Protected Species Surveys

A large number of species are protected under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 and/or the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). In addition, badgers have their own legislation, the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. The presence, or possible absence, and status of these protected species need to be confirmed in advance of a planning application for site works that may harm or disturb them.

Many of the protected species are widespread and they can inhabit both rural and urban sites. There are severe penalties for those who inadvertently disturb or harm them and their presence, if not considered early, can impose significant delays to a project.

ECOSA's ecologists hold survey licences for European protected species including bats, great crested newt and dormouse. We have extensive survey experience for the majority of species found within the UK. We also have extensive experience and knowledge in resolving constraints to projects when protected species are confirmed as present on a site. This experience will assist the smooth progression of a project to realisation.

Our surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies are focused on providing all parties with reliable data to support planning applications and Natural England ‘European Protected Species Mitigation' (EPSM) licence applications. More detail on the Natural England licence application process and the relevant law is available in the Resources section.

Both surveys and mitigation works need to be scheduled appropriately for the species in question; please refer to our survey timetable for further details.