survey

Any development proposed within 500m of suitable aquatic habitat for great crested newts (GCN) must be assessed for the potential impact that development might have on this species. The impact on terrestrial habitat is also a material planning consideration.

Initial surveys (including eDNA sampling of ponds) to identify the potential for the presence of great crested newts, as well as to enable the correct advice on a range of management options should their presence be established, is time critical. You need to be able to state with confidence whether GCN are present or absent within a site or given area before proceeding with your proposal. While it is relatively rare for GCN to prevent the development of a site, there is nonetheless a risk to your timetable if surveys aren’t accepted due to lack of effort or being considered out of season. You would be best advised to liaise with your ecologist from an early stage and be prepared to design mitigation into your scheme.