Application guidance notes - New wildlife verge

Verge survey guidance

The road verge survey form has been designed to identify road verges which may be of particular importance to wildlife.

Road verges can sometimes be remnants of other important habitats such as ancient woodland and wildflower meadows. Road verges also act as very effective wildlife corridors, offering many species a link to other habitats and assisting in species migration.

Doing surveys

Surveys are a vital tool in identifying areas of importance within our natural environment. Our survey guidance will help individuals/groups to identify road verge areas of possible environmental importance.

Surveyors are advised to work closely with the Parish council, members of the local community, and local wildlife organisations (Sussex Botanical Recording Society, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre) making the best use of local knowledge in the identification of species. In cases where this is not possible, it is advisable to obtain an appropriate identification guide to assist in accurate identification of species.

Before doing a survey

  • Please make sure you read our health and safety guidance (see below) before undertaking any road verge surveys.
  • The use of high visibility clothing is advised when working in areas bordering local road networks.
  • Please avoid parking directly on verges, and make sure you park in areas well away from road junctions, and access points (e.g. gates, private roads/track ways, driveways etc.)

During the survey

  • Please complete all parts of form.
  • Please feel free to submit photographs in support of your application.
  • Surveyors should use a walkover survey method, walking the length of the site and recording all identifiable species present.
  • Please be sure to accurately record site location, verge length and width, and any important features such as bordering hedgerows, grassland, woodland, agricultural land etc.
  • Remain fully aware of your surroundings at all times, taking into account your proximity to road users, and remaining a minimum of 2m away from any public highway.