BREEAM Ecology Assessments

Preparation of ecology reports for BREEAM, including site inspections and advice on achieving and maximising ecology credits in line with BRE guidance, both pre- and post-construction.

We provide BREEAM ecology assessments and reporting to support development projects in achieving and maximising ecology-related credits under the relevant BREEAM scheme and BRE guidance, helping project teams work towards and secure their target BREEAM rating. This includes ecological site inspections and technical advice at both pre-construction and post-construction stages, helping to establish a clear ecological baseline, identify opportunities for biodiversity enhancement, and ensure ecological measures are integrated effectively into the design and delivery of the scheme.

Our services include completion of the BREEAM ecology calculator, preparation of the required Landscape and Habitat Management Plan (LHMP), and ecological advice on habitat protection, retention, creation, enhancement, and long-term management. We provide support across the relevant ecology issues, including LE 02, LE 03, LE 04, and LE 05, and can advise on practical, achievable measures to help secure available credits and support the project’s overall BREEAM target. We also undertake post-construction BREEAM visits to confirm delivery of ecological measures on site, assess implementation against the agreed proposals, and provide the evidence required to support final BREEAM assessment and certification. This provides clear, proportionate, and defensible ecological input to help demonstrate compliance and deliver meaningful biodiversity improvements alongside wider sustainability objectives.

Ecological Services

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

Using the Defra Biodiversity Metric, we assess the biodiversity value of habitats and linear features before and after development to determine net loss or gain. This establishes a robust baseline and identifies how habitats can be retained, enhanced, replaced or created to achieve measurable biodiversity improvements and wider ecosystem benefits.

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)

We undertake Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and detailed habitat surveys for urban, suburban and rural sites. All surveys are carried out in accordance with recognised guidance and legislation, providing clear advice on ecological constraints and the need for further survey work.

Protected Species Surveys

Targeted surveys for protected and notable species including bats, birds, badgers, dormice, water voles, otters, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates, using appropriate methodologies and seasonal survey windows.

Ecological Impact Assessment & Mitigation (EcIA)

Assessment of the ecological effects of development proposals, including PEA and EcIA, with advice on mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures. We provide defensible ecological evidence for planning, appeals and public inquiries.

Shadow Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA)

Advice and ecological input to HRA screening and appropriate assessment, including evaluation of potential impacts on European designated sites (SPA, SAC and Ramsar), identification of likely effects and development of avoidance and mitigation measures.