The Brief
We provided bat licensing and mitigation support for track lowering works beneath two railway overbridges in South Wales. The works formed part of a wider rail electrification programme, requiring sufficient clearance beneath existing structures to install overhead line equipment.
Bat roosts had previously been recorded within both bridges, and the proposed engineering works had potential to disturb roosting bats. A robust licensing and mitigation strategy was therefore required to enable works to proceed lawfully while maintaining the favourable conservation status of the species concerned.
Our Role
We were commissioned to secure a European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) from Natural Resources Wales to permit works affecting bat roosts.
Our services included:
- Preparation of the EPSL application
- Production of a detailed mitigation method statement
- Compilation of the reasoned statement and supporting figures
- Liaison with the regulator throughout the determination process
The mitigation strategy outlined:
- Supervision of works by a licensed bat ecologist
- Toolbox talks for site operatives
- Sensitive working methods to avoid harm or disturbance
- Installation of bat boxes on nearby trees to provide compensatory roosting opportunities
A licence was granted to allow works at both bridge locations in compliance with wildlife legislation.
Overcoming Programme Challenges
Delays to the construction programme required an amendment to the original licence to extend the permitted working period. Due to processing times, the amended licence was not issued in time for one planned work window.
To maintain programme continuity while ensuring compliance, we implemented additional safeguards, including:
- Enhanced ecological supervision
- A dawn survey immediately prior to works to confirm absence of bats
These measures provided confidence that bats were not present and that works could proceed without risk of disturbance.
Outcomes
- EPSL successfully obtained
- Works completed safely and in line with ecological legislation
- No bats harmed or disturbed
- Programme delays managed through pragmatic, risk-based ecological advice
Project Reflection
“Thomson Environmental Consultants successfully delivered the project for the client, swiftly obtaining the EPSL and providing guidance and advice to enable the client to meet its objectives.”
Providing practical, solutions-focused licensing support for complex rail infrastructure projects.
