Protected Species Licences

Sometimes development requires a licence, issued by Natural England, if it affects certain types of protected species. These include species protected under European legislation via the Habitats Regulations or species afforded special protection under UK legislation.

European Protected Species (EPS) licences are most commonly sought for all bats, common dormice, and great crested newts. There are a range of other EPS, but these are less likely to be found in areas where development is proposed. The licensing process is quite lengthy and requires that the applicant be well-informed on the constraints, timing and cost involved.

JFA have considerable expertise in the application process, the licensing administration and the mitigation that follows, and can assist clients in this regard. However, the most important advice we provide to our clients is to avoid the requirement for a licence and to be absolutely sure that the data supports the need for a licence in the first place.