Overview

This bill aims to improve bat habitat protection around new building sites in England and Wales while reducing protections for bats in places of worship. It mandates pre-construction bat surveys for new buildings and wind turbines, requiring mitigation measures if bats are present. It also modifies existing legislation to limit protection for bats in churches and other buildings used for public worship unless their presence negatively impacts building users.

Description

Bat Habitat Protection near Building Sites

The bill requires bat surveys before constructing new buildings or wind turbines on previously undeveloped land. If bats are found nearby, developers must install bat boxes or artificial roosts before the building can be occupied. The bill defines "building" to include wind turbines.

Protection in Buildings Used for Public Worship

The bill amends existing legislation (European Communities Act 1972, Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, and Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981) to exempt bats and bat roosts in buildings used for public worship, unless their presence significantly harms building users.

Regulations

The Secretary of State will create regulations defining survey criteria, key terms ("in the vicinity"), qualified surveyors, and cost allocation for bat surveys. These regulations are subject to parliamentary approval.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending figures. However, there will be costs associated with developing and enforcing regulations, as well as potential indirect costs for developers who need to conduct surveys and install bat mitigation measures. The overall financial impact is uncertain and will depend on the number of developments affected and the cost of the mitigation efforts.

Groups Affected

• Developers: Will face new pre-construction requirements and potential costs associated with bat surveys and mitigation (bat boxes, etc.).
• Wind Turbine Developers: Subject to the same survey and mitigation requirements as other developers.
• Bat Conservationists: May be concerned about reduced protection for bats in places of worship, although this is only if their presence negatively affects users.
• Religious Organizations: Could experience reduced regulatory burdens regarding bat roosts in their buildings.
• Local Authorities: Will be involved in enforcing the new regulations.
• Bat Surveyors: May see an increase in demand for their services.

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