Ecological Survey: Preliminary Bat Roost Assessment

Client: Mrs. Goodsell

Location: Dykes Farm, Road, Ewhurst Green, East , TN32 5RJ

NGR: TQ779 243

Survey Date: 18th April 2019

Surveyor: Sally-Ann Hurry MCIEEM BSc(Hons) FdSc

Project: Conversion of barn to form annexe

Written by: Sally-Ann Hurry – 23rd April 2019

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, , , TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

Summary

The barn at Dykes Farm is proposed for conversion to provide annexe accommodation. A preliminary bat roost assessment has been carried out in order to inform of any constraints posed by roosting bats. A brief summary of the findings and recommendations is provided below:

 The site is set in a rural setting surrounded by habitats and habitat features of high value to commuting and foraging bats.

 The barn has numerous opportunities for bats to gain access to the internal area of the building, however the building supports a limited number of potential bat roosting features. The characteristics of most of the identified features create highly sub-optimal conditions to support roosting bats and in turn they are highly unlikely to support a regularly used roost site.

 No bats or secondary evidence to suggest any recent bat presence or activity was located at the barn. Owing to the presence of a limited number of sub-optimal potential bat roosting features, the barn is overall assessed as having negligible to low potential to support roosting bats.

 Following standard survey guidelines, a building assessed as having low bat roosting potential should have one bat emergence survey carried out in order to confirm the presence / likely absence of any roosting bats. However, owing to the sub-optimal nature of the building features, which have been identified as only having limited potential to support an opportunistic bat, carrying out additional survey work would not be a suitable or reasonable approach whilst considering the mobile nature of bats and the identified potential. In turn, no further bat presence/absence survey work is deemed necessary and the proposed conversion may proceed with no restrictions in regards to bats.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

 The current proposal to convert the barn is not expected to directly impact upon any bat roosts and in turn a EPSML is not necessary.

 The barn includes numerous ledges within the internal structure of the building which may be used by nesting birds in the future. Recommendations are provided in order to safeguard this species group.

 The proposed project provides opportunities for biodiversity enhancement in line with national and local planning policies. Recommendations are provided in section 5.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

1. Introduction and Background: 1.1 Mountfield Ecology were commissioned by Mrs. Goodsell to carry out a preliminary bat roost assessment of a small barn at Dykes Farm, Ewhurst Green, East Sussex (hereafter referred to as the site). This assessment includes a detailed building inspection which aims to:  Assess the sites habitat connectivity and general value to bats;  Identify potential bat roosting features and/or ingress points;  Identify the presence of bats or secondary evidence which may suggest the presence or recent activity of bats;  Provide an overall assessment of the buildings suitability and potential in supporting a bat roost;  Identify the need for any further survey work;  Identify constraints to the proposal in regards to bat roosts.

1.2 The site includes a small barn currently used for general storage, the building is attached to a garage storage area to the north and a stable block to the west which both have independent access. The proposed development includes the conversion of the barn to form annexe accommodation.

1.3 The site is situated in a rural setting with a network of open fields with significant tree and hedge lines adjoining areas of woodland within the wider landscape. The barn is immediately surrounded by neighbouring buildings and areas of hard standing associated with access and garden areas of Dykes Farm. Ewhurst Green lies to the east, to the south and Bodiam to the north, the site is accessed via Bodiam Road to the east. The national grid reference for the site is TQ779 243.

1.4 All measurements detailed within this report are provided as an approximation.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

2. Methodology: Desk Study 2.1 The desktop study involved a database search for statutory and non-statutory designated sites and features of interest within a 2km radius of the site. The data search was based upon available information provided by the following resources:  Multi-Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside (MAGIC).  Ordnance Survey mapping.  Aerial photography.

Preliminary Bat Roost Assessment 2.2 The building inspection was carried out by Sally-Ann Hurry on the 18th April 2019, the weather conditions were optimal with no precipitation, still air and the temperature was 20˚C.

