

When embarking on a construction project in the UK, it is important to consider the impact your project may have on the local wildlife and ecosystem as a whole. The UK is home to many unique indigenous species and UK wildlife laws have been implemented to ensure that these species are suitably protected. Breaching these regulations can result in significant project delays, fines, and even legal action. This blog will explore some of the most commonly encountered protected species on UK construction sites, summarise the key wildlife protection laws, explore the penalties for non-compliance and guide you on the necessary precautions that you should take to avoid harming protected species during your construction projects.
Protected Species
- Bats
Bats are perhaps one of the most well-known protected species. All UK bat species and their roosts are fully protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. It is illegal to disturb, harm, or destroy them or their roosts. Bats can often be found in older buildings, roofs, and trees that may be part of the construction zone. However, bats may also be found in newer build properties if they are constructed in a desirable environment. A bat survey is required to ensure their safety before proceeding with any work.
- Great Crested Newts
Great crested newts are another protected species under the same laws that govern bats. These amphibians are often found in ponds, wetlands, and other damp habitats, which could overlap with construction areas. If found on site, development work may need to be halted until proper mitigation strategies, such as creating alternative habitats, are in place. Failing to comply can lead to prosecution.
- Badgers
Badgers and their setts (burrows) are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. Badgers are nocturnal creatures and usually shy away from human activity, but construction projects near their setts can cause them distress or even lead to the destruction of their habitats. Any development within 30 metres of a sett will require a specific license to ensure their safety.
- Dormice
Hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) are rare and highly protected mammals in the UK. They prefer dense vegetation and are often found in woodlands and hedgerows, which can be impacted by construction work. If dormice are suspected or confirmed on-site, mitigation measures are crucial, including habitat management and translocation to new areas to prevent harm to the population.
The edible dormouse (Glis glis), predominantly found in southern England, is another species of dormouse that can cause significant issues during construction projects. Known for damaging timber, electrical wiring, and crops, these nocturnal rodents can be a serious nuisance in rural areas. Due to their protected status, a specific licence is required to trap and manage them, helping to prevent damage while complying with wildlife protection laws.
- Birds
All wild birds, their nests, and eggs are protected by law, particularly during the nesting season, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. It is an offence to intentionally take, damage, or destroy their nests while in use. For construction sites near woodland, hedgerows, or buildings where birds may be nesting, it is essential to carry out bird surveys to ensure no active nests are disturbed.
- Reptiles
Species such as grass snakes, common lizards, and slow worms are protected from intentional killing or injury under UK law. They are often found in overgrown or neglected land, which can coincide with development sites. If present, a reptile survey and mitigation plan are required, which may involve relocating them to a safe environment.
Key Wildlife Protection Laws
Several laws in the UK govern the protection of species and their habitats. Developers must be aware of these regulations when undertaking construction projects:
- Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981: This is one of the most important pieces of legislation for protecting wildlife in the UK. It makes it an offence to harm, kill, or disturb protected species, including bats, birds, reptiles, and certain mammals. It also protects their habitats, such as nests and roosts.
- Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (EU Habitats Directive): This law implements the EU Habitats Directive in the UK, providing additional protection to species and habitats. European Protected Species (EPS), such as great crested newts and bats, are protected under these regulations, which make it illegal to kill, disturb, or damage their habitats without a licence.
- Protection of Badgers Act 1992: This law specifically protects badgers and their setts from intentional harm, killing, or disturbance. Any development near a badger sett requires special consideration and may require a licence from Natural England.
- Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006: This act places a duty on public authorities to conserve biodiversity, ensuring that all public bodies, including local authorities and developers, consider wildlife protection during planning and development processes.
- The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004: Under this law, local authorities must consider the impact of development on biodiversity, including protected species, as part of the planning process.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The UK’s stringent laws to protect wildlife, and non-compliance can lead to serious consequences. These penalties are designed to ensure that developers and construction companies take their responsibilities seriously. Here is what you could face if you fail to adhere to the regulations:
- Fines: Breaching wildlife laws can result in fines of up to £5,000 per offence for individuals and unlimited fines for organisations, depending on the severity of the violation.
- Imprisonment: In the most severe cases, individuals responsible for harming protected species or their habitats can face up to six months in prison.
- Project Delays: Construction projects may be halted or delayed if protected species are discovered on-site without proper surveys or mitigation measures in place. This could lead to significant financial losses.
- Legal Action: Developers who fail to comply with wildlife protection laws can face legal action from authorities such as Natural England, which can result in both civil and criminal proceedings.
- Reputation: Non-compliance also damages reputations, and developers may find it harder to secure future contracts or planning permissions if they are found guilty of wildlife offences.
How to Manage Protected Species on Site
To avoid costly delays, fines, and legal consequences, developers should take early action by conducting ecological surveys and assessments as part of the design risk assessments and planning process. Here are some key steps:
- Ecological Surveys – Conduct detailed assessments to identify the presence of any protected species on site.
- Licensed Mitigation – Obtain the necessary licenses from Natural England or other authorities if protected species are found.
- Timing of Work – Plan construction activities to avoid sensitive times, such as bird nesting season or hibernation periods for certain animals.
- Habitat Creation – In some cases, habitat compensation or translocation may be necessary to support wildlife populations.
Conclusion
Understanding and respecting the laws surrounding protected species is essential for any UK construction project. By taking proactive measures, complying with regulations, and learning from case law, developers can avoid project delays, protect wildlife, and prevent costly penalties. Ensuring your project remains compliant not only protects your bottom line and programme but also supports the UK’s vital and unique ecosystems.
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