Protected Species/ Nature Conservation
When is information on protected species required?
Certain proposals which include work such as the demolition of
older buildings or roof spaces,
removal of trees, scrub, hedgerows or alterations to watercourses
may affect protected species.
These types of proposals must be accompanied by information on
protected species, any potential impacts for them and any
mitigation proposals for such impacts.
What information should I provide on protected species?
Plans should show any significant wildlife habitats or features
and the location of habitats of any
species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Conservation (natural habitats etc)
regulations 1994 or protection of badgers act 1992.
The most common protected species found in South Lakeland are
bats, barn owls, badgers, great
crested newts, crayfish and natterjack toads. More specific
information on bats is listed below.
Further Guidance
Natural England has produced advice notes and mitigation
guidelines on individual
protected species
Bat Surveys
When is a bat survey required?
Bat surveys will be required for any application that relates
to traditional older rural buildings for
example barns. When planning a development it is advisable to check
for the presence of bats as
early as possible so that any planning and licensing issues can be
addressed.
Planning authorities are required to take account of the
presence of protected species, including
bats, when considering applications for planning permission and may
refuse applications on the
grounds of adverse effects on these species. Any proposal that may
affect bats must be
accompanied by an up to date bat survey. If the study or assessment
is deemed to be inadequate
then permission may be refused.
Guidance
Mitigation measures
Reporting the presence of bats
Plans should show any significant wildlife habitats or features
and the location of habitats of
any species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
1981. Conservation (natural habitats etc) regaulations 1994 or
protection of badgers act 1992. Applications for development in the
countryside that will affect sensitive areas must be accompanied by
ecological assessments and include proposals for long-term
maintenance and management. This information might be incorporated
into an environment statement, if one is necessary. Back to Additional Information