Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology
The standard first pass for classifying what's actually growing (and living) on a site
What it is
About Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology
Phase 1 Habitat Survey is a rapid, systematic method for mapping and classifying broad habitat types (woodland, grassland, wetland, etc.) across a site using a standard colour-coded classification system and target notes for features of interest. It's typically the first stage of ecological due diligence for a development site, informing whether more detailed protected-species surveys or a Biodiversity Net Gain assessment are needed.
What you can do with it
Capabilities
Walk and map a site's broad habitat types using the standard colour-coded classification
Record target notes on notable features (veteran trees, watercourses, potential protected species habitat)
Produce a Phase 1 Habitat map to support planning applications
Identify where further detailed surveys (e.g. bat, great crested newt) are needed
Feed baseline habitat data into a Biodiversity Net Gain metric calculation
How to learn it
Learning Resources
JNCC's official Phase 1 Habitat Survey handbook (free PDF)
CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management) training courses
Field Studies Council (FSC) habitat identification and botanical ID courses
Supervised fieldwork/shadowing with a qualified ecologist, since species/habitat ID skill is built through practice
Pro Tip
UKHab is steadily replacing Phase 1 as the reference standard tied to the statutory Biodiversity Net Gain metric in England — learn Phase 1 as the historical baseline but make sure you're also fluent in UKHab for current planning work
Skills that use this tool
Roles that use this tool