Protected Species Surveys

Bats, Great Crested Newts (GCN), Rare Reptiles and a host of other species in the UK are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 by their inclusion in Schedule V. Their disturbance in almost all cases is a criminal offence. Protected Species Survey and reports are often required to determine the presence or absence of a particular species on or within impacting distance of your development site.

Great Crested Newt Surveys

Newts are not especially rare in the UK, in comparison to the rest of Europe. However, the law protects the Great Crested Newt and its habitats from disturbance, as well as possession, killing, injury or sale.

- A Great Crested Newt Survey

If you are unsure of which type of Protected Species Survey applies to your site, please contact one of our team who will be happy to advise, on 08450 176950.

Our Protected Species Surveys include:

• Bat surveys
• Newt surveys (GCN)
• Breeding birds surveys
• Owl surveys
• Badger surveys
• Rare reptile surveys
• Otters, Water Voles, Shrews and Dormouse surveys
• And a variety of Higher Plant surveys

Why would I need a protected species survey?

Frequently, following a Phase 1 Habitat Survey or other Ecological Survey, where one or more species are identified on sites proposed for development, mitigation proposals (e.g. a Bat Mitigation Strategy) are required by the Local Planning Authority, and by the issuing body for licenses to disturb and handle protected species; Natural England (or Countryside Council for Wales).

Are survey licenses needed for protected species surveys?

Arbtech’s team include Natural England licenced workers for European protected species such as Bats, GCN, Rare Reptiles, Dormouse and others, affording you access to timely surveys, quality advice and rapid negotiation of the often complex regulatory and legal framework that protects these and other species. Our robust reports are rarely questioned by Natural England or Countryside Council for Wales, enabling clients to successfully progress their planning applications, and reduce delays and downstream costs.

Great Crested Newt Survey for Planning FAQ

To have a friendly, pragmatic discussion about how to progress your planning application in the fastest possible way, why not call us today for a free initial consultation? To contact an ecologist directly, call 08450 176950 and asking to speak with Martin O’Connor or Robert Oates.