2.3 Standard methodologies as recommended by The Bat Conservation Trust in Bat Surveys – Good Practice Guidelines’ (Collins, 2016) have been followed. The building was inspected for the suitability of bats; consideration was given to the surrounding area for foraging and flight lines, features such as tree lines and hedgerows. All external areas and surfaces of the building were inspected for the presence of bats and secondary signs such as droppings and staining. Potential suitable bat ingress points were inspected and noted.

2.4 The interior of the building was inspected for the presence of bats and other secondary evidence of their presence such as droppings, butterfly and insect wings, urine stains/crystallisation and marks caused by fur rubbing against points where bats could gain access. All accessible surfaces were inspected searching for secondary evidence such as droppings.

2.5 The building was given a rating for the level of bat potential present i.e. the likelihood of a bat roost to be present within the structure. Field signs and features along with surveyor experience were used in order to make an assessment. The following

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

categories were used in order to provide a general rating and level of assessment of the building:

Negligible: No suitable features which could be used by bats. The structure may still have features which are commonly known to be used by bats but due to the circumstances of that feature or structure the feature is deemed unsuitable for bats; Low: A small number of potential suitable bat roosting features are present but are most likely to support a low conservation status roost such as individual bats of a common species (not a maternity roost). The structure or site may be isolated within the surrounding landscape; Moderate: Several potential suitable bat roosting features are present and the surrounding habitat is of value to commuting and foraging bats with linear features and suitable habitats; High: Several potential bat roosting features are present and those features are of particular significance to roosting bats. Surrounding habitat is of high value to commuting and foraging bats e.g. woodland, open water etc. with linear features. The structure is close to a known roost; Confirmed: Bats or recent secondary evidence of a bat roost such as droppings located within the structure and/or bats heard chattering from within the structure.

2.6 The following types of bat roosts were considered during the assessment: Maternity roosts: Sites that provide protection from the elements and predators and provide the correct thermal environment for reproduction. Maternity roosts tend to be warmer in temperature because breeding females need to maintain a high metabolism to aid in lactation. Juvenile bats need to keep warm to maintain a metabolic rate that allows for rapid growth. Day roosts: Areas where bats are able to spend the non-active period of the day resting or in torpor, depending on weather conditions. Day roosts provide shelter from the elements and safety from predators. Night roosts: Areas used by bats to rest between foraging bouts, to allow for digestions of prey, to escape from predators, as shelter from weather, and possibly

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

for social purposes. Night roosts are typically sites or structures that retain heat to aid the bats in maintaining the higher metabolism necessary for digestion. Hibernation roosts: Areas that have a stable environment where bats may hibernate or be found in torpor; these areas are normally of a constant temperature and are not affected by sunlight or heating from the building. Temperatures of 7° Celsius and below are often found on the north aspect of a building, especially where areas are protected from wind chill. Transitional roosts: Locations used by bats either prior to hibernation or just after the hibernation period. These roosts can either be used by single individual bats or small cluster of bats. Feeding perch: A location used by bats to either hang up and eat their prey or a perch to hang from and catch their prey from. These are often identified by accumulations of discarded feeding remains and droppings. Satellite roost: Alternative roost location within close proximity to the main maternity roost. Numbers of bats using these roosts can change over a season with only a few individuals to large clusters of bats being present, this may be due to changes within the main maternity roost, food supply and/or daily weather conditions. Mating roost: These roosts are normally used from late summer through the autumn period, although they can also be used through to winter. These roosts are areas held by males as territories where they will ‘sing’ and display in order to attract females.

2.7 A See Snake video-scope was available to examine cracks, crevices and cavities. Other equipment included a digital camera, distance measure and LedLenser torches.

Surveyor 2.8 Sally-Ann Hurry has over ten years commercial bat survey experience and holds a personal class survey licence (levels 3 and 4). Sally-Ann has held, designed and overseen the implementation of numerous mitigation measures in accordance with European Protected Species Mitigation Licences (EPSML). Sally-Ann undertakes monitoring of winter hibernation and summer maternity bat roosts as part of the National Bat Monitoring Scheme in and has assisted in European and International bat research.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

Constraints 2.9 Bats are highly mobile animals and it is possible that surveys undertaken during April may not identify the presence of roosts which are utilised earlier or later than this time of year.

