Invertebrate Surveys for Planning & Development
Planning-focused invertebrate surveys for brownfield, mosaic and sensitive habitats — clear evidence, practical guidance and predictable outcomes.
Do you need an Invertebrate Survey?
You may need an invertebrate survey if your site contains brownfield land, open-mosaic habitat, species-rich grassland, wet features or early-successional habitat. PEAs often highlight this potential early.
What is an Invertebrate Survey?
A targeted assessment of habitat and species value used to understand ecological constraints, planning risk and proportionate mitigation. It provides early clarity so your planning route stays predictable.
Early Signs an Invertebrate Survey is Needed
These indicators suggest your site might require more than a basic walkover and may attract LPA scrutiny:
- Possible refugia (rubble, log piles)
- wet areas, drainage ditches, ephemeral pools
- early-successional habitat, scrub or deadwood
- a PEA flagging invertebrate potential
- works planned between May–August
- adjacency to SSSIs, SINCs or reserves
Where these occur, planning applications without evidence frequently receive validation queries, requests for additional surveys or time-sensitive conditions.
What We Deliver
| Service | Purpose | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary Risk Assessment | Identify early constraints and confirm survey scope. | Clear recommendations on what you need — and what you don’t. |
| Walkover & Habitat Assessment | Locate features linked to notable invertebrate species. | Proportionate survey strategy aligned to risk. |
| Multi-Visit Invertebrate Surveys | Gather robust habitat and species data. | Evidence suitable for planning, design and mitigation. |
| Specialist Sampling (Netting, Pitfall, Sweep) | Provide species-level certainty where required. | Targeted data for practical mitigation. |
| Mitigation & Enhancement Planning | Integrate biodiversity with development needs. | Practical measures supporting BNG and compliance. |
We keep guidance clear and planning-ready — supporting predictable project delivery.
How it Works
Scope & Schedule
Share your site location and programme. We confirm the level of survey required based on habitat and planning context.
Fieldwork
Walkovers or multi-visit surveys depending on your sites potential.
Reporting
Clear, proportionate and planning-ready. Includes mitigation and BNG integration.
Timing & Survey Windows
High-potential sites missing these windows often face delays.
Securing survey capacity early keeps planning timelines predictable.
Main Survey Season
April to September
Specialist Surveys
Generally May to August
What You Receive:
- habitat assessment and risk rating
- species data (where required)
- planning-ready reporting
- practical mitigation strategies
- BNG and layout design input
- clear guidance for contractors
Clarity for planners. Stability for your programme.
Why Developers Choose ProHort:
- proportionate, risk-based approach
- clear planning guidance
- nationwide survey capability
- fast mobilisation during peak season
- straight, honest communication
- support from early scoping through BNG delivery
Legal Compliance & Planning risk
LPAs must request evidence wherever notable invertebrate species or high-value habitat may be affected. Missing or inadequate evidence often results in:
- validation delays
- requests for additional surveys
- pauses if species appear during clearance
- incorrect BNG scoring
- redesigns late in the programme
Relevant legislation includes:
- Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Schedule 5 species)
- NERC Act 2006 (S41 species/habitats)
- Environment Act 2021 (BNG requirements)
- National Planning Policy Framework
- Local planning policy
We provide clear, proportionate and planning-aligned evidence across the UK.
Your Next Step
Need an invertebrate survey? We’ll confirm what’s required and align survey windows with your programme.
Phone: 0800 494 7479
Email: [email protected]
Case Note
Invertebrate Survey FAQs
Do all brownfield sites require invertebrate surveys?
Not all. It depends on habitat condition and features such as open mosaic habitat, deadwood, early successional areas or wet features. We confirm quickly from basic site information.
When is the invertebrate survey season?
April–September, with peak months May–August. Walkover assessments can be completed year-round.
How many survey visits are required?
Moderate–high potential habitats usually need multi-visit surveys across suitable conditions to gather sufficient evidence.
Can missing the survey season affect planning?
Yes. Planners may defer decisions or request seasonal surveys the following year. Early walkovers help plan ahead.
What if notable invertebrates are found?
We provide proportionate mitigation and habitat-based recommendations that align with development design and BNG targets.
Do all LPAs request invertebrate surveys?
No, only where habitat or PEA evidence indicates realistic potential for notable or protected species.
How does this affect BNG?
Invertebrate assemblages can influence habitat distinctiveness and enhancement requirements. We integrate findings with your BNG strategy.
Are brownfield constraints always high risk?
Not necessarily. Some brownfield sites qualify for rapid screening. We determine risk based on habitat structure, not land-use label.
What data do planners expect?
Habitat classification, sampling results (where applicable), species lists, risk summary and proportionate mitigation options.
What information do you need to quote?
A postcode or boundary plan, target dates, and any PEA that has already been completed.
