ECOLOGY - MITIGATION FOR BIRDS
ECOLOGICAL SURVEY PREPARATION IS VITAL
James Patmore, Head of Ecology at ADAS UK Ltd looks at the importance of allowing sufficient time for ecological surveys, including those relating to birds, when putting together onshore wind turbine planning applications.
This century, climate change is the most significant threat bar none to British birds and wildlife. Altered temperatures could potentially threaten food supplies and habitat in a way that, if not arrested, would eventually lead to extinction of certain species. For this reason, Natural England and the RSPB, among others, recognise the important role that renewable energy, including onshore wind turbines, play in addressing the problem.
Therefore, if you are unlucky, even applications for single wind turbines can be delayed for up to a year. It is therefore important that ecological surveys are planned into the programme at the earliest possible stage. Without this important preparatory step, a planning application can be delayed at a later stage by requests for additional detailed surveys or local objections, resulting in long and costly delays.
‘LIGHT TOUCH’ APPRAISAL Once the initial feasibility stage is finished, a ‘light touch’ appraisal will establish the site’s suitability from the planning perspective. A pre-planning application enquiry and screening request will also be lodged, which can provide advance notice
While it is possible to access lists of ‘sensitive’ bird species from the RSPB or species ‘protected by special penalties’ under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, this information on its own is not enough.
For example, specific surveys are required for certain species and there are defined windows of opportunity for conducting these. Bats, which are legally protected, need to be included because they are also at risk if foraging in the vicinity of turbines; they are attracted to turbines but there is current uncertainty as to exactly why this is the case. Bat surveys are conducted at specified times of the year to allow an accurate assessment of activity across their active season.
SENSITIVE BIRD SPECIES
If sensitive bird species are found present in a locality, like red kite or osprey, their needs and habitat are considered paramount. Establishing their presence at a specific site is done by periodic surveys over a period of months and can take up to a year. Other species, including raptors like the marsh harrier or peregrine falcon are considered in the context of their hunting ranges as well.
In addition to the detailed GIS map produced by the RSPB and Natural England, the input of local bird groups, records, details of flight paths and the foraging use of surrounding farmland all need to be considered.
SENSITIVITY CRITERIA In addition, for each species, ‘sensitivity criteria’ are required using information on foraging ranges, collision risk, disturbance distances and other relevant features of behavioural and population ecology.
If carried out to an adequate
ASSESSING DEVELOPMENT IMPACT When it comes to planning applications for wind turbine developments, however, a vital part of preparation is to assess the impact the turbine may have on birds and animals. Most bird surveys are seasonal, taking place over a migration period for a particular species or in their breeding season.
of the types of detailed surveys that will be required for a specific site. This will also determine whether a full Environmental Impact Assessment is required.
SPECIALIST SURVEYS
Various ecological surveys assess the impact of onshore wind turbines on bird and mammal populations. When arranging specialist surveys, planning consultants like ADAS have their own network of national experts who conduct all types of assessments.
ADAS
level, the survey information will not guarantee an entirely smooth passage through the planning application, but if objections are raised, it will certainly stand an applicant in good stead.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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