h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Please could you tell me when slow worms start and finish hibernating and if it is illegal to disturb their habitat during this time or to completely remodel the said area which is 8x12ft and in my back garden. The reason i need to know this is that the local authorities are demanding i do this without delay when it has not been touched for nearly 25yrs,or they will take the matter further such as legal action. We have shown a member of council that there is slow worms still active there.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/5131196/Slow-worms-delay-building-work.html

'Ecology experts' are mentioned in this article.
Perhaps
some local body would be willing to help.

According to this http://www.jprenvironmental.co.uk/protected_species_profile_slow_worm.htm they hibernate