We are well placed to help you through the planning process in a cost-efficient and timely manner.
Our ecologists have extensive experience in surveying and designing mitigation for reptiles and can advise you on survey methodology, legal protection, mitigation options and the possible restrictions required when it comes to the timing of your development. We’re able to provide our services across County Durham, including Murton, Seaham, Peterlee, Sedgefield, Newton Aycliffe, Shildon, Bishop Auckland, West Auckland, Barnard Castle, Romaldkird, and Mickleton.
We also have the capacity to undertake surveys in Middleton-in-Teesdale, Newbiggin, Stanhope, Wolsingham, Crook, Consett, Lanchester, Stanley, Chester-le-Street, Spennymoor and across the North East.
Reptile surveys are often recommended for a development site following a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. The surveys may be required before the local planning authority will grant planning permission for a development. The process can be daunting, but it need not be. Click here for more information on the processes and requirements for ecology surveys.
British Reptiles and the Law
All British reptiles are given so-called ‘partial protection’ under UK law, and it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure them. There are four widespread species of British reptile, comprising grass snake, slow-worm, adder, and common lizard. All of them can be encountered on development sites. The habitats of common reptiles are not specifically protected, though developers are often obliged to replace any reptile habitat lost as a result of the development.
There are two scarce species of British reptiles – the smooth snake and the sand lizard. If these are found on development sites (which is very rare), a Protected Species License is required before works can commence.
British Reptiles, Surveys, and Mitigation
Reptile surveys combine two techniques: a visual search and the use of artificial refugia. Both the surveys and mitigation are seasonally constrained to between April and September when animals are active and unlikely to be hibernating.
Reptile mitigation generally involves the erection of reptile-proof fencing and the use of artificial refugia. Substantial effort is required to capture and transfer the animals off-site to a pre-prepared receptor site.
Do you require a reptile survey?
Contact Acer Ecology at our main office on 02920 650 331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.ukfor more information about reptile surveys or any of our other ecological service .