2.10 Although the presence of secondary evidence such as droppings, scratch marks and staining would remain all year and so would indicate bat activity, it is possible for bat droppings to become trapped within small crevices and so they may not have been visible during the inspection.

2.11 The identified constraints have been carefully considered and where the survey may have been impeded by the identified constraints, appropriate recommendations are provided in order to ensure the completed survey is sufficiently rigorous to assess the value of the site for the species group concerned.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

3. Results: Desk Study 3.1 The site is situated within the High Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), designated for its variety of landscape and habitat features. There are no non- statutory designated sites within 2km of the site. There are several Scheduled Monuments within 2km of the site, including Bodiam Castle.

3.2 The closest area of deciduous woodland is situated 150m west of the site, this wood covers 0.9Ha and is classified as Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW). There are further areas of ASNW within 2km of the site with significant areas of woodland to the south, dominated by Ancient Replanted Woodland associated with Lordship Wood. There is good connectivity between the site and areas of surrounding woodland with a network of mature hedge and tree lines.

3.3 The closest area of standing water is a network of ponds, 95m southeast of the site. There are further ponds to the north and the River Rother lies 680m to the west (at its closest point).

Surrounding habitats to the south

Preliminary Bat Roost Assessment 3.4 The barn measures 12.1m (l) x 5.4m (w) x 3.4m (h) and is mainly used for general storage. The northern and western walls abut and form the partition between the separate buildings and structures; a garage to the north and stable block to the west. The barn is currently accessed via the adjoining garage or via the doors associated with

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

the southern and eastern elevations of the barn. A narrow crevice was noted as present along the south elevation doors where the door does not tightly abut the frame.

3.5 The walls are generally constructed of concrete blocks or bricks to the lower areas with corrugated fibre-cement sheeting to the upper area of the southern elevation and single skin timber cladding to the upper area of the east elevation. The northern and western walls have been partitioned off using timber boarding overlaying the timber frame which is exposed internally.

The southern and eastern elevations

3.6 The external cladding materials were in general good condition, the timber cladding was slightly raised in a few areas, potentially allowing direct access to the internal area of the building. Small gaps were present where the fibre-cement sheeting corrugations overlay the timber structure. The southern eaves have been enclosed with timber boarding, however there are numerous small gaps where timbers abut, allowing potential access inside the building and the boxing in is open backed. Narrow crevices were noted around the metal pole uprights exposed along the southern elevation, however these were very tight. A large cavity was noted under some timber boxing in associated with the southeast corner.

3.7 The mono-pitched roof was clad in corrugated fibre-cement sheeting which was in good condition with tight overlapping edges. One area of sheeting has been replaced with corrugated Perspex, allowing additional natural light ingress. The building has

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

high internal light levels owing to the glazed windows to the south, this would be likely to deter bats from roosting in the open (such as upon exposed timbers or within the open mortice).

Various potential access points and roosting features including crevices and large cavities

3.8 The internal building structure includes various timber rafters with steel supports for the roofs and a timber frame for the wall construction. One short area of internal over boarding of the lower section of the timber frame is to the northeast corner of the building, a large cavity lies behind which was very densely cobwebbed and open to the top edge. Only one open mortice joint was identified associated with the internal timber frame.

3.9 No bats or secondary evidence to suggest any recent bat presence or activity was found at the barn.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

Open mortice joint and area of internal timber boarding

Internal view of the barn with natural light levels and crevices at the eaves

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

4. Discussion and Conclusions: 4.1 The barn at Dykes Farm is set in a rural setting surrounded by habitats and habitat features of high value to commuting and foraging bats. In turn, this increases the potential for bats to find and utilise any suitable bat roosting features present at the barn.

4.2 Several potential bat roosting features and/or ingress points have been identified at the barn:  Raised edges to the timber cladding to the east elevation could provide direct access to the internal area of the building.  Crevices and gaps associated with overlapping materials such as where structural metal uprights abut timbers and timber boarding associated with the eaves and roof line could provide direct access to the internal area of the building or provide potential roosting opportunities.  Crevices around the access door to the south could provide direct access to the internal area of the building.

