Bat Surveys in Longridge: Protected Species Surveys

Bat surveys in Longridge can help determine whether bats are present within buildings, trees, structures or other areas affected by a proposed development. Incorporating ecological surveys into the early stages of project planning can help identify potential bat-related constraints and ensure appropriate measures are considered as part of the planning application process.

If a local planning authority identifies the potential presence of bats and suitable mitigation has not been considered, this can delay a development or, in some circumstances, prevent works from proceeding. Bats and their roosts are protected under legislation including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.

Developers have a responsibility to ensure proposed works do not damage or destroy bat roosts or prevent bats from accessing established roosting locations. As protected species, bats require careful consideration during development. Bat surveys and assessments can therefore be an important part of the planning process, helping to identify potential impacts and determine appropriate mitigation measures.

Bat activity in the UK generally increases during the warmer summer months, making this an important period for many types of bat surveys in Longridge. Surveys can help identify potential roosting locations, establish which species are using a site and provide an indication of local bat activity.

Where bats are identified during summer surveys, further assessment may sometimes be required during the winter to establish whether buildings, trees or other features are being used as hibernation sites.

A range of bat species may be encountered around Longridge, including common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Nathusius’ pipistrelle, brown long-eared bat, Daubenton’s bat, whiskered bat and Brandt’s bat.

Bat surveys are generally undertaken in stages, with the findings of each assessment helping to determine whether further investigation or mitigation is required.

Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA): A Preliminary Roost Assessment, sometimes referred to as a bat scoping survey, is often the starting point. It combines a review of available ecological records with a site inspection of buildings, trees and other structures. Surveyors look for signs such as bat droppings, feeding remains, staining and potential access points, while also assessing the suitability of the site for bats. The results help establish whether more detailed surveys are necessary.

Bat Emergence and Re-entry surveys: Where a building or structure has the potential to support a bat roost, emergence and re-entry surveys may be required. These surveys are typically undertaken around dusk and dawn, with surveyors using specialist equipment to record bat activity. They can help confirm the presence of bats, identify species and establish how areas of a building or structure are being used.

Nocturnal bat surveys: Nocturnal surveys are undertaken after dark to monitor bat activity and behaviour. They can help ecologists identify species, assess activity levels and understand how bats are using habitats surrounding a proposed development.

Hibernation surveys: Where suitable hibernation habitats are present, winter surveys may be undertaken to determine whether bats are using locations such as tunnels, mines or other suitable structures. These surveys must be carried out carefully to minimise disturbance to hibernating bats.

Collington Winter Environmental is an ecological consultancy providing protected species surveys and ecological assessments for a wide range of development projects. Our experienced team has extensive expertise in bat ecologist services.

If you are planning a development and need advice on whether a bat survey or other ecological survey may be required, contact Collington Winter Environmental at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk for a free quote.