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_____________________________________________________________________________________________ BRADLEY FARM AND GAY DOGS KENNELS, BERRYWOOD LANE, BRADLEY, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE PHASE 1 AND 2 BAT ASSESSMENT FOR: GRAHAM GABIE Final Document September 2015 _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Preliminary Ecological Appraisals Phase 1 and 2 Surveys NVC EcIA Management Plans Species Licensing Habitats Badger Bats Dormouse Birds Reptiles Amphibians Invertebrates Riparian and Aquatic Species ECOSA Ltd, Ten Hogs House, Manor Farm Offices, Flexford Road, North Baddesley, Hampshire, SO52 9DF Tel: 02380 261065 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ecosa.co.uk Registered Office: 3-4 Eastwood Court, SO51 8JJ Registered in England No: 6129868 Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 ECOSA Quality Assurance Record This report has been produced in accordance with Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing 2015 1. The assessment was undertaken in accordance with the following guidelines: Hundt L. (2012) Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, (2nd Ed.), Bat Conservation Trust Produced For: Graham Gabie Description: Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Issue: Final Date of Issue: 8th September 2015 Author: Frances King-Smith BSc (Hons) MCIEEM Principal Ecologist Reviewed by: Simon Colenutt BSc (Hons) MCIEEM CEnv Principal Ecologist DISCLAIMER This is a technical report which does not represent legal advice. You may wish to seek legal advice if this is required. COPYRIGHT © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Any unauthorised reproduction or usage by any person is prohibited. 1 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2015). Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing. Technical Guidance Series. http://www.cieem.net/publications/23/ecological-report-writing © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 BRADLEY FARM AND GAY DOGS KENNELS, BERRYWOOD LANE, BRADLEY, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE PHASE 1 AND 2 BAT ASSESSMENT Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... 1 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 2 Background................................................................................................................... 2 Aims and Scope of Report ............................................................................................ 2 Site Setting and Description ......................................................................................... 2 Site Proposals............................................................................................................... 3 2.0 METHODS .................................................................................................................... 4 2.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 4 2.2 Phase 1 Bat Survey Methods ....................................................................................... 4 2.3 Phase 1 Bat Survey Details .......................................................................................... 4 2.4 Phase 1 Bat Survey Limitations.................................................................................... 4 2.5 Initial Protected Species Assessment .......................................................................... 4 2.6 Criteria used to Assess Ecological Value ..................................................................... 5 2.7 Criteria used to Assess Ecological Potential ................................................................ 5 2.8 Phase 2 Bat Surveys .................................................................................................... 6 2.8.1 Survey Methods ..................................................................................................... 6 2.8.2 Phase 2 Survey Personnel .................................................................................... 6 2.8.3 Phase 2 Survey Equipment ................................................................................... 6 2.8.4 Phase 2 Bat Survey Limitations ............................................................................. 7 3.0 RESULTS ..................................................................................................................... 8 3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 8 3.2 Phase 1 Bat Survey Results ......................................................................................... 8 3.2.1 Bats - Building Assessment ................................................................................... 8 3.2.2 Bats - Foraging and Commuting Habitat ............................................................... 8 3.3 Phase 2 Bat Survey Results ....................................................................................... 20 4.0 PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT ................................................................................ 23 4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 23 4.2 Planning Policy ........................................................................................................... 23 4.2.1 National Policy ..................................................................................................... 23 4.2.2 Local Policy .......................................................................................................... 24 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 Map 1 EVALUATION, IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .......................................... 25 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 25 Site Evaluation ............................................................................................................ 25 Potential Key Impacts of Development ...................................................................... 25 Outline of Key Mitigation and Enhancements ............................................................ 25 Bat Licence ................................................................................................................. 26 Updating Survey ......................................................................................................... 28 Assessment of Proposals against Relevant Planning Policy ..................................... 