EIA Case Study: Whitevane Fishery

The A.G.A Group is often asked to write reports to accompany planning applications on the impact that various projects might have. Recently a client approached the organisation wishing to bio-secure his fishery by constructing a series of stock ponds to reduce the risk of disease by breeding his own stock. The A.G.A Group worked with the client through all the stages of the process, helping with the design of the stock ponds and offering advice on where best to situate them.

Practical matters such as this can, if not considered carefully turn a positive project into a potential for increased risk to the fishery. The A.G.A Group carried out a full survey of the fishery which pinpointed the correct location for the ponds and gave an understanding of the ecological and environmental impacts of the proposal. A report was then drawn up highlighting the environmental implications of the proposed construction work with mitigation measures suggested to lessen the environmental impact. The report also included ‘best practice’ methods for the pond construction, supporting background evidence from the site and highlighted the need for Biosecurity. The report was then used as supplementary evidence to support the planning application.