SEA and sustainability assessment

CEP is at the forefront of conducting strategic environmental assessments (SEAs) and sustainability appraisals in the UK and internationally and applying them to across a wide range of sectors. We also undertake research on assessment tools and techniques, develop guidance and provide training. CEP brings a blend of knowledge and experience from practice, academic and legal perspectives. Drawing on this experience, we offer practical advice to clients through working closely with them to, for example: develop assessment processes and methodologies; provide critical review of outputs and reports; and provide expert advice or evidence where an external view is needed.

Example projects include:

Practical guidance and recommendations for integrating climate change and biodiversity into Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) / Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) procedures. For the European Commission (with Milieu and Integra). 2011.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and energy policy, expert review and advice. For Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) For RSPB and WWF. 2009 - 2010.

Scottish Government Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Pathfinder Project. For the Scottish Government (with EnviroCentre). 2005 - 2008.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) guidance on soil, air and water.For SNIFFER (Scotland and Northern Ireland Forum for Environmental Research) (with EnviroCentre). 2007 - 2008.

Guide on Integrated Impact Assessment. For the London Sustainable Development Commission / Greater London Authority (with CAG). 2008 - 2009.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the draft Ealing Local Implementation Plan (LIP). For the London Borough of Ealing. 2010 - 2011.

Expert Advice for the Hunterston Judicial Review (McGinty v. Scottish Ministers). For Patrick Cambell and Co., 2010.

River Basin Management Plan Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs). For the Environment Agency for England and Wales (with Cascade Consulting). 2007-2008, 2009.

Integrated Sustainability Appraisal (incorporating SEA, SA and Health Impact Assessment) of the Mayor of London's Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Water Strategy. For the Greater London Authority (with CHERE). 2006 - 2010.

Sustainability Appraisal (incorporating SEA) of Brent Council's evolving Local Development Documents LDDs), including the core strategy and site specific allocations. For the London Borough of Brent. 2004 - 2009.

Sustainability Appraisal of the proposed changes and final RSS for the South West of England (Followed on from the appraisal of the draft plan for the South West Regional Assembly). For the Government Office and Planning Inspectorate (with LUC and Levett-Therivel). 2008 - 2010.

Expert advisor to the applicant in the judicial review: Irwin Glenbank Ltd v Department of the Environment Northern Ireland (Planning Service). For Irwin Glenbank Ltd. 2009

Expert review of the SEA compliance of the UK Government's draft Planning Policy Statement on Eco-towns and Eco-towns Programme. For BARD Campaign. 2008.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Rural Development Plan. For Wales Welsh Assembly Government (with Agra CEAS). 2006 - 2007.