A homeowner in Sevenoaks needed planning permission to extend a driveway. A mature ash tree was central to the proposal, and bat ecology surveys formed part of the planning process. An extensive bat survey had already been completed by others and the initial view was that the tree did not contain bat roosts. However, it could not be guaranteed, which created uncertainty for the planning case and put the project at risk of delay.
NaturePlus was asked to help move the application forward by providing a practical, evidence-led way to confirm the tree’s status, while ensuring the approach remained sensitive to wildlife and aligned with best practice.
The challenge
In planning, uncertainty is often the sticking point. Even where surveys suggest bats are not present, the inability to confidently rule out roost potential can lead to conditions, delays, or refusal. In this case, all parties needed a proportionate next step that would provide clarity without causing unnecessary disturbance.
Our approach
We focused on collaboration and evidence. Rather than pushing for an outcome, we worked to create a method that everyone could support and that would stand up to scrutiny.
Through clear communication with the homeowner, architect, planning officer and ecologist, we proposed an agreed solution:
• a sensitive physical inspection of the tree, undertaken by a trained professional using rope access techniques
• a clear photographic record of key features and any potential roosting opportunities
• a concise written report setting out what was inspected, what was found, and what this meant for the planning decision
Tree inspection and findings
A trained climber carried out a careful inspection of the ash, checking features typically associated with bat roost potential, including cavities, cracks, loose bark, old pruning wounds and any sheltered crevices. The inspection was undertaken sensitively, with the objective of confirming the tree’s condition and use, not disturbing wildlife.
The inspection produced clear photographic evidence that the tree was not hosting roosting bats at the time of inspection and that no definitive roost features were present. This removed the uncertainty that had stalled progress and allowed the planning discussion to move from assumption to evidence.
Additional arboricultural observations
During the inspection, we also assessed the ash tree’s health and structural condition. The tree was showing signs consistent with ash dieback. Given its position and proximity to the driveway and public access areas, the tree’s condition indicated that it would likely become a safety concern for the homeowner and the public in time.
Rather than leaving the project with a single issue resolved and another emerging later, we set out a sensible, proportionate recommendation. Our report included:
• a summary of inspection findings supported by photographs
• commentary on the tree’s condition and risk trajectory
• a clear replanting recommendation to ensure the site retains long-term tree cover and amenity value
Outcome
By bringing all parties together and providing a practical inspection method supported by photo evidence and a clear report, we helped remove the uncertainty that was causing problems in the planning process. The agreed approach supported a balanced decision that considered ecology, arboriculture and public safety.
The result was a positive outcome for everyone involved. The client was happy to have clarity and a path forward, the architect could progress the project with confidence, the planning officer received robust evidence to support decision-making, and the ecologist had assurance that the inspection had been carried out sensitively and appropriately.
Have you had a planning application being held up?
If your planning application is being held up by tree or ecology uncertainty, we can provide clear surveying, practical solutions and evidence-led reporting to help move the process forward.
If you want, send the before and after details you would like to show (for example the ash tree or inspection photos) and I can add short captions and alt text to match your website style.