Whatever kind of project you’re tackling – be it a conversion, refurb, extension or totally new home built from scratch – if there is a possibility of bats in or near your property, then you have to take account of them as part of your planning application. So, how do you deal with these creatures, and what are the implications for your project?
What the law says
Bats are protected by both UK and European legislation, under the Habitats Regulations and the Wildlife and Countryside Act. It’s not just an offence to capture or kill them, but also to disturb bats in their roost or to damage, destroy or block access to a roost.