Environmental screening

The environmental screening process covers a range of issues, including:

• landscape
• designated sites of local, national and international conservation interest
• wildlife
• hedgerows and tree protection orders
• archaeology and built heritage (including Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings)
• social issues such as noise, odour and traffic
• air emissions
• watercourses and flood risk
• planning permission and Environmental Impact Assessment.

The screening process is based around an extensive range of information brought together on our environmental GIS (Geographical Information System). We also have a database holding environmental information on each of our operational sites. This may include details on general environmental issues together with the results of past surveys. This helps us to quickly identify those sites with protected or locally important conservation interest, landscape or heritage issues.

When screening a proposed development we often need to consult with national regulators (such as Natural England and the Environment Agency), local authorities and local groups (such as the Wildlife Trusts and ecological/archaeological specialists) about any potential environmental impact arising from our developments.

Some schemes require further in-depth investigations. Our Environmental Services Team carries out ecological assessments, landscape assessments and specialist surveys for noise, odour and other issues. The team works closely with County Archaeological Officers and specialist archaeological contractors to create and implement programmes of archaeological mitigation where such remains cannot be avoided. During the planning phases of projects, we can also consider ways in which we can improve the local environment whilst completing projects.

Sometimes engineering or maintenance work in an area of conservation interest is unavoidable. When this occurs, we work with the relevant environmental organisations to ensure that appropriate working methods and restoration techniques are undertaken to minimise and mitigate any impact.