Protection of Wildlife

In recent years the law protecting certain aspects and categories of wildlife has been strengthened and it is therefore vitally important that everyone concerned is aware of important legislation. One of the main pieces of legislation is:

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which covers the following areas:

• protection of birds - e.g. Kingfisher, Barn Owl, Harrier
• protection of animals - e.g. Bats, Newts, Otters
• protection of insects - e.g. Butterflies, Moths
• protection of plants - e.g. Wild Orchids, Ferns, Gentians
• nature conservation - e.g. Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest
• the countryside - e.g. Rights of Way, Landscape Features

In addition legislation is now in place which specifically relates to certain species including the The Badger Act. Also there are certain sites which are specifically identified and these are:

• sites of special scientific interest
• county heritage sites

It is important therefore that you check to establish if the site you are preparing a planning application for is adjacent to or forms part of or is affected by any of the above pieces of legislation. This you can do by contacting Ribble Valley Borough Council's countryside officer who will be able to offer further guidance and advice.