BASC launches evidence-gathering survey to help inform NRW’s general licence decision

BASC has launched a Wales-specific survey on general licences following the announcement that Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is undertaking a ‘systematic review of the evidence base’. The survey results will form the bedrock of evidence that BASC will submit to NRW to ensure any future licensing system remains fit for purpose and is future-proofed.

Following a ‘pre-action’ challenge on the legality of the current set of general licences in Wales by environmentalist group Wild Justice, the statutory agency in Wales has been working constructively with a range of stakeholders to ensure a speedy and satisfactory resolution. NRW has outlined a plan to undertake a full review of the evidence and launch the new set of licences in mid-August. 

Following an effective survey and report produced by BASC on the use of general licences in England, this survey will again focus on the importance of the licensing system in Wales at an individual and national level. The survey which can be submitted in both English and Welsh will run until 24th July and only takes 10 minutes to complete.

BASC Wales Director Steve Griffiths said: “It is essential that anyone who uses the general licences in Wales completes this survey. NRW have taken steps to ensure the licensing system is fit for purpose and the evidence gathered through this survey will help inform their decision and create the bedrock of the next set of general licences.”

In a recent position statement, NRW said:

“NRW wants to make sure that our licencing system is robust and proportionate, carefully balancing the needs of wildlife and people.

“Following legal advice, we are carrying out a systematic review of the evidence base, and this may mean changes in the way we issue some of our general licences.

“Our new procedures and licences will come to effect in mid-August and we will liaise with stakeholders in advance of any changes.”

Notes to Editors:

BASC Welsh general licence survey (English) – https://www.research.net/r/BASCWalesGLsurveyP

BASC Welsh general licence survey (Welsh): https://www.research.net/r/ArolwgTrwyddedauP

BASC general licence page – https://basc.org.uk/gl/