BDB/70084 & BDB/70085 TESCO STORES LTD 24/12/2008
PROPOSED EXTENSION TO HOME FARM OAKLEY HALL, BASINGSTOKE
Landscape Supporting Statement
DECEMBER 2008 4605.LSS.001 CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION 1
2 LANDSCAPE RELATED POLICY 2
3 THE SITE AND THE SETTING 4 Character Assessment Visual Assessment 4 THE PROPOSALS 11
5 NATURE OF THE CHANGE 13
6 CONCLUSIONS 16
PLANS
ASP1 SITE AND SETTING ASP2 OAKLEY PARK ESTATE: EXISTING SITUATION ASP3 HOME FARM LANDSCAPE MASTERPLAN ASP4 HOME FARM VEGETATION REMOVED
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORD APPENDIX 2 ARCHITECTS SKETCH PROPOSALS APPENDIX 3 EXTRACT FROM LOCAL PLAN AND RELEVANT SPG Proposed Extension to Home Farm, Oakley Hall, Basingstoke Dec 2008 Landscape Supporting Statement 4605.LSS.001
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Aspect were appointed by Oakley Hall Park Limited to address the landscape and visual matters relating to the proposed restoration of Home Farm and its ancillary buildings and a new extension to accommodate Nursing Home facilities.
1.2. A number of plans have been prepared to illustrate the landscape proposals, and these are at the back of this report. The plans include:
ASP1 Site and Setting ASP2 Oakley Park Estate: Existing Situation ASP3 Home Farm Landscape Masterplan ASP4 Home Farm Vegetation Removed
1.3. The proposed layout illustrated on the landscape drawings is based on the Architect, Macallan Penfold’s drawing 3F01
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2. LANDSCAPE RELATED POLICY
2.1. The site lies within the county of Hampshire and is covered by the Hampshire County Structure Plan although this ceased to have any effect from September 2007 with the exception of 24 policies which are known as Saved Policies. The Hampshire County Structure Plan will be superseded by the South East Plan which is due to be formally adopted in late 2008/ early 2009. At a local level, the site is covered by the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Plan which was adopted in July 2006.
2.2. National Planning Policy
PPS7 – Sustainable Development in Rural Areas
2.3. Within the key principles section of this statement it states:
“All Development in rural areas should be well designed and inclusive, in keeping and scale with its location, and sensitive to the character of the countryside and local distinctiveness.’
2.4. County Wide Planning Policy
2.5. The Hampshire County Structure Plan is no longer in effect, although a number of policies have been retained as Saved Policies, ahead of the South East Plan being adopted in the coming months. None of the Saved Polices are relevant to the site
2.6. Local Planning Policy
2.7. The Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan adopted in July 2006 contains a number of policies which seek to ensure the protection of the character and landscape elements of the District. Key objectives of the Local Plan include aiming to protect and enhance the Borough’s natural and built environment for the enjoyment of all, promoting opportunities to secure the regeneration and renewal of the built and natural environments.
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Policies of relevance are: Policy E6 Landscape Character and Policy E7 Nature/ Biodiversity Conservation. Refer Appendix 3 for extracts.
2.8. Supplementary Planning Guidance
Relevant SPG for the area includes: ‘Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape and Biodiversity Draft SPG’, ‘The Countryside Design Summary’ and the ‘Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Character Assessment- 2001’. Refer Appendix 3 for extracts
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2.9. THE SITE AND THE SETTING
2.10. Oakley Hall Park lies on the outskirts of Oakley Village, approximately ten kilometres to the west of Basingstoke. The site is predominantly rural and forms part of the estate of Oakley Park which covers some 128 hectares. The estate accommodates number of existing buildings which are predominantly located within the middle of the estate. The site is accessed from the B3400 road running between Andover and Basingstoke via a single-track access road. 2.11. Oakley Hall Park sits on the lower slopes of a shallow valley that runs from south east to south west; the existing buildings within the Park lie along the shallow valley bottom. The existing buildings sit next to cultivated fields and the estate boundary is marked through native hedgerow and hedgerow trees.
2.12. Within the estate, areas of native woodland exist within a managed landscape setting. Remnants of an early C18th park and C19th formal gardens also exist with successive layers of change and these are recognised of being of local interest and included on Hampshire County Council’s list of parks and gardens of interest.
2.13. To the north of the park, undulating farmland rises gently to the north-west where it meets the railway line lying in cut. The railway line marks the beginning of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which stretches to the north and west
2.14. To the east of the Park the settlement of Oakley rises gently to the south east. Oakley is an ancient settlement possibly of Saxon origin. The Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment characterises Oakley as “….a setting contained by numerous woodland blocks and tree lined hedgerows” and references the “…..twin focal points of the church and village green”. The assessment also makes reference to the “…..country estate
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character at Church Oakley” and the “…..dominance of horse pasture between Oakley Park and the settlement”
2.15. To the south east undulating farmland rises to Itchen Row and Bulls Rushes Copse. Itchen Row remains a stand of ancient and semi natural woodland and Bull Rushes Copse combines ancient and semi natural woodland with ancient replanted woodland. Directly to the south undulating farmland is bisected by a second railway line lying in cut.
2.16. To the south west undulating farmland rises to Ashe Copse, a further substantial ancient replanted woodland, beyond which a string of small settlements and parkland including Deane Park and Ashe Park run from south to north along the shallow valley floor.
2.17. The principal building on the estate is Oakley Hall, a late C18th house with a Grade II listing. A number of ancillary buildings immediately surround the Hall, including the Stable Block and Kitchen Garden Walls, both of which have Grade II listings. To the south of the main cluster of buildings, a significant stretch of woodland runs to the southern boundary of the estate and offers a mature wooded setting to the Hall and offers a sense of enclosure to the Estate.
2.18. Generally mature vegetation associates with the buildings within the estate, reducing longer views from the estate buildings and providing a sense of intimacy. Beyond the mature tree planting, the open and undulating nature of the estate becomes more apparent and gives way to cultivated fields bounded by tree lined hedgerows. Home Farm lies approx. 350m to the west of Oakley Hall. This is a small cluster of late C18th buildings, comprising the former farm house, barns, outbuildings and associated structures. The existing buildings are currently in a poor state of repair.
2.19. A number of public footpaths run near to the site, one of which is the long distance route and byway, the Wayfarer’s Walk which
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runs from south to north and to the west of Oakley Park Estate. It incorporates Deane 2, Steventon 1 and Deane 7. A secondary public footpath, Deane 6, runs along the southern boundary of the estate and a third, Oakley 10, crosses the estate from the east to the north-west corner. These are indicated on ASP1: Site and setting
Character Assessment
2.20. Aspect has carried out an assessment of the character of the local area in order to establish broadly homogenous areas that reflect the broad make up and components within the vicinity of the site. This is carried out in order to assess the suitability of the site and it’s setting to accommodate change, and to assess the impact of the proposals on the area’s defined character.
2.21. This has been carried out with reference to the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape Assessment, Refer Appendix 3, which was completed in June 2001 by Landscape Design Associates and which identifies landscape character areas and notes key characteristics of those areas.
2.22. The site falls within the Oakley Steventon Down region and is characterised by: x Mosaic of arable farmland, managed parkland and mixed woodland. The latter brings semi-enclosure to much of the area and, where more extensive in the south, creates a more enclosed, intimate landscape. x Generally medium to large scale arable fields enclosed within a generally intact, well managed hedgerow and woodland structure, the range of assarts, parliamentary fields and large wavy- edged fields reflecting enclosure from early medieval to 19th Century times. x Pre-1810 Ashe Park, Deane Park and Oakley Park bringing an ornamental and well-managed element to the landscape.
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x Generally low to moderate intervisibility within the area, with frequent woodland blocks and strong hedgerow structure minimising long or panoramic views.
2.23. The characteristics noted above are consistent with the existing landscape treatment of the site and wider estate. On the fringes of the estate, arable farmland is enclosed within well managed hedgerows and sits alongside wooded copses that frame entrances into and out of the park. The existing buildings sit within a backdrop of mature Oak woodland and vestiges of formal gardens and parks dating back to the C18th.
2.24. Oakley Park combines with the extensive land of Deane Park and Ashe Park to the west to provide a once new, more formal landscape that over time has been adopted to make a significant contribution to the characteristics of the local and wider setting.
2.25. Key issues within the Landscape Character Assessment noted areas of comparatively weaker structure and the need where practical to improve hedgerow planting, retain hedgerow saplings and to encourage greater biodiversity which has been reduced through intensive farming practices. These have been noted in preparing a Landscape Masterplan.
Visual Environment
2.26. In order to illustrate the components of the site and the character of the localised area, a number of photographs have been taken and these are found within Appendix 1 of this report.
2.27. Photographs 1-4 illustrate short distance views towards the site from publicly accessible rights of way. Photograph 1 is taken from the main access road through the park, looking south west towards the rear of Home Farm. The rear of the Barn is just visible in the centre of the picture beyond a substantial tree line and wooded copse. To the east a managed hedgerow is visible forming field boundaries and to the west isolated mature trees sit
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within the parkland landscape, both elements are characteristic of Oakley Park and the wider setting. To the south beyond mature tree lined hedgerows and arable farmland, Ashe Park Copse can be seen rising to the south.
2.28. Photograph 2 is taken from the public byway Steventon 1 and is representative of sections of the long distance route, the Wayfarer’s Walk. Along the majority of the route, tree lined hedgerow bounds the path on one or both sides reducing intervisibility. From this viewpoint the hedgerow is absent affording views to the north-east and south-west across gently undulating farmland. To the north east, the tree lined hedgerow bounding the estate is just visible above the localised ridgeline which reduces views from the west. The site and its localised setting are not visible beyond the Estate boundary.
2.29. Photograph 3 is taken from the junction of public footpaths Steventon 1, which is a byway and forms part of the Wayfarer’s Way, and Deane 6 which runs along part of the southern boundary of the Estate. From this viewpoint the significant tree lined hedgerow running along the Estate’s western boundary is visible stretching away to the north, containing views across arable field beyond to Home Farm.
2.30. Photograph 4 is taken from the public footpath Deane 6 abutting the Estate boundary looking north across open undulating farmland down to the rear of Home Farm, which is visible towards the left of the view. The mature backdrop of parkland wood and copse is a significant feature on the horizon and along visible field boundaries offering a sense of enclosure to Home Farm and reducing long distance views. The current built form is visually recessive and well integrated within its localised setting.
2.31. Photograph 5 is taken from the public footpath Deane 6 looking north along the field boundary towards the outbuildings of Home Farm nestled within gently sloping land. The site is visible from this point but views diminish walking further east as the site is
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obscured by native hedgerow. Again the backdrop of wooded copse and tree lined hedgerows provide a mature setting, ensuring the site is well integrated within its surroundings.
2.32. Photograph 6 is taken from public footpath Deane 6 looking north- west back towards Home Farm, the view of which is obscured by a stand of mature trees and scrub within sloping arable farmland. The Garden Cottage is visible to the north in the left of the picture and is seen against the mature backdrop of a well wooded rolling landscape.
2.33. Photograph 7 is taken from public footpath Deane 7, forming part of the Wayfarer’s Walk adjacent to the stand of Ancient and Semi natural woodland that is Itchen Row looking north- west towards the site. The railway line is lying in cut in the foreground of the picture and Ashe Park Copse is a significant feature on the horizon to the north-west. To the north the almost unbroken wooded landscape of Oakley Park is visible within the enclosure of the shallow valley and rolling landscape of the wider setting. Again, due to landform and the well vegetated structure of the landscape, views towards Home Farm are obscured.
2.34. Photograph 8 is taken from public footpath Deane 2, which also forms part of the Wayfarer’s Walk. The view looks south-west down towards the Estate of Oakley Park. Oakley Hall and glimpses of Home Farm are visible beyond the characteristic Parkland trees and undulating arable farmland and set against a mature wooded background. Bull’s Bushes Copse, Itchen Row and Round Wood can be seen climbing beyond the Hall to the south east to create an unbroken wooded tree line on the horizon. The built form of the estate sits well within the parkland estate setting.
2.35. In conclusion, the built form visible from public rights of way running across or adjacent to the estate is entirely in context and provides points of interest amongst well wooded backdrops and the mature tree lined hedgerows that enclose field boundaries.
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The managed hedgerows, copse planting and localised ridgelines provide little intervisibility, allowing built form to be glimpsed beyond trees and hedgerow rather than viewed from long distances.
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3. THE PROPOSALS
3.1. The development proposals describe the restoration of Home Farm and existing barns and buildings and a further extension to Home Farm to allow the existing Nursing Home facilities operational at Oakley Hall to move to Home Farm. Refer Appendix 2 for Architect’s Sketch Proposals
3.2. In addition, a change of use at Oakley Hall is proposed to allow overnight accommodation.
3.3. The proposals for Oakley Hall and Home Farm are part of an overall vision for the Oakley Hall Estate which is detailed in the Master Plan document prepared by DPP.
