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27/08/2003
Building industry accused of 'bat crime'
The building trade as been criticized in a new report which suggests that it is responsible for a reduction in the bat population.
A new report published by the Bat Conservation Trust and the RSPB today shows that "crimes against bats" are extensive throughout the UK, and that bat populations are suffering as a result.
The report outlines the results of a two-year partnership project which has shown that the number of bat-related offences is "much greater than had been initially anticipated" – with 144 offences identified. The finger of blame, however, is firmly on the construction industry as it is claimed that two-third (67%) of these offences.
The highest instances of damage occurred during renovations on derelict buildings such as barns.
“We were aware that bat roosts were being destroyed but had no idea about the level,” Amy Coyte, Chief Executive of the Bat Conservation Trust, said.
“This report provides concrete evidence for the first time that bat crime is rife in the UK, and that the major perpetrators are developers. We are aware of the need for development but this must be done sustainably, taking bats into account before building work starts and ensuring that the appropriate legal procedure is followed.”
The report also recommends that the police work in close partnership with the statutory nature conservation organisations (English Nature, Scottish Natural Heritage, Countryside Council for Wales and the Environment and Heritage Service in Northern Ireland) and volunteer bat workers around the country to better enforce the bat legislation. With closer collaboration and understanding, the Bat Conservation Trust is "confident that bat crime can be tackled successfully".
(gmcg)
A new report published by the Bat Conservation Trust and the RSPB today shows that "crimes against bats" are extensive throughout the UK, and that bat populations are suffering as a result.
The report outlines the results of a two-year partnership project which has shown that the number of bat-related offences is "much greater than had been initially anticipated" – with 144 offences identified. The finger of blame, however, is firmly on the construction industry as it is claimed that two-third (67%) of these offences.
The highest instances of damage occurred during renovations on derelict buildings such as barns.
“We were aware that bat roosts were being destroyed but had no idea about the level,” Amy Coyte, Chief Executive of the Bat Conservation Trust, said.
“This report provides concrete evidence for the first time that bat crime is rife in the UK, and that the major perpetrators are developers. We are aware of the need for development but this must be done sustainably, taking bats into account before building work starts and ensuring that the appropriate legal procedure is followed.”
The report also recommends that the police work in close partnership with the statutory nature conservation organisations (English Nature, Scottish Natural Heritage, Countryside Council for Wales and the Environment and Heritage Service in Northern Ireland) and volunteer bat workers around the country to better enforce the bat legislation. With closer collaboration and understanding, the Bat Conservation Trust is "confident that bat crime can be tackled successfully".
(gmcg)
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