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In 2007, the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) listed the
common toad Bufo bufo as a priority species. Recent
research suggests that toads have declined by 50% or more in
central and eastern/south-eastern regions in Britain.
Since 2008 this inclusion has been reinforced in England under
Section 41 of The
, where UKBAP
species were recognised as of principal importance for the
conservation of biodiversity. Section 40 of the NERC Act 2006
requires all public bodies to have regard for biodiversity
conservation when carrying out their function. This is commonly
referred to as the
.
(PPS9) urges local authorities to take measures to protect the
habitats of toads (PPS9:16) from further decline. Planners
should be provided with up to date information from developers
to make informed decisions (PPS9:1i), and aim to maintain,
enhance restore or add to biodiversity (PPS9:1ii). It is also
important that natural habitats which provide routes for the
migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of toads in the wider
environment should be maintained (PPS9:12).
Road developments that disrupt migration routes, breeding and
land-based habitats can be harmful to toad populations.
Specifically, direct and indirect toad mortality from roads is
due to:
Traffic
mortality.
Raised kerbs which prohibit toads
from reaching the other side of the road and inadvertently guide
them into drains/gully pots.
Gully pots which toads fall into
and can not exit.
Fragmentation of migration routes
between breeding ponds and terrestrial habitats.
Destruction of key habitats such
as breeding ponds and terrestrial habitat during road
construction.
Map of UK wildlife tunnels
UK
Biodiversity Action Plan.
NERC Act.
Planning Policy Statement 9
(PDF).
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