3.4. This supporting statement deals specifically with the development at Home Farm and its restoration and extension.
3.5. It is proposed that the existing buildings will be augmented by new development to create two courtyards, one facing east, and the second facing south. All new development will complement the existing restored buildings to create a bespoke and sympathetically detailed development.
3.6. The orientation of the buildings to create the two courtyards, which enhances the existing built form along the western edge of Home Farm and the existing field boundary, provides a more formal approach to Home Farm and in parallel a more deliberate end to the built form lying within the Estate.
3.7. To the north-west of Home Farm, a new parking area will be created adjacent to new development, allowing it a significant wooded backdrop and ensuring it remains within the enclosure of the copse to the north.
3.8. The Eastern courtyard will incorporate lawns and gardens and a restored pond amongst gravelled paths. These more formal
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elements are appropriate and consistent in creating a formal entrance to Home Farm.
3.9. The Southern courtyard provides formal gardens within the courtyard itself that give way to a native hedgerow boundary and hedgerow trees, allowing the new development to sit alongside and integrate with the characteristic existing native field enclosures nearby.
3.10. New native hedgerow and hedgerow tree planting will also reinforce the existing hedgerow planting along the field boundary running to the west of Home Farm. Refer ASP3: Detailed Landscape Masterplan.
3.11. The landscape proposals have been developed to ensure that the integrity of the area’s character is enhanced. With such a proposal there will be a degree of vegetation removal, restricted to trees within the proposed car park and a small number to allow ambulance access to the Southern Courtyard. Refer ASP4: Vegetation Removed. The vegetation that is to be retained, together with the proposed replacement planting compensates for the vegetation which is to be removed.
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4. THE NATURE OF THE CHANGE
4.1. To understand the nature of the change of a proposed development in landscape and visual terms, it is necessary to assess this change against existing landscape character, together with the change in visual environment.
Change to Landscape Character
4.2. It is considered that the proposals will have a low/ moderate beneficial impact upon the Oakley Steventon Down region and the parkland Estate of Oakley Park. The area is characterised by undulating arable farmland enclosed within well managed hedgerows sitting alongside wooded copses and stands of ancient and semi natural Oak woodland, naturally reducing intervisibility. It is considered that the proposed development and landscape will sit well within the local and wider setting, complementing and enhancing that which already exists.
4.3. The proposed development is of a sympathetically detailed nature that will use high quality materials to appear as a natural extension to existing buildings at Home Farm. Proposed landscape to the more formal courtyards will pay tribute to the formal gardens that once lay across the site, vestiges of which still remain and date back to the C18th.
4.4. Additional landscape will introduce native boundary treatments and stands of new Oak tree planting at strategic points within and around the development, integrating existing parkland and wooded copses with new native hedgerow boundaries. Planting here will suggest the deliberate end to built form along the western edge of the estate and provide a transition from formal to informal and native.
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Change to the Visual Environment
4.5. With regard to the visual environment, it is clear that the key views are within the immediate vicinity of the site and are restricted to intermittent and glimpsed views from Public Footpaths running across or adjacent to the Estate.
4.6. Strong elements within the views such as the mature tree and hedgerow structure, sloping topography, and localised built form within the wider setting will remain. Long distance views to the site from the surrounding public footpaths will experience negligible impact as a result of the proposals due to the scale and distance from the proposals and intervening existing and proposed vegetation.
4.7. In order to assess the visibility of the proposals a theoretical zone of intervisibility has been assessed. Photographs 1, 2 and 3 have been included to illustrate that from these representative viewpoints and their localised setting no change will occur.
4.8. From the representative viewpoints 4 and 5 there will be an appreciation of change. From viewpoint 4, the reinforced field boundary and additional native hedge and tree planting will strengthen the landscape structure and integrate successfully with the proposals. The additional built form located along the western field boundary will be appreciated from this viewpoint however the recessive materials and appropriate vernacular style will mean the built form is not readily apparent.
4.9. Further to the east from viewpoint 5, the proposed native boundary to the southern courtyard gardens will be visible, with new development beyond. With regard to the impact it is considered that due to the recessive nature of the development and the extensive additional native tree and hedgerow structure provided, the change from these two locations will be negligible and in future years become positive and beneficial.
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4.10. Photograph 6 and its localised setting there will be no change.
4.11. From the wider setting two further photographs have been assessed viewpoints 7 and 8. Due to the distances involved, some 1000 metres from both viewpoints the change will be imperceptible.
4.12. As an overview, the change resulting from the proposals will be positive and beneficial to the local and wider setting. Careful consideration when designing the additional built form in association with a well considered landscape strategy will result in an appropriate development within this pleasant location.
Change in relation to landscape and design related policy
4.13. In terms of policy, both national and local policy guidance seeks to ensure that proposed development should promote good design which responds to the character of the setting ensuring that proposals sit comfortably within their context.
4.14. It is considered that the proposals are fully in line with national and local policy objectives and can be readily accommodated within the landscape character area.
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5. CONCLUSIONS
5.1. In conclusion, the proposals have been designed to respect the existing landscape situation and as a result are fully supportable on landscape and visual grounds.
5.2. The design treatment of the proposals which take account of the existing character, the quality and orientation of the proposed building, choice of materials and planting types, result in a coordinated, high quality development that will enhance the character of the landscape whilst enhancing the Parkland Estate and native woodland on which the development lies.
5.3. In relation to the visual resource, no adverse impacts will result, due to the quality of the built form and recessive nature of the materials and the positive and beneficial native landscape strategy.
16 ASPECT PLANS
APPENDIX 1
PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORD
APPENDIX 2 ARCHITECT’S SKETCH PROPOSALS: MACALLAN PENFOLD 18 NORTHFIELD ROAD CHURCH CROOKHAM FLEET HAMPSHIRE GU13 0ED
APPENDIX 3 EXTRACT OF LOCAL PLAN AND RELEVANT SPG
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council
Landscape and Biodiversity
Draft Supplementary Planning Document
December 2007 Contents
1 Introduction ...... 1 2 Scope of the Supplementary Planning Document...... 1
Key Principles ...... 3
Part 1: Small-Scale Development (Including Single Dwellings, Home Extensions, Works to Listed Buildings and Conservation Area Consents)...... 4
3 Scope of Part 1...... 4 4 General Considerations...... 4 5 Information about the Site and Context ...... 4 6 Biodiversity...... 4 7 Trees...... 5 8 Landscape...... 5 9 Evaluation of Information...... 5
Part 2: Larger Developments...... 7
10 Scope of Part 2...... 7 11 Pre-planning Surveys ...... 7 12 Evaluation of Survey Information...... 12 13 Preparing Development Proposals ...... 16 14 Landscape Design and Biodiversity Enhancement in Masterplans ...... 19 15 Construction Stages and Beyond ...... 24
References...... 26
Appendix 1: Supported Local Plan Policies ...... 27 Appendix 2: Glossary of Terms ...... 30 Appendix 3: Professional Bodies and Registers of Members in Professional Practice...... 31 Appendix 4: Useful Contacts ...... 32 Appendix 5: Useful Publications and Other Resources...... 34 Appendix 6: Species and Habitats that are of Material Consideration...... 35 Appendix 7: Triggers for Phase 2 Ecological Survey ...... 46 Appendix 8: Checklists ...... 48
i 1 Introduction
1.1 Landscapes, whether urban or rural, and the biodiversity (variety of living creatures) they support, are a major contributor to our quality of life. Many things that are taken for granted, such as clean air and water, or the pollination of crops, rely on the ecosystems formed from living organisms interacting with the landscape. The distinctive characteristics of the local countryside help create an attractive and desirable borough to live in. This directly benefits the local economy by helping businesses attract and retain a skilled workforce. At a neighbourhood level, high quality landscapes rich in wildlife have a significant effect on people’s sense of wellbeing, and can provide the motivation for outdoor exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle. They also provide opportunities for residents to become involved in the stewardship of their local environment, developing a sense of community, and learning new skills. However, unless landscapes are well planned, integrated elements of a development, that are practical to maintain, they can increase opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour, as well as increasing the fear of these.
1.2 The importance of landscape and biodiversity considerations in achieving sustainable communities is reflected in recent government planning policy statements:
• PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development [20] • PPS7 Sustainable Development in Rural Areas [21] • PPS9 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation [22]
1.3 In addition we have set out our own requirements in the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan 1996-2011 [1], policies E1, E3, E5, E6, E7 and E8 (see Appendix 1). This draft supplementary planning document (SPD) aims to expand and clarify these policies, helping applicants to submit proposals that are good enough to approve.
1.4 This document has been prepared in accordance with government guidance and regulations, including those on community involvement. It has been subject to a combined Sustainability Appraisal (SA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). It forms part of the Local Development Framework (LDF) for the borough, and will be a material planning consideration in our determination of planning applications. 2 Scope of the Supplementary Planning Document
2.1 This draft SPD is intended to cover the most common types of development, in terms of landscape and biodiversity (including tree) implications, for which we receive applications. The document comprises two parts:
• Part 1, which provides information relevant to small-scale developments, including single dwellings, home extensions, listed building works and Conservation Area Consents
• Part 2, which provides guidance relevant to larger developments, including residential and commercial development 2.2 There will be other types of application (for example, changing the use of land) where landscape and biodiversity implications will depend on individual circumstances. In these cases, we advise the prospective applicant to seek pre-
1 of 59 application advice from us. Advice specific to farm diversification proposals is included in our Farm Diversification and Traditional Farmsteads SPD [9].
2.3 This draft SPD focuses on local landscape and biodiversity considerations, but it is equally important to consider the impacts of development on the wider environment. For example, the source of timber and other building materials can have significant effects on global biodiversity. Further information on this aspect will be covered in our Design and Sustainability SPD (in preparation [8]).
2.4 This document should be read in conjunction with other guidance on design within villages and the countryside, and urban areas, which will also be provided in our forthcoming Design and Sustainability SPD.
2.5 This proposed SPD incorporates the requirements of, and will replace, our existing supplementary planning guidance on trees and development (published 2001). It also incorporates guidance from the ‘Landscape Checklist for New Development’ produced by the Hampshire Local Government Landscape Group.
2.6 The proposed SPD will apply to development proposals whether or not they required a statutory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
2.7 A glossary of terms is included at Appendix 2 and the terms defined are shown in bold where first used within the main text.
Consultation draft note: the council will be preparing guidance, setting out information that must accompany planning applications, in conjuction with the launch of new national planning application forms, which are expected to be introduced by April 2008. It is intended that this general development control guidance will include landscape and biodiversity requirements to complement this SPD
2 of 59 Key Principles
• Landscape and biodiversity issues must be considered from the pre-planning stage onwards.
• There must be adequate information on landscape and biodiversity to inform the planning stages.
• The design must be led by the inherent constraints and opportunities of the site and its context.
• Significant landscape and biodiversity impacts must be avoided, wherever possible, through careful design. Mitigation measures must only be used where avoidance through design is not achievable.
• Where there are remaining impacts that cannot be satisfactorily mitigated, compensation must be provided through the creation of new features.
• All proposals should aim to enhance the landscape and biodiversity of the receiving environment and, where possible, these enhancements should result in a net improvement.
3 of 59 Part 1: Small-Scale Development (Including Single Dwellings, Home Extensions, Works to Listed Buildings and Conservation Area Consents)
3 Scope of Part 1
3.1 This section provides guidance for proposals involving a single dwelling, home extensions, alternations to, or demolitions of, listed buildings and demolition in conservation areas (Conservation Area Consents). It will also provide useful guidance for other developments involving a very limited landtake. 4 General Considerations
4.1 Landscape and biodiversity implications for these application types will usually be limited. However, they may have implications for certain types of protected species such as bats, important trees, or the character of landscape settings around listed buildings and in conservation areas. Applications in the countryside, or on the edge of settlements, must not be visually intrusive, especially within the North Wessex Downs AONB. All proposals within villages should have regard to any existing conservation area appraisal and village design statement.
5 Information about the Site and Context
5.1 A desk study must be undertaken to: • ascertain whether the site is within 50 metres of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Local Nature Reserve (LNR) or Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) • ascertain whether the site is within the North Wessex Downs AONB • ascertain whether any trees within, or adjacent to, the site are subject to a tree preservation order, or are within a conservation area • obtain relevant information from conservation area appraisals and village design statements, to help understand local landscape character and the landscape setting of the settlement • if the case of listed buildings, ascertain information on the extent of listing, the curtilage and the setting
6 Biodiversity
6.1 Bat surveys must be undertaken if the proposals involve modification, conversion, demolition, or removal of dwellings and structures (especially roof voids), relating to: • rural buildings (eg farmhouses, cottages and barns) • buildings with weather boarding and/or hanging tiles that are within 200m of woodland and/or water • pre-1960 detached buildings and structures within 200m of woodland and/or water 4 of 59 • pre-1914 buildings within 400m of woodland and/or water • pre-1914 buildings with gable ends or slate roofs, regardless of location • demolition, in full or part, of any other building within the curtilage of a listed building constructed prior to 1 July 1948 • removal or pruning of trees that are mature, and/or have obvious holes, and/or have a girth greater than 1m at 1.5 metres from ground level 6.2 If the proposals involve conversion or demolition of a rural building, surveys must also be undertaken for barn owls and other nesting birds that use buildings (eg house sparrows, house martins and swallows).
