Fines for developers breaching environmental laws are on the increase.   This case highlights what is believed to be the largest fine for ignoring the presence of bats and their habitats - a fine of £600,000 and costs and contributions amounting to another £50K.  This comes after a housing developer and contractor were fined a combined total of £420,000 in 2019 for breaching a tree preservation order in Penllergare Valley Woods, north of Swansea.  Trees, bats, slow-worms and newts - to name but a few - are all heaving a sigh of relief as the deterrents get bigger - and developers would be well advised to do their due diligence and not cut corners when carrying out their projects.