WYG ecology team rescue bats and biscuits

Recently, WYG’s ecology team of bat specialists were delighted to assist United Biscuits, allowing the manufacturer to carry out essential maintenance work whilst preserving the welfare of protected bats found on site.

The factory in Carlisle that produces the world famous McVities Ginger Nuts biscuits and Carrs Table Water Crackers has, in recent years, suffered severe flooding resulting in significant damage and the shutdown of production.

Our experts  were called upon as bats were found to be roosting onsite in one of the old saw mill buildings that required demolition. They assisted with obtaining a European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) from Natural England, allowing enough time for the necessary works to be carried out. 

The team proceeded with the minimum of disturbance to bats and their habitats, whilst also providing mitigation through replacement and additional roosting habitats in the form of bat boxes.

With the existing roosts now safely removed, the old saw mill building could be demolished and subsequent measures were then put into place to reduce the risk of flooding now and into the future.

Claire Wilmer, Ecology Director, WYG, said: “Delighted with our team’s efforts that helped get production back up and running and the nation’s favourite biscuits return to stores.”

All UK bat species and their roosts are protected through European law under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations Act 2010 (as amended).