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When to undertake survey. 

Survey is recommended at the earliest opportunity on a potential development site so that any potential issues can be highlighted and to allow time for a solution to be achieved where appropriate.  There are also seasonal restrictions to some survey.  Survey may also be required as part of a planning condition.  However, it should be noted that survey for European Protected Species (e.g. Bats, Otter, Wildcat) cannot now form part of a suspensive planning condition, their presence or absence must be determined prior to planning permission being granted. 

 

 

Survey Work

Staff have extensive experience in surveying and monitoring protected species.  This extends to experience of mitigation schemes and where appropriate, licence applications, translocation or exclusion.  Staff have expertise in survey for the following species/groups: 

 

Protected Species:

· Bats (including licensed roost survey);

· Otter;

· Wildcat;

· Great Crested Newt and other amphibians;

· Red Squirrel;

· Pine Marten;

· Water Vole;

· Badger;

· Reptiles;

· Freshwater Pearl Mussel;

Other Species and Groups

· Birds (including wintering and breeding birds, vantage point survey, Annex 1 Bird species and Schedule 1 Bird species (e.g. Barn Owl));

· Vegetation and Habitats (including Phase 1 Habitat Survey);

· Invasive Alien Plant Species listed on Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

· Butterflies and Dragonflies

Site Biodiversity/Habitat Management Plans