To avoid, or limit as far as possible, negative ecological impacts associated with the site and surrounding areas resulting from the project.

• Minimise ecological damage on the site and in the wider area (within the Zone of Influence).
• Avoid the risk of prosecution under environmental and wildlife protection legislation.
• Help to conserve local natural ecosystems and maintain environmental assets for the community.
• Supports activities to ensure that legislation, policy and guidance are followed for the good of the site and the wider environment.
• Reduce the risk of local controversy over development and management strategies.

Programming of works on a site is driven by many factors but can often have a negative impact on the ecology of a site or in the wider area (within the site's 'Zone of Influence'). Many species and habitats are legally protected, and ecological damage can result in prosecution leading to corporate or personal fines, prison sentences and reputational damage. Also, the replacement of lost habitats is not straightforward and takes time to be successful. It is, therefore, important to limit disruption and disturbance to local wildlife or ecological systems, wherever possible. This should be done by following the 'mitigation hierarchy' of 'avoid, protect, reduce or limit and compensate', when making decisions that have ecological impacts. Where disruption is likely to arise during construction works and operation of the asset, the focus should be on minimising disruption to maximise value and ensure that it is sustainable for the longer term.