Phase 1 Habitat Surveys

Phase 1 habitat surveys form the foundation of what we do.  They are generally required to accompany a planning application, and form the basis for further work if necessary on a site.

Standard guidance is always followed in conducting these surveys, which usually comprise the following format:

1. Desk Study - Existing records are requested from one of the many local/regional biological records centres.  This helps set the ecological scene, allowing an assessment of the likely ecological issues for the site in question.
2. Site Survey – A standard Phase 1 survey is undertaken (JNCC 2004), which aims to map the flora and habitats on the site. We extend this process to include an assessment of the habitats on site to support protected species.
3. Report - A report is produced outlining our results, discussing any ecological issues that may be present on site. We then make recommendations to overcome these ecological issues.

By collecting robust information during the Phase 1 survey, JFA ensure that not only is this sufficient to support a planning application, but that the results can also be used, where required, to inform a Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH) / BREEAM assessment.  This is by far the most efficient way to incorporate all the preliminary ecology work to support an application.

JFA always note opportunities for ecological enhancement that can arise out of the development proposals.  This follows current and emerging policy on biodiversity, and is also a CfSH requirement.