28 Site Location Appendix 1 Protected Species Legislation i © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A Phase 1 bat survey was undertaken on 26th June 2015 at Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9RY, with a suite of Phase 2 bat surveys subsequently carried out in July and August 2015. The proposals entail demolition of Buildings A to M and O and construction of seven residential dwellings. The Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment was undertaken to ascertain the current potential for roosting bat species to be present within the on-site buildings. The site is located in the small village of Bradley, Hampshire. The area is characterised by hilly countryside, mainly comprising agricultural grazing and arable land intersected by mature hedgerows and pockets of mature broadleaved woodland. The site comprises a large assortment of farm outbuildings and kennels set amongst short-mown grass lawns with scattered immature trees and fenced concrete exercise yards, in a plot of approximately 2.45 hectares. The bat assessment confirmed that Building E supports low status non-breeding day roosts of a single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle beneath timber cladding on the southern elevation. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. The level of foraging and commuting activity recorded as part of the survey is low given the rural setting of the site and bats are unlikely to rely upon the site as a foraging or commuting resource given the availability of suitable habitat in the surrounding area. Any new landscaping to be undertaken as part of the new development should incorporate new native species planting wherever possible. A bat licence should be obtained from Natural England in order to allow the works to proceed without contravening current legislation. This would entail mitigation measures including destructive search and provision of new replacement roosting habitat. If works have not commenced by June 2017, or the proposals for the site change significantly, it is recommended that the ecological assessment is updated. This is because many of the species considered during the current survey are highly mobile and the ecology of the site is likely to change over this period. 1 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Ecological Survey & Assessment Limited (ECOSA) have been contracted by Graham Gabie to undertake a Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment at Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9RY. The assessment is required in support of a planning application for the demolition of Buildings A to M and O and construction of seven residential dwellings. The site is centred on National Grid Reference (NGR) SU 6374 4139 (Map 1). Phase 1 and 2 bat surveys were carried out at the site by Hampshire Ecological Services Limited2 during June and August 2010 and July and August 2011. No bats were recorded as emerging from Buildings A, B, D, E, L, M, O, Q and R, however these buildings were assessed as having the potential to support roosting bats. The 2010 report makes recommendations relating to breeding birds and reptiles which remain valid and should be implemented within the proposals. It records limited areas of suitable reptile habitat which will not be affected by the proposals and, as this is still the case, reptiles are not considered further as part of this 2015 assessment by ECOSA. The Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment was therefore undertaken to ascertain the current potential for roosting bat species to be present within the site and the status of any bat roosts present. This report presents the findings of the Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment carried out by ECOSA between June and August 2015. 1.2 Aims and Scope of Report This report is based on Phase 1 and 2 bat surveys aimed at assessing the suitability of the on-site buildings to support roosting bats. This information allows an assessment of the value of the site to bats to be made, potential constraints to be identified, and mitigation and compensation measures to be developed. 1.3 Site Setting and Description The Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels site is situated in the Hampshire Downs Natural Area, described by Natural England as follows 3: "The Hampshire Downs are part of the broad belt of chalk downland which runs through central southern England. To the east of the Natural Area the chalk forms a dramatic 2 Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9RY, Ecological Survey Report, September 2010, Hampshire Ecological Services Limited and Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9RY, Bat Survey Report Buildigns A, B, D & E, September 2011, Hampshire Ecological Services Limited. 3 Natural Areas are defined by Her Majesty’s Stationery Office as ‘biogeographic zones which reflect the geological foundation, the natural systems and processes and the wildlife in different parts of England, and provide a framework for setting objectives for nature conservation' (Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report, HMSO, 1995). 2 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 escarpment at the western edge of the Weald. The character of the Hampshire Downs has a strong identity, with a great sense of openness and space. It is a large scale landscape of open rolling country with broad, gently domed undulating plateaux dissected by both steep and shallow valleys numerous distinct hilltops, ridges and scarps. The main habitats found within this natural area include extensive chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands, the river valleys with chalk streams rich in wildlife, and arable headlands which support good arable weed communities." The site is located in the small village of Bradley, Hampshire, situated 3 kilometres (km) north-west of Bentworth and 5km north of Medstead. The market town of Alton is 8.5km to the south-east of the site. The area is characterised by hilly countryside, mainly comprising agricultural grazing and arable land intersected by mature hedgerows and pockets of mature broadleaved woodland. The landscape is typical of rural Hampshire and is dissected by a network of country lanes and meandering watercourses. Rural residential property is scattered at low density through the village of Bradley north-west of the site. Agricultural fields make up the surrounding landscape. The site comprises a large assortment of farm outbuildings and kennels set amongst short-mown grass lawns with scattered immature trees and fenced concrete exercise yards, in a plot of approximately 2.45 hectares (ha). 1.4 Site Proposals The proposals entail demolition of Buildings A to M and O and construction of seven residential dwellings. 3 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 2.0 METHODS 2.1 Introduction ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 This section details the methods used during the Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment undertaken at Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire from June to August 2015. 