Bat Survey Horsham District
A bat survey in Horsham District may be required where development proposals could affect buildings, trees, or habitats capable of supporting bats.
Because bats and their roosting sites are legally protected in England, planning authorities may request ecological survey information before determining planning applications.
ACP Consultants provides bat surveys for planning in Horsham District, supporting homeowners, architects, planning consultants and developers across West Sussex. Our ecologists undertake surveys in accordance with recognised ecological guidance and produce planning-ready reports suitable for submission with planning applications. Bat surveys often form part of wider protected species surveys, and in larger developments they may contribute to an ecological impact assessment or other environmental studies required during the planning process.
Across Horsham District, historic buildings, farmland and woodland edge habitats provide roosting and commuting opportunities for bats. Early surveys help identify constraints, inform design and reduce planning delays.
We follow a simple, transparent process to ensure your project runs smoothly from the very first contact to the final report. Our approach is designed to provide you with clarity at every step, so you’re fully informed and confident in moving forward.
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Step 1: Request a Quote
Fill out our quick quote form or call us, and our team will provide a free, no-obligation quote, outlining the services tailored to your needs.
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Step 2: Confirm Your Booking
Once you approve the quote, simply return the booking form. We’ll schedule your survey and ensure all the details are taken care of.
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Step 3: Receive Your Report
After your survey is completed and payment is received, we’ll promptly issue your survey report, ensuring you get the results as quickly as possible.
In the past year, we’ve delivered over 750+ audit-ready reports supporting 400+ projects for developers, planners, and architects nationwide. We put quality over quantity and build lasting relationships based on trust, ensuring your planning applications are backed by robust evidence and delivered on time.
Do I Need a Bat Survey for Planning in Horsham District?
Planning authorities in England commonly request ecological information where development proposals could affect protected species or habitats capable of supporting them.
In Horsham District, bat surveys may be required where development proposals involve structures or landscapes that provide potential roosting or feeding opportunities.
Typical situations where surveys may be requested include:
- Roof alterations or loft conversions in buildings with roof voids
- Demolition or redevelopment of older buildings
- Conversion of agricultural barns or rural structures
- Removal of mature trees with cavities or cracks
- Installation of lighting that could affect bat commuting routes
- Development close to woodland, rivers, ponds or hedgerows
- Works affecting buildings with timber cladding, hanging tiles or stonework
Many villages across Horsham District contain historic cottages, agricultural barns and farm outbuildings that may provide crevices or roof spaces used by bats. Similarly, mature trees within gardens, parks or field boundaries can contain cavities suitable for roosting.
The district’s rural character means that development sites are often located near habitats where bats forage for insects during the evening. For example, hedgerow networks around villages such as Billingshurst and Pulborough provide linear corridors used by bats to travel between roosts and feeding areas.
Where such features are present, planning authorities may request ecological survey information to assess potential impacts on bats before determining a planning application.
Types of Bat Survey for Development Projects
Bat surveys for development typically follow a staged process. This process identifies potential roosts and assesses bat activity around a site. It gives ecologists reliable ecological evidence to support the planning process. It also helps development proposals consider the conservation of protected species.
The survey pathway usually begins with a preliminary roost assessment. Further activity surveys may follow where necessary. These surveys help ecologists understand whether bats are present. They also show how bats may use the site. Findings can indicate whether additional ecological measures may support planning applications.
By identifying potential constraints early, bat surveys help inform planning decisions. They also ensure development proposals have appropriate ecological information before works proceed.
Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
A preliminary roost assessment in Horsham District is usually the first stage of a bat survey. This daytime inspection involves a qualified ecologist examining buildings or trees for features that could provide roosting opportunities for bats. These features are often referred to as potential roost features and may include small crevices, roof voids or structural gaps.
Examples of features commonly inspected during surveys include:
- Ridge tiles and roof junctions
- Lifted tiles or gaps beneath roofing materials
- Cracks in brickwork or stonework
- Timber cladding or weatherboarding
- Cavities within mature trees
The surrounding habitat is also assessed. Woodland edges, rivers, ponds and hedgerows can provide feeding habitat for bats and may influence whether further surveys are recommended.
