Harrison Group Environmental worked with a major property developer to assess the ecological status of a residential development site in south Norfolk. The site had a previous industrial history and most of the original buildings still remain standing, but in a derelict condition. A stream also runs through the centre of the site. The following ecological work was undertaken on the site: -

• A habitat survey of the site to assess its ecological status and the potential presence of protected species
• Surveys for a number of protected species including: -
  1. Reptiles
  2. Bats
  3. Barn owls
  4. Otters
  5. White-clawed crayfish

The outcome of the surveys showed that the derelict industrial buildings were home to a pair of barn owls and bats were also found to roost there. Licences will therefore be required to renovate these buildings. Evidence of otters was also found on site but it was concluded that they only visit there to hunt and are not resident.

No reptiles were recorded on the site.

The stream was found to support a population of crayfish, but they were found to be a nonnative species and therefore not protected under UK legislation; this means that there is no requirement for protection from development activity.

As a result of the presence of bats and barn owls, the surveys conducted by the Harrison Group identified specific mitigation work that will need to be undertaken. Also as a result of this, evidence was provided to justify to the Planning Authority why mitigation for other species will not be required.