A threat to rare bats will need to be addressed as part of plans to convert old barns into a new four-bedroom home, say wildlife experts.

The risk has been identified in a biodiversity report for a planning application for the part demolition and restoration of barns in the grounds of Grove Farm House in Bullockstone Road, Herne Bay.

Experts say the protected brown, long-eared bats currently roost in one of the barns and a new bat loft will need to be created in the roof space, which is likely to involve the property having to be redesigned.

The report concludes: "The proposed development will result in the loss of bat roosts and has the potential to kill or injure any bats present at the time works take place.

"As such a European protected species mitigation licence and strategy will be required to allow the development to take place without any offences being committed."

The applicants, Liz and Mark White, are applying for change of use from agricultural buildings, including a former pig sty, cowshed and stables, and listed building consent for the works.

Details of all planning applications can be found in our Public Notices section in print or online, along with a host of other announcements ranging from alcohol licence requests and road closures, to probate and public rights of way.

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