4.3 Although the barn has numerous opportunities for bats to gain access to the internal area of the building, there are very limited potential bat roosting features or opportunities. All potential bat roosting features consist either of very large open cavities such as that associated with the eaves boxing in (which is open backed) and that associated with the external southeast corner or very tight narrow crevices as associated with the steel uprights and abutting materials. The characteristics of these features are highly sub-optimal to support roosting bats and in turn they do not provide suitable roosting conditions in order to support a regularly used roost site.

4.4 No bats or secondary evidence to suggest any recent bat presence or activity was located at the barn, in addition, no bats or secondary evidence was found within the inspected cavity features, confirming the likely absence of any regular bat presence. Owing to the presence of a limited number of highly sub-optimal bat potential roosting features, the barn is overall assessed as having negligible to low bat roosting potential. Owing to the surrounding high value bat habitat, it is likely that a variety of

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

bat species are present within the local area and in turn there remains some limited potential for a passing opportunistic bat to make use of the building on a rare occasion.

4.5 Following accepted survey guidelines (Collins, 2016), a building identified as having low bat roosting potential should have one bat emergence survey carried out during the peak bat active period. However, owing to the very limited potential for an opportunistic bat, rather than a regularly used roost site, carrying out a single bat emergence survey is highly unlikely to confirm the presence/absence of an opportunistic individual. Carrying out additional survey work would not be a suitable approach or proportionate whilst considering the high mobility of bats and the identified potential and in turn, no further bat presence/absence survey work is deemed necessary.

4.6 The current proposal to convert the barn is not expected to directly impact upon any bat roosts and in turn a EPSML is not necessary. There are no constraints to the project in regards to bat roosts.

4.7 The barn includes numerous ledges within the internal structure of the building which may be used by nesting birds in the future. No active birds’ nests were located during the site walkover however owing to the rural setting and numerous suitable opportunities, their potential presence should be considered and this species group may pose some constraints upon the proposed conversion. All active birds’ nests receive legal protection (see section 7 for further details), the proposed conversion has the potential to cause disturbance and destruction of nest sites, if active at the time the works are undertaken. Recommendations are detailed in section 5 in order to safeguard this species group.

4.8 The proposed project provides opportunities for general biodiversity enhancement in line with national and local planning policies. Recommendations are provided in section 5.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

5. Recommendations: 5.1 No further survey work in regards to bats is currently required at the barn. The proposed conversion may proceed with no restrictions in regards to bats.

5.2 Owing to the very limited potential for an opportunistic individual, should a bat be unexpectedly discovered during the works:  All work must immediately stop and any machinery at the site switched off.  A licensed bat ecologist must be contacted as soon as possible.  The bat/s must be left in-situ, if they have been uncovered, carefully replace the original covering ensuring the bat/s are not crushed. If this is not possible, the bat/s should be covered with a soft cloth or loose covering.

5.3 If a bat roost is found during the works, it is possible that additional survey work may be required and an application to Natural England for a suitable EPSML be made prior to works at the building recommencing.

5.4 The start of the conversion works should avoid the peak bird nesting season which runs from March-August (inclusive), in turn works should start between September and February. If this is not feasible, an experienced ecologist should carry out a bird nesting survey of the building within 48hrs of the start of works. If an active nest site is present, works may need to be delayed or altered so as to prevent disturbance to the nest. Active nest sites must remain undisturbed and unobstructed. Only once the young have fully fledged could works recommence in the immediate area and the nest be removed if necessary.

5.5 If an active birds nest is discovered during the works:  All work must stop within the immediate area of the nest, the nest must remain undisturbed and unobstructed;  A suitably experienced ecologist be contacted for further advice. It may be feasible to install a suitable buffer zone around the nest site so that works can continue outside the buffer area;

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

 Only once the young have fully fledged and left the nest, may works recommence in the immediate area (and/or buffer zone) and the nest be removed if necessary.

5.6 If the proposed works are not started within 18 months of the date of this survey a re- survey of the site will be required.

