Ecological and geological assessments
Under section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006, local authorities have a duty to have regard for the conservation of biodiversity in the exercise of all of their functions. This means Birmingham City Council has a duty to consider the conservation of biodiversity when determining a planning application; this includes having regard to the safeguard of:
- Designated sites
- Priority habitats (as listed in section 41 of the NERC Act 2006)
- Important geological features
- Species protected under:
- The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended),
- The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
- Protection of Badgers Act 1992
- Priority species (as listed in section 41 of the NERC Act 2006)
- Local priority habitats and species as detailed in the Birmingham & Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan 2010
Where a proposed development is likely to affect protected or priority species, the applicant must submit a Protected or Priority or Notable Species Survey and Assessment. Where a proposed development is likely to affect such a site, habitat or geological feature, the applicant must submit an Ecological or Geological Survey and Assessment.
When deciding whether a planning application needs to be supported by an ecological or geological assessment, applicants are advised to review their proposals against the local requirements for biodiversity and geological conservation for both
- Part 1 - Local requirements for designated sites, priority habitats and geological features
- Part 2 - Local requirements for protected, priority and other notable species
Background information on the recorded distribution of protected, priority and other notable species can be obtained from the Local Biological Records Centre for Birmingham and the Black Country – EcoRecord. Details of EcoRecord's services and charges can be found on their website.
There may be occasions when a homeowner or developer needs to engage the services of a professional ecologist. For example planning a new house, extension or refurbishment, including landscaping or other land management may include work that could affect wildlife living in or around the building or site.
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) offer a directory of registered members who provide ecological services. There are a wide range of individuals and consultancies available and you are strongly advised to seek references before any appointment.
