Blog

Guides & Resources

Practical guides for ecological desktop studies, species surveys, and environmental data in the UK.

16 April 20265 min read

What Is an SSSI Impact Risk Zone? A Guide for Developers and Planners

SSSI Impact Risk Zones explained. What they are, how to check if your development triggers one, and what it means for your planning application.

13 April 20265 min read

Do I Need an Ecology Survey for Planning Permission?

Find out if your development needs an ecological survey before applying for planning permission. A simple guide for homeowners, developers, and architects in the UK.

9 April 20265 min read

Bat Survey Cost UK 2026: What to Expect and How to Budget

How much does a bat survey cost in the UK? A breakdown of PRA, emergence survey, and mitigation costs for homeowners and developers in 2026.

6 April 20266 min read

Nesting Bird Season UK: When Can You Clear Vegetation on a Development Site?

When is nesting bird season in the UK? The law on vegetation clearance, what developers must do, and how to avoid prosecution and planning delays.

3 April 20269 min read

Biodiversity Net Gain for Ecologists: What You Need to Know in 2026

A practical guide to mandatory BNG in England. The 10% requirement, the biodiversity metric, exemptions, and what ecologists need to deliver for planning applications.

25 March 202612 min read

How to Do an Ecological Desktop Study in the UK: The Complete Data Source Guide (2026)

Every free data source for ecological desktop studies in England, Scotland and Wales. MAGIC Map, NBN Atlas, NatureScot, GCN zones and more.