In addition to identifying potential roost features, ecologists may record bat droppings, staining or feeding remains, which can indicate the presence of bats.
If the assessment identifies suitable roost features or evidence of bats, further surveys may be required.
Bat Emergence and Re-entry Surveys (BERS)
Where buildings or trees contain potential roost features, bat emergence surveys in Horsham District may be required to determine whether bats are present.
These surveys are undertaken at dusk or dawn and involve ecologists observing buildings or trees while using specialist acoustic detectors that record bat calls.
Analysis of these recordings enables bat species identification, helping determine which species are present and how they use the site.
Bat activity surveys can provide information on:
- Presence or absence of roosting bats
- The number of bats using the roost
- Species present
- Behaviour such as commuting or feeding
- Seasonal activity patterns and possible bat migration patterns
For larger development proposals, survey results may contribute to environmental impact studies or an ecological impact assessment, helping planners understand how development could affect local wildlife.
Further information about activity surveys can be found on our bat emergence survey page.
Reporting and Planning Submission
Following completion of surveys, the findings are compiled into a professional report suitable for planning submission. The report explains the bat roost survey results, ecological context and whether bats are likely to be affected by development.
For bat surveys Horsham District, this report allows Horsham District Council, planning consultants and architects to understand ecological constraints and make informed decisions. It sets out the survey approach, site conditions, roost potential, evidence recorded and any bat activity findings where relevant.
The report may include:
- survey methods and dates
- building or tree assessment findings
- bat roost survey results
- ecological context and habitat features
- impact assessment for proposed works
- recommendations and next steps
Where no bats are present, this can help planning applications proceed without further ecological requirements, subject to site conditions and local authority review. Where bats are present, the report provides clear recommendations, appropriate mitigation guidance and practical next steps to support planning.
Recommendations may include timing controls, sensitive working methods, lighting advice, roost retention, replacement roost provision or further survey requirements. Where a roost could be affected, licensing support may also be required before works proceed.
This ensures planning submissions are supported by clear ecological evidence and that protected species considerations are addressed at the right stage.
Mitigation, Licensing and Lawful Development
Where bats are confirmed during survey work, ecologists may recommend mitigation measures to ensure development does not negatively affect protected species and complies with relevant legislation. Mitigation measures can include:
- Timing of works to avoid disturbance
- Retention of roost features where possible
- Installation of bat boxes or alternative roosting habitat
Mitigation strategies are designed based on survey findings and site conditions, ensuring impacts are avoided or reduced where possible and aligned with recognised ecological guidance. In some cases, a protected species licence may be required before works proceed, particularly where roosts could be affected. These measures help support habitat preservation, maintain bat populations and allow development works to proceed while maintaining appropriate ecological safeguards and compliance with planning requirements, supporting sustainable development outcomes.
Bat Survey Season and Timelines
The timing of bat surveys is an important consideration when planning development projects.
Preliminary roost assessments can usually be undertaken at any time of year because they focus on identifying potential roost features and habitat suitability. However, bat activity surveys such as emergence and re-entry surveys must normally take place during the active bat season.
In the UK, bat activity surveys are typically undertaken between May and September, when bats are active and weather conditions allow reliable survey results. Because these surveys may require several visits to a site, arranging surveys early in the planning process is often advisable.
Early booking helps ensure that:
- Surveys can be scheduled within the appropriate season
- Planning applications are not delayed by survey timing
- Any further surveys can be completed within the same season where possible
Guidance on survey timing and seasonal constraints can be found on our bat survey season page.
Bat Survey Costs and Timescales
The cost of a bat survey can vary depending on the nature of the development and the complexity of the site. Survey scope is influenced by the building, surrounding habitat and whether additional activity surveys are required.
