BASC has warned that the government’s latest measures to control avian influenza could shut down significant parts of the English countryside, threatening livelihoods, rural jobs and conservation efforts.

The challenge that shoots face this season to release gamebirds in and around Special Protection Areas (SPAs) is greater than ever. Natural England (NE) confirmed yesterday that it is highly unlikely to issue gamebird release licences in many of these areas, and that others will face substantial delays, on the grounds that its currently not possible to rule out the spread of avian influenza (AI).

This follows the decision by Defra Ministers not to issue General Licence 45 (GL45), which previously allowed for the release of gamebirds on and near these protected sites in England under strict conditions. Shoots must now apply for individual licences through NE, introducing major uncertainty and increasing the bureaucratic burden at a critical point in the year. BASC is warning that a large number of shoots could be affected.

BASC is calling on the government and its agencies to show flexibility and commit to revisiting licensing decisions if AI risk levels drop in line with seasonal trends.

BASC’s chief executive, Ian Bell, said: “The approach taken by Natural England risks jobs and will have a huge impact on rural economies, not to mention the conservation benefits that sustainable shooting delivers for species and habitats.

“These new restrictions risk bringing large parts of the countryside to a standstill. While we recognise the need to manage the risk of avian influenza, the damage to the countryside could be irreparable. The government should commit to revisiting licensing decisions as the risk of AI dissipates.

“The fight we face over the coming months will be considerable and challenging. But our teams are prepared. We have built up extensive conservation, legal and political expertise, and we are ready to use every lever possible to support our members. BASC experts are already helping to build credible licence applications and will stand with our members across the country.”

If you have any questions about how these changes could affect you, please visit our advice pages or contact your local BASC regional team.