Consultation 2 DEFA Biodiversity

From: Costain, Sophie (DEFA) To: DEFA, Planning Cc: Lionel Kelly Subject: PA 21/01279/B – Proposed alterations to existing conservatory, East Ballabane Date: 06 December 2021 16:09:31 Attachments: image001.png

Good afternoon

RE: PA 21/01279/B – Proposed alterations to existing conservatory, East Ballabane

The Ecosystem Policy Team are aware that there is an active bat roost in the grounds of East Ballabane. This roost is not located in the main property or conservatory. However, due to the proximity of the known roost there is increased likelihood that bats could be present in the conservatory.

Conservatories are not a favoured or usual bat roosting location. However, bats have found in conservatories in the past and could be present in crevices between the conservatory and house or under the lead flashing in this case, though the probability is considered low. We do not believe that bat surveys are required in this instance but request that the following advisory note is included on the approval notice.

Bats are listed on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Act 1990. It is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take, or to damage or destroy, or obstruct access to, any structure or place bats use for shelter or protection, or to disturb bats while they occupy a structure or place which they use for that purpose. Thorough checks for bats should be made in any cracks and crevices prior to alteration of the conservatory. If bats or evidence of bats is found the DEFA Ecosystem Policy Team (651577) or Manx Bat Group Helpline (366177) should be contacted.

Best wishes

Sophie

Miss S Costain, Ecosystem Policy Officer Department of Environment, Food & Agriculture, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St Johns, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS Tel +44 (0)1624 685963 Mob +44 (0)7624 431301 Fax +44 (0)1624 685851 Email [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.gov.im/defa DEFA - working for a clean, safe, healthy, attractive and vibrant environment which will be enjoyed by present and future generations alike.

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