Ecological Appraisal and Portected Species Surveys at Burbages Lane, Coventry Client Reference Tyler Parkes T1102.022 Two Date 18 December 2014 N A T U R A L S O L U T I O N S Issue Crossman Associates Ecological Consultants Fire Engine House Oakhill, Bath BA3 5BJ 01761 233414 info@crossmanassociates.co.uk www.crossmanassociates.com crossman A S S O C I A T E S Non-technical Summary Background In September 2013, Crossman Associates was commissioned by Tyler Parkes to undertake an ecological appraisal and bat survey of a proposed development site at Burbages Lane, Coventry. Further surveys for reptiles, great crested newt and badger were undertaken in 2014 A section at the east of the site will be maintained as a wildlife mitigation area Methodology A survey of the site was conducted in September 2013 using a standard Phase 1 habitat survey method, extended to record provisional signs of, and potential for protected or notable species Dedicated great crested newt surveys, reptile surveys, bat surveys and badger surveys were also undertaken Results The site is occupied by a mosaic of managed and unmanaged habitats including semi-improved grassland, hedgerows, ruderals and scrub, ornamental planting, amenity planting and trees. The site is considered to have moderate ecological appeal with Local Value The site supports a small/medium population of slow worm and five species of foraging/commuting bats. There are no badger setts and great crested newts are not present Recommendations It is recommended that the development be informed by an ecological mitigation strategy and management plan. Key recommendations include; ο Retention and improvement of existing hedgerows ο Creation of new mitigation area ο Provision of new roosting features for bats and nesting opportunities for birds crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Contents NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY 1 1. BACKGROUND 3 PROPOSALS 3 SITE DESCRIPTION 4 2. METHODOLOGY 5 DESKTOP STUDY 5 FIELD SURVEY 5 SITE EVALUATION 7 3. RESULTS 9 9 DESKTOP SURVEY FIELD SURVEY 13 EVALUATION 21 4. RECOMMENDATIONS 23 5. LIMITATIONS 30 6. REFERENCES 31 2 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 1. Background 1.1. In September 2013, Crossman Associates was commissioned by Tyler Parkes to undertake an ecological appraisal, great crested newt survey Triturus cristatus, reptile survey, bat survey and badger Meles meles survey of a proposed development site at Burbages Lane, Coventry. 1.2. The objective of the surveys were to: ο Produce a map of the habitats and main ecological features on site ο Make an assessment of the likely presence or absence of notable/protected species or habitats ο Identify any legal and planning policy constraints relevant to nature conservation which may affect the development; and ο 1.3. Determine the need for further surveys, compensation and mitigation The site was visited by Alex Crossman an experienced ecologist and full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and Faribrass Knowles, a licenced bat worker. Access was granted by the site agent. Proposals 1.4. The site is currently covered by horse-grazed pasture and several long, narrow gardens that extend to the east of Burbages Lane. The majority of the land, which is referred to in this report as the development area, will be cleared to make space for a new residential development. 3 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 1.5. The remainder of land at the east of the site will be retained for wildlife and water attenuation and is referred to in this report as the mitigation area. This area will include new scrub and hedgerow planting. 1.6. Two semi-detached dwellings on Burbages Lane may need to demolished to make way for a new access road. Site Description 1.7. The site occupies approximately 3.2 acres of land that is currently covered by pastureland and residential gardens, which include semi-improved grassland, ruderals and scrub, hedgerows, trees, ornamental planting, amenity grassland and ephemeral vegetation with some buildings and hardstanding. 1.8. The site lies on the northern edge of the city of Coventry adjacent to the residential cul-de-sac Burbages Lane (Ordnance Survey grid reference SP 338 841); it is adjoined by residential houses to the south-west and gardens to the south-east. Adjacent land to the north-east and north-west is occupied by horsegrazed pastureland and mature unmanaged hedgerows. 1.9. The site straddles a tract of mixed farmland that extends a short distance to the east but more extensively to the west although there are frequent suburb villages and small areas of industry. The A444 dual carriageway lies within 150m to the east and the M6 runs 1km to the north. There are no areas of woodland in close proximity to the site, although the hedgerows that border the site join into the wider hedgerow network that extends to the north. A large ornamental pond lies within an adjacent residential garden to the south. 4 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 2. Methodology Desktop Study 2.1. The MAGIC website was accessed to gain information on any statutory site designations within 1km of the site. 2.2. Warwickshire Biological records centre was contacted for information on records of non-statutory site designations and notable/protected species for the site and within 1km of the site boundaries. 2.3. National/local planning policy and legislation has been reviewed for policies and laws that relate to nature conservation that may be relevant to the site. Field Survey Ecological appraisal 2.4. The ecological appraisal follows Phase 1 habitat survey methodology, which is a survey method and habitat classification system that was developed by the Nature Conservation Council, now Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2003) to map habitats and land use categories to a ‘consistent level and accuracy.’ The vegetation is mapped using standard colour codes, allowing rapid visual assessment of the extent and distribution of different habitat types. Where appropriate, target notes highlight potential features of interest. Species observations 2.5. An extended Phase 1 habitat survey also records provisional signs of protected or notable species in addition to those species that have specific surveys as described below. This section also assesses the suitability of the habitats on-site and within the accessible surroundings to support such species. 5 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Great crested newt survey 2.6. The pond, which lies adjacent to the site and occupies the rear garden of 50 Burbages Lane (Ordnance Survey grid reference SP 3394 8308, refer to Figure 1), was assessed for the presence/absence of great crested newts using eDNA analysis. 2.7. On 30 June 2014, 20 water samples measuring approximately 40ml were extracted from the pond using a sampling ladle. The ladle was used to gently mix the pond water from the surface to toward the bottom to achieve a mixed sample. Samples were decanted into a sterile bag that was then securely sealed and agitated for 10 seconds to ensure that the sample was mixed. 2.8. Six c15ml samples were then drawn from the bag under sterile conditions and added to plastic vials already containing preservative. The vials were shaken vigorously for ten seconds, labelled and sent to SPYGEN, Bourget du Lac, France for analysis. Reptile survey 2.9. In September 2014, a total of 75 reptile refuges were laid out within suitable habitat across the site approximately 5m apart as illustrated on Figure 2. These were allowed to establish for approximately 10 days. Seven site visits were subsequently made during October 2014 to check the refuges for signs of reptile presence (in accordance with Gent and Gibson 2003). 2.10. For each site visit the site was systematically walked to check for reptile presence. Refuges were checked during optimum weather conditions between 12:30 and 18:30 during periods of cloud with sunny spells and little-no wind. Temperatures for each visit did not fall below 9°C and did not exceed 18.5°C. Bat survey Daytime scoping survey 6 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 2.11. The two semi-detached dwellings and other structures that may need to be removed as part of the proposals, were assessed for evidence of roosting bats, such as dropping, staining, feeding remains or actual bats. Any mature or semimature trees were also assessed. Where no bats were found, buildings and trees were assessed on their suitability to support roosting bats. Manual activity survey 2.12. Evening activity surveys were undertaken on 31 September 2013, 30 June 2014 and 28 September 2014. The survey commenced at dusk and continued for 2.5 hours. 2.13. The activity surveys followed a pre-walked transect as shown in Figure 3. The survey was attended by two personnel and used Duet and Anabat bat detectors to record bat activity and behaviour. Automated activity surveys 2.14. An Anabat detector was deployed on site and was set to record all bat activity between dawn and dusk. The automated device was positioned near to the centre of the site (refer to Figure 3) and left in situ for 28 consecutive days. 2.15. The data was later analysed using dedicated computer software Batscan and Analook. Badger survey 2.16. The site was visited in December 2014 when vegetation and leaf-coverage was at an absolute minimum. The site and surroundings upto 30m from the boundaries was checked for the presence of setts. The site was also checked for the presence of badger activity such as mammal tracks, evidence of foraging and the presence of guard hairs and latrines. Site Evaluation 7 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 2.17. Site evaluation of the habitat areas and species (where appropriate) is based on published criteria given in the CIEEM guidelines for ecological impact assessment. Values are assigned between international value and negligible value or habitats that are likely to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposed developments. The value categories used in the assessment are as follows: 2.18. ο International (Europe) ο National (England) ο Regional (Midlands) ο County (Midlands) ο District (Coventry) ο Local (Exhall) ο Site - within the immediate zone of influence The conservation value of the site is assessed using the Ratcliffe criteria (1977). 8 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3. Results Desktop Survey Statutory sites 3.1. The MAGIC website informed that there are no statutory site designations of nature conservation importance within 2km of the site. Non-statutory sites 3.2. Warwickshire Biological Records Centre informed of 14 non-statutory ‘Ecosites’ within 1km of the site boundaries; one lies adjacent to the north of site – Burbages Lane Ecosite lies adjacent to the northern boundary of the site and is a residential property that is designated for a wide variety of deciduous trees and a small copse that support bird species including great spotted woodpecker Dendrocopus major, redwing Turdus iliacus, fieldfare Turdus pilaris and other thrushes. Species 3.3. Warwickshire Biological Records Centre informed of the following reptile and amphibian species within 1km of the site; 3.4. ο Grass snake Natrix natrix – approximately 800m west of the site ο Great crested newt – nearest record approximately 700m west of the site Warwickshire Biological