UK Habitats Survey (UKHab)

Fenland Ecology

At Fenland Ecology, we specialise in delivering UK Habitats (UKHab) surveys. These surveys play a vital role in understanding, classifying, and evaluating habitats across the UK, helping to ensure that development projects minimise impacts and achieve Biodiversity Net Gain. By providing precise habitat data and actionable recommendations, our UKHab surveys offer essential guidance for habitat management, enhancement, and biodiversity conservation.

What is a UK Habitats (UKHab) Survey?

A UKHab survey is designed to classify habitats based on a standardised framework. The UKHab classification system is widely recognized and used by ecologists, planners, and conservationists across the UK. It enables the consistent habitat mapping, making it easier to assess biodiversity importance and plan for appropriate conservation or development measures.

UKHab surveys are designed to provide detailed, site-specific information on the type and , extent of habitats present. Land parcels are categorised into the different habitat types, with secondary codes applied to identify features associated with the habitat. The UKHab classification system allows the identification of the most notable UK habitats, including those referred to as Priority Habitats and Annex II habitats of the Habitat Directive.

Why is a UKHab Survey Important?

A UKHab survey is a crucial tool for understanding the ecological importance of a site. Crucially utilising the UKHab classification system also enables the assessment of habitat condition that is required as part of statutory Biodiversity Net Gain.

Our Approach to UKHab Surveys

At Fenland Ecology, our UKHab surveys follow a detailed and structured process to ensure that we provide accurate and reliable habitat data.

Habitat Classification:

We will conduct a thorough botanical survey to map all habitats present. This involves recording the extent and type of habitats, such as woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and hedgerows. The optimal time of year for a UKHab survey is April to September.

Data Analysis:

Once the survey is complete, we will review the data to classify the data as far as possible according to the UKHab system. This includes identifying Priority Habitats that may require special consideration in the planning process.

Reporting and Recommendations:

UKHab survey typically provide the basis of Preliminary Ecological Appraisal reports, but are also important for feeding into assessment of Biodiversity Net Gain and habitat management plans, particularly where older habitat classification systems have been used.

Benefits of a UK Habitats Survey (UKHab)

The UKHab survey offers a standardised method for the collection of survey data that benefits developers, planners, and conservationists. The method forms the foundation for the collection of habitat condition data that is needed for the statutory Biodiversity Net Gain metric.

The correct classification of habitats and their conditions helps assist with good project design and the identification of preferred outcomes for future habitat management. A UKHab survey can therefore strengthen your planning application by demonstrating that ecological considerations have been fully assessed and addressed.

Why Choose Fenland Ecology?

At Fenland Ecology, we are committed to delivering high-quality UKHab surveys that meet the needs of your project while supporting biodiversity conservation.

Our experienced ecologists have a deep understanding of the UKHab classification system and a proven track record of providing reliable habitat data for a wide range of projects.

We pride ourselves on delivering clear and actionable recommendations that help you meet your planning and conservation objectives.

Contact Us

For professional UK Habitats (UKHab) survey services, contact Fenland Ecology today. We are ready to assist you in classifying and evaluating habitats to support your development and conservation goals.

We’re dedicated to delivering precise UKHab surveys that provide clear guidance for habitat management and biodiversity enhancement. Let us help you ensure that your project is both ecologically responsible and fully compliant with planning regulations.