There are 8 regularly occurring species of bat found in Northern Ireland and all are strictly protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995 (as amended) (known as the Habitats Regulations). They are known as a European protected species and are protected from deliberate capture, injury, killing and disturbance. Their breeding and resting places (roosts) are also protected at all times. Northern Ireland planning policy provides additional protection to bats and other legally protected species and they are material considerations in the determination of a planning application. Therefore, the likely harm to bats from a development proposal must be properly assessed, and all necessary survey information submitted, before any planning approval is granted.
Guidance on Bat Surveys, Assessment and Mitigation for Onshore Wind Turbine Developments in Northern Ireland