Records Centre informed of three bat species within 1km of the site; ο Brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus – nearest record approximately 300m west of the site 9 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES ο Common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus – nearest record approximately 300m west of the site ο Soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus – approximately 1km south of the site Legislation Habitat Regulations 3.5. The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 transpose Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and Wild Flora and Fauna (Habitats Directive) into English law, making it an offence to deliberately capture, kill or disturb wild animals listed under Schedule 2 of the Regulations. It is also an offence to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such an animal (even if the animal is not present at the time). Wildlife & Countryside Act 3.6. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as Amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW) 2000 and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC) 2006, consolidates and amends existing national legislation to implement the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention) and Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds (Birds Directive), making it an offence to: • Intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird or their eggs or nests (with certain exceptions) and disturb any bird species listed under Schedule 1 to the Act, or its dependent young while it is nesting; • Intentionally kill, injure or take any wild animal listed under Schedule 5 to the Act; intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct any place used for shelter or protection by any wild animal listed under Schedule 5 10 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES to the Act; intentionally or recklessly disturb certain Schedule 5 animal species while they occupy a place used for shelter or protection; • Plant or otherwise causes to grown in the wild any plant included on Part 2 of Schedule 9 (non-native invasive plants). Japanese knotweed is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (W&CA) 1981, as amended, which makes it an offence to plant or otherwise allow this species to grow in the wild Protection of Badgers Act 3.7. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 makes it illegal to kill, injure or take a badger or to intentionally or recklessly interfere with a badger sett. Sett interference includes disturbing badgers whilst they are occupying a sett or obstructing access to it. Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act 3.8. The NERC Act 2006 places a duty on authorities to have due regard for biodiversity and nature conservation during the course of their operations. Planning policy 3.9. The planning policy framework (NPPF) contains sections of relevance to nature conservation that include: • Paragraph 165: planning policy and decision should be based on up-todate information about the natural environment. • Paragraph 118: when determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying the following principles; ο If significant harm resulting from development cannot be avoided (through relocating on alternative sites with less harmful impact), 11 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused ο Proposed development on land within or outside a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) likely to have an adverse effect on a SSSI (either individually or in combination with other developments) should not normally be permitted. Where an adverse effect on the site’s notified special interest feature is likely, an exception should only be made where the benefits of the development, at this site, clearly outweigh both the impacts that it is likely to have on the features of the site that make it of special scientific interest and any broader impacts on the national network of SSSI’s ο Development proposals where the primary objective is to conserve or enhance biodiversity should be permitted ο Opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged ο Planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss UK Biodiversity Action Plan 3.10. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) (Anon, 1995) was organised to fulfil the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992, to which the UK is a signatory. A list of national priority species and habitats has been produced with all listed species/habitats having specific action plans defining the measures required to ensure their conservation. Regional and local BAPs have also been organised to develop plans for species/habitats of nature conservation importance at regional 12 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES and local levels; those that may be relevant to the surveyed area include National and Local BAPs. Local Biodiversity Action Plan 3.11. The Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull BAP includes a number habitat and species priorities that are known to be, or may be (as a result of suitable habitat occurring on the site), relevant to this assessment. Some of these species and habitats have action plans associated with them: ο The Built Environment ο Gardens ο Hedgerows ο Bats ο Farmland Birds ο Hedgehog (2015) ο Song Thrush Field Survey Ecological appraisal 3.12. The habitats and site can be broken down as the following habitat types. The map of habitat can be found in Appendix 1 of this report and site photographs can be found within Appendix II. ο Semi-improved grassland ο Ruderals and scrub ο Hedgerows 13 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES ο Trees ο Ornamental planting ο Amenity grassland ο Bare ground with ephemeral plants Semi-improved grassland 3.13. A small area of horse-grazed semi-improved grassland occupies the north of the site and is continuous with further grassland beyond the eastern boundary (Photograph 1). 