Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) are the baseline survey level required to support a planning application and they form the baseline for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) calculations using the Statutory Metric. 

PEA comprise a rapid assessment of the ecological features present, or potentially present, on a site and in the surrounding area. The surveys can be carried out at any time of year although some habitats may require further assessments during the optimal survey season for that habitat. PEA reports will advise if further surveys for protected fauna species are required prior to submission.

Switch Ecology have extensive experience carrying out PEA's to support planning applications and for use as a baseline for BNG calculations. To simplify the BNG process, where applicable, we carry out habitat assessments using UKHab V2 classifications, although habitat assessments using JNCC classifications can be carried out on request.