2.2 Phase 1 Bat Survey Methods An assessment was made of the suitability of buildings on the site and immediately on the site boundary to support roosting bats based on the presence of features such as loose or missing roof tiles or lifted lead flashing. An assessment was made of the suitability of the site and the surrounding landscape to support foraging and/or commuting bat species. The survey conformed to current Bat Conservation Trust guidelines4. 2.3 Phase 1 Bat Survey Details The extended Phase 1 ecological assessment was carried out by Brian Hicks of ECOSA on 26th June 2015. The weather conditions were mild and sunny, with no cloud cover, an ambient temperature of 18ºC and no wind. During the Phase 1 survey the surveyor was equipped with a ladder, 10x40 binoculars, a high powered torch and a digital camera. 2.4 Phase 1 Bat Survey Limitations Not all potential bat roosting features are accessible to the surveyor, e.g. gaps beneath roof materials or holes or cracks in trees, and therefore assessments are based upon the potential for these features to provide suitable roosting opportunities. It is not always possible to provide definitive assessments of a species' presence/likely absence at a site and so in the absence of direct evidence, assessments and recommendations are based on the presence of suitable habitat within/adjacent to a site and the results of species records within the desk study data. 2.5 Initial Protected Species Assessment Details of the assessment criteria used to determine the ecological value of on-site attributes during the Phase 1 survey is outlined below. During a Phase 1 survey the assessment criteria is based on the potential for the site to support the species considered, this is usually based on the on-site habitat features and their suitability for the species considered. However, in many cases Phase 2 surveys will be required to assess the status of species and hence the importance of a population at the site, 4 Hundt L (2012) Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd edition. Bat Conservation Trust (BCT), London 4 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 therefore the Phase 1 assessment of value should be considered a provisional assessment. 2.6 Criteria used to Assess Ecological Value The ecological values provided within this report are based around both professional judgement and current published relevant guidance, including information sources such as A Nature Conservation Review5 and Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom6. Values provided are within the context of the site itself. 2.7 Criteria used to Assess Ecological Potential Table 1 defines the criteria used to assess the potential of the site and its buildings to support protected bat species, based on the habitat characteristics of the site. Table 1: Criteria used to assess ecological potential Bats7 Building Assessment Species Present Evidence of bat presence confirmed during survey, which may include presence of live or dead bats, droppings, feeding remains or urine stains etc. Where possible, a provisional assessment of roost status is made. If species are likely to be affected by the proposals, further Phase 2 surveys will be required to establish the status of the species present. High Potential Buildings with features highly suitable for roosting bats, including gaps, hanging tiles or large lofts, etc. Often, but not always, buildings of more historic construction. If species are likely to be affected by the proposals, further Phase 2 surveys will be required to establish the presence/likely absence of the species. Medium Potential Medium potential buildings have a moderate number of features that may be used by bats for roosting. These may include loose fascia, roof voids, etc. If species are likely to be affected by the proposals, further Phase 2 surveys will be required to establish the presence/likely absence of the species. Low Potential Buildings that provide limited bat roosting potential although some features that may be used by roosting bats may be present. If species are likely to be affected by the proposals, further Phase 2 surveys will be required to establish the presence/likely absence of the species. Negligible Potential Buildings that are extremely unlikely to support roosting bats due to the absence of suitable features. Further Phase 2 surveys are unlikely to be required as species is unlikely to be present. 5 Ratcliffe, D. (1977) A Nature Conservation Review. Cambridge University Press IEEM (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK 7 The criteria are an attempt to qualify the potential for a given building or tree to support roosting bats and are to a degree subjective. Bats may make use of a single feature on an otherwise unsuitable building or tree and therefore an assessment of bat potential cannot solely be based on the quantity of potential roost features present. 6 5 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 2.8 Phase 2 Bat Surveys 2.8.1 Survey Methods ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 The Phase 2 survey work consisted of two dusk emergence surveys, which commenced approximately 15 minutes before sunset until up to two hours after sunset and one dawn re-entry survey, which commenced approximately two hours before sunrise until sunrise. The Phase 2 surveys were undertaken by up to eight experienced ECOSA surveyors, who were positioned within previously identified vantage point areas around the on-site buildings. These vantage point locations allowed near full survey coverage of all elevations of buildings which support potential bat roost features. These vantage points were utilised to observe any bats emerging from / re-entering to roosting locations within the buildings subject to survey. During the Phase 2 surveys, each surveyor recorded the time, species, location and direction of flight for each bat encountered, with particular attention paid to establishing bat access/egress locations. Table 2 provides details of the Phase 2 survey visits. Table 2: Phase 2 bat survey details Survey Date Survey Type Duration Weather Conditions Start/End Temperature 13th July 2015 Dusk 20:55 22:46 Breezy and overcast with occasional short spells of very light drizzle and a force 3 north-westerly breeze. 14.2oC / 12.5oC 21:16 30th July 2015 Dusk 20:40 22:30 Rapidly becoming cool. Still, dry and clear. 17.1oC / 9.8oC 20:55 11th August 2015 Dawn 03:45 05:45 Mild and overcast with no breeze. 13.2oC / 11.9oC 05:45 2.8.2 Sunset/ Sunrise Time Phase 2 Survey Personnel The Phase 2 surveys were led by Frances King-Smith of ECOSA (Natural England bat licence registration number CL08 2014-2906-CLS-CLS) assisted by suitably qualified and experienced ECOSA surveyors. 