7 Trees
7.1 If there are hedgerows within, or on the boundary of, the site, or trees on the site, or within 30 metres of it, a measured site survey (at a scale of at least 1:200) must be undertaken. This must show the location of each tree and hedge, and the canopy spread in all directions. These features must be numbered for ease of reference, and the girth of each tree, measured at a height of 1.5 metres from ground level, must be recorded and shown on the planning application drawings. Where known, the species should also be recorded on the drawings, but if there is uncertainty, it should be recorded as unknown. If trees are on adjacent land and cannot be accessed for measuring, an estimate should be made. It must be clearly stated on the drawings where measurements have been estimated. 8 Landscape
8.1 If the site is outside, or on the edge of, any settlement policy boundary, the location of any public rights of way (or public access land) and locations along/within these from which proposals may be seen, must be recorded. 9 Evaluation of Information
9.1 If protected species are identified from surveys, it will often be necessary to obtain a licence from the Natural England Wildlife Management and Licensing Service in addition to getting planning permission. Licence applications must be made by suitably experienced ecologists/wildlife specialists, and will generally require mitigation and/or compensation measures to offset any negative impacts. Licences can only be applied for after planning permission has been obtained. However, we will consult the licensing authority before determining the application, and take their views into account. In addition, mitigation or compensation measures may influence the design of the project. Therefore, any protected species issues must be addressed as part of the planning application. A full report, detailing survey results, implications and proposed mitigation and compensation must form part of the submission to the council. If, despite mitigation and compensation measures, the proposals are deemed likely to have an adverse impact on the species concerned, the application is liable to be refused. 9.2 If the proposal is within or is adjacent to a designated wildife site, but there is reason to believe that it will not be contrary to local plan policy E7, pre-application discussions should be held with Natural England, in the case of SSSIs and the council, in the case of SINCs and LNRs (see Appendix 4 for contact details). 9.3 We will take into account the impact on any trees and hedges of significant value in the local area. Likely effects on the trees’ health from construction/demolition
5 of 59 operations (particularly roots) and the compatibility between the trees and the proposal will be assessed to determine this impact. To minimise the risk to important trees, Root Protection Areas (RPAs) must be established around them (see Box 1). Proposals should then be drawn up to avoid impinging on the RPAs of any protected, or otherwise important, trees. Allowance must be made for working room during building works and the fact that foundations may protrude beyond the external walls drawn on plans. If, proposals cannot be designed to avoid impinging slightly on the RPAs, pre-application advice should be sought from an arboricultural consultant to help assess the acceptability of this (see contacts in Appendix 4). Certain types of hard surfacing within an RPA may be acceptable, but again, pre-application advice should be sought. Otherwise, any trees that will have their RPAs compromised by works, including driveways, and changes in ground level, should be shown on submitted drawings as scheduled to be removed. The compatibility between the trees and proposals should also take into account: • shading of windows • debris, including leaf fall and bird droppings • visibility of roads if proposals involve a new access onto the public highway 9.4 In some cases, pruning may help to mitigate compatibility issues, but this will generally need to be repeated periodically. The long-term maintenance commitment and impact on tree health must be carefully considered, and will form part of our appraisal of the application. 9.5 To ensure that proposals show the full implications for trees and other landscape features, plans should be submitted showing sightlines for any new access to the highway and the full construction footprint in relation to trees and other features. For example, room may be needed to erect scaffolding and it is likely that trenches for foundations will project beyond the line of the buildings shown on plans. 9.6 Applications adversely affecting, protected, or otherwise important, trees, are liable to be refused. 9.7 New building materials and styles in the countryside must be in accordance with the council’s Countryside Design Summary [7]. In villages, applications should be in accordance with the village design statement, if one has been prepared [8] and, in conservation areas, in accordance with the conservation area appraisal. 9.8 If proposals affecting the North Wessex Downs AONB are to be acceptable, they must respect the special character of this area.
Box 1: Simple approach for calculating Root Protection Areas (RPAs) where roots are evenly distributed Where trees are growing in open conditions with no obstructions to cause an asymmetrical rooting pattern, the following approach can be used to produce a guideline RPA. Measure the circumference around the tree trunk at 1.5 metres from ground level. Assuming this measurement is in centimetres, multiply this number by 0.04 to get the radius for the RPA in metres. Where there are existing buildings or hard surfaces such as driveways within this RPA, the tree is likely to have an asymmetrical root system and an arborist should be consulted to help determine the RPA.
6 of 59 Part 2: Larger Developments
[flow chart showing the process of survey, evaluation, site planning, detailed design etc. to be included here]
10 Scope of Part 2
10.1 This section provides the comprehensive guidance required for major development applications. However, much of the guidance is applicable to minor developments.
11 Pre-planning Surveys
11.1 General Considerations 11.1.1 It is important that landscape and biodiversity issues are considered as early as possible in the development process. Otherwise, these constraints may make certain proposals unacceptable, in terms of the relevant planning policies. Ecological surveys must be planned well in advance, because they have to be undertaken at appropriate times of year for the species concerned. Multiple site visits may be required over a season to provide meaningful results. Ecological mitigation work can also take considerable time to implement, and certain aspects will often have to be completed before any development can begin.
11.1.2 It is also important to consider these issues from the outset as they can only be fully addressed if the opportunities and constraints they represent are seen as a fundamental part of the design process. Attempting to accommodate important site features after a development layout has been prepared, through piecemeal adjustments and technical mitigation measures, rarely results in a satisfactory scheme.
11.1.3 Adequate surveys are essential to ensure development proposals are informed by a thorough understanding of the site and its context, including the constraints and opportunities. We must also have adequate information to assess the impact of proposals on the local environment, supported by evidence which, in many cases, will involve surveys. Failure to include adequate landscape and biodiversity information with an application (which includes submitting inconclusive survey results) is likely to result in an application being refused or may prevent an application from being registered until the matter is rectified.
11.1.4 In many cases it will be necessary to employ professional landscape architects, arboriculturists, ecologists and/or wildlife consultants to assist with the specialised aspects of planning covered by this document. Details of the relevant professional bodies maintaining registers of members in professional practice can be found at Appendix 3. It is important that these specialists work with urban designers, architects, engineers and other professionals as part of a multi-disciplinary design team. Only in this way can the landscape and biodiversity aspects of a development be fully considered, and successfully integrated with other aspects of the design.
11.1.5 Seeking pre-application advice from us is encouraged, and guidance on the process for different scales of development is provided on our website: www.basingstoke.gov.uk/planning/dc/preapp/ 7 of 59 11.1.6 It is common practice to reserve landscape treatment when submitting outline planning applications. However, the impact on the existing landscape, including trees, and biodiversity, will still form a material consideration in assessing the principle of developing, or changing the use of, a site. Therefore, the stated requirements for information still form an important part of preparing outline applications. If an applicant believes there is a reasonable case for omitting any surveys at the outline stage, this should be explored with us through pre-application discussion.
11.2 Determining the Spatial Extent of Surveys 11.2.1 The survey area will vary for the different types of survey, and will depend on the extent of potential impacts (or zone of influence) from the proposed development. As the details of the proposal will not be known at this pre-planning stage, the zones of influence should be defined on a precautionary basis. This must include all areas that might be affected, given the type of development envisaged, and the size and location of the site. These preliminary zones of influence can then be refined during the design and impact assessment process, as the extent of impacts becomes clearer. Zones of influence will vary for different types of impact, as well as the sensitivity of the receiving environment. They should be determined by the appropriate experts, in accordance with best practice, as set out in Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment [16] and Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom [11].
11.2.2 In determining zones of influence, consideration should be given to:
• any pollution risk • any alterations to watercourses or to the flow of streams or rivers • visibility of the site from the surrounding landscape • the effects of noise and light pollution • potential recreational pressure and disturbance or predation from pets, in the case of residential development 11.2.3 Surveys will often need to be undertaken on adjacent land, and will require the landowner’s permission. If this is not possible, and surveys are limited as a consequence, this must be recorded and acknowledged in planning applications.
[example zones of influence illustration to be included in final document]
11.3 Preliminary Desk Study 11.3.1 An initial desk study should involve a review of existing sources of information. This will help in deciding the scope of surveys required, and provide important information for the evaluation stages. Checklist 1 at Appendix 8 lists the matters to be considered and relevant sources of information.
11.4 General Site Survey 11.4.1 For all sites, a measured survey, at a scale appropriate for plotting at up to 1:200 should be undertaken to record the following information:
• site boundaries (location, type) and a clear indication of other land within the applicant’s ownership and/or control • ground levels • current use of site and adjacent land 8 of 59 • any existing buildings or structures • existing utility services (above and below ground) and evident way-leaves • access, roads, paths, bridleways and cycleways, including current barriers to movement • basic information on natural features and vegetation, including the location of any trees within the site, or within 30 metres of its boundaries1 • all trees with a stem diameter greater than 7.5 cm should be included in the survey • significant patches of smaller saplings or newly-planted trees (these can be shown as groups rather than as individuals • all hedgerows and significant shrubs • woodlands, assuming that there is no intention to develop within them, can be recorded as a single entity, with an outline depicting the outer canopy edge. However, the outer edge of trunks should be individually plotted along all sides that are within, or face, the site • all trees and other natural features should be numbered on plans for ease of future reference [figure to be included illustrating a typical site survey]
11.5 Other Investigations that may have Landscape or Biodiversity Implications 11.5.1 Contaminated land is an important issue in its own right. But it has particular implications for landscape and biodiversity on development sites where decontamination procedures can affect the feasibility of retaining existing features. Therefore, an early assessment of contamination risk should be made for any site where current or previous uses may mean that contaminants are present. Further investigations must be agreed with our Environmental Health team, and implemented as soon as possible. This will enable a remediation strategy to be developed in conjunction with landscape and biodiversity proposals. Advice must be sought from an ecologist and/or arboriculturist to ensure these investigations do not damage important habitats or trees. Further guidance on contaminated land is given in Development on Potentially Contaminated Land [10].
11.5.2 Archaeological investigations can also conflict with the retention of important landscape and biodiversity elements, if not carefully planned and integrated with the protection measures for these features.
11.6 Biodiversity 11.6.1 A so-called ‘Extended Phase 1 Survey’ should be undertaken. This involves recording the habitat types present, assessing the potential for protected, or otherwise notable, species presence, and assessing the key processes influencing the ecology of the site. This must cover the whole zone of influence, which should be determined by a competent ecologist, based on the characteristics of the proposed development, and in accordance with Section 3.2 (Determining the Spatial Extent of Surveys). It may also be necessary to extend the study beyond the basic zone of influence, if only part of a site or ecosystem falls within it. This is so the effects of development on the
1 This distance is used to ensure that trees that could come into conflict with the development (allowing for future growth) are taken into account, in addition to those that might be directly impacted by construction work. 9 of 59 integrity of the site or ecosystem as a whole can be assessed. It is expected that the ‘Extended Phase 1 Survey’ will record information about:
• habitat types and main plant communities • features of potential importance for nature conservation including hedges, veteran trees, green lanes, old walls, and traditional rural buildings • presence, or potential for presence, of legally protected species, principal species of biodiversity importance, or species of local conservation concern (see Appendix 6) • presence of invasive/problem species, such as Japanese knotweed, Rhododendron ponticum, Australian swamp stonecrop or signal crayfish, as well as evidence of heavy browsing by deer or rabbits • processes, natural or otherwise, that influence biodiversity within the zone of influence (for example, evidence of periodic flooding and the type of farming practices) • opportunities for enhancement. 11.6.2 Depending on the outcome of the ‘Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey’, additional ‘Phase 2’ surveys may be necessary. These involve surveys that are specific to particular species or more detailed assessment of plant communities and must be undertaken if habitats of conservation significance are recorded, or there is a likelihood of species being present that is legally protected or recognised as being of conservation concern (see Appendix 6). A list of potential triggers for ‘Phase 2’ surveys is given in Appendix 7).
11.6.3 If wetland habitats may be affected, hydrological surveys may be required.
11.6.4 In some cases, it may be appropriate to refine the zones of influence, as site planning work is undertaken, before deciding to commission additional surveys. However, the limitations on time of year for undertaking surveys, and the consequences for possible project delays, must be taken into account. As an aid to planning further surveys, Figure 1 gives guidance on suitable times of year for different groups of organism. This includes sub-optimal times, when survey work may provide information on potential constraints. However, surveys undertaken during these times will not necessarily be sufficient to support planning application submissions.
11.6.5 All species surveys must include a thorough evaluation of the site and surrounding area in terms of habitat and resource requirements for the species or species group concerned. References to guidance on survey methods and standards are listed in Appendix 5.
