If you’re planning a development, you may have heard about Construction Ecological Management Plans (CEMP) and are wondering if they are legally required? This article will help you understand about CEMPs and cover everything you need to know.
Who is Responsible for Preparing the CEMP?
An ecological consultant or environmental specialist will often write the plan, but the production of a CEMP is the responsibility of the applicant/developer, and it is on them to ensure that it is specific to their project and suitable in scope.
Are There Penalties or Legal Implications?
Yes, there are penalties and legal implications for not complying with CEMPs, as a CEMP is often a requirement for planning permission. It demonstrates to the planning authority that your development will comply with legal obligations, such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and other best practices.
Failure to comply with its conditions can result in fines, prosecution, and costly delays to your project timeline.
How Often Does the CEMP Need to Be Updated or Reviewed?
CEMPs are live documents that should be reviewed and updated at regular intervals throughout the project life cycle. Updating the CEMP when any significant changes happen to the project design and regularly reviewing it ensures it remains relevant and effective.
Do All Construction Projects Need a CEMP?
In general, larger projects are more likely to need a detailed CEMP than smaller projects due to their significant potential environment impacts. However, not having one can cut your chances of planning approval.
We recommend submitting a CEMP as it shows good practice, consideration and demonstrates commitment to environmental management. Greenlight are here to lend a helping hand if you need expert guidance and assistance.
What Determines Whether One is Required?
A Construction Ecological Management Plan is required for most construction projects, depending on local regulations, project scales and the sensitivity of the surrounding environment.
A planning application may include a condition for a CEMP and works aren’t able to start until the CEMP is approved by the authority or regulator.
CEMPs are also often included in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Statement (Ess) reporting to inform consents and planning applications.
When a CEMP may be required –
- If a project has the potential to cause significant environmental impacts, such a noise, dust or pollution
- Projects situated near rivers, lakes and coastal areas
- Public infrastructure projects or large-scale renewable energy projects
- Sensitive environment areas like protected habitats or endangered species
It is best to confirm early whether a CEMP will be needed. If you’re not sure where to start, the team at Greenlight will be able to support you through every stage. Our experienced consultants work closely with you and the regulators to make sure everything runs smoothly.
How Greenlight Can Help
Greenlight’s expertise working with development projects means we can support you through every stage of your CEMP, providing landscape, ecology and arboricultural surveys. If you want to find out more, then we encourage to get in touch today for help with your next project.
