29/05/2026
"We definitely don't have bats."
It's one of the most common things we hear before a planning application goes in. But it's definitely worth double-checking, even if you're sure.
The UK has 18 species of bat - almost a quarter of all our mammal species - and every one of them is legally protected.
The common pipistrelle alone numbers an estimated 3 million across the country, and it roosts specifically in roof spaces, cavity walls and behind soffit boards... exactly the kind of features found in almost every property across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds.
The area's mix of farmland, hedgerows and period properties is exactly the habitat bats favour. And according to Natural England's own guidance, you can't assess bat presence by the age or type of a building alone, which is why so many people are surprised when a survey comes back positive.
Bat surveys can only be carried out between May and September. Miss that window and the risk is that your planning application stalls - not for a few weeks, but for a full year.
The surveys can be commissioned now, even if your project is still in the early stages. It's one of those steps that costs very little to do early but a lot if you leave it too late.
Not sure whether your site needs one? We're happy to give you a quick steer before it becomes a problem. Get in touch at [email protected]
Pictured: exterior shots of some of our favourite projects.
