Summary
The site comprised of a former stable and animal husbandry building within a residential complex.
A preliminary roost assessment confirmed the site supported a bat roost of natterer’s bat. A total of three bat roost surveys were undertaken and further identified a roost of brown long-eared bats. In order to change the use of the building, a European Protected Species Licence was required and a designated bat loft was installed to allow the continued functionality of the bat roost.
Proposed Development
Convert the site into two one bedroom apartments and a cafe.
Bat Surveys
A Preliminary Roost Assessment was undertaken and evidence of bat use with bat droppings over the stored items within the building. Furthermore, butterfly wings were present on the gable end wall, indicating a potential bat feeding post. A natterer’s bat was located next to the ridge beam, thus confirming the building as supporting roosting bats.
Three bat roost surveys were undertaken between July and August to identify potential other roosting bat species and confirm the number of roosting bats. As well as using four experienced and competent bat surveyors, a series of night vision video equipment was used to assist in providing data during low light levels. Night vision video equipment included a Pulsar Helion XP38 thermal camera which was placed inside the building on top of an internal wall. A further infrared camera was located in a separate section of the building and two more cameras were located outside the building.
The bat roost surveys confirmed a maximum of four brown long-eared bats.
A European Protected Species Licence will be needed from Natural England to undertake the proposed development works. Falco Ecology are working closely with Flight Ecology to apply for the licence on behalf of the Client.