top of page
Latest News
Stay up to date with the latest developments, expert insights, and industry updates from Elite Ecology. Elite Ecology is your reliable partner for ecological and environmental consultancy services. From guidance on biodiversity net gain and protected species surveys to updates on planning regulations, tree surveys, and habitat restoration, our blogs cover everything you need to know to support your project and stay compliant.
All Posts
Who Looks After Biodiversity Net Gain Habitats After Construction?
Who maintains biodiversity net gain habitats after construction? Explore management responsibilities, budgets and handover questions for your project.
Connor Wild
Oct 153 min read
What Is an Ecological Watching Brief and How Should Contractors Prepare?
Asked to arrange an ecological watching brief? Learn what it involves, how contractors can prepare and which questions to resolve before work starts.
Connor Wild
Oct 153 min read
How Long Is an Ecology Survey Valid For?
Reusing an ecology report? Find out what affects survey validity, when updates may be needed and how to plan your next planning submission.
Connor Wild
Oct 153 min read
What Is the Difference Between Phase 1 and Phase 2 Habitat Surveys?
If you've been asked to arrange an ecological survey for a planning application, you may come across terms such as Phase 1 Habitat Survey, Phase 2 Habitat Survey, Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Survey.
Connor Wild
Sep 165 min read
What Happens After a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)?
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is often one of the first ecological assessments undertaken when preparing a site for development. But receiving the completed report doesn't necessarily mean the ecological work is finished.
Connor Wild
Sep 165 min read
How Much Does an Ecology Survey Cost?
If you’re preparing a planning application or considering developing a piece of land, you may have been advised that you need an ecology survey. One of the first questions that naturally follows is, 'How much does an ecology survey cost?'
Connor Wild
Sep 165 min read
Understanding Water Vole Surveys and Planning Requirements
Learn when a Water Vole Survey is required, why water voles are protected, and how ecological surveys support planning applications across the UK.
Connor Wild
Aug 113 min read
Why Flood Risk Consultants Are More Important Than Ever for UK Planning Applications
Learn why flood risk consultants are essential for planning applications, how Flood Risk Assessments and SuDS support developments, and how Elite Ecology can help secure planning approval.
Connor Wild
Aug 113 min read
Great Crested Newt Survey Season Explained
If your proposed development is located near a pond or suitable terrestrial habitat, your Local Planning Authority may require a Great Crested Newt Survey before planning permission can be granted.
Connor Wild
Jul 234 min read
What Ecological Surveys Are Required for Planning Permission?
Many planning applications require ecological surveys before they can be validated or approved.
Connor Wild
Jul 234 min read
How Much Does a Tree Survey Cost?
Learn how much a tree survey costs in the UK, what affects the price, and which type of tree survey you need for planning, mortgages, or development projects.
Connor Wild
Jul 132 min read
What Is an Environmental Impact Assessment and When Is It Required?
Learn what an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is, when it's required, and how it supports planning applications for developments across the UK.
Connor Wild
Jul 133 min read
Mortgage Tree Survey vs Arboricultural Report
Learn the difference between a Mortgage Tree Survey and an Arboricultural Report. Discover when each is required, who requests them, and which survey you need.
Connor Wild
Jun 123 min read
Why Ecological Planning Support Is Essential for Modern Developments
Planning applications are becoming increasingly complex, particularly when it comes to environmental and ecological requirements. Whether you’re building a residential extension, a commercial development, or a large-scale infrastructure project, ecological considerations now play a major role in securing planning approval.
Connor Wild
May 153 min read
When Should You Cut Down a Tree on Your Property?
Trees are one of the most valuable features of any property, providing shade, privacy, biodiversity benefits, and visual appeal. However, there are situations where removing a tree becomes necessary for safety, property protection, or environmental reasons.
Connor Wild
May 153 min read
Arboricultural Impact Assessment Explained: What You Need to Know for Planning
Learn what an Arboricultural Impact Assessment is and why it is required for planning permission. Discover how tree surveys, BS5837, and early assessment can help your development avoid delays.
Connor Wild
Apr 223 min read
Garden Wildlife Plans in Spring: Why Now Is the Best Time to Start
Spring is the best time to improve your garden for wildlife. Learn how a Garden Wildlife Plan can boost biodiversity and support local species across the UK.
Connor Wild
Apr 223 min read
Biodiversity Net Gain: What Developers Need to Know
Learn how Biodiversity Net Gain can support your development projects in England. Elite Ecology provides expert guidance on planning, habitat creation, and achieving the required 10 per cent net gain for biodiversity.
Connor Wild
Apr 223 min read
When Bat Surveys Are Required for Planning Permission
Learn whether bats can stop development projects and when bat surveys are required for planning permission in the UK. Expert guidance on survey timing, roosts, and mitigation to keep your project on track.
Connor Wild
Apr 222 min read
What Animal Surveys Should Be Completed in Spring?
Animal surveys of many protected species can only be done during certain times of the year. Missing these time frames can lead to planning delays or require surveys to be postponed until the following year.
Connor Wild
Mar 264 min read
bottom of page