Several factors may influence survey costs, including:
- Size and complexity of the building – larger buildings require longer inspection
- Habitat surrounding the site – woodland or rivers may increase survey scope
- Number of activity surveys required – emergence surveys usually involve multiple visits
- Access requirements – difficult access may increase survey effort
A preliminary roost assessment is usually the first stage and can often be arranged relatively quickly. If further surveys are required, the number of visits and the timing will depend on ecological survey guidance and seasonal constraints. This is why early enquiry is helpful when planning development.
Local Planning Policy and Biodiversity Considerations
Planning decisions within Horsham District are informed by national planning policy and local development policies that encourage the protection of biodiversity.
Local planning policies typically require development proposals to consider impacts on wildlife and protected species. Where there is potential for bats or other protected species to be present, ecological survey information may be required to inform planning decisions.
Survey findings can help determine whether development proposals need to include mitigation measures or habitat conservation plans designed to avoid harm to protected species.
In some cases, ecological information may also contribute to ecological impact assessments submitted alongside planning applications for larger developments.
Providing appropriate ecological survey evidence helps planning authorities assess the potential environmental effects of development proposals.
Local Planning Context in Horsham District
Horsham District contains a varied landscape including market towns, rural villages and farmland. Settlements such as Horsham, Southwater and Billingshurst have experienced residential growth in recent years, while villages such as Storrington, Pulborough and Rudgwick remain closely linked to surrounding countryside.
The district lies within an area of mixed farmland, woodland patches and river valleys, including the River Arun corridor. These landscapes support insect populations that provide feeding opportunities for bats.
Hedgerows, tree lines and woodland edges often act as commuting routes where bats travel between roosts and feeding areas. Gardens and small green spaces within towns can also provide suitable habitat.
Historic agricultural buildings are also common in the district, particularly in rural settlements. Older barns, stables and outbuildings often contain roof voids and crevices that can provide roosting opportunities for bats.
Because of this combination of built and natural habitats, ecological surveys may be requested where development proposals could affect structures or landscapes capable of supporting bats.
What You Receive From a Bat Survey
Following completion of a bat survey, clients typically receive a detailed ecological report suitable for planning submission. This report is structured clearly so it can be reviewed efficiently by planning officers, ecological consultees, architects and project teams involved in development proposals.
The report presents ecological findings in a format aligned with recognised ecological guidance and planning expectations used across England. This helps ensure planning authorities have the ecological information required to assess development proposals appropriately.
Typical contents of the report include:
- A description of survey methods – outlining how the bat survey was completed, including inspection techniques, access arrangements and the recognised survey guidance followed.
- Assessment of buildings, trees or habitats – describing the site, structures inspected and surrounding habitat that may influence bat roost potential or bat activity.
- Survey findings and observations – documenting evidence recorded during the survey, including potential roost features or bat activity indicators.
- Bat species identification where bats are recorded – explaining which species are present and how they use the site.
- Evaluation of potential impacts on bats – assessing how development proposals could affect bats or their roosts.
- Recommendations for further surveys where required – identifying whether additional surveys such as activity surveys may be necessary.
- Guidance on mitigation measures where appropriate – outlining proportionate ecological measures where bats may be present.
These reports provide planning authorities with the ecological information needed to assess development proposals.
Need a Bat Survey for Your Planning Application?
Whether you’re at early design stage or preparing to submit, we provide bat surveys in Horsham District that meet planning requirements and help avoid delays.
Local Coverage Across Horsham District
ACP Consultants provides bat surveys throughout Horsham District, supporting planning applications in Horsham, Billingshurst, Southwater, Pulborough, Storrington, Henfield, Steyning, Rudgwick and Partridge Green. These locations include a mix of market town properties, rural villages, agricultural buildings, mature gardens, woodland edges and river corridors where bats may roost, commute or forage.
Our ecologists assess buildings, trees and surrounding habitats to identify whether a bat survey or further ecological input may be required for planning. We also provide surveys across the wider West Sussex area, helping homeowners, architects, developers and planning consultants prepare clear ecological information for submission to local planning authorities.
