Living Alongside Bats at One Horton Heath

Wildlife has been carefully considered at One Horton Heath from the very start. As the development has progressed, ecological surveys have identified several bat species using the site, all of which are legally protected in the UK. This protection exists because bat populations are vulnerable to habitat loss and disturbance, meaning their roosts and breeding areas must be safeguarded.

Why we take action

Because bats and their roosts are protected by law, developments are required to work closely with ecological specialists to understand bat activity and put suitable measures in place. At One Horton Heath, this has meant protecting existing habitats and creating alternative roosting spaces where needed, allowing development to move forward responsibly while supporting local wildlife.

Monitoring bat activity

To better understand how bats use the site, specialist monitoring is carried out during the bat season. This includes dusk emergence surveys using infra-red cameras and motion-detection software, allowing ecologists to record and analyse bat activity around buildings and habitats without disturbance. See the image below for an example of bat flight paths recorded during monitoring at Pond Cottage.

Bat habitats across the site

Following detailed surveys, a range of bat habitats have been introduced. These include purpose-built bat houses, adapted derelict buildings, such as Pond Cottage, and bat boxes installed across the site. Together, these provide a variety of roosting options to suit different bat species and behaviours and form part of a long-term strategy agreed with Natural England.

Under the spotlight – the brown long eared bat

One of the species using these habitats is the brown long eared bat, recognised by its distinctive long ears. This species prefers quiet roosting spaces close to good feeding areas and is particularly sensitive to disturbance. Ongoing monitoring has shown that the local maternity colony remains stable and that newly installed roost features are already being used, indicating that the measures in place are working as intended.

Supporting wildlife and community

Alongside bats, the wider landscape supports a range of wildlife, with green corridors and open spaces helping to maintain a connected environment. These natural areas benefit biodiversity while also creating attractive surroundings for residents and local people.

Monitoring and maintenance will continue as One Horton Heath grows, ensuring bat habitats remain protected and effective over the long term.

At One Horton Heath, caring for wildlife and building a strong community go hand in hand.

Image credit: Johns Associates and Wildlife Imaging Systems.