Anybody know what can and can't be done with an area of ecological interest? It is not a SSI or anything of that status.

The land I'm talking about has a small pond with Great Crested Newt. Total area of field approx one third of acre.

I know somebody who may buy the land and apply to turn it into an extension of his garden.

Anybody out there have any knowledge of this sort of thing.

If the pond was left untouched could the surrounding land be turned into a normal garden? Would planning permission be needed?

:help:

I have some friends who are up on this sorta thing - they are the guys currently protesting in Nottingham

I will give them your info and see what they come up with.

Moon Maiden

Who says there are Great Crested Newts there? Someone from the Ecology Unit would have to come out and verify that fact first of all.
From off the top of my head I believe that the pond cannot be meddled with, in which case it seems probable that the guy would be able to have his garden, but under certain strictures...there would be a list of things he could or could not do, etc.
I'm not going to be in the office tomorrow, and I can't immediately see anyone near me who would know, but of course this is right down our street so to speak, and I could get you a definitive answer fairly quickly on Monday.

Thanks Moon that would be a help.

Cosy there are definitely GCN in there as we have seen them. The area was designated an area of ecological interest 5 years ago when the site was developed for housing. Planning permission was granted on the basis of the developer leaving a certain area around the pond untouched which he did.

I'm so impressed at the breadth of knowledge and expertise around on this forum.
Thanks Cosy.

Originally posted by Mo
Anybody know what can and can't be done with an area of ecological interest? It is not a SSI or anything of that status.

The land I'm talking about has a small pond with Great Crested Newt. Total area of field approx one third of acre.

I know somebody who may buy the land and apply to turn it into an extension of his garden.

Anybody out there have any knowledge of this sort of thing.

If the pond was left untouched could the surrounding land be turned into a normal garden? Would planning permission be needed?

:help:


Council will be able to tell them!!!

this is what I have so far from the Loyal Authrian Warband!!!

Hiya MoonMaiden ~ Information for your friend regarding Newts

1) Yes you do need planning permission to incorporate any extra area into your garden, because it comes under the rules regarding the change of use

2) If you phone the headquarters of English Nature at Peterborough on 01733 455000 and ask for the Enquiries Service, they will assist you regarding the entire spectrum of pamphlets ~ leaflets ~ and books regarding the Greater Crested Newts.
3) And if you have at least 100 newts they will advise how to get this site designated as a protected location.
4) This Newt is a European Protected Species.
Hoping that this is what you were looking for.
With good wishes

Blessed Be

Holen ~ ~