Types of assessments
The type of study that is classified as a planning assessment is typically aimed at supporting new development at the planning application stage. These are generally focussed on a specific environmental impact that could be associated with the construction of a new building, housing scheme or infrastructure project. Find out more in our brochure.
01Flood Risk
Herrington Consulting has over 15 years experience in flood risk management and by drawing on our team of specialist consultants and the support from our numerical modellers, we are able to provide high quality expert advice and appraisals of the risk of flooding from; rivers, the sea, groundwater, surface water runoff, sewers, reservoirs and other man-made sources. Our proven track record of success is founded on our expertise and the ability this brings to providing bespoke and innovative solutions.
Our Goal
Our key aim is to help our clients develop sustainable and appropriate developments, and secure planning permission, whilst at the same time providing robust advice to enable our clients to gain a better understanding of the risks associated with flooding and maximise the development potential of their site.
Our assessments are not a collection of data and mapping products that are simply downloaded from the internet. We provide expert advice and treat every project as a bespoke technical assessment. Our team of professionally qualified analysts and consultants are involved in the whole process and strive to deliver the best solution tailored for your site.
Numerical Modelling
Some Flood Risk Assessments may require more detailed analysis to quantify the type, depth and velocity of flooding at a site and to facilitate this, we employ state-of-the-art numerical modelling software to provide high resolution flood simulations for a wide range of scenarios, including:
- 1D and 2D river flows
- Flood propagation
- Coastal breaches and wave overtopping
- Rainfall runoff and surface water flows
For more information on our full range of numerical models please head to our Numerical Modelling page.
02Surface Water Management
At the planning stage, for sites that exceed 1 ha in area or, are identified as being a site with problematic drainage or localised flooding issues, planning policy requires that a Surface Water Management Strategy is developed to demonstrate that the proposed development will not exacerbate flood risk, either on site or elsewhere.
This strategy can be developed as either a stand-alone study, or be included as part of a Flood Risk Assessment and in most cases it is based on a desk-top study that tests the application of the preferred hierarchical approach to surface water discharge, i.e. via infiltration, connection to a watercourse or to a public sewer.
Sustainable Drainage (SuDS)
Surface water drainage methods that take account of quantity, quality and amenity issues are collectively referred to as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). These systems are more sustainable than conventional drainage methods because they help to manage runoff rates, reducing the impact of urbanisation on flooding and protect and enhance water quality.
These systems do this by dealing with runoff close to where the rain falls, managing potential pollution at its source and protecting water resources from point pollution.
Numerical Analysis
Herrington Consulting has range of numerical models that assist in the development of Surface Water Management Strategies. These include FEH, ReFEH and Micro Drainage Source Control. For complex sites direct rainfall 2D overland flow path and flood route modelling can also be undertaken using Surface-water Modelling System & TuFLOW. Further information on our numerical modelling capabilities can be found on our Numerical Modelling page.
03Daylight and Sunlight
Herrington’s specialist Light team works on projects ranging from private builds and extensions, high rise developments and new build housing estates to conversions of basesments and offices to residential use. We work with home owners, architects, developers, retailers, local authorities, and planners. When you need help delivering your project on time with the optimal commercial outcomes whilst also meeting the required daylighting needs, our team of experts is always happy to talk you through and advice on the technical requirements needed for planning.
Designing for Light
We can assist with assessing the potential impact on natural light to neighbouring properties and the internal availability of natural light within new residential schemes, amongst other services. We have extensive experience in delivering complex technical reports for challenging projects using our expert 3D modelling capabilities. We can provide expert advice on scheme cutbacks for sensitive areas, maximum envelope studies to best utilise development sites and internal layout reconfigurations to meet minimum light standards in residential developments.
Daylight and Sunlight Assessment
Daylight and Sunlight Assessments can be used in a number of ways to improve the design of a scheme at all stages in the design process, for example scoping out development potential and identifying specific site constraints, or quantifying daylight and sunlight provision inside new dwellings.
Impact on Neighbours
In line with the recommended methodology set out within the BRE Guidelines (BR209 Third Edition 2022), the Vertical Sky Component (VSC), Daylight Distribution/ No Sky Line (NSL) and Annual Probable Sunlight Hours (APSH) tests are calculated. Our analysis is carried out using a 3D model of the existing, proposed and surrounding developments and simulations are undertaken for both the ‘existing’ and ‘proposed development, scenarios.
We can help with:
- Maximum envelope/jelly mould studies
- Cut backs to achieve BRE compliant schemes whilst maximising development within the site boundaries
Internal Provision of Light
In line with the recommended methodology set out within the BRE Guidelines, the Daylight Factor, Daylight Illuminance and Sunlight Exposure tests are carried out. Our analysis is carried our using a 3D model of the proposed and surrounding developments as well as closely located trees and other vegetation.
We are experts in providing advice to improve natural light to meet the recommended standards.
Overshadowing Studies
In addition to the BRE Sun on Ground test, we can provide Transient Overshadowing studies.
