Bat Survey Vale of Glamorgan: Protected Species Surveys

If you are planning a development in Vale of Glamorgan, you may need to carry out a bat survey to meet ecological planning requirements. Local authorities commonly request protected species assessments before approving planning applications, especially where development could impact local wildlife. In regions like Vale of Glamorgan, assessing the presence of bats is a vital step in the planning process.

Bats are legally protected in the UK and are listed as a European protected species. Therefore, disturbing their roosts or foraging areas is a criminal offence. Vale of Glamorgan Council may require ecological surveys to ensure developments comply with laws such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.

At Collington Winter, our licensed ecologists offer clear, practical advice to both developers and homeowners, helping projects move forward while protecting the local environment.

Bat surveys in Vale of Glamorgan are typically conducted between May and September, when bats are most active and easier to observe. If these initial surveys identify bat activity, further assessments may be required during the winter months to investigate potential hibernation sites.

For more information about bat survey guidelines in South Wales, visit the Bat Conservation Trust website.

Each site is different, so we tailor our assessments to match the specific characteristics of your development and surrounding environment. The main methods of bat surveys include:

Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA): This initial survey involves a visual inspection by one of our ecologists, who examines the interior and exterior of buildings, trees, and other structures for signs of bat activity—such as droppings, staining, or potential bat roosts.

Bat Emergence and Re-entry Surveys (Dusk and Dawn): If potential roosts are identified, we conduct targeted observations at dusk and dawn. Using thermal imaging cameras and bat detectors, we monitor where and when bats are entering or exiting the site.

Nocturnal Surveys: These surveys take place at night to study bat behaviour, including flight paths, feeding habits, and bat species present. We employ advanced acoustic monitoring and tracking technology to collect accurate data with minimal disturbance to the bats.

Collington Winter completes a large number of bat surveys in Vale of Glamorgan each bat season. Our experienced team holds Natural England Species licenses, allowing us to work efficiently while meeting legal and environmental requirements.

We provide a wide range of protected species surveys including bat surveys, great crested newt surveys, water vole surveys, badger surveys, otter surveys, and reptile surveys.

To discuss your project or arrange a consultation on our services, such as a bat survey in Vale of Glamorgan, contact our team at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk. You can also reach us through our enquiry and contact form, which is displayed on this page.