Ash Ecology

Ecological Consultant Cork

Expert ecological and environmental assessments for planning applications in Cork. CIEEM Registered Practice with fast turnaround.

Ecological Assessments in Cork

Cork is Ireland's largest county with enormous ecological diversity. The Lee, Blackwater, and Bandon river systems support important freshwater habitats. Cork Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world with internationally important wetlands. Upland areas including the Ballyhoura and Boggeragh Mountains provide blanket bog and heath habitats.

Natura 2000 Sites in Cork

Key Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in Cork include Cork Harbour SPA catchment area, Great Island Channel SAC, Blackwater River SAC, The Gearagh SAC, Bandon River SAC, and Ballyhoura Mountains SAC.

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) include Cork Harbour SPA, Ballycotton Bay SPA, Ballymacoda Bay SPA, and Kilcolman Bog SPA.

Protected Species

The Blackwater supports Atlantic Salmon, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, and Otter populations. Lesser Horseshoe Bats are found in west Cork. Badger populations are widespread across the county. Cork Harbour supports nationally important numbers of wintering waders and wildfowl.

Planning in Cork: Cork County Council and Cork City Council routinely request ecological reports, particularly for sites near river corridors and the harbour. The Blackwater and Lee catchments trigger AA requirements for a large proportion of the county.

Services in Cork

AA Screening is standard for developments near the extensive river SAC network and Cork Harbour. Bat surveys are frequently needed in rural areas and older buildings. Ecological Impact Assessment is required for larger developments, road schemes, and wind energy projects.

Need a Flood Risk Assessment in Cork?

We also provide Stage 1, 2 & 3 Flood Risk Assessments for planning through our dedicated service. Proper OPW methodology with fast turnaround.

Visit floodriskreport.ie →

Working with Cork City Council and Cork County Council

We have extensive experience preparing ecological reports for Cork City Council and Cork County Council. Our reports are thorough, clearly structured, and address the specific requirements of local planning officers. We regularly handle Further Information responses within tight timeframes.

Facing an FI deadline in Cork? We regularly turn around Further Information responses within tight timeframes. Call us directly on 089 499 1181.

Get a Quote

Send your project details — we'll respond with a fixed-price quote, typically within 24 hours.

Prefer to talk?

089 499 1181