Because Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9) influences local planning authorities and others in their decision making process with respect to land use and development, it is useful to determine the ‘species status’ of a potential development area at an early stage in the planning process.

PPS9 provides additional legal controls to ensure that protected species, such as bats, are taken into account. PPS9 states "Local authorities should take measures to protect the habitats of these species from further decline through policies in local development documents. Planning authorities should ensure that these species are protected from the adverse effects of development, where appropriate, by using planning conditions or obligations. Planning authorities should refuse permission where harm to the species or their habitats would result unless the need for, and benefits of, the development clearly outweigh that harm.

ecosulis ltd can undertake an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey or an individual species survey such as a bat survey at an early stage to determine the best approach in relation to bats at the site that is likely to save time and money later on. However, ecosulis ltd can also undertake surveys and works throughout the duration of the planning process, if for example the need to address the presence of a certain species is identified at a later stage.

ecosulis ltd is able to prepare a wide range of documents that address conditions attached to the planning application by local planning authorities. These may include Management Plans, Management Agreements, Impact Assessment and Mitigation Strategies.