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Protected Species:
DESIGNATIONS & HABITATS
Legal Protection
There are a number of designations which offer protection to species and habitats throughout Scotland. These include for example: Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Protected Areas and Ancient woodlands (in some planning authorities). In most cases a number of conservation features may be protected including landforms, geological strata, species and habitat mosaics.
Survey timing
Vegetation surveys are best carried out during the growing season from May-October, although Phase 1 habitat surveys can be undertaken all year round.
Licensable issues
Where developments are likely to directly or indirectly impact on designated sites and the features of conservation interest then consent from SNH may be required. This may, in the case of European Protected areas require, an appropriate assessment which looks at the impact of the development on the area or species with sufficient information to allow the planning authority to make a determination on an application.