Protected Species Surveys & Licences

Navigating the complex world of protected species can be a significant challenge for any development project. Lucion’s team of licensed ecologists provide comprehensive surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies to help you identify constraints, satisfy regulatory requirements, and keep your project moving forward.

The UK is home to a diverse array of protected species, from bats and great crested newts to dormice and water voles. These animals and their habitats are afforded legal protection under various pieces of legislation, including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

Failing to identify and appropriately mitigate impacts on protected species can result in significant delays, additional costs, and even prosecution. That’s where Lucion comes in. Our team of licensed ecologists have the expertise and experience to guide you through every stage of the protected species survey, assessment, and mitigation process.

Lucion’s protected species services include:

Ecology Surveys

Our ecologists are licensed to survey for a wide range of protected species. We follow industry-standard methodologies to provide the robust data needed to inform your development plans.

Licensing

Where impacts on protected species are unavoidable, Lucion can assist with obtaining the necessary licences from the relevant statutory authorities, such as Natural England or Natural Resources Wales. This includes both survey licences and European Protected Species (EPS) mitigation licences.

Mitigation

Drawing on our extensive experience, we’ll work with you to design and implement tailored mitigation strategies that avoid, minimise or compensate for any impacts on protected species. Solutions may include habitat creation, sensitive timing of works, and the careful translocation of individuals.

By partnering with Lucion, you can be confident that your protected species requirements are being managed by qualified, licensed professionals who are members of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM). We’ll provide the guidance and support you need to keep your project on track while ensuring full compliance with wildlife legislation.

Ready to discuss your project? Book a call with our expert consultants today.

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Case studies

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Environmental Services for Farnborough Airport

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Ecological Consultants for Spring Lodge Development

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Ecological Consultants – Tesco Site Development

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Trusted Ecology Services

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management

Lucion’s team of Ecologists undergo specialist training and maintain active membership with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.

IEMA EIA Quality Mark

Lucion Delta-Simons Ltd has achieved the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment’s (IEMA) Quality Mark for Environmental Impact Assessment as a large producer of Environmental Statements and Chapters.

CIWEM Membership

Many of our Water Services Consultants are members of the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management with several of our team holding Chartership status.

Protected Species FAQs

As members of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), Lucion’s ecologists are at the forefront of best practice. We take a collaborative, client-centric approach, providing the guidance and support you need to satisfy all regulatory requirements efficiently and cost-effectively. Our unparalleled expertise in protected species surveys, licensing, and mitigation ensures you can navigate this complex landscape with confidence.

Lucion’s team of licensed ecologists have extensive experience in navigating the complex world of protected species legislation. We’ll work with you to identify constraints early, obtain the necessary permissions, and develop cost-effective mitigation solutions that keep your project on track while protecting these vulnerable species.

If surveys confirm the presence of protected species, you will likely need to obtain the necessary licences from the relevant statutory authorities before you can proceed. Lucion can manage this licensing process on your behalf, working closely with you and the planning authority to design and implement tailored mitigation strategies.

The optimal survey seasons can vary significantly between different protected species, so it’s important to plan ahead. Our ecologists will advise on the most appropriate timing based on the target species and your project timeline, ensuring surveys are conducted within the required windows.

Lucion’s licensed ecologists are experienced in surveying for a wide range of protected species, including;

The specific surveys required will depend on the characteristics of your site and the potential impacts of your development.

The UK’s protected species are safeguarded by law, meaning it is an offence to kill, injure, disturb or destroy their habitats without the necessary permissions in place. Failing to identify and appropriately mitigate impacts on these species could result in significant delays, additional costs, and even prosecution.