Bat Surveys & Mitigation at Mill Site, Huddersfield
Location: Mill Site, Huddersfield
Service: Bat Scoping, Emergence & Hibernation Surveys, Mitigation Planning
Objective: Assess bat presence and develop strategies to protect roosting sites during redevelopment
Initial Bat Scoping Survey
JCA conducted a bat scoping survey at a historic mill site in Huddersfield, which revealed the site had a high potential for supporting roosting bats. Given this, further detailed surveys were recommended to understand bat activity more thoroughly.
Emergence and Re-entry Surveys
We carried out three dawn/dusk emergence surveys to confirm the presence or absence of roosting bats. The surveys revealed:
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Common Pipistrelle bats actively roosting within the mill complex
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Evidence and sightings of Brown Long-eared bats and Myotis species
Based on these findings, we advised the client to apply for a Bat Mitigation Licence from Natural England and develop a comprehensive mitigation plan to minimize the impact on local bat populations.
Hibernation Surveys
To evaluate winter usage, JCA performed three hibernation surveys—one each in December, January, and February. Our licensed bat ecologist conducted thorough inspections of all potential hibernation sites within the complex.
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No hibernating bats or bats in torpor were found during the winter surveys
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It was confirmed that Brown Long-eared bats use the site as a day roost
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The Common Pipistrelle roost serves as a maternity site
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High levels of bat foraging and commuting activity were observed, especially over the adjacent canal to the west
Mitigation & Ecological Enhancements
To support ongoing bat populations during and after redevelopment, JCA recommended:
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Retention of Common Pipistrelle roosts in the existing building
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Installation of new roosting features within the roof void to compensate for loss of Brown Long-eared roosts
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Use of wildlife-friendly lighting to reduce disturbance
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Native tree and shrub planting along site boundaries to enhance foraging and commuting habitats
These measures, combined with continued monitoring, are expected to improve the ecological value of the site for bats and ensure compliance with wildlife protection regulations.