The Driving Standards Agency has confirmed that both Pipistrelle and Natterer bats have been found at the multi-purpose centre and conservationists are now working alongside builders Morgan Ashurst to help the protected creatures.

It was in the spring when West Norfolk Council gave the go-ahead for the new centre – which will replace the existing facility at North Lynn – after months of debate.

The new Lynn centre, due for completion in March next year, is one of a national network being developed by the DSA as a road safety initiative to cut biking accidents and will cater for the new motorcycle test due to be introduced in 2008.

The bats were found in a shed on the site and had to be moved because the shed is due to be demolished.

A new bat house has now been put up so they can continue to roost, and their activity is being monitored to ensure they are not affected by building work.

Pipistrelle bats are found as far afield as South West Asia and Morocco. The bats, which have a tiny body, short legs and broad, flat heads are the smallest and most common of Britain's 14 bat species.
Natterer bats are relatively common in Britain. Bats are protected under British law.

Wildlife management spokesman for conservation organisation Natural England Sarah Escott said: "It's great when an organisation such as the DSA works with conservation agencies to help safeguard the future of our wildlife."

DSA chief executive Rosemary Thew said: "We are proud to be working in partnership with Natural England to help preserve protected species of the bats that inhabit our site."