10 of 59 Figure 1: Survey times for species and species groups often affected by development
Key: Optimal Survey Time Sub-optimal JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
BADGERS
BATS
(Hibernation Roosts)
BATS
(Summer Roosts)
BATS
(Foraging/Commuting)
BIRDS (Breeding)
BIRDS (Over wintering)
DORMICE
GREAT– Terrestrial CRESTED NEWTS Aquatic
INVERTEBRATES
OTTERS
REPTILES
WATER VOLES
WHITE-CLAWED
CRAYFISH
HABITATS/
VEGETATION
(Reproduced by kind permission of Mike Oxford, Association of Local Government Ecologists)
11.7 Landscape Landscape Character 11.7.1 A local assessment of landscape, and/or townscape, character (depending on the context) should be undertaken, in accordance with Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland [24], and with reference to the Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment [15], and the Urban Characterisation Study for Basingstoke [2] for proposals within Basingstoke.
11.7.2 If a full application is to be submitted, the following surveys should also be undertaken:
• surface water drainage
11 of 59 • microclimate • soil survey, including depth, texture, structure, and drainage characteristics These may be omitted for outline applications, if landscaping is to be a reserved matter.
Visual Appraisal 11.7.3 A visual appraisal should be undertaken in accordance with Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment [16], identifying:
• the zone from which the site (and intended type of development) will be visible • publicly accessible areas • views into and out of the site • the visual prominence of the site within the local landscape • the nature and sensitivity of key landscape views that the proposals may impinge upon (these should be discussed and agreed with the council through pre-application discussions).
11.7.4 If the development is on the edge of a settlement or outside a settlement policy boundary, the visibility assessment must include the impact of night-time lighting on the surrounding countryside.
11.8 Trees 11.8.1 Where trees have been identified within 30 metres of the site, they should be surveyed in accordance with BS5837: 2005 Trees in Relation to Construction— Recommendations [5]. These surveys must include all trees identified in the general site survey (see section 3.4). Where there are many trees or it may otherwise be difficult to identify them from plans, they should be tagged (provided the landowner’s permission has been obtained). If it is not possible to get access to trees on adjacent land, estimated measurements may be given, but this must be acknowledged in the survey report as a limitiation.
11.8.2 If the desk study has revealed the potential for vegetation-related subsidence problems, soil tests should be undertaken to determine the potential for shrinkage/swelling.
12 Evaluation of Survey Information
12.1 General 12.1.1 Information on contaminated land, archaeology, way-leaves, easements etc. must be evaluated in terms of the implications for the conservation and enhancement of landscape and biodiversity interests, as well as the development proposals.
12.2 Biodiversity 12.2.1 Habitats must be evaluated in terms of any designations that apply (eg. SSSI or SINC), or whether they are listed as ‘Habitats of Principal Importance in England’ or ‘Key Habitats’ under the local plan (see Box 2 for a list and Appendix 6 for further details). The social value, in terms of public access to natural greenspace, must also be evaluated. Box 3 provides further information on the implications of diffent types of nature conservation designation.
12 of 59 Box 2: Key Habitats1
Ancient Semi-natural Woodland Lowland Pasture Woodland/Parkland Ancient and/or Species Rich Hedgerows Unimproved neutral grassland/fen Calcareous grassland Floodplain grazing marsh Lowland heath/bog/acid grassland Fen/carr/marsh/swamp/reedbed Standing open water Chalk rivers Basingstoke Canal
1 Incorporating Habitats of Principal Importance in England (as listed in the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Plan 1996-2011)
12.2.2 The extent of connectivity between habitats and the role of individual habitats and features in providing ‘corridors’ and stepping stones to aid the movement of wildlife across the landscape should be assessed. The potential for improving connectivity throught the creation of new habitat features should also be assessed.
12.2.3 The secondary, or support value, of land to adjacent habitats should also be assessed. Some areas, for example, may provide a valuable buffer around important habitats. Improved pasture, of low intrinsic biodiversity value, may be important in ensuring the viability of grazing, which is necessary to maintain adjacent unimproved grasslands of high biodiversity value.
12.2.4 Features within habitats must be independently evaluated for their wildlife value. Trees, for example, should be assessed in terms of any notable species they support, and for their intrinsic habitat value through the presence of cavities and deadwood. Safety aspects must be assessed as part of the tree survey (see para 4.5.1). Any hedges comprised of native species should be evaluated to determine whether they qualify as Important under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997, or fall within the definition of ancient or species rich hedgerows (see Appendix 6).
12.2.5 Both habitats and populations of species must be evaluated for their enhancement potential. Where SSSIs are concerned, this evaluation must take into account the condition status, as assessed by Natural England (see Table 1 for information source).
12.2.6 Species must be evaluated in terms of the level of any legal protection applying to them, and whether they are listed as ‘Species of Principal Importance in England’ or (local) ‘Priority Species’ (see Appendix 6). 13 of 59 12.2.7 Any invasive/problem species must be evaluated in terms of legal considerations, implications for the biodiversity of the site, and options/opportunities for control.
12.2.8 Processes affecting the ecology of the site and surrounding area must be evaluated in terms of their importance in maintaining the biodiversity of the area.
Box 3: weight given to different types of nature conservation site designation
Policy E7 of the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Plan 1996-2011 contains a presumption against the granting of planning permission that would result in harm to statutory or non-statutory nature conservation sites. Statutory nature conservation sites include Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). Non-statutory nature conservation sites include Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs). The policy provides that, where there is a public interest in favour of a proposal, the local or national importance of the designation and any statutory requirements will be taken into account in determining the application. National planning policy guidance in Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation is that proposed SPAs and candidate SACs should be treated the same way as those that have already been classified or designated. PPS9 also includes a presumption against development that would, on its own or in combination with other developments, adversely affect a SSSI. It further states that “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 SSSIs.”
Statutory requirements that the council will take into account include Regulation 48 of the Habitats Regulations (as amended), which restricts the granting of planning permission for development which is likely to have a significant effect on a SPA or SAC; and section 28G of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) that requires local planning authorities to “take reasonable steps, consistent with the proper exercise of the authority’s functions, to futher the conservation and enhancement of the features for which sites are of special interest.”
12.3 Landscape 12.3.1 There are two aspects to the evaluation of the landscape information: landscape character and visibility of the proposal site from the surrounding area.
Landscape Character 12.3.2 Landscape character assessment does not involve judgements about the quality of landscapes assessed. Therefore, it is necessary to do this as part of the evaluation stage, so the significance of impacts can be judged during the design stages.
12.3.3 The elements making up landscape character, such as landform, vegetation and land- use patterns, must be judged in terms of attractiveness, local distinctiveness, naturalness and historic value. Naturalness and historic value often go together, as older managed features tend to be more influenced by natural processes than those arising as a result of modern land management practices. Examples are: traditional hay meadows, ancient hedgerows, water meadows and ancient woodland. However, recently abandoned areas may attain a degree of naturalness through colonisation by vegetation and wildlife. Information relevant to this assessment will be available from
14 of 59 biodiversity surveys. However, it should be kept in mind that it is the contribution of such features to the aesthetic and historical aspects of the landscape that is being judged at this stage, rather than biodiversity conservation value. Local distinctiveness can be assessed by reference to landscape character area descriptions in:
• Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment [15] • Countryside Design Summary and village design statements • Basingstoke Urban Characterisation Study [2]
12.3.4 If the study area is within the North Wessex Downs AONB and/or a conservation area, the significance of landscape elements in terms of these designations must also be assessed, with reference to the AONB landscape assessment [17], or relevant conservation area appraisal (see Table 1).
12.3.5 In completing the assessment, it is important to consider the overall combination and pattern of the various elements in forming local landscape character. Individual features that should be conserved, enhanced, or possibly removed if intrusive, must also be noted.
12.3.6 Landscape-wide attributes must be evaluated, including the degree of openness or enclosure, and the ‘depth’ of history still evident.
12.3.7 Tranquillity, too, is an important aspect of landscape character and should form part of the evaluation. The following factors identified with people’s perceptions of tranquillity should be taken into account:
• quietness and natural sounds versus intrusive noise sources (especially roads) • dark night skies versus light pollution • sense of naturalness, remoteness, and solitude versus overt signs of human development.
12.3.8 The evident loss or erosion of historic features (eg. hedgerows and ponds), and the presence of elements that are visually intrusive, detract from scenic quality or locally distinctive character, should be considered.
12.3.9 The assessment of individual elements will allow important features to be selected for retention and, in some cases, enhancement. This synthesis of information will enable an overall assessment to be made of the area’s sensitivity to changes in character.
Visibility 12.3.10 This involves an assessment of the intervisibility between the site and the surrounding landscape, particularly public rights of way, public spaces and existing houses. The scope for mitigating the visual impacts of development, by enhancing or creating additional screening (taking into account the time it will take for it to become effective), should form part of this assessment. Computer methods can be used to assist with this, but should be supplemented by assessment in the field. Further guidance is given in Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment [16].
12.4 Historic Parks and Gardens 12.4.1 If the proposal may affect a historic park or garden (especially one listed on the ‘Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England’), specialists in 15 of 59 garden history and restoration must be engaged to evaluate the importance of features in terms of conserving the historic interest of the site, having regard to any designation applying. A further assessment must be made of the site’s capacity to accommodate the type of development proposal, without adversely affecting its historic character. Restoration potential must also be assessed, unless a restoration plan has already been prepared. Whilst there is no local plan policy relating to ‘Parks and Gardens of Local Interest’, it is expected that the particular historic characteristics of these sites will be evaluated as part of the assessment of landscape character.
12.5 Trees 12.5.1 Trees, and groups of trees, must be evaluated in accordance with Table 1 of BS5837: 2005 [5], and ascribed the appropriate A, B, C or R (remove) grade. However, it is important that results of the landscape and biodiversity evaluations are used in assigning these values, and this should not be an isolated exercise. Where trees are growing as part of a group, the collective value of the group should be taken into account for the purposes of categorisation.
12.5.2 Any legal protection relating to the trees, including tree preservation orders, conservation area or felling licence controls, should be acknowledged in the assessment. However, it should be noted that trees can be a material consideration, irrespective of whether they are protected.
12.5.3 An assessment should be made, taking into account desk studies of geology/follow- up soil surveys, of the risk of existing or new trees causing subsidence to proposed buildings. This can then be taken into account in foundation design. 13 Preparing Development Proposals
13.1 It may be clear by this stage, from the survey and evaluation information, that the type of proposal envisaged will be contrary to landscape and biodiversity planning policies. Therefore, preparation of development proposals will be inappropriate. If there are material considerations in favour of departure from local plan policies, it is strongly recommended that these are discussed with us before proceeding any further.
Opportunity and Constraints Plans 13.2 If the proposal is considered compatible with relevant landscape and biodiversity planning policies, the impacts on landscape and biodiversity should be assessed at key stages of preparing the development proposals. Designs can then be modified, if necessary, before they are too far advanced. However, certain impacts can be avoided from the outset, simply by preparing and using an opportunities and constraints plan before planning the layout. Having mapped these, including buffer zones where appropriate (see Box 4), the optimum developable area, avoiding constraints can be added. A checklist for opportunties and constraints plans is provided at Appendix 8.
[Example of constraints and opportunities plan to be included]
16 of 59 Box 4: Buffer Zones
Where initial assessments suggest that existing landscape features/habitats can be integrated into development without adverse affects, it is important, nevertheless, to allow for adequate buffer zones between the feature and the buildings or hard landscape elements. For main rivers and non-main rivers or ponds, minimum buffer zones of eight metres and five metres, respectively, should be allowed for. Failure to provide a sufficient distance between dwellings and treebelts or woodlands can result in reduced quality of life for residents, due to heavy shading and perceived danger, as well as adversely affecting the ecology of the treebelt or woodland, due to dumping of garden rubbish, light and noise pollution and pressure for lopping trees and removing valuable deadwood habitat. Rear gardens that abut woodland can also reduce the security of dwellings. Buffer zones should be created that provide a naturally graded edge to the woodland (see fig below) and allow for maintenance access. In the case of ancient semi-natural woodland, the buffer zone should also allow the natural processes of tree death and decay to occur without unnecessary risk to people or property. A minimum buffer of 20 metres should be provided between the edge of the woodland and the development (including gardens), unless it can be demonstrated, in a particular case, that the above issues can be satisfactorily addressed if a lesser distance is applied.
[Fig showing cross sections of woodland buffer zones, illustrating provision of maintenance access and graded edge planting, to be included.]
Landscape and Biodiversity Design Objectives 13.3 In addition to opportunities and constraints plans, design objectives for landscape and biodiversity elements should be derived from the survey information and evaluation. Checklist 3 at Appendix 8 provides guidance on appropriate objectives.
13.4 Using Constraints and Opportunities Plans and Landscape and Biodiversity Objectives 13.4.1 In the past, landscape and biodiversity considerations have often been left until development layouts, often dominated by highway considerations, are prepared. This has led to generic and bland developments, often conflicting with the retention of important landscape and biodiversity features. By using constraints and opportunities mapping, and setting landscape and biodiversity along with any other relevant design objectives to inform the proposals from the beginning, it should be possible to avoid major conflicts from the outset. Furthermore, it will help in producing a high-quality, locally-distinctive design, in keeping with the surrounding area.