Biodiversity Enhancement and Net Gain 5.7 Mountfield Ecology are unaware of any soft landscaping proposals associated with the converted barn, in turn recommendations are provided here in order to inform any future landscaping proposals. Any new post-development planting should include a mixture of bio-diverse plants in order to attract a range of wildlife including invertebrates which will be beneficial to wildlife including bats and birds. Native trees and shrubbery of local origin are preferable, however non-native species can still be of value to wildlife. Night-scented flowering plants are especially beneficial to insects and in turn provide foraging opportunities for bats. Planting of a mixed native species hedge line to bound any associated garden space would provide additional sheltering opportunities for a wide range of wildlife and nesting opportunities for birds. A list of suitable plant species is included in appendix 1.

5.8 In order to retain the value of the site area for foraging and commuting bats and prevent any impacts upon any nearby bat roosts, the impact of exterior artificial lighting associated with the development should be considered. There must be no direct illumination or light spillage upon neighbouring buildings as this would potentially impact upon any nearby bat roosts. All new lighting should be LED luminaires and be installed on the horizontal or positioned facing down so as to minimise upward light spillage. Safety and security lighting should be set on a PIR sensor and timer so that light is only emitted for the short time period required.

5.9 The converted barn provides opportunities to install an external mounted bird nesting box to the east elevation. The south elevation is likely to experience increased temperatures and so would be unsuitable for installing such features. Owing to the

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

limited height of the building, the box should be installed as high as possible upon the east elevation and away from the proposed flue.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

6. References / Bibliography: Boldough, S., Denes, D. and Samu, P. (2007). The effects of the illumination of buildings on house-dwelling bats and its conservation consequences. Acta Chiropterologica 9(2):527-534 Collins, J. (ed.) (2016). Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines. 3rd edn. The Bat Conservation Trust, DEFRA. (2010). The Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution (RCEP) Report on Artificial Light in the Environment. DEFRA Fure, A. (2012). Bats and Lighting – Six years on. The London Naturalist 91: 69-88 Kuijper, D.P.J., Shut, J., Van Dulleman, D., Toorman, H., Goosens, N., Ouwehand, J. and Limpens, H.J.G.A. (2008). Experimental evidence of light disturbance along commuting routes of pond bats Myotis dasycneme. Lutra 51(1): 37-49 Limpens, H.J.G.A., Velamen, M.A., Dekker, J.J.A., Jansen, E.A. and Huitema, H.J. (2012). Bat friendly colour spectrum for artificial light. Dutch Mammal Society, LEDexpert. In preparation Mitchell-Jones.A.J. (2004). Bat Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough Mitchell-Jones.A.J., McLeish.A.P. (2004). Bat Workers Manual. 3rd edn. JNCC Stone, E.L., Jones, G. and Harris, S. (2009). Street lighting disturbs commuting bats. Curr. Biol. 19: 1123-1127 The British Standards Institution. (2013). Biodiversity – Code of practice for planning and development BS42020:2013. BSI Standards Limited Waring, S.D., Essah, E.A., Gunnell, K. and Bonser, R.H.C. (2013). Double Jeopardy: The Potential for Problems when Bats Interact with Breathable Roofing Membranes in the . Architecture & Environment 1(1): 1-13

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

7. Legislation and Further Information: 7.1 Bats Bats and Lighting Bat vision has evolved to be most effective in dim light; many species of bat are particularly sensitive to artificial lighting (Limpens et al. (2012)). All bat species will avoid artificial lights and lit areas when commuting to their foraging grounds, however some species are particularly sensitive (such as the long-eared bat (Plecotus sp.) and natterer’s (Myotis nattereri)). Artificial lighting is also known to delay the emergence of bats and this in turn reduces the available time period available to forage (Boldough et al. (2007)). This can be highly detrimental to the survival of individual bats and their young. Some species of bats are more tolerant of light levels, however bats seen foraging around lights which emit high levels of ultraviolet (UV) light and so attract insects, are merely taking advantage of a concentration of prey which is no longer available in the unlit surroundings. Lighting interrupts the breeding cycle of insects and so can reduce the populations of insects available within a local area for other wildlife to prey upon. Bats will choose to commute through dark areas where there is an alternative available. Research has shown that bat activity can reduce significantly once artificial lights are switched on (in a previously dark area), (Stone et al. (2009) and Kuijper et al. (2008)) and bats often take alternative routes to avoid them; this can result in bats foraging in less favourable feeding areas and force them away from more sheltered routes, therefore putting them at greater risk of predation. Any development or conversion that will require external artificial lighting to be installed in areas that can be expected to be used by bats, or areas which bats are being encouraged to use, should ensure that such lighting is low level and low wattage, directed down to where it is needed and be on for as short a time as possible (i.e. controlled by PIR and timers). LED lighting is advantageous as it does not release UV rays, however bright white coloured lights should be avoided, preferably amber or warm white lighting should be used. Amber coloured lighting has been shown to have no impact upon bat activity (Limpens et al. (2012)). Light spillage upon hedge and tree lines and areas of open water should be avoided in order to retain these important habitat features and provide dark commuting and foraging areas. In turn, light spillage from large glazed areas should be considered and