Common Development Projects Requiring Bat Surveys
Projects that frequently require bat surveys in Horsham District include barn conversions or redevelopment of agricultural buildings, residential extensions or loft conversions, demolition of older buildings, tree removal associated with development, housing developments requiring ecological impact assessment, and infrastructure or lighting proposals near bat habitat.
Across Horsham District, many development sites are located close to woodland edges, hedgerows, rivers or older rural buildings that may provide roosting or commuting opportunities for bats. Development proposals affecting these features may require ecological survey information before planning applications can be determined.
The survey process helps ensure that development proposals consider potential impacts on bats and other wildlife while providing planning authorities with appropriate ecological evidence to support informed planning decisions.
Why Choose ACP Consultants for Bat Surveys
ACP Consultants provides ecological consultancy services for development projects across England, supporting homeowners, architects, planning consultants and developers through the ecological requirements of the planning process.
Our services include:
- Experienced ecological consultants with professional expertise in protected species surveys and ecological assessment
- Surveys undertaken in accordance with recognised ecological guidance, including industry standards used for bat survey work in England
- Planning-ready ecological reports prepared to support planning applications and submitted alongside development proposals
- Support with protected species surveys and mitigation planning, helping clients understand potential ecological constraints and appropriate next steps
- Experience supporting planning applications and development proposals across residential, commercial and infrastructure projects
We undertake bat surveys in West Sussex and across England, providing ecological survey support for residential, commercial and infrastructure projects. Our ecologists work closely with project teams to ensure surveys are completed efficiently and that ecological findings are clearly presented within professional reports suitable for planning submission.
Our aim is to provide reliable ecological advice that helps development projects progress while ensuring protected species and habitats are appropriately considered.
References and Useful Resources
- Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) – Bat Survey Guidelines for UK Homeowners
- CIEEM – What to Expect from a Bat Survey: Homeowner guide to survey stages, reporting and outcomes
- CIEEM – Bat Mitigation Guidelines (2025): Best practice guidance for mitigation design and implementation
- GOV.UK – Bats: Advice for Making Planning Decisions
- GOV.UK – Bats: Protection, Surveys and Licences
- GOV.UK – Protected Species: How to Review Planning Applications: Guidance for assessing ecological impacts within planning decisions
- Natural England – Bat Advice Service (BAS) Updates and Guidance
- Bat Conservation Trust – British Bat Survey (Passive Acoustic Surveys)
- Bat Conservation Trust – Contacting an Ecological Consultant: Advice on engaging a qualified bat ecologist for surveys and planning
- Bat Conservation Trust – Planning and the Law: Overview of legal protections and planning considerations for bats
- Bat Conservation Trust – Building or Development Works: Guidance on managing bats during construction and development
- Bat Conservation Trust – Planning and Infrastructure Act: Policy context affecting biodiversity and development
- Bat Conservation Trust – Planning and Infrastructure Policy Update (2026): Latest developments in planning and biodiversity policy
- Bat Conservation Trust – National Bat Monitoring Programme Surveys
Local References and Useful Resources
- Horsham District Council – Development Management Local Information Requirements for Validation: Horsham’s planning validation guidance explaining the information normally required to register and assess planning applications. This is a key council source for ecology planning policy, bat survey for planning, and when protected species information may need to accompany an application.
- Horsham District Council – Local Validation List (PDF): Council validation document setting out the local information requirements for planning submissions in Horsham District. Useful background for bat survey planning policy, ecological survey requirements and supporting documents expected by the local planning authority.
- Horsham District Local Plan 2023–2040: The emerging district-wide local plan for Horsham outside the South Downs National Park, providing the wider planning policy framework for development, biodiversity, green infrastructure and protected species considerations across the district.
- Horsham Local Plan Habitats Regulations Assessment: Supporting evidence for the local plan, relevant to wider ecology planning policy for bats, protected sites and the strategic assessment of likely effects on habitats and species as growth is planned across Horsham District.