13.4.2 When using the opportunities and constraints plans, it is important to map and overlay all the spatial implications of the proposals, not just the footprint of buildings and roads etc. These spatial implications should include:
• visibility splays for any road junctions • level changes and any subsequent grading and/or retaining walls required, with particular regard to root protection zones around important trees • construction footprints (allowing sufficient working room between the built elements and features to be protected) 17 of 59 • possible service routes, manholes, junction boxes and other ancillary development [illustration to be included showing the difference between building footprints and construction footprints]
13.5 Residual Impact Assessment, Mitigation and Compensation 13.5.1 The constraints and opportunities mapping will help to avoid direct impacts, but there may be cases where it is not possible to meet the objectives of the proposal and avoid all constraints. In addition, there will be indirect impacts that are not obvious from simple overlays of development proposals. The latter should be assessed in accordance with professional best practice, as set out in Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom [11], Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment [16] and BS5837: 2005 [5]. Whilst not exhaustive, some of the types of impact that we will consider when assessing applications, are provided in the checklist 4 at Appendix 8.
13.5.2 To avoid any additional impacts that are identified, changes to the design should first be considered. Only when this option has been exhausted, should consideration be given to ways of mitigating the remaining impacts.
13.5.3 When considering mitigation measures, the following points must be taken into account:
• unproven mitigation methods will be treated as such by the council. The uncertainty and risk of failure will be taken into account when assessing the proposals against planning policies • all relevant professionals must be involved in developing mitigation solutions (engineers, for example, may need to work with tree specialists to design hard landscape elements that reduce impacts on trees whilst meeting other performance requirements) • measures designed to mitigate one impact, may give rise to other impacts, which need to be taken into account (for example, extensive tree belts for screening may adversely impact on the character of open downland and be inappropriate) • planting intended to provide screening may take a considerable amount of time to take effect and realisic growth rates must be taken into account when considering this type of mitigation • mitigation involving control over construction activities must be considered at this stage, to ensure feasibility. For example, temporary protective fencing may conflict with working room for scaffolding, if there is insufficient space between proposed buildings and the features to be protected. 13.5.4 If mitigation is unable to fully address impacts, compensation should then be considered (for example, by creating substitute habitats or features elsewhere). The acceptability of compensation measures will depend on the extent to which that habitat or feature can be satisfactorily recreated. It would not, for example, address the loss of irreplaceable habitats such as ancient woodland.
13.5.5 Taking into account proposed mitigation and compensation measures, we will assess the significance of residual impacts in terms of relevant planning policies. We strongly advise applicants to do the same at key stages, as the proposals are prepared, to avoid wasting time and money preparing unacceptable proposals.
18 of 59 13.5.6 If a designated site of international importance (Special Protection Area or Special Area of Conservation) falls within the zone of influence, a separate assessment under the Habitats Regulations 1994 may be required.
14 Landscape Design and Biodiversity Enhancement in Masterplans
14.1 The constraints, mitigation, compensation and opportunities for enhancement identified must be drawn together with other design objectives, when preparing the masterplan and a landscape strategy for the site. This must be submitted with the planning application. If planning permission is granted, detailed planting plans and hard landscape details will usually be required as a condition of planning permission. This section sets out some key issues we will consider when assessing these documents.
14.2 Environmental Sustainability of Materials and Landscape Management 14.2.1 Careful integration of existing site features can make a major contribution to reducing the wider environmental impacts caused by importing plants and other landscape materials. Consideration should also be given to transplanting existing trees and shrubs of good quality that unable to remain in their existing locations.
14.2.2 If materials are brought in, preference should be given to recycled materials, where these meet performance standards. New timber should be certified under the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) scheme as having been harvested from a sustainably-managed forest. Peat-based planting soil conditioners should not be used.
14.2.3 Landscape management can impact on the environment through the use of water, particularly during the establishment phase, and through the energy and pollution involved in the use of machinery and vehicles for maintenance. Areas of naturalistic green space, rather than standard amenity grass mixtures, can considerably reduce the intensity of maintenance required. Plants used in formal landscaping are generally chosen for drought tolerance, amongst other attributes. However, particular care should be used where soil volumes are low, such as in planters, or tree pits in areas of hard paving. A proper programme of post-planting weed control, and the use of mulch mats, can significantly reduce watering needs and post-planting failure. There should also be a programme of formative tree pruning, which can help correct defects that would otherwise develop into problems, more difficult to remedy as trees reach maturity.
14.2.4 Consideration should be given to the use of grey water recycling systems for irrigation.
14.2.5 Further information on energy and resource use issues will be provided in the our proposed Design and Sustainability SPD [8].
14.3 Integrating Sustainable Drainage Systems 14.3.1 Many developments will need to incorporate sustainable drainage systems to prevent excessive run-off of storm water, in accordance with Local Plan Policy E8. With care, landscapes can be designed to aid site drainage and provide other functions. These include structure planting, open space, and enhanced biodiversity through the creation of balancing ponds, reedbeds and swales. Features such as green roofs and walls can also make a significant contribution to sustainable drainage. As well as
19 of 59 reducing run-off, the use of permeable hard surfaces can aid the survival of trees and other plants growing in paved areas.
14.3.2 Early consideration must be given to future maintenance of sustainable drainage systems. We will generally be able to adopt areas forming part of a sustainable drainage system providing they also function as a useful open space. But we are unable to adopt features that requiring specialist maintenance, such as de-silting.
14.3.3 Further guidance is available from Interim Code of Practice for Sustainable Drainage Systems [12].
[photo/illustration to be included showing SUDS features].
14.4 Habitat Creation and Enhancement 14.4.1 Policy E7 of the local plan and PPS9 [22] require that new developments make a positive contribution to biodiversity. The site analysis will have helped identify opportunities for habitat creation and enhancement, which should be incorporated into the landscape proposals. The creation of viable habitats is a specialist task and must involve suitably experienced ecologists, working with landscape architects. Additional site investigations to establish soil characteristics and hydrological factors may be required. Key points are:
• proposed habitat types reflect the soils, geology and hydrology of the site • proposed habitat types support the implementation of national [4] and local Habitat Action Plans [3] • native plants of local origin are specified to help conserve genetic diversity • long-term management requirements are financially viable and practical 14.4.2 Green or brown roofs and green walls are a good way of securing biodiversity contributions, especially in high density schemes where there are limited opportunities for habitat creation around proposed buildings. They also have benefits in terms of sustainable drainage and insulating buildings, making them more energy efficient, and can provide additional private amenity space.
[illustration / photo to be inserted with caption explaining green and brown roofs and green walls]
14.4.3 Further guidance on integrating biodiversity enhancement with new development is given in the publications, Biodiverstiy by Design [25] and Developing Naturally [19].
[illustration / photo to be included showing biodiversity enhancements, including connectivity with existing habitats to aid movement of wildife]
14.5 Open Space Provision and Adoption Issues 14.5.1 It is important that all areas of open space within developments serve a useful and, ideally, a range of functions, such as recreation, wildlife habitat, screening, and sustainable drainage. Avoid leaving awkward, hard-to-maintain areas, that are too small to serve any useful purpose, as we will not usually adopt these.
14.5.2 Minimum standards for open space provision are set out in council planning guidance, Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure [23]. These requirements must be taken into account from the opportunities and constraints mapping stage onwards. The financial contributions required to support open space adoption are also set out in this document. 20 of 59 14.5.3 If land to be adopted contains trees, we will require them to be brought into a satisfactory condition, and hazardous or declining trees removed, before the adoption takes place. We may decline to adopt trees that are not protected in accordance with planning conditions, or additional financial contributions may be required to cover extra safety inspections and possible premature removals/replacements. Before adopting trees, we will consider their relationship to buildings to ensure we are not taking on liabilities in terms of nuisance claims (see Box 4 for guidance on buffer zones and graded woodland edges).
14.5.4 Where the trees are to be adopted by the highway authority, similar requirements will apply. Further details relating to arboricultural requirements, in relation to Section 38 Agreements are provided at Appendix 9.
[photos to be added showing good and bad examples of tree relationships]
14.5.5 Footpaths within adoptable open spaces should not be lit unless they are to be adopted and maintained by the highway authority rather than by the borough council.
14.6 Inclusive Access 14.6.1 An integral part of the landscape design process is to ensure that everyone can move through the site and enjoy its open spaces, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity or social grouping. Particular considerations are:
• barriers to pedestrians, including those with wheelchairs, pushchairs and prams, must be avoided • signage must be designed to maximise clarity, avoiding poorly contrasting lettering/symbols and background, and it must be positioned at a height readable by all site users • views must be considered from the height of all users, including small children 14.6.2 Further guidance is available from Designing for Access [13], which we have adopted. This contains information relevant to the external environment, as well as public buildings.
14.7 Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour 14.7.1 The design of external environments can significantly affect opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour, as well as people’s fear of these activities, and the ability to detect them. Initial site assessment, and the opportunities and constraints mapping should have identified existing problem areas. Addressing these, as well as minimising the risks associated with newly-created landscape features, should be a key aim of the design process. This is intrinsically linked to the aims of creating attractive environments in which the local community takes pride, and has a sense of responsibility for.
14.7.2 There will be situations where aims, such as visibility of vulnerable areas, may conflict with other design objectives, such as maintaining important trees, and/or protecting the integrity of important habitats. However, these natural features have an important role to play in creating high quality environments, in which residents can be proud to live. More natural areas of open space can provide opportunities for creative children’s play, and for the whole community to engage in the stewardship of their local environment. This can all help create a sense of community ownership and responsibility, making these areas less likely to attract undesirable behaviour. Many other aspects of good landscape design are complementary to the reduction of crime 21 of 59 and anti-social behaviour. For example, avoiding leftover areas that are difficult to maintain, and serve no function, avoids neglected areas that can attract undesirable behaviour. Buffer zones, between sensitive habitats and buildings, create transitional areas of defensible space and improve natural surveillance.
14.7.3 More information is available through the Secured by Design initiative (see Appendix 5 for contact details).
14.8 Historic landscapes Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings 14.8.1 Conservation Areas are places within the built environment designated for their special architectural or historic interest. The buildings are central to this, but the spaces between them, and, in some cases, the wider landscape, are also key components. It is particularly important to avoid generic landscaping schemes in these areas, which are insensitive to the historic context. Gardens and open spaces in conservation areas have been subject to changing planting fashions since their original layout. Therefore, it would be inappropriate to be overly conservative in the choice of plants. However, using older introductions and styles of planting (contemporary with the period of adjacent buildings), as well as native species, is one way to enhance, rather than detract from, the character of conservation areas. These considerations also apply to the landscape setting of listed buildings.
Historic Parks and Gardens 14.8.2 If proposals are within a historic park or garden, and compatible with planning policies, consideration should be given to opportunities for restoration. Specialist advice on this should be sought. All new landscaping should respect the character of the site, or support the objectives of restoration.
Historic aspects of the wider landscape 14.8.3 Opportunities to restore historic landscape features, such as dilapidated hedgerows and neglected coppice, and implement sympathetic forms of ongoing management should be considered.
14.9 Plant Choice and Planting 14.9.1 Street tree species and varieties should be chosen taking into account compatibility with access and movement and their relationship to buildings and utilities. Their potential size and growth rate must also be taken into account. Where the trees are to be planted on land that will be adopted by the highway authority, there should be prior discussion with them (see contacts at Appendix 4).
14.9.2 Large tree species should be used, where space permits, to create landmark and skyline features.
14.9.3 Native species should be used in rural or urban fringe areas, except where landscape character considerations suggest otherwise (for example, planting that is in keeping with areas of historic character – see para 6.8.1). Open spaces within Basingstoke should be substantially naturalistic, with non-native planting and mown grass being restricted to the town centre, areas within the immediate vicinity of housting, public and commercial premises and defined areas of parks and gardens.
14.9.4 If the soils in planting areas are unsatisfactory, remedial treatment, such as incorporation of soil amendments or decompaction, should be applied to the whole planting area, not just to planting holes.
22 of 59 14.9.5 If the development is on a shrinkable/expandable clay soil, building foundations must be adequate to cope with the potential effects of the planting when it is mature.
14.10 Landscape Detailing 14.10.1 Close co-ordination between landscape design and other aspects of external detailing, including utilities, is crucial for good design. Failure to achieve this can result in a hotchpotch of features that conflict with one another, detract from an overall sense of place, and impair the functions the landscaping is aiming to fulfil. See Checklist 6 at Appendix 8 for further guidance.
[photos and illustrative material to be included final document, including illustration of tree pit design]
14.11 Landscape Plans / Drawings 14.11.1 Separate drawings must be submitted for soft and hard landscape proposals. These must be supplemented with additional sections and construction drawings, where necessary, to show details. Checklists 7 and 8 at Appendix 8 set out the details required.
23 of 59 15 Construction Stages and Beyond
15.1 If planning permission is granted, it is likely to be subject to conditions relating to protection of the landscape and biodiversity, mitigation of impacts, and provisions for long-term management. It is essential that working drawings and contract documents accurately reflect the proposals as approved. This includes the incorporation of mitigation measures required to reduce landscape and biodiversity impacts.
