We support projects across Winchester, Basingstoke, Andover, Farnham, Alton, Petersfield, the New Forest, the South Downs, and surrounding areas in Hampshire.
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Hampshire supports a wide range of habitats, from woodland edges and hedgerows to grasslands, farmland, and urban green spaces, all of which are commonly used by protected badger populations.
A badger survey assesses an area to determine whether badgers are present, and whether they could be affected by development. Ecologists look for setts, foraging signs, and activity patterns, sometimes using motion cameras or tracking methods, to understand their distribution. The findings help ensure that construction or land changes avoid disturbing badgers and comply with planning regulations.
You may need a badger survey if your development involves:
We support projects across Winchester, Basingstoke, Andover, Farnham, Alton, Petersfield, the New Forest, the South Downs, and surrounding areas in Hampshire.
Hampshire planning authorities require badger survey evidence where setts or suitable habitat are present to ensure development complies with the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and national planning policy. Without early, proportionate surveys, applications are often delayed by validation queries, additional planning conditions, or seasonal restrictions, which can disrupt site programmes and may even require redesign.
Our specialist ecology team carries out a Badger Survey to identify setts, activity, and potential risk. You receive a clear, LPA-ready report detailing any required mitigation and timing measures, helping your project stay on schedule and compliant.
We provide clear, planner-ready evidence and practical steps your team can act on, including:
Evidence Hampshire planners rely on. Steps your project team can deliver.
Send your site details and programme. We confirm the correct level of survey.
Walkovers, sett assess-ments, camera deployment and activity checks.
Planning-ready reports with impact assessment, mitigation options and timelines for site teams.
Only if needed. PEA, EIA, and Protected Species surveys
Need a badger survey in Hampshire? Let’s confirm your site’s requirements and keep your project on track.
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) can identify signs of badger activity, such as setts, runs, or latrines. If evidence is found, a full badger survey may be required before development.
For planning checks and validation guidance:
Hampshire County Council Planning
https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/planning
Winchester City Council Planning
https://www.winchester.gov.uk/planning
Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council Planning
https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/planning
East Hampshire District Council Planning
https://www.easthants.gov.uk/planning
New Forest District Council Planning
https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/1645/Planning
Yes, works can sometimes proceed safely with careful planning and mitigation measures that protect badger habitat, avoiding direct disturbance of the sett.
Surveys are best carried out during the active season (usually spring and summer) when badgers are above ground, allowing accurate assessment of their activity.
Mitigation measures are implemented, such as buffer zones, alternative access routes, or licensed sett closure, depending on impact.
