When developers search for environmental consultancy companies, they are often faced with a wide range of services, many of which are not relevant to planning applications. Understanding what these companies actually do in a planning context is essential for selecting the right support and avoiding unnecessary costs.
For most commercial developments, environmental consultancy is focused on specific, technical assessments required by local authorities rather than broad environmental services.
What Do Environmental Consultancy Companies Do?
Environmental consultancy companies provide technical reports and assessments that support planning applications. These assessments help local authorities determine whether a development is acceptable in terms of environmental impact.
However, not all environmental consultancies offer the same services. In a planning context, the focus is typically on:
- Air quality assessments
- Environmental noise surveys
- Daylight and sunlight assessments
- Odour impact assessments
These are the types of services most commonly requested during the planning process.
Why Environmental Consultancy Is Required for Planning
Local authorities require environmental assessments to ensure that new developments:
- Do not negatively impact surrounding areas
- Provide acceptable living conditions for occupants
- Comply with national and local planning policies
Without the appropriate reports, a planning application may be delayed, refused or deemed invalid.
Real-World Scenario
A mixed-use development in an urban area may require multiple assessments. For example:
- An air quality report to assess traffic-related pollution
- A noise survey to evaluate nearby road or commercial noise
- A daylight assessment to ensure surrounding buildings are not adversely affected
Without coordinated consultancy input, these requirements can quickly become complex.
Key Services Provided by Planning Environmental Consultants
Not all services offered by environmental consultancy companies are relevant to planning. It is important to focus on those that directly support planning applications.
Air Quality Assessments
Air quality assessments evaluate the impact of a development on local pollution levels and the exposure of future occupants.
These are often required for developments near major roads or in urban centres.
Environmental Noise Surveys
Noise surveys assess existing sound levels and predict future impacts from both external sources and the development itself.
They are particularly important for residential schemes near transport infrastructure or commercial activity.
Daylight and Sunlight Assessments
These assessments evaluate how a development affects natural light within neighbouring properties and within the proposed scheme itself.
They are typically required for:
- High-density developments
- Urban infill sites
- Tall buildings
Odour Impact Assessments
Odour assessments are required where developments are located near potential sources such as:
- Waste facilities
- Industrial operations
- Food production sites
They ensure that future occupants are not exposed to unacceptable odour levels.
What Environmental Consultancy Companies Do Not Typically Do
A common issue is the assumption that environmental consultancy companies cover all environmental disciplines. In reality, many services are highly specialised and not relevant to planning.
For example, many planning-focused consultancies do not provide:
- Ecological or biodiversity surveys
- Contaminated land investigations
- Carbon footprint or ESG reporting
- Workplace air monitoring or health and safety testing
Choosing a consultancy that focuses on planning-related assessments ensures the work remains relevant and efficient.
How to Choose the Right Environmental Consultancy Company
Selecting the right consultant is critical to the success of a planning application.
Key Factors to Consider
- Relevant expertise: Ensure the consultancy specialises in planning assessments
- Experience with local authorities: Familiarity with local requirements can streamline approvals
- Integrated services: A consultancy offering multiple relevant assessments can improve coordination
- Clear communication: Reports should be understandable and aligned with planning expectations
Single Consultant vs Multiple Specialists
Developers often face a choice between using one consultancy or multiple specialists.
Single Consultancy Approach
- Better coordination between assessments
- Reduced risk of conflicting recommendations
- More efficient project management
Multiple Specialists Approach
- May be required for highly complex developments
- Can provide niche expertise
For most projects, a single consultancy with the right expertise is the most practical solution.
Costs of Environmental Consultancy Services
Costs vary depending on the type and number of assessments required.
Typical Cost Structure
- Individual assessments priced separately
- Discounts may apply when multiple services are combined
- Larger developments require more detailed and therefore more costly reports
Cost Example
A small residential scheme may require:
- Air quality assessment
- Noise survey
Combining these through one consultancy can reduce overall project costs compared to appointing separate consultants.
What Happens If You Choose the Wrong Consultancy?
Selecting a consultancy without the right focus can lead to several issues:
- Reports that do not meet planning requirements
- Delays due to revisions or additional work
- Increased costs from duplicated assessments
- Risk of planning refusal
Working with planning-focused environmental consultancy companies reduces these risks significantly.
Decision-Making Guidance
Choosing the right level of consultancy support depends on the project.
Good Option
- Single assessment for low-risk sites
- Minimal consultancy involvement
Better Option
- Multiple coordinated assessments
- Suitable for most developments
Best Option
- Full consultancy support across all required disciplines
- Ideal for complex or high-value projects
This structured approach helps ensure that all environmental considerations are properly addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need an environmental consultancy company for planning?
In many cases, yes. If your development triggers environmental considerations, specialist assessments will be required.
Q2: Can one company handle multiple assessments?
Yes. Many consultancies offer a range of planning-related services, which can simplify the process.
Q3: How early should I appoint a consultant?
Ideally at the pre-planning stage, to identify requirements and avoid delays later.
Q4: Are all environmental consultants the same?
No. Some focus on planning, while others specialise in different areas such as ecology or contaminated land.
Q5: Can poor consultancy affect planning approval?
Yes. Inadequate or incorrect reports can lead to delays or refusal.
Summary
Environmental consultancy companies play a crucial role in the planning process, but only when their services are aligned with the needs of the development.
By focusing on relevant assessments such as air quality, noise and daylight, developers can ensure their projects meet planning requirements efficiently and effectively.
Choosing the right consultancy is not just about cost, it is about ensuring that your planning application is supported by accurate, compliant and well-structured environmental reporting.
If you are planning a development and need expert guidance, speak to a specialist consultancy to ensure your project progresses smoothly and meets all environmental requirements.
Phone: 0333 344 2399
Email: info@hawkinsenvironmental.co.uk
Contact Hawkins Environmental today on 01256 522332 or email enquiry@hawkinsenvironmental.co.uk.
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