15.2 Protection plans may be required for trees, other landscape features, and wildlife habitats or a combination of these. Fencing will be the primary means of protection, which must be to a sufficient specification to resist impacts from heavy machinery. It must prevent casual movement or easy dismantling by workers who may not appreciate its importance. It must enclose root protection areas around trees, and their canopies if they overhang the root protection area. If other areas are to be protected, such as wildife habitats, the fencing must enclose buffer zones identified by the relevant experts. Protection plans must include a method statement, setting out the timing of fence erection and dismantling, in relation to different phases of construction.
[illustration of suitable protective fencing to be included]
15.3 The protection plan must be accompanied by method statements and specifications for any mitigation measures required. Where protected species are involved, a licence may have to be obtained once planning permission has been granted. This is a separate process, independent of the planning system. However, the details of the planning decision will be taken into account by the licensing authority, in determining whether there is an overriding public interest reason for granting a licence. It is important that any mitigation required as a condition of the licence, is integrated with the general biodiversity elements of the approved planning permission.
15.4 To ensure trees are compatible with the new development, a schedule of tree works may be required for land to be adopted or left in private ownership. As well as covering remedial pruning requirements, this must also include removal of any trees that are being dangerous, or otherwise unsuitable for retention within the approved layout.
15.5 Management plans, which may be required as part of a Section 106 Planning Obligation, should be prepared for formal landscaped areas and wildlife habitats, whether or not the council is to adopt the land. Management plans should set out the aftercare of new landscape planting and newly created habitats to ensure successful establisment, and the long-term management required to maintain the landscape and habitats in perpetuity. They should include:
• background information about the site that will be aid future site managers • explanation of the the design concept and the long-term aims and objectives • the mechanisms (legal and other) to ensure effective long term management • Identification of management agency (or agencies) • arrangements for quality control, monitoring, inspection and handover • provisions for review (at least every five years) • land ownerships and boundary responsibilities
24 of 59 • a five year costed work programme including maintenance regimes for hard and soft landscape areas including grass, ornamental planting, paving and structures, naturalistic planting, woodland, watercourses and other habitats. 15.6 Other than initial works before handover, non-woodland trees to be adopted by us will be managed under our existing tree management system. Therefore, management plans are not required, but commuted sums will be required to cover the costs of future maintenance. Surveys showing the position of each tree (in digital format) may be required as part of the adoption agreement. See Appendix 9 for guidance relating to highway trees.
25 of 59 References
[1] Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Plan 1996-2011 (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, 2006) [2] Basingstoke Urban Characterisation Study (in preparation) Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council [3] Biodiversity Action Plan for Hampshire (Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership,1998) [4] Biodiversity: the UK Action Plan (Cm2428) [5] BS5837: 2005 Trees in Relation to Construction—Recommendations. British Standards Institution, Milton Keynes. [6] Centre for Accessible Environments and RIBA Enterprises. [7] Countryside Design Summary (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council) [8] Draft Design and Sustainability Supplementary Planning Document (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, in prep) [9] Farm Diversification and Traditional Farmsteads Supplementary Planning Document (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, 2007) [10] Hampshire and Isle of Wight Contaminated Land Liaison Group (2005) Development on Potentially Contaminated Land, informal guidance, v 1.2. Available from: www.basingstoke.gov.uk/services/envhealth/Contaminated+Land.htm [11] Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom [12] Interim Code of Practice for Sustainable Drainage Systems (2004) National SUDS Working Group. Available from: www.ciria.org/suds/icop.htm [13] Lacey, A (2004) Designing for Accessibility: an Essential Guide for Public Buildings. [14] Lambrick, G. & Bramhill, P. (1999) Hampshire Historic Landscape Assessment. Hampshire County Council & English Heritage [15] Landscape Design Associates and Wessex Archaeology (2001) Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. [16] Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Assessment (Aug 2001) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 2Rev Ed edition, Spon Press [17] Land Use Consultants (2002) The North Wessex Downs Landscape: A Landscape Assessment of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Countryside Agency [18] North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan (The Council of Partners, 2004) [19] Oxford, M (2000) Developing Naturally: a Handbook for Incorporating the Natural Environment into Planning and Development. Association of Local Government Ecologists [20] Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development (Communities and Local Government, 2005) [21] Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas (Communities and Local Government, 2004) [22] Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation (Communities and Local Government, 2005) [23] Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Plan, 2006) [24] Swanwick, C. (2002) Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland. CAX 84. Scottish Natural Heritage and Countryside Agency [25] URBED, Town and Country Planning Association and ALGE (2004) Biodiverstiy by Design. Town and Country Planning Association. 26 of 59 Appendix 1: Supported Local Plan Policies
Policy E1
Proposals for new development will be permitted provided that they are of a high standard of design, make efficient use of land, respect the amenities of neighbouring occupiers, and do not result in inappropriate traffic generation or compromise highway safety. All development proposals should therefore:
• Respond to the local context of buildings in terms of design, siting, density and spacing, reinforce attractive qualities of local distinctiveness and enhance areas of poor design; extensions should respect their host building; • Provide a comprehensive landscaping scheme, where appropriate, enabling the development to successfully integrate with the landscape and surrounds, and not result in the loss of or have a potentially adverse impact on protected trees; and • Not generate traffic of a type or amount inappropriate for roads, properties or settlements in the locality, and provide safe and convenient access for all potential users, integrating into existing movement networks and open spaces; and • Provide a co-ordinated and comprehensive scheme that does not prejudice the development of adjoining land; and • Incorporate features to minimise the energy consumed in the construction and future use of the building, conserve water and minimise water use; and • Create attractive public spaces, which are safe, minimise opportunities for crime, facilitate public enjoyment, and foster the legibility of the built environment; and • Minimise the potential for pollution of air and soil and not create noise or light which harms living and working conditions or the public’s enjoyment of the built and natural environment.
Policy E3
Development within Conservation Areas, or on sites outside where development would affect the setting of the Conservation Area, will be permitted provided that the proposals preserve or enhance their special character or appearance. Through determining applications, the Borough Council will:
• Seek to retain buildings, architectural features, trees, spaces and other features which are important to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area; and • Allow new development if this would contribute to the area by preserving or enhancing its character and appearance; • Shopfronts and advertisements make a significant contribution to the character of shopping areas, which lie within Conservation Areas. All proposals should therefore maintain, preserve and where appropriate, restore, the architectural details of shopfronts and advertisements in Conservation Areas.
Policy E5
Development which adversely affects sites on English Heritage’s Register of Historic Parks will not be permitted
Policy E6
Planning permission will only be granted where it is demonstrated that the proposals will be sympathetic to the landscape character and quality of the area concerned.
27 of 59 Development proposals should contribute to the regeneration, restoration, repair or conservation of any landscape likely to be affected. In particular they should respect, and improve, the following: • the particular qualities of the relevant Landscape Character Area as defined in the Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment; • visual amenity and scenic quality; • the setting of a settlement, including important views to, across and out of settlements; • the local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; • trees, hedgerows, water features and other landscape elements and features; and • historic landscapes, features and elements
Consideration will also be given to the impact that development would have on sense of place, sense of remoteness or tranquillity, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way. The designation of the North Wessex Downs AONB reflects the national importance of that landscape. In addition to the other requirements of this Policy, applications for development in the AONB will be determined in accordance with the policy in PPS7 also having regard to the setting of the AONB.
Policy E7
Development or a change of land use will be permitted where it will not have an adverse effect on protected species or the conservation status of priority species, harm the nature conservation interest of a statutory or non-statutory wildlife nature conservation site or lead to the loss or deterioration of a key habitat type or harm the integrity of linkages between such sites and habitats.
Proposals will be expected to conserve and, where possible, enhance the biodiversity of the receiving environment, taking into account the aims and targets of the UK and Local Biodiversity Action Plans. Where appropriate, planning conditions and obligations will be used to secure these requirements. In particular, the opportunity will be taken to secure the creation and management of features of the landscape that, by virtue of their linear and continuous structure or their function as ‘stepping stones’, are of major importance for the migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of wild species.
The weight given to the protection of nature conservation interests will depend on the national or local significance and any statutory designation or protection applying to the site, habitat or species concerned. Where the public interest in favour of a proposal is deemed to outweigh harm to biodiversity, the local planning authority will require the use of the best practicable mitigation/compensation measures, which will be secured through planning conditions and planning obligations, as appropriate.
Applications for development must include adequate information to enable a proper assessment of the implications for biodiversity. It should be noted that adverse effects on nature conservation interests are not necessarily limited to the proposal site. Adjacent land, including that outside the local plan boundary, must also be considered.
Policy E8
Development will not be permitted if it would increase the number of people or property at high risk of flooding, or be likely to increase the risk or severity of flooding elsewhere. Proposal will be assessed according to the sequential risk-based approach set out in Table 1 of PPG25. Those areas believed to be at high risk are defined on the Proposals Maps as floodplains; applications within such areas must be accompanied by a flood risk assessment.
Development will not be permitted if it would increase the risk of flooding elsewhere, as a result of changing the surface water run-off, unless that risk can be overcome through measures to be implemented by the developer.
28 of 59 Developments likely to increase surface water run-off should incorporate sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS). Developers will be required to ensure that arrangements are in place for the long term management and maintenance of the SUDS. Development will not be permitted if it would affect the water environment and, as a consequence hydrology and thus adversely impact upon the biodiversity of an area either locally or at a distance. Development will not be permitted if it would affect impact upon groundwater quality.
29 of 59 Appendix 2: Glossary of Terms
Ancient and/or Species Rich Hedgerows - ancient hedgerows are defined as those which were in existence before the Enclosure Acts, passed mainly between 1720 and 1840. Many of the latter comprise mostly hawthorn, planted in straight lines. Species-rich hedgerows are those which contain five or more native woody species on average in a thirty metre length Ancient Woodland – woodland that has been present since at least 1600. Biodiversity – the variety of species, the genetic diversity within them, and the variety of communities and natural processes they give rise to. Compensation – measures (for example habitat creation) taken to offset the loss of, or damage to, the landscape or biodiversity features. Compensation is the last resort when impacts cannot be satisfactorily mitigated. Ecosystem – a distinctive unit formed by organisms interacting with their physical environment and one another. Ecosystems exist at a wide range of scales, from small ponds, for example, to large forests. Key Habitats – semi-natural or other special types of habitat that provide for needs of species that cannot be met by the wider countryside or urban landscape. Many contain plant communities found nowhere else and, if lost, are difficult or impossible to recreate. Origin (relating to planting stock) – used in relation to planting material to refer to the geographic location that the most remote traceable ancestor of the plant comes from. Should not be confused with provenance, which simply means the location of the seedlot or parent plant from which cuttings were taken. Mitigation – changes or additions to development proposals in order to reduce or avoid negative impacts on the landscape or biodiversity interests. Root Protection Area – a zone around trees that are to be retained within a development scheme which is intended to protect enough of the root system and soil to avoid significant damage occuring. Zone of Influence – the geographic extent over which a development may affect landscape and biodiversity. Tree Preservation Order – a legal order made by a local planning authority which prohibits the felling, pruning, damage or destruction of specified trees, without the consent of the local planning authority.
