Elton Ecology were commissioned to carry out ecology work to inform a planning application for a two-storey extension at the front elevation of a residential property within the Blaby District Council planning authority area.

The Issue

With reference to Paragraph 99 of ODPM Circular 06/2005 (Biodiversity and Geological Conservation Statutory Obligations and Their Impact Within the Planning System), the Local Planning Authority ecology consultee recommended that a bat survey was carried out prior to determining the application.

The Solution

With reference to best practice survey guidelines (Collins, 2016), Elton Ecology carried out a Preliminary Bat Roost Assessment (PBRA) survey followed by one nocturnal emergence/ re-entry survey in line with a low bat roost suitability building. A Bat Report for the site was issued by Elton Ecology to the client, demonstrating the likely absence of roosting bats.

The Planning Authority ecology consultee response advised that the report was satisfactory, with no objections to the planning application. Planning permission was granted for the site.