Biodiversity survey and reports

Types of application that require this information:

• All development within or adjacent to a designated site:
  • European sites - special protection area of birds and special areas of conservation
  • Sites of special scientific interest
  • Sites of biological importance
  • Local nature reserve
• All applications within or adjacent to a wildlife corridor area of search or natural green space
• Any application involving:
  • Works within the roof space of an existing building
  • The demolition of a building
  • The conversion of a building (eg barn or mill conversion)
  • Alterations or works to cellars, bridges, culverts, large stone walls, caves or mines
• All applications on a quarry or derelict land
• All development adjacent to a river, canal, stream, ditch or other large water body
• All development within 250m of a natural pond or reservoir
• Development which results in works to trees or scrub
• Development affecting or adjacent to hedgerow or woodland
• Development sites where invasive species are present
• Proposals involving lighting of churches and listed buildings or flood lighting of green space within 50m of woodland or water
• Non-householder development within ‘a locally significant area of national and /or local priority habitat’
• Development within habitats identified in the Greater Manchester Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)

Details of what should be included:

• Demonstrate the impacts of any proposed development on any wildlife or biodiversity interests. This will include a habitat survey to ‘Phase 1’ standard or more
• Identify any mitigation measures proposed by the development including how existing natural assets will be protected in the construction
• Identify how the development will enhance biodiversity and identify any required mitigation/compensation measures and proposals for long term maintenance and management
• Where appropriate accompanying plans should indicate the location of any significant wildlife habitats or features and the location of any species protected under the:
  • Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 or
  • Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 or
  • Protection of Badgers Act

It is recommended all development adhere to best practice and adhere to the key principles of any ecological impact assessment as outlined by CIEEM.