30 of 59 Appendix 3: Professional Bodies and Registers of Members in Professional Practice
Landscape Institute 33 Great Portland Street London W1W 8QG
Tel: 020 7299 4500 Fax: 020 7299 4501 E-mail: [email protected]
An online search facility is available at: www.landscapeinstitute.org/find_landscape_architect/
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management 43 Southgate Street Winchester SO23 9EH
Tel: 01962 868626 Fax: 01962 868625 E-mail: [email protected]
A register of ecologists in private practice is available at: www.ieem.org.uk/members/commercialalpha.php
Institute of Chartered Foresters 7A St Colme Street Edinburgh EH3 6AA Tel: 0131 225 2705 Fax: 0131 220 6128 E-mail: [email protected]
Details of chartered members providing arboricultural advice are available at: www.charteredforesters.org
The Arboricultural Association Ampfield House Romsey SO51 9PA
Tel: 01794 368717 Fax: 01794 368978 E-mail: [email protected]
An online list of registered consultants who can advise on trees affected by development proposals is available at: www.trees.org.uk/treeservices.php
31 of 59 Appendix 4: Useful Contacts
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Contacts:
• Arboricultural enquiries: 01256 845500 • Biodiversity enquiries: 01256 845261 • Landscape enquiries: 01256 845763 • To check whether trees are protected: 01256 845742 • To email any of the above: [email protected]
Agricultural Land Classification www.defra.gov.uk/rds/lgmt/ALC.htm
Archaeology and Historic Buildings Record Archaeology and Historic Buildings Landscape Planning and Heritage Environment Department The Castle Winchester SO23 8UD
Tel: 01962 846737 Fax: 01962 846776 www3.hants.gov.uk/landscape-and-heritage/historic-environment/historic-buildings-register.htm
Centre for Accessible Environments and the Access Lab 70 South Lambeth Road London SW8 1RL
Tel/textphone: 020 7840 0125 Fax: 020 7840 5811 SMS: 07921 700098 E-mail: [email protected] www.cae.org.uk
Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre Hampshire House, 84-98 Southampton Road, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5PA. Tel: 023 8038 3446 or 023 8038 3447 Fax: 023 8038 3353 Email: [email protected] Please read the data requests guidance on the website before making an enquiry. http://www3.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/hbic
32 of 59 Historic Parks and Gardens Peter Atkinson Environment Department Hampshire County Council The Castle Winchester SO23 8UE
01962 846811 E-mail: [email protected] www3.hants.gov.uk/landscape-and-heritage/historic-environment/parks-gardens.htm
Secured by Design ACPO Crime Prevention Initiatives 1st Floor, 10 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0NN
Tel: 0207 084 8962 Fax: 0207 084 8951 E-mail: [email protected] www.securedbydesign.com
33 of 59 Appendix 5: Useful Publications and Other Resources
Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines (2007). Bat Conservation Trust. Can be downloaded from: http://www.bats.org.uk/news_events/BatSurveys.asp Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) (1999) Environmental Good Practice on Site. CIRIA 502 London. English Nature (1994) Roads and nature conservation: Guidance on impacts, mitigation and enhancement. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (1995) Badgers –guidelines for developers. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (1996) Great crested newts – guidelines for developers. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (1999) Water vole – guidance for planners and developers. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (2002) Badgers and development. EN, Peterborough. English Nature (2003) Great crested newt mitigation guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (2004) Bat mitigation guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough. English Nature (2005) Organising Surveys to Determine Site Quality for Invertebrates — a Framework Guide for Ecologists. EN, Peterborough. English Nature on behalf of the Barn Owl Trust (2002) Barn Owls on site: A guide for developers and planners. EN, Peterborough. English Nature, John Handley (Ed) (2003) Accessible green space – A review and toolkit for their implementation. English Nature. Oxford, MJ (2000) Developing Naturally: a Handbook for Incorporating the Natural Environment Into Planning and Development. ALGE and English Nature. ISBN 0 9540717 0 0. Planning and Access for Disabled People: a Good Practice Guide (ODPM, 2003) Safer Places: the Planning System and Crime Prevention (ODPM and Home Office, 2004) Treweek, J (1999) Ecological Impact Assessment. Blackwell Science, Oxford. The Countryside Agency (2004) Towards a ‘New Vernacular’. www.countryside.gov.uk/LAR/Landscape/PP/New_Vernacular.asp
Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) (2004) Biodiversity by Design: A Guide for Sustainable Communities. Downloadable at: www.tcpa.org.uk/publications.asp Online version available at: www.tcpa.org.uk/biodiversitybydesign.htm
Standard ecological survey methodologies. www.ieem.org.uk/survey-sources/index.html
34 of 59 Appendix 6: Species and Habitats that are of Material Consideration
Key Habitats
Ancient Semi-natural Woodland
Semi-natural woodlands are those that have arisen from natural colonisation by tree seedlings, as opposed to plantation woodlands grown as a timber crop. Semi-natural woodlands that have been continuously wooded since 1600 (a date before which plantations were very uncommon) are known as ancient. The great age of ancient semi-natural woodlands means that, typically, they have been colonised by a far greater range of species than recent secondary woodland. Native trees on some ancient woodland sites have been replaced by conifers, originally planted for commercial timber production. These sites, known as Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS), are still of significant potential for restoration and, therefore, it is important to safeguarded them within the planning system.
Lowland Pasture Woodland/Parkland
These habitats are the relics of a traditional practice of managing land for grazing and woodland products. Trees were managed by pollarding, a process of removing the crown of the tree, above the reach of browsing animals. This allows new shoots to develop for several years, to provide small- diameter wood products. Cutting was repeated every few years to maintain the supply. This practice, which occurred on wooded commons, and in private deer parks, has given rise to grass dominated landscapes dotted with mature trees. Now the practice has mostly been abandoned, the trees provide a niche for fungi which, in turn, create cavities, providing a habitat for invertebrates, roost sites for bats, and nest holes for birds. Such ‘veteran’ trees can also host rare lichens and bryophytes. In addition to their habitat value, veteran trees that are relicts of traditional pollard management are an important part of the borough’s cultural and historic heritage.
Ancient and/or Species Rich Hedgerows
Hedgerows form a network over much of the borough creating distinctive field patterns and providing an important refuge for wildlife. They are a primary habitat for nine of the Hampshire Priority Species and a secondary habitat for a further twenty-eight. Ancient hedgerows, defined as pre-dating those planted during the enclosures of the 18th and 19th Centuries, can be particularly biodiverse. However, more recent hedges can also be very important. Those containing five, or more, woody species per thirty-metre section, or having a particularly diverse range of non-woody plants at their base, are deemed to be species rich, in relation to policy E7.
Unimproved neutral grassland/fen
These grasslands include both dry and wet ‘fen’ types, associated with floodplains and springs. The unimproved aspect relates to the fact that they have not been subjected to herbicide treatment, or nutrient enrichment through the addition of artificial fertilisers. As a consequence, plant diversity is much greater than in improved grassland, where relatively few species tend to dominate.
Calcareous grassland
This is the typical chalk grassland of less intensively farmed parts of the North Wessex Downs. It is a historical product of sheep farming, which reached its peak in the 16th Century. The combination of soil chemistry, and selective grazing by sheep and rabbits, results in a rich flora and a close-fitting land cover revealing the subtleties of the downland terrain. Chalk grassland is of particular importance for several butterfly species. Juniper, blackthorn and yew scrub is a natural component of this habitat, adding to its diversity, but blackthorn and yew needs careful management, to ensure it does not 35 of 59 dominate. Chalk grassland has been drastically reduced over recent decades, and now only a few fragments remain in the borough.
Floodplain grazing marsh
Grassland situated in river floodplains and periodically inundated, has become a scarce habitat, due to drainage and, in some cases, conversion to arable farmland. Where they remain, these areas are important for wading birds and wintering wildfowl.
Lowland heath/bog/acid grassland
Characterised by purple-flowering heather, with occasional yellow splashes of flowering gorse, lowland heath, a remnant of historical grazing practices, is an internationally important habitat type. This habitat is particularly important for rare birds, including nightjar and Dartford warbler, and silver- studded blue and grayling butterflies, both of which are declining nationally. Diversity is added by bogs, occuring in valleys with impeded drainage, giving rise to sphagnum moss dominated plant communities. This habitat occurs on acid soils and was once widespread across the north of the borough. It is now restricted to a few fragments, including Tadley and Silchester Commons. Closely associated acid grassland also occurs in the north of the borough, including nationally important examples at the Ashford Hill Meadows National Nature Reserve.
Fen/carr/marsh/swamp/reedbed
These habitats tend to occur together forming mosaics, the different patches representing different stages of succession from open water to species-poor fen— the latter commonly grading into alder and willow woodland (carr). Because of the decline in traditional management, at some sites these different stages are deliberately held in check through conservation management in order to maintain habitat diversity. These habitats are important for a range of plants, birds and invertebrates. Examples in the borough include Mapledurwell Fen and Basing Fen.
Standing open water
There are numerous ponds and lakes across the borough, many of which have been deliberately created for utilitarian or ornamental purposes. Collectively, these provide an important habitat for freshwater plants and animals. In particular, they play a vital role in the life cycles of amphibians, including the European protected Great Crested Newt.
Chalk rivers
Chalk rivers are fed from ground water aquifers. The subsequent water chemistry, combined with relatively stable flows and cool temperature regimes, results in a rich plant and invertebrate diversity. These rivers are also important for game fish, such as Atlantic salmon and brown trout. These provide suitable habitats for otters, water vole and white-clawed crayfish, all of which are UK and Hampshire Priority Species. Chalk rivers in the borough include the Test and the upper reaches of the Loddon and Lyde.
Basingstoke Canal
Canal habitats, in contrast to rivers, provide stable aquatic environments, giving rise to particular combinations of plants, both in the main channel and at the margins. Adjacent bank habitats play an important role in the life cycle of many canal species, including water vole, dragonflies and damselflies. The section in the Borough of Basingstoke and Deane is cut off from the rest of the canal by the collapsed Greywell Tunnel, an internationally important site for its bat populations.
36 of 59 Priority Species Identified by the Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership
The list is reproduced here in its complete form. Inclusion on this list does not imply occurance within the borough.
Priority Species Identified by the Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership
