Planning Applications

We complete planning applications on behalf of clients for a range of developments but principally for our renewables projects. Typically these would include some/all of the following:

• Landscape and visual impact assessment including photomontage
• Habitat surveys
• Noise assessment
• Odour assessment
• Hydrology, hydrogeology and soils survey
• Socio-economic assessment

EIA and SEA

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are required by planning authorities for certain construction and development projects. EIAs assess the possible positive or negative impacts that a proposed project may have on the environment, considering environmental, social and economic elements. Ecodyn can complete these assessments for applicable projects. In 2005 the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Bill came into force meaning all plans, programmes or strategies prepared by public bodies in Scotland which could have a significant effect on the environment would be subject to a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). Ecodyn has been closely involved in the development of SEA since its inception and have assisted local authorities and non-departmental public bodies understand and meet their SEA obligations. We have completed several large-scale SEAs, and have also developed and delivered interactive SEA training workshops for various responsible authorities, including Scottish Executive; Highlands and Islands Enterprise; Government Office for the North West; Highland, Western Isles, Fife and Dundee City Councils; Cairngorm National Park Authority and others.

Contaminated Land

Planning departments are increasingly requiring a contaminated land assessment for any development project where there may be even the slightest hint of contamination from previous uses. This contamination might include common materials such as asbestos roofing tiles and diesel tanks. Initially we will conduct a Stage 1 Site Investigation which involves a site visit, data review and report writing. Our Stage 1 Report format is based on the current requirements of most planning departments and includes an appraisal of the site history, results of the site walkover survey, an assessment of the environmental setting, a review of the current and proposed site uses and a preliminary (qualitative) assessment of risks . Depending on the findings from the Stage 1 assessment, an intrusive site investigation (Stage 2) might be required. If the Stage 2 investigation turns up levels of contamination which require remediation prior to development proceeding (Stage 3), we will develop remediation solutions and agree it with the planning department and other appropriate authorities (e.g. SEPA). In most instances, a Stage 1 report is all that is required to meet planning requirements.