Otter Survey & Mitigation
Ecologists have gained the necessary experience in otter surveys and otter mitigation work. Our clients receive a bespoke approach to each of their projects to ensure development needs are met as well as the legal requirements of otters.
Otters are fully protected under UK and European law and developments affecting otters or their resting places may require a European protected species licence before works can commence. For more information on otter legislation click here.
Initial Otter Assessment
Before any building or development begins on a site which may potentially disturb otters or their holt, an initial assessment survey may be required. As otters are active all year and can live along rivers, lakes or coastlines all banks along water courses must be surveyed within 100 metres of the site boundary before planning permission can be granted. A report which is suitable for submission to the planning department will also be produced which will highlight any potential impact on otters. For more information on planning applications involving protected species click here.
Further Otter Surveys
If evidence of otter is found during the initial assessment a more detailed survey will need to be undertaken to ascertain the level of usage by otters and whether these are breeding sites and/or contain natal dens or resting places. All watercourses (including small streams) should be walked.
Licence Application
A development licence must be obtained from Natural England for checking holts or for carrying out work that may disturb otters. Licences must be issued prior to commencement of works and should be applied for at least one month in advance of the start of works. Mitigation measures must also be in place, and only in extreme circumstances will the licensing authority permit the destruction of holts or other otter resting places.
Survey Timings
Surveys can be undertaken at any time of year and must be undertaken by a suitably experienced ecologist. Otters can breed at any time of year, therefore there is no preferred season in which to undertake operations in order to limit disturbance. Works may have to be delayed if otters are found to be breeding on site. The protected species timetable provides information on when bat survey and mitigation can be carried out, click here for more information.
Access Ecology Services
We work across the UK and offer our services at highly competitive rates. Our pragmatic and personal approach allows us to provide a bespoke service for each individual client when dealing with development issues. Mitigation designs are always discussed and agreed with our clients so the best possible design can be created which is subtle within the proposed development, whilst still providing the necessary mitigation for otters.
To discuss your project further please call the office on 0114 2587819, or if you would like to request a fee quote for your project contact us by email at info@accessecology.co.uk with your contact details and the necessary details of the project.