2.8.3 Phase 2 Survey Equipment During the Phase 2 survey each surveyor was equipped with a Pettersson 240x time expansion bat detector. The Pettersson detectors were connected to Edirol R-90 recorders for the full duration of the surveys. Recordings made with the Pettersson detectors were later analysed using Sonobat® (v2.9.7) to confirm the identity of any species encountered. 6 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 2.8.4 ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Phase 2 Bat Survey Limitations Some bat species, e.g. long-eared bats8, generally emerge from their roosts in total darkness and do not produce strong echolocations, and therefore these bats can be difficult to observe and record during Phase 2 bat surveys, this may lead to underrecording. 8 There are two species of long-eared bat, the brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus and the grey long-eared bat Plecotus austriacus. These species can only be separated by examination of physical characteristics and Phylogenetic Analysis Identification of bat droppings. Unless confirmation of identification has been made by visual identification the two species shall be referred to in this report as long-eared bat. The brown long-eared bat is the commonest of the two species typically being found roosting within large roof voids although small voids and trees are also utilised. The grey long-eared bat is rare and confined to southern England and like the brown long-eared typically roosts in roof voids. 7 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 3.0 RESULTS 3.1 Introduction ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 This section details the results of the Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment undertaken at Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Berrywood Lane, Bradley, Alresford, Hampshire from June to August 2015. 3.2 Phase 1 Bat Survey Results 3.2.1 Bats - Building Assessment The site supports an assortment of kennel blocks, outbuildings and farm buildings associated with the kennels and a former chicken farm. The results of the Phase 1 survey of the Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels buildings are provided in Table 3. 3.2.2 Bats - Foraging and Commuting Habitat The site is a short distance from high quality bat foraging and commuting habitat associated with the surrounding landscape, which includes a network of hedgerows and pockets of woodlands. While the site itself comprises well-managed grassland habitats which are less suitable than the site’s margins, a range of bats will nonetheless forage and commute across the site on a regular basis. The site has medium potential to support foraging and roosting bats overall, most likely of common species. 8 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Table 3: Building assessment – summary of features with bat roost potential and evidence of bat roost activity Surveyed Feature Figure Building A Figure 1: Rear of building Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A long single-storey kennel of brick construction with a sloped corrugated iron roof (Figure 1). The central building has a pitched roof clad in bitumen felt with timber clad gable ends (Figure 2 and Figure 3). Several gaps are present beneath the timber cladding on the gable ends and the barge boards of the central building. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Medium An enclosed concrete exercise yard surrounds the rear of the building. Figure 2: Facing south Figure 3: Pitched roof section 9 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building B ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A single-storey wooden clad building with a pitched corrugated iron roof (Figure 4). The building is used as storage and pet grooming area. A brick built shed is attached to the western side of the wooden building. The shed is single storey with a pitched bitumen covered roof. Several gaps are present beneath the timber cladding and beneath the corrugated iron roof, although the area beneath the roof will be subject to wide temperature variation and so suboptimal for roosting bats. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Building C is a single storey kennel with a sloping metal sheet roof (Figure 6). The exterior is clad with wood. No suitable bat roosting features are visible. Figure 4: Western elevation Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Medium The brick shed has wooden soffits with some gaps present, and a hole in the roof apex on the southern side (Figure 5). Figure 5: Hole at apex of brick shed Building C No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Negligible Figure 6: Southern elevation 10 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building D ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Low A concrete block constructed single storey garage with a corrugated iron pitched roof (Figure 7). The roof interior is clad with wooden panelling and there is a small amount of wooden cladding on the gable ends. There is some potential for bat roosting features beneath the wooden cladding on the gable ends and as the garage door appears to be left open, within the wooden panelling inside the building. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A kennel with a sloping metal sheet roof. It is constructed of uPVC (Figure 8). The building is well sealed with no visible potential bat access points. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Negligible The central section of Building E is single storey, UPVC constructed with a pitched corrugated iron roof (Figure 9). The building is well sealed with no features suitable for roosting bats visible. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Negligible Figure 7: Southern elevation Building E (eastern end) Figure 8: Southern elevation Building E (central) Figure 9: Central section 11 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building E (western end) ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A single storey wooden kennel with a sloping corrugated iron roof (Figure 10 and Figure 11). The building is in a poor state of repair. Several gaps are present beneath the wooden cladding. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A single-storey brick shed with a pitched corrugated iron roof (Figure 12). The building is flanked on two side by wooden dog kennels, now disused. The interior of the building is lined with timber boards (Figure 13). There are gaps present beneath the iron ridge, and between the roofing material and interior boarding. Due to the metal roof covering these areas would be subject to wide temperature variations which would cause the area to be unsuitable for bats. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential High Figure 10: Backing onto Building D Figure 11: Southern elevation Building F Negligible Figure 12: Northern elevation 12 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location Assessment of Bat Roost Potential A small wooden shed with breezeblock base and with a sloping corrugated asbestos roof (Figure 14). There are numerous gaps in the exterior wooden boarding which reveal that the gap between interior and exterior walls is filled with fibreglass insulation. The southern entrance is open. No features suitable for bats were recorded within this building. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Negligible A small brick shed with pitched corrugated iron roof (Figure 15). No features suitable for bats were recorded within this building. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Negligible Figure 13: Internal view of Building F Building Ga Figure 14: Southern elevation Building Gb Figure 15: Southern elevation 13 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building H ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A single-storey building of UPVC with a pitched roof clad with corrugated iron. The building is flanked by metal kennels which are now disused (Figure 16 and Figure 17). No gaps allowing access for bats are visible within this building. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A wooden shed with pitched corrugated iron roof and wooden cladding (Figure 18). A number of the windows are missing. There are numerous gaps beneath the wooden cladding, and the shed is open, providing access to bats. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Negligible Figure 16: Showing rear kennels Figure 17: Northern end Building I Medium Figure 18: Western elevation 14 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building J ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A kennel with a wooden frame and an Onduline sloping roof (Figure 19). The exterior walls are clad in plastic sheeting. The building is well sealed with no visible potential bat access points. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A timber barn with wooden cladded gable end walls (Figure 20). The roof has fallen down and is partially covered with tarpaulin. The barn is used for storage (Figure 21). The building is dilapidated with no suitable bat roosting areas visible. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Negligible Figure 19: Western elevation Building L Negligible Figure 20: Gable end of building Figure 21: Internal view 15 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building M ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A large, single-storey barn with a pitched corrugated asbestos roof and timber clad walls (Figure 22). The building is currently in use as storage (Figure 23). The building has numerous gaps allowing access for bats into the main building; however it is lacking in crevices suitable for roosting bats. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A very large chicken shed with a single storey metal covered roof and timber covered gable ends (Figure 24). The building was empty at time of survey. This building is relatively modern and is well-sealed. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Low Figure 22: Western elevation Figure 23: Building M internal view Building N Negligible Figure 24: Western elevation 16 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building O ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A timber barn with wooden cladded gable end walls (Figure 25). The roof has fallen down and is partially covered with tarpaulin (Figure 26). The barn is used for storage. The walls are single skinned meaning that the interior wall is exposed to the elements due to the lack of a roof. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A large agricultural building of timber construction (Figure 27). The roof is covered with plastic tarpaulin. The building has no visible bat access points. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Negligible Figure 25: Remains of building Figure 26: Internal view of Building O Building P Negligible Figure 27: Western elevation 17 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure Building Q ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location A brick and concrete single-storey storage building with a pitched corrugated iron roof (Figure 28 and Figure 29). The western gable end is clad with timber. Several gaps are present beneath the timber cladding on the western gable end. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. A single storey wooden shed, with wooden interior lining and a pitched corrugated iron covered roof (Figure 30 and Figure 31). The building has numerous gaps between the timber cladding boards allowing access between the interior and exterior walls. There are also gaps behind the barge boards on the gable ends. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the survey. Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Low Figure 28: Western elevation Figure 29: Rear of building Building R High Figure 30: Western elevation along Berrywood Lane 18 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire – Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Surveyed Feature Figure ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Building Description Description of Potential Bat Roost Features Evidence of Bat Roost Activity and Location Assessment of Bat Roost Potential Figure 31: Northern elevation 19 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 3.3 ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Phase 2 Bat Survey Results Table 4 summarises the level of potential of each of the buildings surveyed, along with the number of surveyors and the number of Phase 2 bat surveys undertaken at each building. Negligible potential buildings, which were not subjected to Phase 2 survey, are shown in grey. Table 4: Phase 2 bat survey results Number of Surveyors Level of Bat Potential Survey 1 13th July 2015 Survey 2 30th July 2015 Survey 3 11th August 2015 Medium N/A 1 surveyor 1 surveyor B Medium 2 surveyors N/A 2 surveyors C Negligible N/A N/A N/A D Low 1 surveyor N/A 1 surveyor E 1 surveyor 1 surveyor 1 surveyor F High Negligible N/A N/A N/A Ga Negligible N/A N/A N/A Gb Negligible N/A N/A N/A H Negligible N/A N/A N/A I 2 surveyors 2 surveyors N/A J Medium Negligible N/A N/A N/A L Negligible N/A N/A N/A M N/A 1 surveyor 1 surveyor N Low Negligible N/A N/A N/A O Negligible N/A N/A N/A P Negligible N/A N/A N/A Q Low N/A 1 surveyor R High 2 surveyors 2 surveyors 1 surveyor N/A (building no longer included in proposals) Building A Table 5 provides details of the species, numbers and locations of bats recorded during the Phase 2 bat survey. Overall, five bat species were recorded during the survey: common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus, long-eared bat Plecotus species, Myotis species bat9 and serotine Eptesicus serotinus. One soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle were recorded roosting within the southern elevation of Building E during all three surveys. 