A television presenter has been forced to alter his renovation plans for a newly purchased mansion after discovering protected bat species on the property.
Richard Hammond acquired the 19th-century Georgian residence near Abergavenny in November 2025 for approximately £2m.
The purchase followed his divorce from wife Mindy after 23 years of marriage.
Ecological surveys conducted ahead of proposed development work identified several protected bat species foraging within the grounds.
These included common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared, noctule and Leisler’s bats.
The findings mean a protected species development licence must be obtained from Natural Resources Wales before certain renovation work can commence.
Planning documents indicate the estate covers 21 acres overlooking the Usk Valley, occupying an elevated position within former parkland inside Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
Hammond has indicated plans to construct a garage for his collection of historic and specialist vehicles, alongside a padel court and other grounds alterations.
The 56-year-old presenter described his emotional connection to the property during an interview with BBC Wales, stating he fell deeply in love with the house upon first seeing it.
He expressed commitment to maintaining the property’s character while making modifications to suit his lifestyle.
Hammond indicated his willingness to work alongside the bats rather than displace them, noting the natural appeal of the location.
UK wildlife legislation offers comprehensive protection to bats and their roosting sites, mandating that precautions be implemented to prevent disturbance during construction activities.
While Natural Resources Wales has confirmed no licence application has been submitted as yet, Hammond has publicly stated his intention to pursue the required authorisation.
The former Top Gear presenter attended Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire over the weekend, appearing as a guest and judge at the high-end automotive gathering.
He was also present for the launch of the rebooted Grand Tour series, which debuted on Prime Video on Friday.
The revamped programme features new presenters James Engelsman, Thomas Holland and Francis Bourgeois.
Hammond joined former co-hosts Jeremy Clarkson and James May in a brief cameo appearance, symbolising the transition of presenting responsibilities to their successors.