding, not only of environmental legislation but of the UK planning system too, is also vital to ensure the efficient delivery of projects without unnecessary delays.