9 There are seven species of Myotis bats in Britain. Myotis bats are very difficult to identify specifically, this can generally only be done by examination of physical features and Phylogenetic Analysis Identification of bat droppings. Many of these bats are common and will utilise buildings for roosting often occupying small and inaccessible voids. For the purpose of this report all species shall be referred to as Myotis bats unless a specific identification has been possible. 20 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Table 5: Phase 2 bat survey results Survey Date 13th July 2015 Dusk Recorded Bat Roosts Species Common pipistrelle Soprano pipistrelle General Bat Activity at the Site No. Emerged First Out Last Out 3 21:23 21:41 1 21:20 - Summary: A single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle emerged from various locations beneath the timber cladding on the southern elevation of building E. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. Species First Pass Last Pass Common pipistrelle 21:22 22:36 Soprano pipistrelle 21:20 - Myotis bat species 22:47 - Summary: Activity levels were low to moderate and bat registrations were heavily dominated by common pipistrelle, which was recorded from all eight surveyor locations. Bats were recorded foraging and commuting through the site, particularly at its tree-lined margins. A single Myotis bat species was recorded in the southwestern corner of the site and a single soprano pipistrelle was recorded in the northern area, which had emerged from Building E. Three bat species were recorded, representing a low species diversity on this survey occasion. 30th July 2015 Dusk Species Common pipistrelle Soprano pipistrelle No. Emerged First Out Last Out 3 21:05 21:11 1 21:08 - Summary: A single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle emerged from various locations beneath the timber cladding on the southern elevation of building E. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. Species First Pass Last Pass Common pipistrelle 21:04 22:25 Soprano pipistrelle 21:08 - Myotis bat species Serotine Long-eared bat species 21:49 21:53 22:27 - 22:07 22:19 Summary: Activity levels were moderate with bat registrations were heavily dominated by common pipistrelle, recorded from all eight surveyor locations. A low number of Myotis bat species registrations were recorded in the northern area of the site. Four passes of longeared bat were recorded in the central and southern parts of the site. Single registrations of soprano pipistrelle and serotine were recorded from the northern area near Building I. Five bat species were recorded, representing a moderate species diversity on this survey occasion. 21 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Survey Date 11th August 2015 Dawn Recorded Bat Roosts Species Common pipistrelle Soprano pipistrelle ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 General Bat Activity at the Site No. Reentered First In Last In 3 04:08 05:21 1 05:15 - Summary: A single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle returned to roost beneath various locations under the timber cladding on the southern elevation of building E. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. Species First Pass Last Pass Common pipistrelle 03:56 05:21 Soprano pipistrelle 03:47 05:15 Myotis bat species Long-eared bat species 04:10 04:50 05:07 05:08 Summary: Activity levels were low to moderate and bat registrations were heavily dominated by common pipistrelle recorded from all six surveyor locations. Bats were recorded foraging and commuting through the site, particularly towards the edges along treelines. Four bat species were recorded, representing a low to moderate species diversity on this survey occasion. Summary Assessment Results of the Phase 2 bat survey confirm that Building E supports low status nonbreeding day roosts of a single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle roosting beneath timber cladding on the southern elevation of the building. No bat activity was recorded that would be associated with a maternity roost and the bats present are likely to be males or non-breeding females. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. The level of foraging and commuting activity recorded as part of the survey is lower than would be typical given the rural setting of the site, and the diversity of bat species recorded was also lower than expected. Bats in the local area may prefer nearby parcels of woodland, such as Bradley Wood 320m east of the site or Park Copse 740m to the west. It is unlikely that bats would be reliant upon the site as a foraging or commuting resource given the availability of suitable habitat in the surrounding area. 22 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 4.0 PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT 4.1 Introduction ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 This section summarises the planning policy in relation to ecology and biodiversity within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council administrative area. 4.2 Planning Policy 4.2.1 National Policy The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the government’s requirements for the planning system in England. A number of sections of the NPPF are relevant when taking into account development proposals and the environment. As set out within Paragraph 14 of the NPPF “At heart of the National Planning Policy Framework is a presumption in favour of sustainable development, which should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan-making and decision-taking” however at paragraph 119 it goes on to state that “The presumption on favour of sustainable development does not apply where development requiring appropriate assessment under the Birds or Habitats Directives is being considered, planned or determined”. The general impetuous of the NPPF in relation to ecology and biodiversity is for development proposals to not only minimise the impacts on biodiversity but also to provide enhancement. Paragraph 109 states that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural environment by “…minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible...” Paragraph 118 states that “when determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity”. A number of principles are set out in Paragraph 118 including the principle that where harm cannot be adequately avoided then it should be mitigated for or as a last resort compensated for; where impacts occur on nationally designated sites the benefits must clearly outweigh any adverse impact; incorporating biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged; protection of irreplaceable habitats such as ancient woodlands and that those sites proposed as potential SPAs, SACs and Ramsars or acting as compensation for SPAs, SACs and Ramsar should receive the same protection as European sites. In addition to the NPPF Circular 06/05 provides guidance on the application of the law relating to planning and nature conservation as it applies in England. Paragraph 98 states “the presence of a protected species is a material considered when a planning authority is considered a development proposal that, if carried out, would be likely to result in harm to the species or its habitat” whilst paragraph 99 states “it is essential 23 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 that the presence or otherwise of a protected species, and the extent that they may be affected by the proposed development, is established before planning permission is granted”. 