Bat Assessment / Survey Information

Government advice in Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation recommend that Local Planning Authorities to take into account the impact of development on protected species and their habitats. In Hampshire it is a requirement that householder developments should also be included in this assessment of development on biodiversity.

Since April 2008 all proposals that includes works to, or demolition of, a roof are required to make an assessment of the impact the development may have on bats and their habitats, which are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc) Regulations 1994. This is explained in the checklist for householder applications that has been available on the Hart website since March 2008.

In order to proceed with your application, please could you supply an assessment of whether there is any evidence of bats or their habitats at the site. Natural England has further information about local volunteer groups that may be able to provide this service and the Bat Conservation Trust also has information and advice.

For further information go to:

www.naturalengland.org.uk/conservation/wildlife-management-licensing/species/bats.htm#advice.

http://www.bats.org.uk/publications_download.php/248/batsplanning.pdf

Alternatively telephone Natural England (SE Regional office) on 0238 028 6410 or

the Bat Conservation Trust on 0845 1300 228