SINC Assessment

Key Info

Some Local Planning Authorities now seek ecological guidance on whether a proposed development site merits protection as a Site of Importance to Nature Conservation (SINC), prior to giving planning permission.

SINCs, also known as Local Wildlife Sites, provide important refuges to protected or important habitats and species, supplementing the network of nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) across our countryside. The report submitted to the local planning authority in this respect requires careful ecological consideration of the site’s characteristics against 8 principles and 32 detailed guidelines, contained within the appropriate “Guidance for Selection of Wildlife Sites” document, to determine which principles or guidelines, if any, are satisfied.

Surveys:

In order to prepare a “potential suitability” report, it will generally be necessary to undertake desk studies and site visits:

  • A check of local ecological records (LERC) to determine which priority habitats and species might be affected by the development. This analysis might not be required if such a check has been completed recently and the results are available in sufficient detail to enable them to inform the “potential suitability” assessment adequately.
  • Site visits to inspect and record details of habitats, species and field signs present within, or adjacent to, the proposed development site. Again, such visits might not be required if a Phase 1 Habitat Survey or Preliminary Ecological Appraisal/Assessment has been completed recently and that the results are available in sufficient detail to inform the “potential suitability” report adequately.

The report will clearly identify whether and how the site conforms to each of the principles and detailed guidelines for SINC selection and advise the local planning authority accordingly.

If you need assistance with raising a “Potential Suitability of a Proposed Development Site as a SINC” report for your development project, please contact us.

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