Bats delay Kenilworth pub demolition

The proposed demolition of the Albion Tavern pub in Kenilworth is likely to be delayed after ecologists found evidence of bats roosting in the attic.

The discovery of long brown-earned bat droppings means that a nocturnal survey will now be carried out to determine the size of the bat population that is roosting within its roof.

The pub, on Albion Street, will make way for six semi-detached houses if planning permission is granted.

Under current legislation, a European Protected Species Licence must now be granted from Natural England before a potential roost site can be altered, meaning demolition cannot take place until this happens.

In addition, a licence can only be granted if the roosting bats are given an alternative site in which to settle.

The public is open to comment on the application via Warwick District Council’s website.