3.14. An area of unmanaged rank grassland is present at the east of the site in an area that is fenced and inaccessible by horses. This section of the site has been unmanaged for an extended period of time and is being heavily encroached from the edges by scrub and ruderal vegetation (see below). 3.15. The grassland species include cock’s-foot Brachypodium dactylis, perennial ryegrass Lolium perenne, false oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius, couch grass Elymus repens and creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera. 3.16. The grass is interspersed with herb species that are dominant in places and include white clover Trifolium repes, ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata, greater plantain Plantago major, creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, redshank Persicaria maculosa, broad-leafed dock Rumex obtusifolius, spear thistle Cirsium vulgare, common nettle Urtica diocia, deadly nightshade Atropa belladonna, shepherds purse Capsella burda-pastoris, common ragwort Senacio jacobaea and pineapple weed Matricaria doscoidea. Hedgerows 3.17. Hedgerows occupy the boundaries of the paddocks but also divide the residential gardens on the site. 14 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3.18. The north and east boundaries of the site are species-rich native hedgerows. The northern boundary hedgerow is generally defunct with leggy trees that are sometimes grown out at the base (background of Photograph 1 and Photograph 4). The eastern boundary hedgerow is very defunct with large gaps that are in filled with fencing. 3.19. Woody species include holly Ilex aquifolium, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, hazel Corylus avellana, ash Fraxinus excelsior, elder Sambuca nigra, sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, English elm Ulnus procaria, and field maple Acer campestre. The hedgerows have dense bands of unmanaged vegetation at the bases which is dominated by common nettle with some lords-and-ladies Arum maculatum. 3.20. Hedgerow that divide gardens are species-poor, tend to be unmanaged and include hawthorn and a number of non-native and ornamental species including cypress and laurel, Ruderals and scrub vegetation 3.21. Large parts of the site, particularly along the southern boundary, have been neglected for a prolonged period of time and have subsequently been encroached by dense ruderal and scrub vegetation (Photograph 2 and 3). This habitat occupies a former paddock and unmanged areas of gardens. Scrub vegetation is dominated by bramble Rubus fructicosa agg. with woody saplings such as sycamore, ash, elder, and butterfly-bush Buddleja davidii. 3.22. The edges of the scrub vegetation and the interface between the scrub and more managed habitats is occupied by dense stands of ruderal vegetation that are mainly common nettle, broad-leafed dock, common ragwort, common comfrey Symphytum officinale, greater willowherb Epilobium hirsute and spear thistle. Trees 15 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3.23. There are several-semi mature trees that occupy the site; these are mainly between gardens and consist of ash, poplar Populus sp., sycamore and willow Salix sp. All trees appear to be in reasonable condition. 3.24. A line of semi-mature sycamore trees form a section of the southern boundary at the east of the site. Ornamental planting 3.25. Areas of ornamental planting are present within the garden (Photograph 5); these areas are often continuous with scrub that extends into the east of the site. Amenity grassland 3.26. The managed sections of gardens are covered with amenity grassland, which is typically mown to a short sward height (Photograph 6, 7 and 8); species include cocks-foot, perennial rye-grass and annual meadow grass Poa annua with clover, plantains and spear thistle. Bare ground and ephemeral vegetation 3.27. The entrance to the paddock at the north-west corner of the site and parts of the gardens which are subject to heavy wear, have large areas of disturbed and bare ground that is encroached in places by ephemeral herb species, which include pineapple weed, shepherds purse and annual meadow-grass (Photograph 9). Species Observations 3.28. Species observations are included within the paragraphs; the detailed survey results of the reptile, great crested newt and bat surveys are included separately. Flora 3.29. The site is subject to heavy disturbance and some areas are subject to high management, although remaining parts of the site have been allowed to succeed 16 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES into ruderal and scrub vegetation. The site is therefore unlikely to support protectable or notable flora species. 