Altena launches research to protect wildlife during home renovations
Residents of Altena can soon insulate or renovate their homes without extra permits or costs, thanks to new research into protected species like sparrows and bats. The findings will streamline eco-friendly upgrades while safeguarding local wildlife habitats.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Period | Until end of September 2026 |
| Research Times | Evenings, nights, or early mornings |
| Protected Species | Sparrows, bats, swift birds |
| Research Conducted By | Ecoresult B.V. on behalf of Municipality of Altena |
| Affected Area | 21 villages in Altena |
| Expected Permit Availability | 2027 |
| Researcher Identification | Orange vests with logo, company clothing, specialized equipment |
| More Information | Energiehuis Altena |
The Municipality of Altena is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Environment and Planning Act, which mandates the protection of local wildlife during construction and renovation projects. By developing a species management plan, the municipality aims to simplify the process for homeowners while fulfilling its environmental obligations.
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Research into protected animal species launched
Until the end of September, Ecoresult B.V. will conduct research on behalf of the Municipality of Altena into protected animal species such as sparrows, bats, and swift birds. This will mainly take place in the evenings, at night, or early in the morning. The results will be used for the species management plan (SMP), which makes it easier to insulate or renovate homes in an environmentally friendly way.
Why is this research important?
Many of these protected animals live in small crevices, under roof tiles, or in cavity walls. During home improvement projects, these spaces sometimes disappear, disrupting their habitat. The Environment and Planning Act requires everyone to protect these animals. With the SMP, we assist you as a homeowner: when planning insulation or renovation, you won’t need to commission your own nature research or apply for a permit. This saves not only time but also effort and money.
What will be included in the SMP?
The SMP will outline which protected animal species live in an area, where they reside, and how we can protect their habitat. With this plan, we will apply to the province for a permit covering all 21 villages in Altena. We expect this permit to be available sometime in 2027.
How can you recognize the researchers?
The researchers from Ecoresult wear orange vests with a logo, company clothing, and specialized research equipment. They examine roofs and walls of buildings and sometimes walk through narrow alleys and back paths. You are always welcome to ask the researchers what they are doing.
How will the research be conducted?
Each animal species requires a different approach. To ensure this approach is properly understood, the researchers may walk or cycle through the same streets multiple times or spend extended periods examining a building.
For more information, visit Energiehuis Altena.