- Sussex Bat Group – Bat Records: Page explaining that bat records are collated and managed by the Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre on behalf of the Sussex Bat Group, useful for local bat data context and survey background in Horsham and the wider Sussex area.
- Sussex Wildlife Trust – Wilder Horsham District: Landscape-scale nature recovery initiative delivered in partnership with Horsham District Council, aiming to create connected habitats and improve biodiversity across the district. Relevant context for ecology planning policy in Bat Survey and habitat networks influencing bat populations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Bat surveys in Horsham District are often required to support planning applications where development may affect buildings, trees or habitats suitable for bats. As bats are legally protected in England, ecological surveys help identify potential roosts, assess bat activity and inform planning decisions. Early surveys and clear, planning-ready reports help ensure applications meet local authority and national requirements, reducing the risk of delays during validation or determination.
Do I need a bat survey for planning permission in Horsham District?
Planning authorities may request ecological survey information where development proposals could affect buildings, trees or habitats capable of supporting bats. A bat survey in Horsham District provides ecological evidence that helps planning officers determine whether protected species may be present and whether development proposals could affect bat roosts.
What triggers bat surveys for planning in Horsham District?
Common triggers include demolition works, roof alterations, barn conversions, removal of mature trees or development close to woodland or river corridors. These features may provide roosting opportunities or support habitats used by bats, which is why bat surveys for planning in Horsham District are often requested during the planning process.
Are bats common in Horsham District?
Yes. The mixture of farmland, woodland edges and river valleys in West Sussex provides suitable feeding and commuting habitats for bats. Historic buildings, agricultural barns and mature trees within villages such as Billingshurst or Pulborough can also provide roosting sites.
What is a preliminary roost assessment?
A preliminary roost assessment in Horsham District is a daytime inspection undertaken by a qualified ecologist. The survey examines buildings or trees for features that could support bat roosts and assesses the surrounding habitat to determine whether bats may be present.
What is a bat emergence survey?
A bat emergence survey in Horsham District records bats leaving a roost at dusk or returning at dawn. Ecologists observe the structure and use acoustic detectors that record bat calls to help with bat species identification.
What is a bat activity survey?
A bat activity survey records the presence and behaviour of bats around a site using acoustic monitoring equipment. These surveys help determine whether bats are commuting through the area, feeding nearby or using the site as part of their regular movement routes.
When is bat survey season in the UK?
Bat activity surveys such as emergence surveys are typically undertaken between May and September when bats are most active and weather conditions allow reliable survey results. A preliminary roost assessment can usually be carried out at any time of year.
How long does a bat survey take?
A preliminary roost assessment is usually completed in a single site visit. If further surveys are required, bat activity surveys or emergence surveys may involve several visits across the survey season to gather reliable ecological data.
What happens if bats are found during a survey?
If bats are recorded, ecologists assess how development could affect them and provide recommendations. This may include mitigation measures, additional surveys or ecological input to support planning proposals while ensuring bats remain protected.
Can planning permission be refused because of bats?
Planning authorities consider ecological information when determining planning applications. Survey results help planners understand potential impacts and whether mitigation measures or habitat conservation plans may be required.
Are bat surveys required for ecological impact assessment in Horsham District?
Yes. Bat surveys are often undertaken as part of an ecological impact assessment or wider environmental impact studies for development projects. These surveys help identify whether protected species may be affected and inform appropriate ecological recommendations.
What is a bat roost assessment?
A bat roost assessment refers to the inspection of buildings or trees to determine whether they may support bat roosts. In planning contexts this usually refers to a preliminary roost assessment, which evaluates structures and surrounding habitats for features capable of supporting bats.
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- Last Updated:
- October 2026
Disclaimer: Our content is prepared by ACP Consultants’ in-house specialists and is based on current guidance, standards, and best practice in environmental consultancy. While we make every effort to keep information accurate and up to date, it is provided for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice on specific projects. Planning authorities retain final decision-making powers, and requirements may vary between local authorities and over time. ACP Consultants accepts no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this content without obtaining tailored advice for your project.