3.30. No invasive species that are included on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act were recorded on site. Invertebrates 3.31. The site contains a range of habitats, so there is a mosaic of different types and heights of vegetation and good structural diversity. Management has also lapsed over much of the site so plant species are allowed to flower, fruit and seed, which provides a foraging resource for invertebrates. The variety of niches onsite is likely to support a correspondingly diverse invertebrate assemblage. Reptiles 3.32. A single slow worm Anguis fragillis was recorded on two of the survey visits and three slow worms were recorded on two visits. Table 1: Reptile survey results Survey date 0 0 29/10/14 3 24/10/14 3 23/10/14 1 19/10/14 0 18/10/14 Slow 15/10/14 14/10/14 Species 1 worm 3.33. The slow worms were all recorded in the area of unmanaged grassland and scrub vegetation at the east of the site (refer to Figure 2). Birds 17 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3.34. The site in its current state offers plentiful opportunities for nesting birds due to the large areas of dense scrub vegetation, trees and mature unmanaged hedgerows. Due to the sites city edge location the site is likely to offer nesting opportunities for urban, garden and rural bird species. Birds that were observed during the survey visits that may be nesting on site include blackbird Turdus merula, robin Erithacus rubecula, wren Troglodytes troglodytes, great tit Parus major and wood pigeon Palumba columbus. 3.35. The hedgerows and dense scrub vegetation also offers cover and shelter for birds including house sparrow Passer domesticus, which were regularly observed but not nesting on site. 3.36. Due to the lack of management tree shrub and scrub species are allowed to flower and fruit allowing for optimal foraging opportunities for a range of bird species. Bats Daytime scoping survey 3.37. The two semi-detached houses that are due for demolition are flat-roofed and lacking any internal voids that could be utilised by bats. The external walls of the properties are in good condition with no subsidence cracks, missing pointing or missing brickwork; there are therefore no external features that might be of use to bats (Photograph 10). 3.38. The remaining buildings are simple wooden, tin or brick garden sheds (Photograph 11), with the exception of an open brick stable. None are considered to offer roosting opportunities for bats due to their size, simplicity, condition and lack of abiotic features. 3.39. All trees on site are too young and lacking in suitable features that may be used by roosting bats. 18 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Activity survey 3.40. Evening activity surveys were undertaken on 31 September 2013, 30 June 2014 and 28 September 2014. The survey transect and notable areas of bat activity are shown within Figure 3. Table 2: Manual at activity survey results Survey Conditions Observations 1 Cool, Bat activity was focused along the unmanaged dry, slight hedgerow that runs along the northern boundary of breeze. the site. Common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipitrellus 13°C activity, including commuting and foraging, was frequent along this feature, but there was also occasional foraging associated with the area of scrub and ruderal vegetation at the eastern end of the site. 2 Warm, dry, There were four common pipistrelle passes along the calm. 16°C northern boundary hedgerow and a common pipistrelle were also briefly recorded foraging over the scrub habitat at the east of the site. 3 Warm, dry, Single common pipistrelles were recorded commuting slight along the northern boundary hedgerow and over the breeze. south-east corner of the site. 17°C A single noctule Nyctalus noctula was recorded commuting high over the east of the site. Automated Bat Activity Survey 19 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3.41. An automated bat activity surveys were conducted from 28 September 2014 – 27 October 2014. The survey ran for a total of 302 hours over four weeks. The four week survey period was generally warm and dry with an average high of 15°C and an average low of 7°C. Within this period, the temperature remained above 5°C until 22 October. 3.42. The bat activity is summarised in the bullet list below, which compares the bat activity index (BAI) between the species. BAI is a measure of bat activity per unit time and is calculated using the following equation; BAI = bat passes / unit time (hours). Table 3; bat activity indices (BAI) for automated activity surveys Species BAI Soprano pipistrelle 0.08 Common pipistrelle 0.71 Noctule 0.20 Serotine 0.01 Brown long-eared 0.01 Badger 3.43. No badger setts were recorded on site or within 30m of the site where access was available. 3.44. There is no definitive evidence of badger activity on site but there are several mammal tracks on site and crossing the site boundary, particularly at the south 20 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES and east of the site; these tracks could be attributable to badger but could also be due to domestic animals and other mammals including red fox, which was incidentally observed on site. Dormouse 3.45. The site is not considered suitable for dormouse. The boundary hedgerows do include food plants such as hawthorn and hazel, however the site is not connected to a significant hedgerow network and is isolated from any large or significant areas of woodland in the wider landscape. Evaluation 3.46. Much the site is grazed or managed and therefore lacks any fragility or rarity; however the absence of recent management in places has allowed for succession of scrub habitat which affords the site an element of naturalness and makes the site atypical of nearby paddocks, industrial areas and urban gardens. These areas are allowed to flower and fruit, which is valuable to invertebrates, and also add structural diversity to the site. The presence of unmanaged areas within the urban context of the site is likely to increase the ecological appeal of the site. Semi-mature trees that form sections of the boundary of the site afford the site an element of permanence. 3.47. The hedgerows that bound the site and divide the garden units join the wider hedgerow network and also connect to the areas of scrub on site. These areas of continuous habitat allow for the migration of species within the local landscape and facilitate the movement and dispersal of local wildlife, thus increasing the component value of these features and the site as a whole. 