Freshwater Impact Assessments

We deliver scientifically robust and regulatory compliant assessments including freshwater Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessments.

Impacts on freshwater environments resulting from development need to be identified and assessed early in the planning process so that they can be managed. 

We deliver scientifically robust and regulatory compliant assessments including freshwater Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessments, both as stand-alone studies, and contributing to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).   

What we do

We advise clients on the scope of aquatic ecological assessments.  We recognise that baseline survey programmes are costly and need to be scoped to reflect the scale of the development.  We work closely with our in-house EIA team to ensure assessments are appropriately scoped in order to minimise risks to our clients’ planning applications.

Our scientists have a depth of technical expertise and practical experience that covers the impacts of developments on freshwater receptors including channel and flow modifications, effluent discharges, abstraction, and noise and vibration from piling and other construction activities.

Our approach to EcIA follows sectoral guidance published by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).  

WFD assessment considers the impacts of development on the status of waterbodies covered by the Directive, including rivers, lakes, standing waters and wetlands (known as Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GDTE)).  The assessment focuses on the impact of the development on a range of biological, chemical and physico-chemical receptors (known as quality elements) as well as hydromorphology.

Thomson’s freshwater team have considerable experience of undertaking WFD assessments ranging from small residential development schemes to major infrastructure projects such as the Thames Tideway Tunnel.  

To discuss your requirements or to find out more about the freshwater impact assessments that we offer, please contact us today.

 

Freshwater Impact Assessment

Sector Expertise
We have a deep understanding of certain sectors and can provide the right solution

Our expertise and knowledge is acquired through our extensive experience working within certain sectors and fully understanding their circumstances.

Careers
Our people make us who we are

A career with Thomson offers you great opportunities for professional and personal development and the chance to achieve your potential in a strongly values-led business.

Services Freshwater Ecology Freshwater Impact Assessments