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

glass should be tinted or have window film installed in order to minimise the release of light onto such features.

Further information and guidance regarding bats and artificial lighting is available from the Institute of Lighting Professionals here.

Bats and Breathable Roofing Membrane (BRM) / Modern Roofing Membrane (MRM) Research carried out at Reading University has proved that NO breathable roofing membrane is bat friendly, all makes of this product are potentially fatal if used where bats can come into contact with it. Some companies are still marketing a breathable membrane product as ‘bat friendly’ or ‘bat safe’, however these claims cannot be verified. There is currently no bat friendly breathable roofing membrane, only traditional 1F bitumen felt with a hessian matrix (BS8747:2007) must be used in areas where bats could potentially (or are known to) be present. Breathable membrane fabric ‘fluffs’ with tiny loops created when bats try to grip onto the surface, this creates a cotton wool effect and they become entangled (Waring et al. (2013)) in these microfibers and are unable to free themselves leading to fatality as well as failure of the membrane itself. Further information can be found here.

Bats and the Law All species of bats and their roosts are legally protected in the UK under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and also Schedule 2 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. This lists all UK bat species as European protected species. The word ‘roost’ is not used in the legislation but is used here for simplicity. Anywhere used by bats for shelter and protection such as breeding sites and resting places are known as ‘roosts’. Bat roosts are protected even when bats are not present. All bats and their roosts are fully protected under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 making it an offence to:  Deliberately kill, injure or capture (take) bats;  Deliberately disturb a bat;  Damage or destroy bat roosts or resting places;

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

 Intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to a roost;  Possess, transport, control, sell/exchange or offer for sale a bat or any part of a bat live or dead.

A Natural England European Protected Species Mitigation Licence (EPSML) would be required if an individual wishes to undertake work or activities that would cause one of the above offences to be committed. Under Regulation 55 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, Natural England, under powers conferred by the Secretary of State, has authority to issue licences under certain circumstances, provided that the appropriate mitigation for the particular situation has been met. No offence is committed if work is done under and in accordance with such a licence but Natural England must be satisfied that there is no satisfactory alternative to the proposed action (avoidance measures) and that it will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the bats at a favourable conservation status in their natural range.

7.2 Birds and the Law (including Barn Owls) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is the primary legislation which protects all birds, their nests and eggs. All birds are fully protected and you must allow the young to fully fledge and leave the nest before taking any action to block access or remove the nest. Under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to:  Intentionally kill, injure of take a wild bird;  Intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird whilst it is in use or being built;  Intentionally take or destroy the egg of any wild bird;  Intentionally or recklessly disturb any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird;  Have in one's possession or control any wild bird, dead or alive, or any part of a wild bird;  Have in one's possession or control any egg or part of an egg;  Use traps or similar items to kill, injure or take wild birds;

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

 Have in one's possession or control any bird of a species occurring on Schedule 4 of the Act unless registered, and in most cases ringed, in accordance with the Secretary of State's regulations.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to discover roosting bats, it is possible that owing to their small size and their secretive nature when roosting / hibernating that some individuals may have been overlooked.

1. Our staff and our sub-consultants will endeavour to identify the presence of protected species wherever possible on site, where this falls within the agreed scope of works.

