Affordable Ecology that enables your development
- CIEEM Full Member
- Natural England Licensed
- NRW Licensed (Wales)
- Bat Conservation Trust Licensed
Ecological expertise you can build on
Fast Ecology is an independent ecological consultancy operating across the UK. We work with developers, architects, planning consultants, and local authorities to provide robust ecological assessments that support the planning process and protect biodiversity, all while offering some of the most competitive pricing in the industry.
Our extensive team of ecologists, architects, and planners brings together expertise in protected species, vegetation science, biodiversity net gain, and the full planning process. We are committed to honest, pragmatic advice, identifying constraints early and finding workable, cost-effective solutions.
Licensed for protected species
Natural England and NRW mitigation licences for bats, great crested newts, otters, dormice, badgers, and reptiles.
Recognised by planning authorities
Our reports are accepted by LPAs, Natural England, and Highways England without further queries in 98% of cases.
Biodiversity Net Gain specialists
Fully conversant with mandatory BNG requirements under the Environment Act 2021 and the Biodiversity Metric 4.0.
Our Team
Our services
From £500 + VAT
Licensed surveys and mitigation for the full range of European and nationally protected species found in England and Wales.
From enquiry to report in five steps
Initial enquiry
Tell us about your site and project. We’ll advise on likely survey requirements and provide a no-obligation fee estimate within 24 hours.
Desk study
We review MAGIC, local record centre data, aerial imagery, and historic maps to identify ecological constraints before visiting site.
Field survey
Our chartered ecologists carry out surveys to current industry methodologies, within the correct survey season windows.
Report preparation
We produce a clear, LPA-ready technical report with maps, methodology, findings, and practical recommendations.
Planning support
We respond to LPA ecology queries, attend pre-app meetings, and assist with any licence applications required.
Survey Types
| Survey type | Typical duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 / Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey | 1 day | Depends on site size and complexity |
| Preliminary Roost Assessment (bat PRA) | Half-full day | Includes endoscope and torch survey |
| Bat emergence / re-entry survey | Dusk or dawn | BCT GP4 requires up to 3 visits |
| GCN eDNA survey | Half day | March-June window only |
| GCN traditional survey | 4 visits | Mid-March to mid-May |
| Otter / water vole survey | 1 day | Watercourse length dependent |
| Badger survey | Half day | Sett activity check included |
| Reptile survey | 5 visits | Refuge mats supplied |
| Biodiversity Net Gain assessment | 1-3 days | DEFRA Metric 4.0; site size dependent |
| ECoW site supervision | Per day | Minimum half-day charge applies |
| Ecological chapter (EIA/EcIA) | Varies | Depends on scale and complexity of development |
Resources & guidance
Plain-English guides, case studies, and ecology news for developers and planning professionals.
The Future of Ecology in Development
Ecology is becoming an increasingly important part of the development process, driven by regulation, policy, and
Common Ecology Mistakes in Planning
Many planning delays are caused by avoidable ecological issues. Understanding common mistakes can help developers reduce
Great Crested Newts and Development
Great crested newts are one of the most protected species in the UK and can have
Bat Surveys Explained
Bats are one of the most commonly encountered protected species in development projects, and they are subject to
How to Respond to LPA Ecology Requests
Receiving an ecology-related request from a Local Planning Authority is a common part of the planning
From Brownfield to Biodiversity
Brownfield sites are often assumed to have limited ecological value, but in reality, many support diverse
The Role of an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
Securing planning permission is only one stage of the ecological process. During construction, it is essential to ensure
Phase 1 Habitat Surveys Explained: The First Step to Planning
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA), formerly known as a Phase 1 Habitat Survey, is typically the
Ecology Survey Calendar 2026: When You Can (and Can’t) Survey
Timing is one of the most critical factors in ecological planning. Missing a survey window can
Biodiversity Net Gain in 2026: What Developers Need to Know Now
With the Environment Act now enforcing mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) across England, developers are operating in a
Request a quote or survey advice
Other ways to reach us
info@fastecology.co.uk
Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day