Fire chiefs want to install a new 50ft training tower at one of Norfolk's fire stations - but have been advised they need to plan it carefully to stop it disturbing bats.
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service wants to place the tower on a concrete area at Hethersett Fire Station.
Fire bosses have applied to Norfolk County Council for permission to install the tower at the Norwich Road station.
But environmental consultants have said the fire and rescue service will need to take safeguards to ensure the lit-up structure does not upset bats.
READ MORE: Wildfire warning issued by Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service
The fire service employed Norfolk Wildlife Services to carry out an ecological impact assessment into its plans for the tower, which would be mainly used once a week.
The service said planned training hours are usually between 6pm and 9pm on Tuesdays, although extra sessions are needed "every so often" and the tower will need an "element of lighting".
READ MORE: Corrosion means Norfolk’s fire training towers must be replaced at £1.5m cost
While no bat roosts were found in the immediate vicinity and the consultants said the operational illumination of the tower was expected to have "negligible impact" on bat roosting or bat behaviour.
But they warned: "An excessive lighting specification and excessive lighting usage could result in minor negative disturbance impacts on local bat populations."
The service has said lighting will be sensitive and there will be shielding to control the spread of light.
READ MORE: Bats force Western Link route change - but extra cost not yet revealed
And Norfolk Wildlife Services has advised: "Night-lighting of the fire tower must be only when training exercises require it."
An objection to the plans has been received by a member of the public, who raised concerns about the loss of privacy, noise and light.
They said: "While fire training is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the expense of the privacy, tranquillity, and well-being of the residents who call this area their home."
A decision on the plans will be made by the county council in due course.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here