As a business that can have a big impact on the environment, we need to understand how we might affect the natural and built environments. To help us minimise our environmental impacts when we plan some of our major projects, we often carry out Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).

Investigation process

Formal Environmental Impact Assessments are usually carried out for many of our significant construction projects.

As part of this, we look at the environmental impacts of any our construction work or future operations - effects on wildlife, archaeology or transport, for example. The issues covered depend on the type and location of the project being assessed.

We also to talk to people or organisations that could be affected by our plans or might have an interest in them.

Environmental Statements

All of the relevant information about potential environmental impacts, and any plans to avoid or reduce these impacts, are summarised in an Environmental Statement.

This document is used by local planning authorities to help them consider any related planning applications.

Not all developments need an Assessment, as it depends on the size of the project and where it is.

Even if a formal Assessment is not required, we still check all of our engineering projects for environmental issues.