Award of Provision of Guidance for addressing uncertainty in EIA post Wull Muir Ruling

About

A non competitive action is considered the most appropriate procurement route for the due to the highly specialised and expert nature of the services required.

This commission requires a contractor with demonstrable, in depth expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment practice, specifically relating to the treatment of uncertainty within the Scottish planning and consenting context.

EIA is a statutory and technically complex process used to identify and assess the likely significant environmental effects of development proposals, requiring robust methodologies and professional judgement to support sound decision making.

Fothergill Training & Consulting Ltd has been identified as uniquely positioned to deliver this requirement due to: • Recognised specialist expertise in EIA practice and systems: The organisation is widely recognised for its leadership in impact assessment, with its team contributing to UK and international guidance, research, and professional standards in EIA.

• Direct experience of Scottish EIA practice: Their work includes engagement with planning authorities and delivery of capacity building programmes specifically aimed at enhancing EIA capability within the Scottish planning system.

• Demonstrable thought leadership on complex EIA challenges: The company has produced leading research, guidance, and training on emerging and complex aspects of EIA (including proportionality, digital EIA, and system improvement), indicating a deep understanding of issues such as uncertainty in assessment.

• Extensive professional experience and credibility: The senior team has over 35 years’ experience in sustainability and impact assessment, including prior leadership roles in developing UK EIA policy, guidance, and quality frameworks.