Policy NH 2 - Species Protected by Law

European Protected Species Planning permission will only be granted for a development proposal that is not likely to harm a European protected species. In exceptional circumstances a development proposal that is likely to harm these species may only be permitted where:- there are no alternative solutions; and it is required for imperative reasons of overriding public interest; and there is no detriment to the maintenance of the population of the species at a favourable conservation status; and compensatory measures are agreed and fully secured. National Protected Species Planning permission will only be granted for a development proposal that is not likely to harm any other statutorily protected species and which can be adequately mitigated or compensated against. Development proposals are required to be sensitive to all protected species, and sited and designed to protect them, their habitats and prevent deterioration and destruction of their breeding sites or resting places. Seasonal factors will also be taken into account.