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District Licensing Scheme for Great Crested Newts

Great crested newt populations have declined significantly over recent decades due to habitat loss. The species spend most of their life on land in habitats such as woodland, hedgerows, grassland and scrub, but return to freshwater ponds in the spring to breed. They are generally found within 500m of ponds, although they can travel much further than this – up to 1.6km.

Great crested newts and their habitats are protected under UK and European legislation, therefore planning authorities must consider the species as part of the planning application process. Where impacts on newts may arise, developers should obtain a licence to make their activities lawful and ensure that the impact on the species will be mitigated. An evidence-based 'Impact Risk Zone' map (https://naturespaceuk.com/district-licensing/impact-map/) has been published that shows the different risk zones for impacts on great crested newt. The Risk Zone map for the Winchester District can be seen below.

Winchester City Council holds a Great Crested Newt District (or “Organisational”) Licence, designed by NatureSpace and granted by Natural England, which provides an alternative licensing option for developments.

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