
Gamebird release on protected sites in England: where are we now?
Glynn Evans brings us up to date on the general licences which permit the releasing of gamebirds on European protected sites in England, and discusses what comes next.
Get information on the legal shooting season for mammals and birds in the UK.
Apply for funding for your project or make a donation today
Comprehensive information and advice from our specialist firearms team.
Everything you need to know about shotgun, rifle and airgun ammunition.
Find our up-to-date information, advice and links to government resources.
Everything you need to know on firearms law and licensing.
All the latest news and advice on general licences and how they affect you.
BASC is warning that the Government risks disrupting shooting through their proposal on short-term licensing for shooting on and near certain ‘protected’ sites.
BASC is reviewing the terms of the consultation but the UK’s largest shooting organisation is concerned with the approach taken and believes it risks having a negative impact on shooting in the year ahead.
Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and gundogs, said: “The focus on shooting on European Protected Sites is over precautionary, unnecessary and will potentially set a precedent for other activities undertaken on designated sites.
“BASC is currently reviewing the consultation in order to produce a fully comprehensive response and take a decision on the appropriate action to ensure shooting activities on European Protected Sites are not left disadvantaged.
“The consultation is already behind schedule, as the period for gamebird release in 2021 is fast approaching. BASC has already made representation with Defra to withdraw the process until next year.”
Keep up to date with the consultation and BASC’s response by visiting our dedicated webpage.
Glynn Evans brings us up to date on the general licences which permit the releasing of gamebirds on European protected sites in England, and discusses what comes next.
BASC’s shoot visits have been taken up by more than 300 shoots this year, and are on target to hit 400 by the end of 2021.
BASC is urging members and the wider rural community to stand up against the Welsh government’s proposals to restrict gamebird releasing.
Sign up to our weekly newsletter and get all the latest updates straight to your inbox.
© 2025 British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Registered Office: Marford Mill, Rossett, Wrexham, LL12 0HL – Registered Society No: 28488R. BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 311937.
BASC Direct Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Agria Pet Insurance Ltd who administer the insurance and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring.
If you have any questions or complaints about your BASC membership insurance cover, please email us. More information about resolving complaints can be found on the FCA website or on the EU ODR platform.