This study focuses on the shadows cast by new developments and are typically undertaken to assess the impact on amenity spaces such as gardens and public open spaces. The objective is to simulate the path and extent of shadows cast by new developments at hourly intervals at different times of year. The outputs are graphical rather than numerical and therefore require careful interpretation.
BREEAM
We can also undertake analysis to meet the BREEAM requirements for daylight provision within proposed new internal spaces such as residential dwellings, educational facilities, hotels, hospitals and student accommodation.
Up to two BREEAM credits are available for ‘Daylighting’ under Hea01. This aims to encourage good natural light is considered in building design, reducing the need to artificial light and improving visual comfort and wellbeing.
European Standards – EN17037
The new European Standard EN 17037 is the first of its kind to deal exclusively with the design for, and provision of, daylight in buildings. This is important for the health and well-being of building users, but also helps to save energy by not relying on artificial lighting.
04External Light
For new developments there is now an opportunity for planning authorities to impose conditions related to external lighting, including curfew hours. In recognition of the growing need to assess and mitigate environmental impacts, Herrington Consulting can include Light Pollution/Light Impact Assessments as one of the Planning Assessment services we offer.
External Lighting Impact Assessments (ELIA)
There are many forms of light pollution and these are generically referred to as ‘obtrusive light’, which if not properly controlled can have physiological and ecological impacts. Since 2006, artificial light has been included on the list of possible Statutory Nuisances in England, Wales and Scotland and is also now referenced in both National and Local planning policy. We are able to undertake detailed External Lighting Impact Assessments that allow lighting schemes to be tested and potential adverse impacts identified and mitigated.
Why the need to assess?
An external light impact assessment is typically required for planning applications to ensure that the NPPF policy on light pollution from artificial lighting to local landscapes is met. Local Planning Authorities mainly follow the guidelines for external lighting installations set by the Institutions of Lighting Professionals (ILP) Guidance Note 1 ‘The Reduction of Obtrusive Light’ and ILP Guidance Note 08/23 – Bats and Artificial Lighting in the UK.
Planning considers:
- The maximum lux for LED lights
- The colour rendering indices of light sources below specified maximum values
- The main beam angle of all lights within specified tolerances
- Environmental Zones in the area surrounding the development (will determine their sensitivity to external light sources)
How we work
We promote a commercially balanced, phased approach to external light assessment with initial scoping assessments which may be used to address planning conditions in low sensitivity locations or to support a planning application, followed by more design / receptor specific assessment and lighting constraint modelling where an issue has been identified requiring a higher level of consideration.
We use numerical modelling techniques to analyse a range of lighting impacts or light pollution. This is a very general term which refers to the effect of over-lighting resulting from poorly designed lighting schemes and excessive levels of light. When external lighting installation requires impact assessment, be it in terms of glare or even potential impact on wildlife, our team of experts can help ensure your design is right.
We can help you with:
- Light Trespass and Light Spill
- Luminaire Intensity
- Landscape Impacts
- Assessment of potential impacts on foraging and commuting bats, carried out in line with the ILP Guidance Note 08/18 – Bats and artificial lighting in the UK
05Glint and Glare
What is a Solar Glint and Glare Assessment?
Glint and Glare Assessments are technical evaluations conducted to understand the potential impact of reflective surfaces, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, on the surrounding environment. These assessments are often required to support planning permission, for ensuring that new developments are designed with consideration for their environmental and social impact. They are particularly important for developments that include solar PV installations or buildings with large glass surfaces and/or are located near infrastructure such as airports or railways.
Why the need to assess?
“Glint and glare” is the general term used to describe the reflection of sunlight from a reflective surface, typically one that is capable of producing specular solar reflections. Glint is defined as a momentary flash of bright light typically received by moving receptors or from moving reflectors, whilst glare is a continuous source of bright light, typically received by static receptors or from large reflective surfaces.
Solar glint and glare is a phenomenon caused by the concentrated source intensity of light and it can manifest in the built environment when the sun is reflected off infrastructure or building façades. In certain situations the scattering of light inside the eye can become visually disabling resulting in impaired vision. This impairment can present particular hazards to pilots, and drivers of vehicles and trains, and needs to be assessed.
The Solar Glint and Glare Assessment quantifies the potential for this disabling glare to present unacceptable risks in the vicinity of a building or infrastructure such as solar panels.
How we work
Herrington promotes a commercially balanced, phased approach to all types of lighting assessment with initial scoping assessments which may be used to address planning conditions in low sensitivity locations or to support a planning application, followed by more design / receptor specific assessment and constraint modelling where an issue has been identified requiring a higher level of consideration. Using industry proven modelling techniques and software to model for scenarios such as an aircraft on final approach or a train driver as they pass a signal, if a potential risk is identified, Herrington works with the team and the client on layout modifications (such as changes to panel tilt and elevation angle) which can often alleviate concerns and overcome objections. Our approach is to be comprehensive but cost effective and importantly, be team players for the wider project.
