Skip to main content

We use cookies

Our website uses cookies to monitor the way you use it, helping to make your experience better. By continuing to use this site or clicking "accept cookies", you agree to our cookies. Cookie policy

Ecological and Protected Species Survey

Last updated October 29, 2026.

Local validation checklist code A6

  1. When you'll need to provide this
  2. What you'll need to include
  3. Why we need it

When you'll need to provide this

You must include this if you're submitting your planning application to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils.

For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils

These requirements apply to applications sumittted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils.

If the development is:

  • likely to affect statutorily protected species
  • in a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and within a 200m buffer
  • In a Special Protection Area (SPA)
  • in a Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Typical proposals

The ecological and protected species survey planning application requirement is typically needed when you're proposing to do any of the following:

Home extension or alteration; New house; New housing development; Converting a building into homes; HMO; Commercial development; Retail, restaurant or takeaway; Industrial or warehouse development; Development near the coast

What you'll need to provide

What you'll need to include in your application

For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils

You should include:

  • Information should be provided on possible impacts on statutorily protected species.
  • Drawings should indicate any significant wildlife habitats or features and the location of habitats of any species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 or the Protection of Badgers Act 1992
  • Assessments of impacts and proposals for long-term maintenance and management

If a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal identifies the need for additional surveys, that these surveys are carried out and provided with the application.

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Protected Species Surveys, and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs) should be no more than 18 months old at the time of submission.

Where ecological information is older than 18 months, an updated site visit must be undertaken by a qualified ecologist to confirm whether the original findings remain valid. The results of this update must be clearly documented and submitted with the application. If the original information is no longer valid due to changes in site conditions or survey limitations, a new or updated ecological assessment will be required.

Why we need you to provide this

Why we need you to include this in your application.

For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils

Compliance with protected species legislation. Further information on development which may affect protected species can be found at:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/protected-species-how-to-review-planning-applications

Government planning policies for biodiversity are set out in Section 19 of the  National Planning Policy Framework (2026)and National Planning Practice Guidance