Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)

A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) is a document used to ensure that construction activities are carried out in a way that protects the environment and minimises impacts on local communities, habitats and wildlife.

CEMPs are often required as part of the planning process, particularly for developments that may affect sensitive environmental features or where planning conditions specify their preparation. Our ecologists will review the proposed development and any ecological constraints identified through previous surveys and assessments. We will then prepare a site-specific CEMP, outlining the environmental risks associated with the works and the practical measures required to avoid, minimise or mitigate impacts during construction.

A CEMP should cover potential environmental impacts during the construction phase, taking the permitted plans and looking at how building them may need managing and monitoring. It usually outlines the roles and responsibilities of contractors, site managers and environmental specialists, ensuring that all personnel understand the environmental requirements of the project. Where necessary, it can also incorporate species-specific mitigation measures for protected species such as bats, badgers, dormice, reptiles and nesting birds.

All CEMPs are prepared in accordance with current legislation, planning policy and best-practice guidance, ensuring environmental risks are identified and managed effectively. This helps developers, contractors and planning authorities demonstrate compliance with planning conditions while safeguarding biodiversity throughout construction works.
Relevant legislation may include the Environment Act 2021, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. CEMPs are also informed by national and local planning policy, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and any project-specific planning requirements.

CEC is well placed to prepare Construction Environmental Management Plans, drawing on extensive experience in ecological management and pollution prevention, including impacts relating to air quality, water environments and noise. We have delivered CEMPs for a wide range of projects, from private dwellings in environmentally sensitive coastal locations to schools, workshops and hotels.

If you require any further information, please call us on 01872 245510 or contact us to discuss your project and requirements.