UK Habitat Classification Surveys

Gaining a thorough understanding of the habitats present on your site is the critical first step in any ecological assessment. Lucion’s UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) surveys provide a comprehensive baseline, mapping and classifying all habitats to national standards.

Navigating the complexities of the planning system requires a thorough, well-evidenced understanding of the ecological features on your site. Lucion’s UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) surveys deliver the detailed habitat data you need to support your planning application and satisfy regulatory requirements.

Unlike the broad brush strokes of a traditional Phase 1 survey, the UKHab methodology provides a granular, standardised classification of all terrestrial and freshwater habitats present. Our experienced ecologists will meticulously map and categorise each habitat type in accordance with the national UKHab system, capturing the full complexity and nuance of your site.

This comprehensive baseline information is invaluable, whether you’re working on a small development or a large-scale infrastructure project. The detailed habitat data allows you to:

Identify potential ecological constraints early, informing your project design and mitigating delays

Highlight opportunities for habitat enhancement or creation, demonstrating your commitment to biodiversity net gain

Provide the robust evidence base required to satisfy planning conditions and secure approval

By partnering with Lucion, you’ll benefit from our extensive experience in applying the UKHab methodology across a wide range of sectors. Our surveyors are experts in habitat identification and classification, ensuring the data you receive is accurate, consistent, and aligned with industry best practice.

The UKHab survey can be undertaken at any time of year, though the optimal period is typically between April and October when the majority of plant species are identifiable. We’ll work closely with you to schedule the survey at the most appropriate time, minimising disruption to your project timeline.

With Lucion’s UKHab surveys, you can be confident that your ecological baseline is comprehensive, robust, and fit-for-purpose. This solid foundation will support you throughout the planning process, from initial site assessments to satisfying regulatory requirements and demonstrating biodiversity net gain.

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Case studies

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Nutrient Neutrality Strategy for Sustainable Housing Growth

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Ecological Consultants for Spring Lodge Development

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Environmental Impact Assessment – Eggborough

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Trusted Habitat Survey Services

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UK Habitat Surveys FAQs

The UKHab survey provides the essential baseline information to inform all subsequent ecological studies, from protected species surveys to Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs). By partnering with Lucion for your UKHab survey, you can be confident that your ecological assessments are built on a robust, comprehensive foundation.

Lucion’s team of skilled ecologists are highly experienced in applying the UKHab methodology across a wide range of sectors. We take a tailored, client-centric approach, working closely with you to ensure the survey is scheduled and delivered to meet your specific project needs. The data you receive will be accurate, consistent, and aligned with industry best practice.

The duration of a UKHab survey can vary depending on the size and complexity of the site, but our experienced ecologists can typically complete the field survey within 2-5 days. This is followed by a period of data analysis and mapping, with the final report typically delivered within 2-4 weeks of the site visit.

A UKHab survey will produce a detailed habitat map of your site, classifying all terrestrial and freshwater habitats present in accordance with the national standard. This is accompanied by target notes highlighting key features, such as the presence of protected species or opportunities for habitat enhancement. The survey forms a comprehensive baseline to inform all subsequent ecological assessments.

The optimal survey period is typically between April and October, when the majority of plant species are identifiable. However, UKHab surveys can be carried out year-round, as the classification system is based on habitat structure and composition rather than just the presence of specific plant indicators.

The UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) is a more detailed and standardised system for surveying and mapping habitats across the UK. Unlike the broad habitat types of a Phase 1 survey, UKHab categorises habitats into over 500 distinct types based on their botanical composition and environmental conditions. This provides a richer, more nuanced understanding of the habitats present on your site.