New bat licences launched

Nov 6, 2007

As promised for sometime this year, Natural England have now issued their new bat licence application forms. On first inspection, we have found these to be an improvement on the previous system, with less duplication, and a clearer more pragmatic approach to mitigation design. The developer has a more central role, with this now defined separately from the consultant ecologist's role. The issued licence can then refer specifically to each party's obligations.

Another change is that we are now issued with a separate form for the Local Authority to fill-in, after they have seen our licence application. That means that Natural England license processing will no longer be delayed by Local Authorities taking their time to respond to consultation requests. However, it does mean that the consultant will now have to wait for the LA to respond before we can send in the application. Whether LAs will decide to charge us for this service remains to be seen, but I would not be surprised.

So it's a mixed bag, but probably an overall improvement on the old system.

MAB Environment & Ecology Ltd. The Old Chapel, Knayton, Thirsk YO7 4AZ. Limited company no. 6504129.