3.48. The site as a whole is considered to have Local value, due to the areas of scrubland and species-rich hedgerows. Reptiles 21 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 3.49. A number of slow worms were recorded within the area of unmanaged grassland and scrub at the east of the site; this habitat provides the most suitable habitat for this species by providing cover, long grass in which to forage and areas of flattened grass on which to bask. Others areas of the site are less suitable because they are covered with very dense scrub that blocks out the light or areas of heavily managed or disturbed ground. The area of most suitable reptile habitat therefore occupies the southern half of the site towards the eastern boundary. 3.50. The site is considered to support a small/medium population of reptiles. Bats 3.51. Five species of bat were recorded using the site and it is considered that the habitats provide a component of the local foraging resource, although the low number of bats recorded during the manual activity surveys and low BAI values suggest that the site is not functioning as a significant component of that resource. Bat activity may be reduced by the level of light spill from nearby houses along Burbages Lane, but also cars and industry associated with A444 that lies within 200m to the east. 3.52. The most valuable areas of the site are the hedgerows that bound the north and west boundary; these provide a foraging resource by supporting invertebrates but also provide sheltered dark corridors that allow bats to move between roosts and favoured foraging grounds in the wider landscape. The areas of scrub, unmanaged grassland and trees at the east of the site have good structural diversity and are likely to support good assemblages of invertebrates, which will in turn provide a good foraging resource for local bats. 3.53. The bat surveys were undertaken at suboptimal time of year, but September and October 2014 were unseasonably warm and bats were continuously active. It is therefore considered that the survey effort is considered adequate to provide a good indication of the level and spatial usage of the site by bats. 22 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 4. Recommendations 4.1. The following paragraph should be followed to ensure that wildlife is protected during the course of works. The recommendations also ensure that obligations in relation to local/national policy and legislation are met. 4.2. Due to the size and Local Value of the site, it is recommended that the development is guided by an ecological mitigation strategy and management plan that details the habitat and species considerations described below. This will be a working document that will inform the landscape design of the development and will also ensure that wildlife is safeguarded during the works. An outline mitigation and compensation strategy is provided in the table below and Figure 4, Appendix II. 4.3. The focus of the mitigation works will be to retain and restore boundary features and create a new mitigation area at the east of the site, which will provide 3000m2 (1 acre) of habitat – this represents a third of the total area of the site. 23 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Table 4: Impacts and Recommended Mitigation/Compensation Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation All boundary hedgerows and trees will be retained. Avoidance Habitats Hedgerow and Trees The hedgerow that runs along the western boundary contains mature trees that may be subject to damage from construction works. Hedgerows and trees along the boundaries of the site will coppiced and layed and then protected through the course of works by a Heras-style fencing and a 3m buffer zone. This protection will also serve as a buffer for the adjacent Ecosite to the north. Mitigation Increased lighting from the scheme may deter nocturnal wildlife from using these features. Trees, hedgerows and associated vegetation will be protected by tree protection fencing as advised by a suitable qualified arboriculturalist and remain in place during construction works in accordance with the current version of BS 5837 (Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction). Existing hedgerows along the north and south boundary have grown tall and defunct; these hedgerows will be improved by coppicing and laying, which will create healthier and more robust hedgerows. Deadwood generated from coppicing and laying will be piled within the mitigation area to provide animal refugia. Introduced lighting should be minimised along these habitat features to limit disturbance to nocturnal wildlife. Any proposed lighting along the western 24 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation boundary should be directional and face away from this feature/downwards. Compensation A new hedgerow will be planted between the development area and the mitigation area; this hedgerow will help to buffer the development area and reduce disturbance of the mitigation area. The hedgerow will also increase the integrity of the local hedgerow network and provide additional foraging and commuting opportunities for local wildlife. The hedgerow will be planted with native hedgerow species that are currently present on site. Landscaping with the scheme should provide some vegetative corridors across the width of the site and aim to connect the hedgerow to introduced habitats within the site. The rotational management of the hedgerow and infilling of gaps with native woody species will further encourage greater uptake of the hedgerow and associated features. Grassland Grassland within the development area will be removed, but this is mainly amenity and grazed grassland that has low value to wildlife. Areas of rank grassland within the mitigation area will be retained. Mitigation During Construction Areas of grassland within the mitigation area will be fenced off and protected during the course of works. Compensation/enhancement Areas of scrub vegetation within the areas of rank grassland within the mitigation area should be thinned out by 75%, to create large areas of edge habitats and a more complex area of mosaic of grassland and scrub. 