Ecology

National and European legislation protects a number of different animal species including Otters, Water Voles, Great Crested Newts, Badgers, Breeding Birds and Bats. Habitats which are capable of supporting these animals can be identified at the earliest opportunity and mitigating measures proposed to ensure that no harm is caused.

It is a criminal offence to knowingly harm a protected species or their environment/natural habitat.    The early identification of these species will ensure they can be planned for and protected from harm during the development process. The Land and Development Practice can provide the necessary skills and experience to highlight the potential for protected species to exist on a site.

On site surveys can be undertaken to identify habitats capable of hosting protected species and evidence can be found on a site of protected species which may have foraged within an area.   Desk based surveys can also be undertaken to identify areas given Local, National and European protection such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, SAC & SPA Sites, National Nature Reserves, National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty where protected species may be more commonly found.

We can also advise on Tree Preservation Orders and tree protection within Conservation Areas.  Applications can be submitted to the Forestry Commission to fell trees and advice can be given on relevant legislation which guides the protection of trees and the circumstances when trees can be felled without obtaining permission from the local council or Forestry Commission.