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Bats and the UK Planning System

The presence of a protected species is a material consideration in considering a development proposal.

Where bats' presence is possible, local authorities should consult with English Nature as part of the planning process; an assessment to include a bat survey will be needed if bats are likely to be affected. It is the planning authority's job to assess each application to ascertain the most appropriate approach. It mat attach conditions to any permission to safeguard protected species and habitants. Conditions may dictate the timing of certain works, management of sites following development, and require a Habitants Regulations Licence to be obtained before work can start.

However, even when conditions are not attached to the planning permission, the law still applies. It is always an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb a bat (this includes capture and killing), damager or destroy a breeding site or resting place of any bat. Because of this, developers must take every effort to safeguard bats and their roosts.

Care should be taken to safeguard bats' foraging habitats too, as they form part of the essential land-take of the development, mitigation measures should be put in place. Undertaking a survey early on in the development processes can save time and money later on.

If you require a UK Bat Survey for a Planning Application contact Peter Arnott on (01759) 372779

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