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BATS

All bats and their roosts are protected under UK Legislation. In particular under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, & C.) Regulations 1994, and in Scotland under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, & C.) Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2007.  For example in Scotland it is an offence to deliberately or recklessly disturb bats in a roost, to obstruct access to a roost site or to damage or destroy a bat roost.

 

Survey is likely to be required if there are buildings on a site (old and new) as well as mature trees and areas of semi-natural habitat.  Due to possible time constraints with survey and mitigation measures (if needed), it is recommended that survey and mitigation design should start as early as possible in the life of the project.  We can undertake licensed roost survey as well as foraging surveys if required. 

If a roost is affected by a development, then a European protected species licence is likely to be required before works can start.  In Scotland, the Scottish Government advise that a licence application can take at least 6-8 weeks to assess. 

Our staff can assist with licence applications for a wide variety of projects. The licence application requires a species survey and is likely to also require mitigation proposals such as supervision of demolition of buildings, ensuring roost provision in the new build or design and build of a replacement roost.  Please contact us to discuss your requirements.