Submitting a written objection

Written comments should be sent to the local authority for the area where the event is due to take place. These comments should be addressed to the relevant department within the local authority (ideally an ecologist or biodiversity officer, but this varies depending on the roles that exist within your local authority). If the local authority believes your concerns are relevant they can object to the event. When writing to the local authority please remember the following:

• Ensure it is clear which event you are objecting to - include the name, date and location of the event.
• Clearly state why you are objecting to or supporting the event - include the wording ‘I/We object’ or ‘I/We support’ in the text.
• State your name, address and other contact details -request a response within the letter so you are aware of who is dealing with your objection.
• You may have a limited timescale so ensure your objection is submitted to the local authority as soon as possible to give them time to make an objection before a decision is reached.
• Be concise and polite! Keep your letter short, a maximum of two sides – put any detailed comments in a supporting document if necessary.
• Include information about important habitats and wildlife at the site that you have found. This should include any records of bats using the area, particularly the location of known bat roosts (see below for more information on local bat records).
• If there has already been a refusal for a similar application at the site, refer to the ‘reasons for refusal’ in the previous case.
• It may be useful when making a submission with a nature conservation element to send copies of letters of objection to other local groups that may support you.
• Noise and light issues that may impact on bats may also impact on other wildlife and humans.

If you want your concerns to be taken seriously

• Don’t include hearsay or information you are unsure about.
• Don’t include unsubstantiated criticism of the system, local authority or applicant, eg personal circumstances or character.
• Don’t exaggerate your claims.
• Don’t include information unrelated to the event or its impacts.
• Don’t make reference to the effect of events on property values.