Biodiversity Baseline Assessment: Surveys and Guidance

Biodiversity baseline assessments in the UK are a vital tool for understanding and preserving local species and habitats. These assessments involve the collection and analysis of data on species, habitats, and ecosystems within a defined area, providing a comprehensive view of the current state of biodiversity.

Biodiversity baseline assessments are being requested more frequently by Local planning authorities to inform planning applications. The aim is to demonstrate how the proposed development will be of benefit to biodiversity in a measurable manner.

Biodiversity net gain also acts as a planning condition as well as a policy requirement for planning consent. It can, therefore, have a significant impact during the decision making process of planning authorities when they debate whether to grant or refuse a planning application.

What is the biodiversity baseline assessment process?

Biodiversity baseline studies involve several key steps that are designed to document the variety and abundance of species, habitats, and ecosystems in a specific area. This process provides a detailed understanding of the current state of biodiversity, serving as a reference point for future comparisons and conservation planning.

Ecologists will review existing data, reports and research relevant to the area to gain an understanding of the site. Following this, they will then conduct field surveys to collect primary data on species presence, abundance, as well as habitat types and conditions.

After the biodiversity baseline data has been analysed, the findings will be compiled into a comprehensive report to clearly establish a biodiversity baseline. This report can be used to monitor and track changes in biodiversity on the site over time and can also establish whether any mitigation measures or further surveys may be required.

How can Collington Winter assist?

At Collington Winter, our team of ecologists and land managers have helped numerous clients over the years. Biodiversity is something that we are qualified and experienced in, and we can offer advice on your development project. We are determined to offer you the support you need both pre and post development in order to reach the required mandatory biodiversity net gain bracket.

Our Ecology Director, Olivia Collington, holds a Natural England license. Feel free to contact us using the details below if you would like to find out more about good practice principles of biodiversity baseline assessments.