CON Consultation 1 Ecopolicy Officer

Spencer, Daniel

From: Costain, Sophie (DEFA) Sent: 05 September 2024 10:49 To: DEFA, Planning Conditions Subject: PA 24/10086/AIR - Information in relation to conditions 6 & 7 for PA 23/01223/B -

Bat and Bird surveys for Villiers Square, Fort Street, Douglas.

Categories: Dan

Good morning RE: PA 24/10086/AIR - Information in relation to conditions 6 & 7 for PA 23/01223/B - Bat and Bird surveys for Villiers Square, Fort Street, Douglas.

The Ecosystem Policy Team can confirm that Ecology Vannin’s Protected Species Survey - Breeding Bird & Roosting Bat Assessment (Technical Note), dated August 2024, is all in order and that a suitable level of assessment has been undertaken.

In regards to bats, Ecology Vannin found no roosting bat evidence in the buildings to be demolished and therefore mitigation for bats is not required. In regards to birds, Ecology Vannin also found no breeding evidence in the buildings to be demolished, though a probably breeding house sparrow was seen on a building proposed to be retained.

Ecology Vanning recommended that advice should be obtained from an ecologist prior to vegetation management on the building with potential for bats and nesting house sparrows. Vegetation removal should also be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March - August inclusive), if this is not possible nesting bird checks should be carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist prior to any management. Any rubble or building material left on the gravel area to the east of the site during the construction phase should be checked for nesting herring gull by site operatives during the nesting season (March-August inclusive). If a nesting bird is found on site during the construction phase, then work should stop within the immediate area and Ecology Vannin should be contacted on 07624 261233 for advice

We can also confirm that we are content with the type and location of swift nest bricks shown in 56 Three Architects Block A Proposed Elevations and Proposed Site Plan Roof level. The installation of swift bricks should be undertaken as per these drawings.

We consider conditions 6 & 7 for PA 23/01223/B, satisfied. Best wishes

Sophie

Miss S Costain, Ecosystem Policy Officer Department of Environment, Food & Agriculture, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St Johns, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS Tel +44 (0)1624 685963 Mob +44 (0)7624 431301 Fax +44 (0)1624 685851 Email [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.gov.im/defa DEFA - working for a clean, safe, healthy, attractive and vibrant environment which will be enjoyed by present and future generations alike.

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