4.2.2 Local Policy Local planning policy within Basingstoke and Dean Borough is provided by saved polices within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan Review 1996-2011 with a single policy referring specifically to ecology and biodiversity: Policy E7: Nature/Biodiversity Conservation. This policy refers for the need for development to conserve and enhance biodiversity taking into account the aims and objectives of Biodiversity Action Plans. The policy also refers to the protection of legally protected and priority species and designated wildlife sites. The policy also refers to the need for planning applications to be supported by adequate information to allow a proper assessment of the implications of the proposals on biodiversity. The forthcoming Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan 2011-2029 has two policies specifically in relation to biodiversity and ecology. Policy EM3 refers to the protection measures afforded to the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area whilst Policy EM4 in part refers to the protection of biodiversity and nature conservation largely reflecting the existing policy within the adopted local plan. 24 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document 5.0 EVALUATION, IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1 Introduction ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 This section presents the conclusions of the updating ecological assessment. It provides an initial assessment of the likely ecological constraints to the proposed development and detailed recommendations for any further survey work or mitigation measures considered necessary. An outline of protected species legislation relevant to the findings of this report is provided in Appendix 1. 5.2 Site Evaluation The results of the Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment undertaken at Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels show that Building E supports low status non-breeding day roosts of a single soprano pipistrelle and three common pipistrelle beneath timber cladding on the southern elevation. No roosting activity was recorded from any other buildings. The level of foraging and commuting activity recorded as part of the survey is low given the rural setting of the site and bats are unlikely to rely upon the site as a foraging or commuting resource given the availability of suitable habitat in the surrounding area. 5.3 Potential Key Impacts of Development The proposals entail the demolition of Building E, which supports roosting bats, to make way for new dwellings. In the absence of mitigation, the potential ecological impacts of these works are: Direct impacts on four roosting bats during the demolition works; Loss of four non-breeding day roosts supported by Building E; and Increased lighting at the site, potentially impacting commuting and foraging bats and their prey. In England, bats and their habitat are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 through inclusion in Schedule 5. In addition, all bat species are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. Refer to Appendix 1 for details. 5.4 Outline of Key Mitigation and Enhancements The following main mitigation and enhancement strategies have been designed to minimise the potential impacts and enhance the site for wildlife: 25 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Any new landscaping to be undertaken as part of the new development should incorporate new native species planting wherever possible, in order to boost the invertebrate foraging resource for bats; and A bat licence should be obtained from Natural England in order to allow the Building E demolition works to proceed without contravening current legislation. This would entail mitigation measures including destructive search and provision of new replacement roosting habitat. See Paragraph 5.5 for further details. 5.5 Bat Licence As a result of the potential impacts and loss of the low status bat roosts supported by Building E, a bat licence from Natural England will be required prior to the works taking place. The data gathered during the Phase 2 surveys will be incorporated into the licence application and will be used to devise an appropriate mitigation strategy. The species protection provision of the Habitats Directive, as implemented by the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations 2010, contains three ‘derogation tests’ which must be applied by the Local Planning Authority at the Planning Application stage and by Natural England when deciding whether to grant a licence to a person carrying out an activity which would harm a European Protected Species. The three tests that must be met in order to successfully obtain a Natural England licence are as follows: The consented operation must be for ‘preserving public health or public safety or other imperative reasons of overriding public interest including those of a social or economic nature and beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment’; There must be ‘no satisfactory alternative’; and The action authorised ‘will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the population of the species concerned at a favourable conservation status in their natural range’. In relation to the three derogation tests, the following statements relate to the site: Preserving Public Health and Safety or other Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest The proposals will fully maximise the potential of the partially derelict site via creation of live/work dwellings. 