Spatial Planning & Environmental Analysis
NIRAS provides spatial planning and environmental analysis services that support informed site selection and sustainable development decision-making. Using GIS, multi-criteria analysis, and stakeholder engagement, we assess environmental risks, evaluate spatial data, and develop tailored solutions that balance environmental, technical, and social considerations.
What We Offer
- Spatial planning and site selection analysis
- Environmental risk and constraint mapping
- Multi-criteria spatial analysis and decision support (analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and MARXAN)
- Data gathering, cleansing, and management
- Geostatistical modelling (such as predictive distribution mapping)
- Stakeholder engagement and alignment workshops
- GIS-based weighting and scoring methodologies
- Interactive web-based reporting and visualisation
- Static maps and risk-based spatial layers
Red-throated Diver Sanctuary Zones
Model red-throated diver distribution with respect to relevant environmental factors. Identifying and quantify possible impact on red-throated diver distribution of designating sanctuary zones while considering environmental sensitivities, stakeholder priorities, and complex spatial datasets.
NIRAS obtained GIS layers of relevant environmental sources, and standardised and quality-checked the data for use in modelling. Spatially explicit modelling was carried out, and results were used to predict modelled impacts under a range of different scenarios. Outputs were presented through maps, risk layers, and reports documenting the results quantitatively and qualitatively. Results will be used to inform ongoing discussion and decision making.
The project delivered evidence-based spatial insights that improved planning decisions, strengthened stakeholder alignment, and supported environmentally responsible outcomes.
