Natural England have recently begun implementing the alternative licensing system of District Level Licensing (DLL) in order to alleviate the pressure on the existing licensing system as well as reduce delays, costs, and uncertainty for developers. The aim is to streamline the licensing process, whilst mitigating / compensating for impacts on great crested newt at a district or county level, thus providing a more strategic conservation effort.
Who can hold a District licence?
Local Planning Authorities can be granted a District Organisational Licence by Natural England making them responsible for granting licence applications within their district, in addition to co-ordinating management and monitoring of newly created habitats in strategic areas.
What does this mean for developers?
In districts where DLL is available, developers will have the choice of using the traditional licensing route or the district licensing scheme. In both cases, a qualified and experienced ecologist is required to fill out the application form and determine the impacts of the development on suitable newt habitat.
The main difference between the licensing routes, is that standard great crested newt surveys are avoided by using DLL, therefore avoiding the need to adhere to stringent survey periods. Furthermore, there is usually no requirement to provide costly on-site mitigation, such as newt fencing, trapping and translocation.
Which licensing route should I chose?
This is a complex questions, and it entirely depends on the context and size of the development. However, our team at UES have already supported several DLL schemes and are therefore able to advise on the best choice for your development.
Are we the right GCN surveyors for you?
Our ecologists are licensed and experienced GCN surveyors. Despite its novelty, UES have already support several DLL schemes in Cheshire, which is one of the first counties to be granted a District Level Licence.
For more information on district level licensing, please click the below link: