Bat Surveys Cressage: Protected Species Surveys

Bat surveys, Cressage, are an essential requirement for many planning and development projects, particularly those near potential wildlife habitats. In line with UK environmental legislation, developers must consider the presence of protected species, such as bats, before work can begin. As a European Protected Species, bats and their roosts are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations 2017.

Planning authorities across Shropshire, including Cressage, Harley, and Sheinton Parish Council, may request a bat survey if a proposed development could disturb bat habitats. Where there is any sign or evidence of bats, a licensed ecological consultant must conduct the appropriate type of survey and recommend mitigation measures to accompany the planning application.

Collington Winter Environmental provides expert ecological services throughout Shropshire and the wider West Midland region. Our ecologists hold Natural England Protected Species Licences and are experienced in assessing development sites with the utmost care, helping clients meet both legal obligations and environmental best practices.

The most suitable time to conduct bat surveys is between May and September when bats are active, and survey data is most reliable. If bats are discovered during the summer season, further assessments may be required during winter to determine whether the site is used for hibernation.

We offer several types of bat surveys to suit your site and the development stage it is at:

• Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) – A daytime inspection of buildings, trees, or structures to check for evidence of bats, including dropping, staining, or crevice access.
• Dusk and Dawn Surveys – Monitoring for bat emergence at sunset and re-entry at sunrise using acoustic and visual detection methods.
• Nocturnal Activity Surveys – Observing flight paths, feeding behaviour, and species identification using advanced audio equipment.

These surveys ensure that any protected species are properly accounted for before development proceeds.

If you’re planning a new development in Cressage and require a reliable bat survey or advice from an experienced ecologist consultant, please get in touch with Collington Winter Environmental. We also offer Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and a range of other services across Shropshire and the West Midlands.

For more information or to discuss your project, contact us at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk or call 01204939608. You can also complete the enquiry form below, and a member of our team will be in touch to get your survey process underway.