Denbigh maternity wing's bat roost given overhaul

Apr 30 2008 By David Simister

IT’S simply the bats for the new residents of a state-of-the-art maternity wing at Llanrhaeadr Hall near Denbigh.

A project by Rhyl firm Anwyl Construction has seen the building’s bat roost given an overhaul which has not only helped the rare creatures, but also helps them live peacefully alongside the building’s other tenants - St Dyfnog Springs, owned by Emma Jones.

"It was essential to retain the original character of the development and preserve the bat colony. I think we’re all proud to have been a part of saving a special piece of Welsh heritage in a beautiful setting and I’m looking forward to bringing in visitors from around the world to enjoy what we’ve created" she said.

The residents which roost in the hall are rare Lesser Horseshoe Bats, which are a protected species throughout Europe.

Llanrhaeadr’s 100 strong colony has been described by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) as not only one of the most important in Denbighshire but also of national importance.

CCW Species and Biodiversity Officer Matthew Ellis said it was likely the colony at the coach house is almost as old as the building itself which dates from the middle of the 17th century, over 350 years ago.

He said: "It’s good to see such positive work for nature conservancy being done at such an exciting project. The roost has not only been maintained but it has been improved with better access for the bats so they should be very happy with the development."