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Ecological Planning & Research

EPR is an independent ecology consultancy with over 30 years’ experience tackling the complex interface between biodiversity and land-use planning

We are an integral part of each project team, working to create quality spaces that deliver for both people and biodiversity, generate commercial value, and create a legacy of which our clients are proud.

We provide a complete ecology consultancy service, from ecological surveys to impact assessment, expert witness, and on-the-ground project implementation.

We understand the commercial pressures that many of our clients face and our team of professional ecologists deliver client-focused, evidence-based, pragmatic solutions.

 

We are very proud that our work to restore the rare plant Deptford Pink to Chobham Common in Surrey has won the Best Practice – Small-scale Practical Nature Conservation category at the 2025 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) awards!

EPR was commended in two CIEEM award categories in 2022:

  • Medium Consultancy of the Year

  • Best Practice Small-scale Mitigation  – for our work at Otterbourne Hill

We are proud to see that the dedication and expertise of our team has been recognised.

Our status as a CIEEM Registered Practice demonstrates our consistently high professional standards and our commitment to the continuous professional development of all our staff.

Biodiversity Net Gain is now Mandatory for Most Planning Applications in England

On 12 February 2024, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) became mandatory for most planning applications in England, with a few exemptions.

Affected development projects must demonstrate a minimum 10% uplift (unless a higher target is set by local planning policy) in biodiversity when measured using the Defra Biodiversity Metric (a statutory version of which is now available).

To help you navigate the changes, we’ve prepared a document setting out responses to the Biodiversity Net Gain questions we are most frequently asked. The document is available as a download below.

You can also download two BNG related case studies from the links below and visit our Biodiversity Net Gain web page for more information on our services.

If you have urgent queries, contact us on 01962794720 or info@EPR.uk.com. Our team of BNG specialists is ready to assist you with any aspect of BNG planning and delivery.

“We regularly work with EPR, who always demonstrate up to date knowledge and intelligence on ecological matters. They are particularly strong on Biodiversity Net Gain, and their approach to HRA matters – and provide excellent written reports. In addition, they have a strength with Examinations and Public Inquiries. And on top of that, they are great to work with!”

Charlie Collins, Head of South East Planning, Savills

Click on the links below for more information on our services

Services

Sectors in which we commonly work

We work across a wide variety of sectors including residential, commercial, infrastructure, energy and the public sector.  Click here to find out more.

Who We Support

‘I am delighted to confirm that we have just received the decision notice granting planning.  This is a great success….’

Emma Gruenbaum, Wates Development