Ecological Assessment & Planning Support

Ecological assessment is used to identify and assess potential effects of development on biodiversity and to inform planning and regulatory decision-making. In the Western Isles, assessments often need to consider designated sites, protected species and sensitive habitats at an early stage to ensure proposals are appropriately designed and supported.

Atlantic58 provides ecological assessment and planning support for a range of development and land management projects. We are experienced in guiding projects through the full ecological planning pathway, taking a thorough and precautionary approach that helps ensure potential issues are identified early and addressed proportionately. This reduces the risk of delays later in the planning process and provides confidence that all relevant ecological considerations have been appropriately covered.

Ecological assessment services include:

• Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)

• Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)

• EIA screening and scoping support

• Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) screening

• Provision of information to inform Appropriate Assessment

• Assessment of cumulative and in-combination effects

• Ecological inputs to Environmental Statements and technical appendices

• Planning condition discharge and post-consent ecological support