Under the
legislation it is an offence to damage, obstruct or disturb
the two types of seahorse species found on the southern coast
of Britain . The seahorse adds to an increasing list of protected
species in the UK which include newts, badgers, dormice and
the water vole, which has also gained protection in the recent
round of changes. Dean and Dyball are experienced with legislation
surrounding protected and endangered species and in the environmental
management of such species within all our projects.
In association with
the client Torbay Council, Dean and Dyball have arranged for
a survey to be carried out to confirm whether seahorses are
present in the waters surrounding the site at Brixham. The survey
scheduled for early next week, will be undertaken by an ecologist
recommended by Natural England. The ecologist will be looking
for the two types of seahorse species found in the UK the short-snouted
and spiny seahorse.
If they are present,
Dean and Dyball, will need to apply for a license before piling
works for the jetty at Brixham can get underway, quite probably
making them the first in the country to do so under the new
legislation. In the unlikelihood that seahorses are found within
the construction boundary Dean & Dyball will continue to
work with Natural England and other relevant agencies to ensure
that they remain well cared for and protected.
Torbay Council's Cabinet
Member Councilor Derek Mills said: “Everyone involved in the
project is very excited to see the final result and it can be
quite frustrating when issues like this occur.
“However, whilst we
all want to see Brixham fish market brought into the 21 st Century
we must make sure that it is not to the detriment of the environment
and therefore the survey is essential.”
“Dean and Dyball are
extremely capable of dealing with changes that may arise during
a project and this is no exception.”
Dave Hodgetts, Director
of Brixham 21 added: “There is no evidence to suggest that there
are seahorses within the construction site. However, we recognise
that the survey has to be done and are pleased that it appears
to not have affected the timescale for the project at this stage.”
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