Reptile Surveys in Leicestershire
Do I need a reptile survey for my development in Leicestershire?
If your project may affect a reptile habitats, a professional survey is essential — we provide compliant reports to support planning consent.
Fast, Clear, Planning-Ready Support
Fast response
Calls answered in 2 rings, emails replied to within the hour.
Free expert advice
Clear guidance before you commit.
Cost-effective
Working in partnership with clients to ensure planning approval first time
Typical 10-day turnaround
Industry Leading Standard
Expert Team
We stay with you from first call through to submission.
Do you need a Reptile Survey in Leicestershire?
Leicestershire’s farmland edges, restored mineral sites, grassland and scrub habitats support common reptile species including slow worms, grass snakes and common lizards.
A reptile survey assesses whether reptiles are present and evaluates how they could be affected by development. Ecologists carry out repeat surveys using refugia and visual search methods to record species and understand their distribution. Survey findings help plan mitigation measures and ensure compliance with planning policy. Leicestershire planning authorities frequently request reptile surveys where semi-natural habitats may be impacted.
You may need a reptile survey if your project involves:
development on former quarry or industrial sites near Leicester or Loughborough
clearance of rough grassland or scrub between March–October
works along drainage channels, rivers or field margins
infrastructure crossing rural or semi-natural land
any site highlighted as having reptile potential during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
A quick postcode check can indicate whether your site lies within likely reptile habitat.
We provide reptile surveys across Leicestershire, including Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley and Melton Mowbray.
Why Planning Officers in Leicestershire Request Reptile Surveys
Leicestershire planning authorities require reptile survey evidence where suitable habitat is present to ensure development complies with the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and national planning policy. Without early, proportionate evidence, applications are frequently delayed through validation queries, requests for further ecological information, or seasonal survey constraints that can halt project programmes and necessitate design amendments.
Local Case Insight
How Reptile Surveys Work
We take a practical, proportionate approach, carrying out reptile presence checks and habitat assessments, identifying areas of suitable habitat, and inspecting grassland, scrub, rough ground, and brownfield sites before works begin. Our Reptile Survey reports provide clear mitigation and timing recommendations, are fully LPA-ready, and outline any precautionary measures required to protect reptiles. We also give straightforward next steps for contractors, focusing on clarity and practical guidance so your project can proceed safely and confidently.
Key Deliverables for projects in Leicestershire:
We provide a clear, proportionate, practical approach which includes:
- Habitat suitability assessment
- Presence/absence reptile surveys using approved refugia methods
- Targeted mitigation strategies (only where necessary)
- Timing guidance for clearance and works
- Reporting designed for LPA validation
- Next steps tailored to designers, planners and contractors
We help you plan works across Leicestershire safely around reptile habitats, ensuring compliance while keeping your project on schedule.
Step 1
Schedule
Send your site details and programme. We confirm the correct level of survey.
Step 2
Fieldwork
Site walkovers, habitat suitability assessments, refugia checks, and activity monitoring for reptiles.
Step 3
Reporting
Planning-ready reports with impact assessment, mitigation options and timelines for site teams.
Step 4
Integration with other Surveys
Only if needed. PEA, EIA, and Protected Species surveys
Next Steps
Need a reptile survey in Leicestershire? Let’s confirm your site’s requirements and keep your project on track.
FAQ - Reptile Surveys in Leicestershire
Why might a reptile survey be needed in Leicestershire?
Surveys are often required for sites with grassland, hedgerows, woodland edges, or brownfield areas that could support reptiles like slow worms or grass snakes.
When is the optimal time to survey reptiles in Leicestershire?
The main survey window is March to October, with spring and early autumn being most effective due to higher reptile activity.
How are reptile surveys conducted locally?
Ecologists place artificial refuges and conduct repeated checks across suitable habitats to detect reptile presence.
What happens if reptiles are recorded on site?
Mitigation measures such as phased vegetation clearance, habitat retention, or temporary relocation are recommended to protect reptiles.
Are surveys needed for small developments in Leicestershire?
Even minor projects may require surveys if they affect suitable habitats.
How far in advance should a survey be planned?
Early planning ensures the survey can be completed within the correct season and helps avoid planning delays.
