What is an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)?

An Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is the formal process used to identify, evaluate, and explain the likely effects that a proposed development may have on habitats, species, and ecosystems.

For landowners and developers, it is often a key requirement of the planning process. An EcIA provides the evidence a local planning authority needs to determine whether a project can proceed without causing significant ecological harm. It also outlines measures to avoid, mitigate, or compensate for any impacts.

When undertaken early, an EcIA becomes a tool for clarity rather than just compliance. It helps developers understand ecological constraints, identify opportunities for improvement, and plan responsibly.

An EcIA focuses specifically on the ecological aspects of a development. It looks at how a proposed development may affect:

• Habitats and vegetation communities
• Protected species, such as bats, birds, badgers or great crested newts
• Designated sites of local, national, or international importance
• Ecological networks and ecosystem services

The results are presented in an EcIA report, which accompanies a planning application and informs the Local Planning Authority’s decision.

It is important to see the difference between an EcIA and a statutory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). An EIA evaluates a wide range of environmental issues, such as traffic, noise, air quality, and landscape impacts, producing an Environmental Statement. An EcIA focuses solely on the ecological impacts a new site may have. Where an EIA is required, the ecological assessment forms a chapter within the Environmental Statement.

An EcIA is typically required when a development could have significant ecological effects. This often occurs when a project involves:

• Land with priority or sensitive habitats
• Presence, or likely presence, of protected species
• Proximity to designated sites of local, national, or international importance
• Proposed changes that could affect habitats, species, and ecosystems beyond the site boundary

The need for an EcIA is often identified during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA). This first stage usually includes:

• A desk study reviewing ecological records and designated sites in the surrounding area
• A Phase 1 habitat survey, sometimes even an extended Phase 1 habitat survey, to capture seasonal variation

If potential impacts are identified, further ecology surveys and a full EcIA are required to assess likely significant effects in detail.

The EcIA process is structured but proportionate. Its scope depends on the sensitivity of the site and the scale of the development.

Ecological consultants will typically take the following approach:

• Baseline data collection: desk study and field-based ecology surveys to understand existing conditions
• Evaluation of ecological features: assessing the importance of habitats, species, and ecosystems at local, national, or international levels
• Assessment of potential impacts: considering direct, indirect, and cumulative effects
• Design of measures to avoid harm: exploring layout adjustments and sensitive design solutions
• Mitigation and compensation: developing strategies when impacts cannot be fully avoided
• Assessment of residual effects: evaluating remaining impacts and opportunities for ecological enhancement

Avoidance is always preferred. Where impacts cannot be fully avoided, mitigation and long-term management measures help safeguard habitats, species, and ecosystems. All findings are compiled into a formal EcIA report submitted to the Local Planning Authority.

It is no secret that late or poorly timed ecological surveys can disrupt development projects and increase costs. If constraints are discovered after site layouts are fixed, projects may face progress consequences:

• Design revisions
• Delays due to seasonal survey windows
• Increased mitigation costs
• Planning approval uncertainty

Integrating an EcIA at the concept stage helps developers avoid these unwanted issues. Sensitive habitats can be retained, ecological networks can be strengthened, and Biodiversity Net Gain objectives can be incorporated from the outset rather than retrofitted at a later date.

An EcIA is therefore a framework for sustainable, policy-compliant development, not a barrier, and encourages a successful project.

Collington Winter Environmental works closely with developers and landowners to provide practical and informed ecological advice at every stage of a project. Our team supports the preparation of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, desk studies, and Phase 1 habitat surveys, as well as any protected species surveys that may be required.

We also guide clients through the preparation of full ecological impact assessment reports, helping to identify potential impacts, propose proportionate mitigation and compensation measures, and ensure compliance with planning requirements. Where relevant, we are also able to advise on Biodiversity Net Gain and help integrate ecological considerations into project design to support sustainable outcomes.

Combining our years of ecological expertise with practical landscape insight, we aim to deliver solutions that are both environmentally responsible and aligned with planning expectations, avoiding any risk of setbacks.

Please get in touch if you would like further information on ecological impact assessment reports or alternative ecological requirements for planning permission. You can contact us by calling 01024 939608 or by filling out our contact form on this page, where a member of our team will contact you at the earliest opportunity.