25 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation Areas of grassland are ideally suited to the introduction of artificial habitat features that will enhance the area such as reptile and invertebrate refugia. Scrub Scrub within the development footprint will be removed but area within the mitigation area will be thinned and improved. Mitigation Scrub vegetation within the mitigation area will be retained, improved and protected during the course of development works. Compensation/enhancement Existing areas of scrub vegetation within the mitigation area will thinned by 75% to provide an increase in edge habitat between scrub and grassland, thus improving habitat for reptiles and other species. Scrub vegetation is currently mostly bramble, so new woody species will be introduced into existing areas of scrub but also into areas that are currently grazed grassland in order to increase edge habitat and structural diversity. New trees/shrubs will include blackthorn, guelder rose Viburnum opulus and hawthorn and will be planted in several small groups to create islands of habitat within the grassland. Species Bats Features identified as being in use by a small number of common bat species, namely the boundary hedgerows may reduce in quality due to the introduction Avoidance The hedgerows that are acting as commuting and foraging corridors will be 26 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation of increased lighting improved and retained within the proposals. Introduced lighting associated with the proposals should be directional to minimise light spill onto boundary features. Helpful guidance to this effect can be found within the publication: 150:2003 – Guide on the limitations of the effect of obtrusive lighting from outdoor lighting installation Mitigation Construction works should be carried out during daylight hours only to avoid disturbance to commuting/foraging bats. Compensation Soft landscaping should incorporate areas of native planting that work to incorporate different habitat types such as rough grassland, shrub/scrub, aquatic features and wildflower borders. The introduction of night-scented flora species such as night-scented catchfly Silene noctiflora honeysuckle Lonicera sp. and evening primrose Oenothera Sp. would also be particularly beneficial. Improved hedgerow connectivity will enhance the local foraging and commuting resource to local bats and will help to facilitate the movement of bat through the local landscape. The introduction of artificial bat roosting features within retained trees will help increase roosting opportunities for local bat populations known to be present. Such features will include Kent-style hardwood bat boxes that will 27 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation be installed on retained trees. Reptiles A population of slow worms is present on site. The optimal reptile habitat on site includes the rank grassland and scrub, which is outside of the development footprint; however garden habitats that will need to be removed also provide suitable habitat. Avoidance Existing areas of optimal reptile habitat will be retained and protected within mitigation area at the east of the site. Mitigation The protection of reptiles within the development proposals will be guided by a reptile mitigation strategy. Reptiles will be moved away from the development area into a translocation zone at the east of development area. All habitats within the development footprint will be ring-fenced with reptile fencing, which will be installed under the supervision of an ecological clerk of works. Reptile fencing will also be installed around the mitigation area, which would have been prepared beforehand (see below) to provide optimal habitat for reptiles. Reptiles will them be trapped and moved away from development area into the mitigation area. This will involve 30 days of trapping continuing until there are 5 clear days. Compensation Landscaping associated with the mitigation area should aim to incorporate ‘untidy’ corners of unmanaged grassland, ruderal and shrub/scrub vegetation. These areas should be augmented by the introduction of 28 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES Ecological Receptor Description/Impacts Mitigation/Compensation artificial refugia and new scrub and shrub planting to provide an increased area of reptile habitat. Birds Areas of hedgerow, scrub, trees and ornamental planting offer nesting opportunities for birds; such vegetation within the development footprint will be cleared removing nesting habitat. Avoidance Boundary hedgerows and trees and areas of scrub outside of the development area will be retained. Mitigation Areas of vegetation within the development area will be removed outside of the nesting bird season, which runs between March and September inclusive. An ecologist or an ecological clerk of works will oversee all vegetation removal. Compensation New hedgerow planting along the eastern boundary of the development site and within gaps in existing hedgerows will provide new nesting opportunities New landscape planting within the development will provide further nesting opportunities and additional foraging resource Schwegler sparrow terraces installed on new properties will provide additional opportunities for house sparrow. 