Southwest Environmental Limited

Habitat Evaluation Process

We offer a comprehensive habitat evaluation process (HEP) as a service to help you assess the impacts of your development proposals on important habitats. Our team of experienced ecologists will use the latest HEP methods to calculate the value of habitats for important species and determine the amount of habitat replacement required to compensate for habitat lost to development.

What is the HEP?

The HEP is a method for calculating the value of habitats for important species. It is used to determine the amount of habitat replacement required to compensate for habitat lost to development. The HEP was first used in 2008 to assess the effects of development on a lesser horseshoe bat colony. Since then, it has been used in over 30 cases.

How can the HEP benefit you?

The HEP can benefit you by:

• Helping you to comply with planning regulations
• Minimizing the risk of planning delays and refusals
• Reducing the costs of habitat mitigation
• Demonstrating your commitment to environmental sustainability

Our Services

We offer a range of HEP services, including:

• Habitat surveys and assessments
• HEP calculations
•  Habitat mitigation planning
• Advice on planning applications

Contact us today

If you would like to discuss your habitat evaluation needs, please contact us today.

Additional Information:

• The HEP is based on the calculation of Habitat Units (HUs), which are the product of a Habitat Suitability Index and the total area of habitat affected by a development proposal.
• The HEP can be used to inform site allocations in local authority plans, master planning of proposed development sites, and planning applications.