Construction projects require more than just identifying the right piece of land and drawing up construction plans. There could be environmental factors that affect the viability of a project proposal, the permissions required, and the smooth flow of the process. Early knowledge of these aspects will help the developer avoid costs and delays incurred as a result. This is where environmental consultants come into play to help solve these issues.
Understanding Environmental Planning Requirements
Planning needs in terms of the environment will be determined by the nature of the development, its scale, and where it will be carried out. A smaller residential extension might not have much impact on the environment, but a large residential scheme, commercial venture, or re-development of brownfield sites might demand a more thorough examination.
This might include topics like biodiversity, endangered species, flooding risks, drainage, pollution, tree preservation, air pollution, and any disturbance caused by the construction process to surrounding communities. This will be determined by the nature of the site and what the planning authority expects.
Early consultation will help the developer identify problems that their proposal may face before making a financial commitment.
How Environment Consultants Support Developers
- Identifying Environmental Constraints
Although an area might look good for development purposes, there could be other issues relating to the environment. The proximity to a river, environmentally sensitive areas, mature trees, and past industrial use might affect construction in any way.
Consultants will assist developers in identifying some of the restrictions through preliminary surveys, recorded information and even site investigations. This will provide a clearer view of the possibilities and restrictions related to the site.
- Advising on Surveys and Assessments
Planning applications that involve specialised surveys or environmental impact assessment reports will require special surveys depending on the nature of the particular project, such as ecological surveys, habitat assessments, flood risk assessments, tree surveys, or soil contamination assessments.
An environmental consultant will assist in identifying the type of assessments required and the time to conduct them. This is especially crucial for conducting environmental assessments in property development since there are certain surveys that need to be carried out in a certain season or even before the construction starts.
The availability of information makes the work of assessing a particular application by planning officers much easier.
Helping Shape Practical Development Plans
Advice on the environment is best utilised if it affects the design of the structure as opposed to when it is just considered an afterthought. The recommendation by an environmental consultant could involve preserving any tree on site, creation of appropriate habitats, improvement of the surface water drainage or altering the positioning of structures.
This will help the development adapt to its environment while also aiding in overall planning. It could even save on costs of redesigning later on in the process.
Conclusion
Environmental issues can play an important role in the success of any development project. The early identification of constraints, carrying out surveys, and incorporating these into the design makes environmental consultants important in ensuring developers do their planning in an informed manner. To get professional advice on how to plan and develop, contact MPD Built Environment Consultants.
FAQs
What role does an environmental consultant play with respect to a developer?
The environmental consultant evaluates any environmental constraints, provides necessary survey recommendations, and assists in handling environmental issues during the development process.
Is there an environmental assessment required for every development?
Not necessarily. The extent of the requirement will vary based on the scale, type, and location of the development and the potential impact on the environment. There are some developments that may only need basic information.
At what point in time should developers seek an environmental consultant?
It is preferable for the developer to seek out the services of an environmental consultant before buying the property or designing the development.
Can environmental consultants assist in obtaining planning permission?
Yes, they can assist with the environmental part of the planning process by producing or organising the production of the required assessment, and assisting in resolving any environmental objections raised by the planning authority. They can’t promise that permission will be granted.
What will happen if environmental issues are found after the application has been made?
It will depend upon the issue and the requirements of the planning authority, but more information or surveys may be required.
