Scoping plays a vital role in the initial stages of EIA and to ensure the EIA provides adequately the information the planning authority requires to reach a decision. It also aids on agreeing a scope of assessment and can significantly reduce consultation time/avoid costly delays caused by survey work being required at a later stage. Furthermore scoping can aid in the planning of Phase II studies.

The practice routinely undertakes scoping exercises for a range of projects. These generally involve a combination of the following:

• Study of aerial photographs
  
  
• Identification of statutory/non-statutory designated sites
  
  
• Search of historical species records
  
  
• Review of local and regional plans, UK, regional and local Biodiversity Action Plans, Natural Area's Profile etc.
  
  
• Review of previous survey data
  
  
• Consultation with local authorities, English Nature, Wildlife Trusts, Environment Agency etc.
  
  
• Preliminary site survey