Protected Species Surveys
Many of our native species are afforded legal protection under various laws. Great Crested Newts, Dormice, reptiles, bats, Badgers, Water Voles, Otters, White-clawed Crayfish and breeding birds are just some of the species afforded various levels of legal protection. These species can often be impacted on by development and as such need to be considered, ideally at the planning stages of a project. We carry out a range of protected species surveys for a range of projects ranging from small scale residential extensions to large scale developments such as housing developments and golf course creation. Our surveys and associated reports provide accurate and reliable data to clients for many uses including planning applications, licence applications and mitigation strategies. Licence Applications If protected species are to be impacted by development it may be necessary to obtain a development licence from the relevant organisation such as Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage or National Resources Wales. These licences permit activities that would otherwise be illegal if carried out without such a licence. Development licences are only granted once the issuing body is satisfied that the appropriate surveys have been carried out and any mitigation measures approved. We are able to identify the need, and successfully apply for protected species licences on behalf of our clients. Mitigation In order for licences to be approved it is usually necessary to agree an appropriate mitigation strategy in order to minimise disturbance or compensate for lost habitat. This can involve simple measures such as timing of works or more extensive projects such as habitat creation or enhancement. We offer a full range of mitigation services, should they be required for your projects. |
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