Nature conservation

We are able to provide advice and services relating to all planning and environmental aspects concerning nature conservation. We have of course dealt with a large number of Planning Applications which have implications for wildlife species and for natural habitats. We can therefore provide advice and services relating to issues concerning the need to enrich biological diversity, to conserve geological features and to ensure the provision of sustainable natural systems. Increasingly, nature conservation plays a central role in a number of proposals for the development of land and it is therefore important that you are in receipt of clear advice on the implications for any development scheme posed by any natural habitat issues or any issues concerning the impact upon protected species.

We are able to provide advice and assistance concerning the survey of proposed development sites prior to the preparation and submission of Planning Applications in order to ascertain the implications in so far as the interests of nature conservation are concerned. Our consultant is fully experienced and qualified in this field and can also provide specific advice on the implications of the various designations often encountered in this particular area of specialism. For example, advice can be given on the consequences and indeed implications for areas which are designated as areas of “special areas of conservation”. We can also provide advice on the implications arising from areas being designated as “special protection areas”. We can also provide advice on other designations including those known as “ramsar sites”.

When considering proposed development schemes, one must also take into account the implications of a number of European Directives. We can provide advice on the implications arising from the EC Birds Directive, the EC Habitats Directive and the EU Water Framework Directive.

We have also dealt with a number of Planning Appeals which have involved issues concerning nature conservation. We can also keep you informed on the latest news relating to developments in nature conservation. We can also keep you informed of the views expressed by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (“JNCC”) where appropriate.