26 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 No Satisfactory Alternative A “do nothing” approach is not a viable proposition due to the factors outlined above. Many of the buildings are in a poor state of repair and the site will continue to fall into an unusable state if not redeveloped. Maintaining the Favourable Conservation Status of the Species at the Site Due to the presence of roosting bats within Building E, the proposed demolition works would result in the disturbance and loss of non-breeding roosts of four individual bats. As a result of the disturbance and loss of bat roosts at the site, a bat licence from Natural England will be required prior to the proposed demolition works commencing. The licence application will require the preparation of a clear and reasoned Method Statement which details the methods for maintaining the conservation status of the species at the site. The Bat Mitigation Guidelines10 state that where a roost falls into the “Small numbers of common species. Not a maternity site” mitigation requirements fall between “Provision of new roost facilities where possible. Need not be exactly likefor-like, but should be suitable, based on species’ requirements. Minimal timing constraints or monitoring requirements” and “Flexibility over provision of bat-boxes, access to new buildings etc. No conditions about timing or monitoring.” This can be achieved by the following measures: All demolition works affecting the roosting areas on Building E will be carried out during either mid-March to May or September/October, to minimise the impact on bat roosting locations. These two periods are a time when bats are neither hibernating nor breeding and are less vulnerable to disturbance; Two Schwegler 1FF and two Schwegler 2F bat boxes will be installed by an ecologist on mature trees within the landowner’s control in the vicinity of the existing buildings in order to provide replacement roosting opportunities; To ensure that no bats are injured or maimed during the demolition works, the careful removal of all identified bat roost areas and suitable bat roosting features will be carried out by/under the supervision of a licensed bat worker using hand tools during a destructive search. The ecologist will work on-site with the demolition team from the start of the works until all suitable roosting areas have been carefully removed; A toolbox talk will be given by the licensed ecologist to contractors on site who will be involved in the demolition works; 10 Mitchell-Jones, A.J. (2004) Bat Mitigation Guidelines, English Nature 27 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Prior to any works commencing at the site, the buildings will be inspected externally by a licensed bat worker to locate any roosting bats. Where considered appropriate, any bats found will be placed within bat boxes previously erected on trees located within the site; Any new external lighting should comprise hooded, downward pointing fittings directed away from vegetation. Ideally the bulbs will be LED and at the warmer end of the spectrum (e.g. avoiding blue or white light). LED lights emit much lower levels of UV and therefore have a lower impact on wildlife 11. The new lighting should be motion-activated and task related, associated with specific entrance/exit points of the properties. The lux level should be as low as possible to allow the task to be carried out safely and effectively. Guidance on task related lighting levels published by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)12 should be followed. None of the areas in the vicinity of bat mitigation infrastructure should be directly illuminated. As a result light levels at the site are unlikely to be significantly higher than previous levels; and In line with current Natural England guidelines for a roost supporting small numbers of common species, no monitoring is considered necessary postdevelopment. 5.6 Updating Survey If works have not commenced by June 2017, or the proposals for the site change significantly, it is recommended that the Phase 1 and 2 bat assessment is updated. This is because bat species are highly mobile and the ecology of the site is likely to change over this period. 5.7 Assessment of Proposals against Relevant Planning Policy As protected species have been identified on the site as part of this planning application, and appropriate mitigation has been recommended, it is considered that the scheme is compliant with the policy outlined in Section 4.0. Wildlife and Artificial Lighting Seminar, 21st – 22nd March 2014, Arup London, Bat Conservation Trust. CIBSE (1992) Lighting Guide 6: The Outdoor Environment; CIBSE (2002) Code for Lighting, Butterworth-Heinemann, UK. 11 12 28 © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Map 1 Site Location © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd. BRADLEY FARM AND GAY DOGS KENNELS, BERRYWOOD LANE, BRADLEY, HAMPSHIRE PHASE 1 AND 2 BAT ASSESSMENT Map 1 - Site Location Client: Mr Graham Gabie Date: September 2015 Status: Final KEY Site Boundary Scale at A4: 0 Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2014 62.5 125 250 1:15,000 375 500 Metres ± © This map is the copyright of Ecological Survey & Assessment (ECOSA) Ltd. Any unauthorised reproduction or usage by any person is prohibited. Bradley Farm and Gay Dogs Kennels, Bradley, Hampshire - Phase 1 and 2 Bat Assessment Final Document Appendix 1 ECOSA Ltd 8th September 2015 Protected Species Legislation Bats All UK bat species are listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. They are afforded full protection under Section 9(4) of the Act and Regulation 41 of the Regulations. These make it an offence to: Deliberately capture, injure or kill any such animal; Deliberately disturb any such animal, including in particular any disturbance which is likely: To impair its ability to survive, breed, or rear or nurture their young; To impair its ability to hibernate or migrate; To affect significantly the local distribution or abundance of that species; Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of any such animal; Intentionally or recklessly disturb any of these animals while it is occupying a structure or place that it uses for shelter or protection; or Intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any place that any of these animals uses for shelter or protection. In addition, five British bat species are listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. These are: Greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum; Lesser horseshoe bat Rhinolophus hipposideros; Bechstein’s bat Myotis bechsteinii; Barbastelle Barbastella barbastellus; and Greater mouse-eared bat Myotis myotis. In certain circumstances where these species are found the Directive requires the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) by EC member states to ensure that their populations are maintained at a favourable conservation status. Outside SACs, the level of legal protection that these species receive is the same as for other bat species. © This report is the copyright of ECOSA Ltd.