PROTECTED SPECIES

Picture by DEFRA

Many plants and animals receive protection under U.K. and European law. They include species which are quite widespread on the Island, such as Water Vole (left), Badgers, Bats, Red Squirrels, Slow-worms and Adders.

When they occur on, or close to, a development site, their presence MAY be a material consideration in planning decisions and generally, further information is required in order to evaluate whether or not this is the case.

Dealing with protected species and development is a complicated process. If you are a developer and you suspect there may be protected species on your site, you are advised to discuss this at the earliest opportunity.

Evidence of protected species which come to light late in the day is likely to cause undue delays and frustration.


For further information contact the Ecology team.

Picture by Barry Angell