EDM Planning Ecology confirms its ecological assessments and consultancy services are delivered in accordance with the principles and guidance set out in BS 42020:2013 – Biodiversity: Code of Practice for Planning and Development. This British Standard sets out recommendations to ensure that biodiversity is appropriately considered in land use planning and development processes, from initial feasibility through to post-construction monitoring.
Our Approach
We integrate BS 42020:2013 across all aspects of our work by:
1. Competence and Standards
All ecological assessments are undertaken by suitably qualified professionals in line with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) standards.
Reports are prepared to meet the quality, clarity, and transparency required under Section 4 of BS 42020.
2. Proportionality and Precision
Our recommendations are proportionate to the scale and type of development, focusing on material planning considerations, and informed by up-to-date evidence and local biodiversity priorities.
3. Mitigation Hierarchy
Assessments strictly follow the mitigation hierarchy (avoidance, mitigation, compensation), as outlined in BS 42020 and embedded in the NPPF.
Wherever possible, impacts to biodiversity are avoided through design; where this is not feasible, mitigation and measurable biodiversity enhancements are proposed.
4. Survey Effort and Transparency
Survey methods follow recognised guidance (e.g. CIEEM, Natural England), with seasonally appropriate, robust data collection forming the basis of all ecological conclusions.
Where constraints exist (e.g. suboptimal timing), they are clearly stated, and a reasoned approach to risk and uncertainty is provided.
5. Biodiversity Net Gain and Policy Integration
Where applicable, we prepare Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) plans aligned with BS 42020’s emphasis on biodiversity enhancement and in support of local policy requirements and the Environment Act 2021.
6. Planning System Alignment
Ecological reports prepared by EDM Planning Ecology provide clear recommendations for planners, including potential conditions, monitoring provisions, and implementation responsibilities.
Our documentation supports effective decision-making and reduces the risk of post-permission delay or legal challenge, in accordance with Clause 6 of BS 42020.
Conclusion
By embedding the guidance and ethical standards of BS 42020:2013 into all ecological services, EDM Planning Ecology ensures that biodiversity is integrated positively and professionally into the planning process. Our goal is to support sustainable development that delivers ecological integrity and planning certainty for our clients and consenting authorities.