Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal is usually the first stage of a site assessment and provides an evaluation of the baseline habitat conditions and potential to support protected species. The main aim of the assessment is to determine whether any further surveys and mitigation measures are required.
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The PEA follows the standard format, documented in a final report:
- Assess the baseline conditions by using the phase 1 habitat survey guidelines (JNCC 2010)
- Assess the potential for the presence of protected species, such as the presence of ponds, ancient woodland and hedgerows
- Identify any potential constraints to the site
- Identify if further protected species surveys are required or if further specialist vegetation surveys are necessary
- Provide an assessment of the habitat’s ecological importance
- Provide recommendations for reducing impacts or highlighting the potential for significant ecological impacts
- Identify potential enhancement opportunities
- Habitat mapping and the identification of notable features
- Photographs of the site
The PEA report provides recommendations for further detailed surveys that might be required to support an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA).