29 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 5. Limitations 5.1. This report records wildlife found during the survey and anecdotal evidence of sightings. It does not record any plants or animals that may appear at other times of the year and were therefore not evident at the time of visit. 5.2. This report represents a preliminary assessment only. Recommendations and conclusions are subject to change should further findings significantly differ from those collected from the survey efforts to date. 5.3. The advice contained in this report relate primarily to factual survey results and general guidance only. On all legal matters you are advised to take legal advice. 30 T1102.022 crossman Burbages Lane Coventry ASSOCIATES 6. References Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) Bats and Lighting in the UK BCT English Nature (2001) Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature HMSO (1981) Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (and subsequent amendments). HMSO HMSO (1995) Biodiversity. The UK Steering Group Report Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Common Standards Monitoring Guidance for Reptiles and Amphibians (2004) JNCC Langton, T., Beckett, C. and Foster, J. (2001) Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook. Froglife Mitchell-Jones, A.J (2004) Bat Mitigation Guidelines English Nature Mitchell-Jones, A.J , & McLeish A.P. (2012) The Bat Worker’s Manual (4th Edition) Multi-Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) Website at www.magic.gov.uk National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Website at www.nbn.org.uk Stace, C. (1997) New Flora of the British Isles 2nd Edition. Cambridge University Press TSO (2005) National Planning Policy Framework. TSO TSO (2006) Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act TSO 31 T1102.022 Appendix I – Site Figures crossman A S S O C I A T E S 01761 233414 iinfo@crossmanassociates.co.uk www.crossmanassociates.co.uk Burbages Lane Ecosite Development site Non development site SI SI SI SI Semi-improved grassland Rank semi-improved grassland Ruderals and scrub Species rich hedgerow SI Figure 1 Species poor hedgerow Trees Ornamental planting Amenity grassland Bare ground/ephemerals Pond Client Tyler Parkes Title Phase 1 Map Site Burbages Lane Figure 1 Date 22 October 2013 Scale 1:5000 crossman A S S O C I A T E S 01761 233414 iinfo@crossmanassociates.co.uk www.crossmanassociates.co.uk Reptile refugia SI Locations of reptiles SI SI SI Figure 2 Client Tyler Parkes Title Reptile survey map Site Burbages Lane Figure 2 Date 10 December 2014 Scale 1:5000 crossman A S S O C I A T E S 01761 233414 iinfo@crossmanassociates.co.uk www.crossmanassociates.co.uk Transect route SI Automated device location SI SI SI Figure 3 Client Tyler Parkes Title Bat survey map Site Burbages Lane Figure 3 Date 10 December 2014 Scale 1:5000 along the north and east boundary 1 Hedgerows will be coppiced and layed. Large gaps along the eastern boundary and parts of the northern planting to create continuous hedgerows that better link to the wider network to the north and south. hedgerow planting will form a new boundary 2 New between the development area and newly created crossman mitigation area to the east. The hedgerow will be planted with a range of native species of local provenance. The new hedgerow will increase nesting opportuniteis for birds and will increase the integrity of the local hedgerow network A S S O C I A T E S 01761 233414 iinfo@crossmanassociates.co.uk www.crossmanassociates.co.uk Hedgerow will be protected during and post Site Boundary mitigation area will be retained for 3 The wildlife and will be used as a translo- Figure 1 cattion site for slow worms. Existing scrub and rank grassland at the south of this area will be retained and grazed grassland at the north will be allowed to grow rank and tussocky and will be augmented with new scrub planting. Piles of deadwood generated from the coppicing of hedgerows will be piled around this area to create refugia and hibernacula for reptiles and habitat for invertebrates. 5 Lanscape planting within the new development will have value to wildlife Every other house on the northern and eastern boundary of the developThe develpment will include a sensitive lighting scheme to mimise light spill onto surrounding habitats. Houses at the edges of the development trees at the boundary of the site will be 4 Semi-mature retained. Three kent-style bat boxes, manufactured from hardwood, will be installed within the trees to provide new roosting opportunities for bats. Client Tyler Parkes Title Mitigation plan Site Burbages Lane Figure 4 Date 15 December 2014 Scale 1:5000 Appendix II – Site Photographs Photographs 1- 3 Photograph 1: Illustrating : Area of semi-improved grassland with hedgerow behind Photograph 2: Dense area of ruderal and scrub vegetation Photograph 3: Ruderal vegetation Photographs 4 - 6 Photograph 4: Illustrating : Hedgerow along northern boundary of site Photograph 5: Typical ornamental planting within gardens Photograph 6: Amenity grassland Photographs 7- 9 Photograph 7: Illustrating : Amenity grassland with dense scrub behind Photograph 8: Amenity grassland occupying one of the garden units Photograph 9: Bare ground with ephemeral vegetation Photographs 10 - 11 Photograph 10: Illustrating : Flat-roofed properties adjacent to Burbages Road Photograph 11: One of the garden sheds on site
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