2. Up to date standard methodologies have been used, which are accepted by Natural England and other statutory conservation bodies. No responsibility will be accepted where these methodologies fail to identify all species on site. We cannot take responsibility where Government, national bodies or industry subsequently modify standards.

3. The results of the survey and assessment undertaken by us are representative at the time of surveying.

4. We cannot accept responsibility for data collected from third parties and no liability is accepted for any delay or damage howsoever caused, including negligence or otherwise as a result of this report or any advice given.

5. Recommendations are provided following guidance from Natural England, other statutory bodies and from personal experience whilst considering the individual site and situation. No responsibility will be accepted by Mountfield Ecology if our recommendations are not requested to be carried out and a wildlife crime offence is committed.

6. This document has been prepared for the specific project proposal detailed within the report and so must not be relied upon for any other project without further consultation with the author to confirm its suitability in relation to any updated proposal. Mountfield Ecology do not accept any liability should this document be used for any other purpose than that which it was commissioned and intended for.

All contractors must be made aware of the advice contained in this report. It is the responsibility of those commissioning or managing the work to ensure this advice is complied with.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

Appendix 1: Plants to encourage & attract wildlife

Trees: Oak sp. Quercus robur & Quercus petrea Silver Birch Betula pendula Field Maple Acer Campestre Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Common alder Alnus glutinosa Elder Sambucus nigra Hazel Corylus avellana Hornbeam Carpinus betulus Rowan Sorbus aucuparia Whitebeam Sorbus aria Crab apple Malus sylvestris

Shrubs: Guelder Rose Viburnum opulus Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Goat Willow Salix caprea Buddleia Buddleia davidii Firethorn Pyracantha

Climbers: Honeysuckles Lonicera caprifolium Lonicera etrusca Lonicera japonica Lonicera periclymenum Jasmine Jasminum officinale Dog Rose Rosa canina Sweetbriar Rosa rubiginosa Fieldrose Rosa arvensis Ivy Hedera helix Climbing hydrangea Hydrangea anomala sp. petiolaris

Herbs: Chives Allium schoenoprasum Sage Salvia officinalis Marjoram Origanum sp. Borage Borago officinalis Mint Mentha sp. Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis Bergamot Monarda didyma Coriander Coriandrum sativum Fennel Foeniculum vulgare Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis Lavenders Lavandula sp. Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis Sweet Cicely Myrrhis odorata Thyme Thymus sp.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk

Flowers: Aubretia Aubrieta deltoidea Bladder campion Silene vulgaris Candytuft Iberis umbellata Cherry pie Heliotrope Cone flower Rudbeckia sp. Corn marigold Chrysanthemum segetum Corncockle Agrostemma githago Cornflower Centaurea cyanus Echinacea Echinacea purpurea Evening primrose Oenathera biennis Forget-me-not Myosotis sp. Nottingham catchfly Silene nutans Honesty Lunaria annua Ice plant Sedum spectabile Knapweed Centaurea nigra Michaelmas daisy Aster sp. Night scented catchflySilene noctiflora Night scented stock Mattiola bicornia Ox-eye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare Pincushion flower Scabious sp. Poached egg plant Limnanthes Red campion Silene dioecia Red valerian Centranthus ruber Scabious Knautia arvensis Soapwort Spanoria officinalis St Johns Wort Hypericum Sweet rocket Hesperis matronalis Sweet William Dianthus barbatus Verbena Verbena bonariensis Wallflowers Erysimum Yarrow Achillea

You should aim to plant a mixture of flowering plants, trees & shrubs where possible to encourage a diversity of insects; always try to choose native plants and trees preferably of local origin. However, non-native species can still provide opportunities for wildlife. A mixture of flowering plants should be in bloom throughout the year in order to provide diversity and opportunities throughout the seasons. Planted areas will attract more diverse wildlife if they can be managed without the use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers. Trees and shrubs should be planted in appropriate locations taking into consideration the growth pattern, final size and spread.

Mountfield Ecology, Friars Hill Cottage, Friars Hill, Guestling, East Sussex, TN35 4ET Email: [email protected] Tel: 07528 966 988 Web: www.mountfield-ecology.co.uk