Algae Lamprothamnium papulosum foxtail stonewort Birds Circus pygargus Montagu's harrier Amphibians Bufo calamita natterjack toad Birds Coccothraustes coccothraust hawfinch Amphibians Triturus cristatus great crested newt Birds Coturnix coturnix quail Annelids Alkmaria romijni tentacled lagoon-worm Birds Cygnus columbianus Bewick's swan Annelids Hirudo medicinalis medicinal leech Birds Dendrocops minor lesser spotted woodpecker Ants Anergates atratulus dark guest ant Birds Egretta garzetta little egret Ants Formica candida black bog ant Birds Emberiza schoeniclus reed bunting Ants Formica rufa southern wood ant Birds Falco columbarius merlin Bees Bombus humilis brown-banded carder bee Birds Falco subbuteo hobby Bees Bombus ruderatus large garden bumble bee Birds Gallinago gallinago snipe Bees Bombus sylvarum shrill carder bee Birds Larus melanocephalus Mediterranean gull Bees Psithyrus rupestris hill cuckoo bee Birds Limosa lapponica bar-tailed godwit Beetles Agabus brunneus a water beetle Birds Limosa limosa black-tailed godwit Beetles Ampedus quercicola a click beetle Birds Locustella naevia grasshopper warbler Beetles Anisodactylus nemorivagus a ground beetle Birds Lullula arborea woodlark Beetles Aphodius niger a scarab beetle Birds Luscinia megarhynchos nightingale Beetles Bidessus unistriatus a water beetle Birds Melanitta nigra common scoter Beetles Cicindela sylvatica heath tiger beetle Birds Mergus merganser goosander Beetles Cryptocephalus sexpunctatusa leaf beetle Birds Mergus serrator red-breasted merganser Beetles Donacia bicolora a reed beetle Birds Milaria calandra corn bunting Beetles Gnorimus nobilis noble chafer Birds Milvus milvus red kite Beetles Graphoderus zonatus water beetle Birds Motacilla flava yellow wagtail Beetles Harpalus cordatus a ground beetle Birds Muscicapa striata spotted flycatcher Beetles Helophorus laticollis a water beetle Birds Panurus biarmicus bearded tit Beetles Hydrophilus piceus great silver water beetle Birds Passer montanus tree sparrow Beetles Hylis olexai a click beetle Birds Perdix perdix grey partridge Beetles Lucanus cervus stag beetle Birds Pernis apivorus honey buzzard Beetles Malachius aeneus scarlet malachite beetle Birds Pluvialis apricaria golden plover Beetles Meotica anglica a rove beetle Birds Pluvialis squatarola grey plover Beetles Pachytychius haematocephalua weevil Birds Podiceps auritus Slavonian grebe Beetles Paedurus caligatus a rove beetle Birds Podiceps nigricollis black-necked grebe Beetles Prionus coriarius a sawyer beetle Birds Pyrrhula pyrrhula bullfinch Beetles Pterostichus kugelanni a ground beetle Birds Regulus ignicapillus firecrest Beetles Sphinginus lobatus a false soldier beetle Birds Saxicola rubetra whinchat Beetles Tachys micros a ground beetle Birds Sterna albifrons little tern Beetles Tomoxia bucephala a tumbling flower beetle Birds Sterna dougallii roseate tern Birds Acrocephalus paludicola aquatic warbler Birds Streptopelia turtur turtle dove Birds Acrocephalus palustris marsh warbler Birds Sylvia undata Dartford warbler Birds Acrocephalus scirpaceus reed warbler Birds Tringa totanus redshank Birds Alauda arvensis skylark Birds Turdus philomelos song thrush Birds Anas strepera gadwall Birds Vanellus vanellus lapwing Birds Anser albifrons white-fronted goose Bryophytes Campylostelium saxicola a moss Birds Arenaria interpres turnstone Bryophytes Ctenidium molluscum a moss Birds Aythya ferina pochard Bryophytes Ephemerum stellatum a moss Birds Botaurus stellaris bittern Bryophytes Hamatocaulis green feather-moss Birds Branta bernicla bernicla dark-bellied brent goose (Drepanocladus) vernicosus Birds Burhinus oedicnemus stone curlew Bryophytes Lejeunea lamacerina a liverwort Birds Calidris alba sanderling Bryophytes Lophozia herzogiana a liverwort Birds Calidris alpina dunlin Bryophytes Orthotrichum sprucei a moss Birds Calidris canutus knot Bryophytes Pallavicinia lyellii veilwort Birds Caprimulgus europaeus nightjar Bryophytes Seligeria calycina (paucifolia) moss Birds Carduelis cannabina linnet Bryophytes Targiona hypophylla a liverwort Birds Cettia cetti Cetti's warbler Bryophytes Weissia sterilis a moss Birds Circus cyaneus hen harrier Bryophytes Weissia tortilis a moss Flies Chrysotoxum octomaculatum a hoverfly Bryophytes Zygodon forsteri knothole moss Flies Ctenophora flaveolata a cranefly Butterflies Apatura iris purple emperor Flies Dioctria cothurnata a robber fly Butterflies Argynnis paphia silver-washed fritillary Flies Doros profuges (conopseus) a hoverfly Butterflies Boloria euphrosyne pearl-bordered fritillary Flies Dorycera graminum a large otitid Butterflies Boloria selene small pearl-bordered fritillary Flies Eumerus ornata a hoverfly Butterflies Cupido minimus small blue Flies Haematopota grandis a horsefly Butterflies Eurodryas aurinia marsh fritillary Flies Hybomitra expollicata a horse fly Butterflies Hamearis lucina Duke of Burgundy Flies Lipsothrix nervosa a cranefly Butterflies Hesperia comma silver-spotted skipper Flies Machimus rusticus a robber fly Butterflies Lysandra bellargus adonis blue Flies Microdon devius a hoverfly 37 of 59 Butterflies Lysandra coridon chalkhill blue Flies Odontomyia argentata a soldier fly Butterflies Plebejus argus silver-studded blue Flies Oxycera analis a soldier fly Butterflies Satyrium w-album white-letter hairstreak Flies Paragus albifrons a hoverfly Butterflies Thecla betulae brown hairstreak Flies Pelecocera tricincta a hoverfly Caddisflies Ithytrichia clavata a caddisfly Flies Physocephala nigra a conopid fly Crickets Chorthippus vagans heath grasshopper Flies Pocota personata a hoverfly Crickets Gomphocerripus rufus a grasshopper Flies Psilota anthracina a hoverfly Crickets Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa mole cricket Flies Stratiomys longicornis a soldier fly Crickets Stethophyma grossum large marsh grasshopper Flies Syneches muscarius a fly Crustacean Austropotamobius white-clawed crayfish Flies Tabanus glaucopis a horse fly pallipes Flies Thyridanthrax fenestratus a bee fly Crustacean Chirocephalus diaphanus fairy shrimp Flies Urophora quadrifasciata a tephritid fly Crustacean Corophium lacustre a brackish water Flies Xylomyia maculata a fly Crustacean Gammarus insensibilis lagoon sand shrimp Flies Zodion notatum a conopid fly Crustacean Triops cancriformis tadpole shrimp Flw Plants Aceras anthropophorum man orchid Dragonflies Ceriagrion tenellum small red damselfly Flw Plants Adonis annua pheasant's eye Dragonflies Coenagrion mercuriale southern damselfly Flw Plants Ajuga chamaepitys ground pine Dragonflies Cordulia aenea Downy emerald Flw Plants Alopecurus bulbosus bulbous foxtail Dragonflies Ischnura scarce blue-tailed damselfly Flw Plants Althaea hirsuta rough marsh mallow pumilio Flw Plants Althaea officinalis marsh-mallow Dragonflies Libellula fulva scarce chaser Flw Plants Arabis glabra tower mustard Dragonflies Orthetrum coerulescens keeled skimmer Flw Plants Arum italicum Italian Lords and Ladies Dragonflies Platycnemis white-legged damselfly spp.neglectum pennipes Flw Plants Briza minor lesser quaking grass Dragonflies Somatochlora metallica brilliant emerald Flw Plants Bupleurum tenuissimum slender hare's ear Ferns Dryopteris aemula hay-scented buckler-fern Flw Plants Carex divisa divided sedge Ferns Equisetum hyemale Rough horsetail Flw Plants Carex humilis dwarf sedge Ferns Lycopodiella inundata marsh clubmoss Flw Plants Carex montana soft-leaved sedge Ferns Lycopodium clavatum stags-horn clubmoss Flw Plants Carex punctata dotted sedge Ferns Pilularia globulifera pillwort Flw Plants Carum verticillatum whorled caraway Fishes Cottus gobio bullhead Flw Plants Centaurea cyanus cornflower Fishes Galeorhinus galeus tope Flw Plants Cephalanthera sword-leaved helleborine Fishes Lampetra planeri brook lamprey longifolia Fishes Petromyzon marinus sea lamprey Flw Plants Cephalanthera rubra red helleborine Fishes Salmo salar Atlantic salmon Flw Plants Cerastium pumilum dwarf mouse-ear Fishes Thymallus thymallus grayling Flw Plant Chamaemelum nobile chamomile Flies Asilus crabroniformis hornet robberfly Flw Plants Cicendia filiformis yellow centaury Flies Atrichops crassipes an aquatic snipe fly Flw Plants Crassula tillaea mossy stonecrop Flies Atylotus latistriatus a horsefly Flw Plants Cyperus fuscus brown galingale Flies Atylotus rusticus a horsefly Flw Plants Dactylorhiza narrow-leaved marsh-orchid Flies Bombylius canescens a beefly traunsteineri Flies Bombylius discolor a beefly Flw Plants Deschampsia setacea bog hair grass Flies Bombylius minor a beefly Flw Plants Dianthus armeria Deptford pink Flies Brachyopa bicolor a hoverfly Flw Plants Elatine hexandra six-stamened waterwort Flies Caliprobola speciosa a hoverfly Flw Plants Eleocharis parvula dwarf spike-rush Flies Cheilosia nigripes a hoverfly Flw Plants Epipactis narrow-lipped helleborine Flies Cheilosia semifasciata a hoverfly leptochila Flies Chrysops sepulcralis a horsefly Flw Plants Epipactis green flowered helleborine Flw Plants Pulmonaria narrow leaved lungwort phyllanthes longifolia Flw Plants Eriophorum gracile slender cottongrass Flw Plants Ranunculus arvensis corn buttercup Flw Plants Euphorbia broad-leaved spurge Flw Plants Ranunculus stream water-crowfoot platyphyllos penicillatus Flw Plants Euphorbia portlandica portland spurge Flw Plants Ranunculus tripartitus three-lobed crowfoot Flw Plants Euphrasia pseudokerneri chalk eyebright Flw Plants Rhynchospora fusca brown-beak sedge Flw Plants Festuca arenaria rush-leaved fescue Flw Plants Ruppia cirrhosa spiral tasselweed Flw Plants Filago lutescens red-tipped cudweed Flw Plants Salicornia pusilla one-flowered glasswort Flw Plants Galeopsis angustifolia red hemp-nettle Flw Plants Scandix pecten-veneris shepherd's-needle Flw Plants Galium slender marsh bedstraw Flw Plants Silene gallica small-flowered catchfly constrictum Flw Plants Silene nutans Nottingham catchfly Flw Plants Galium parisiense wall bedstraw Flw Plants Sonchus palustris marsh sow thistle Flw Plants Galium pumilum slender bedstraw Flw Plants Sparganium angustifolium floating bur-reed Flw Plants Gentiana pneumonanthe marsh gentian Flw Plants Teucrium botrys cut-leaved germander Flw Plants Gentianella anglica early gentian Flw Plants Thesium humifusum bastard toadflax Flw Plants Gentianella germanica chiltern gentian Flw Plants Torilis arvensis spreading hedge-parsley Flw Plants Geranium purpureum little robin Flw Plants Trifolium squamosum sea clover spp. forsteri Flw Plants Trifolium suffocatum suffocated clover Flw Plants Gladiolus illyricus wild gladiolus Flw Plants Ulmus minor Goodyer's elm Flw Plants Gnaphalium sylvaticum heath cudweed ssp. angustifolia Flw Plants Hammarbya paludosa bog orchid Flw Plants Utricularia intermediate bladderwort Flw Plants Helleborus foetidus stinking hellebore intermedia Flw Plants Herminium monorchis musk orchid Flw Plants Valerianella rimosa broad-fruited corn salad Flw Plants Hordelymus europaeus wood barley Flw Plants Viola lactea pale dog violet Flw Plants Hordeum marinum sea barley Flw Plants Vulpia ciliata ssp.ambigua bearded fescue 38 of 59 Flw Plants Hypochaeris glabra smooth cat's-ear Flw Plants Vulpia fasciculata dune fescue Flw Plants Iberis amara wild candytuft Flw Plants Vulpia unilateralis mat-grass fescue Flw Plants Illecebrum verticillatum coral necklace Flw Plants Zostera angustifolia narrow leaved eelgrass Flw Plants Inula crithmoides golden samphire Flw Plants Zostera marina eelgrass Flw Plants Juniperus communis juniper Flw Plants Zostera noltii dwarf eelgrass Flw Plants Lathryrus aphaca yellow vetchling Fungi Boletus regius royal bolete Flw Plants Lathyrus japonicus sea pea Fungi Boletus satanas Devil's bolete Flw Plant Leersia oryzoides cut-grass Fungi Hericium coralloides coral fungus Flw Plants Leucojum summer snowflake (Loddon lily) Fungi Hericium erinaceus hedgehog fungus aestivum Fungi Hydnellum concrescens a tooth fungus Flw Plants Lithospermum arvense corn gromwell Fungi Hydnellum scrobiculatum a tooth fungus Flw Plants Lobelia urens heath lobelia Fungi Hydnellum spongiosipes a tooth fungus Flw Plants Lotus angustissimus slender bird's-foot trefoil Fungi Hygrocybe calyptraeformis a fungus Flw Plants Ludwigia palustris Hampshire purslane Fungi Microglossum olivaceum an earth tongue Flw Plants Melittis melissophyllum bastard balm Fungi Phellodon confluens a tooth fungus Flw Plants Mentha pulegium pennyroyal Fungi Phellodon melaleucus a tooth fungus Flw Plants Minuartia hybrida fine-leaved sandwort Fungi Phellodon niger a tooth fungus Flw Plants Oenanthe fluviatilis river water-dropwort Fungi Poronia punctata nail fungus Flw Plants Orchis morio green-winged orchid Fungi Sarcodon scabrosus a tooth fungus Flw Plants Orobanche purpurea yarrow broomrape Fungi Sarcodon squamosus tooth fungus Flw Plants Orobanche greater broomrape (imbricatus) rapum-genistae Lichens Agonimia allobata a lichen Flw Plants Paropholis incurva curved hard grass Lichens Agonimia octospora a lichen Flw Plants Persicaria mitis tasteless water-pepper Lichens Bacidia incompta a lichen Flw Plants Petrorhagia nanteuilii Childing pink Lichens Bactrospora corticola a lichen Flw Plants Poa bulbosa bulbous meadow grass Lichens Catillaria laureri Laurer's catillaria Flw Plants Polypogon annual beard grass Lichens Enterographa New Forest beech lichen monspeliensis elaborata Flw Plants Potamogeton trichoides hair-like pondweed Lichens Enterographa sorediata a lichen Flw Plants Puccinellia borrer's saltmarsh grass Lichens Lobaria virens a lichen fasciculata Lichens Opegrapha fumosa a lichen Flw Plants Puccinellia rupestris stiff saltmarsh grass Lichens Parmelia minarum New Forest parmelia Flw Plants Pulicaria vulgaris small fleabane Lichens Phyllopsora rosei a lichen Lichens Rinodina isidioides a lichen Moths Dicycla oo heart moth Lichens Strigula stigmatella a lichen Moths Dyscia fagaria Grey scalloped bar Lichens Zamenhofia Francis' blue-green lichen Moths Eilema sororcula orange footman rosei Moths Eriogaster lanestris small eggar moth Mammals Apodemus flavicollis yellow-necked mouse Moths Hadena albimacula white spot moth Mammals Arvicola terrestris water vole Moths Heliophobus reticulata bordered gothic Mammals Barbastellus barbastellus barbastelle bat Moths Heliothis maritima warneckeshouder-striped Mammals Eptesicus serotinus Serotine bat clover Mammals Lepus europaeus brown hare Moths Heliothis viriplaca marbled clover Mammals Lutra lutra otter Moths Hemaris fuciformis broad-bordered bee Mammals Micromys minutus harvest mouse hawk Mammals Muscardinus avellanarius dormouse Moths Hemaris tityus narrow-bordered bee hawk Mammals Myotis bechsteinii Bechstein's bat Moths Heterogenea asella triangle moth Mammals Neomys fodiens water shrew Moths Hypena rostralis buttoned snout Mammals Phoena phocoena harbour porpoise Moths Jodia croceago orange upperwing moth Mammals Pipistrellus pipistrellus pipistrelle bat Moths Lasiocampa trifolii grass eggar Mammals Plecotus austriacus grey long-eared bat Moths Mecyna flavalis a pyralid moth Mammals Rhinolophus greater horseshoe bat Moths Meganola strigula small black arches ferrumequinum Millipedes Chordeuma proximum a millipede Moths Microthrix similella a pyralid moth Millipedes Melagona scutullare a millipede Moths Minoa murinata drab looper Millipedes Nanogona polydesmoides a millipede Moths Moma alpium scarce merveille du jour Millipedes Polydesmus coriaceus a millipede Moths Mythimna favicolor Matthew's wainscot (inconstans) Moths Mythimna turca double line Molluscs Ashfordia granulata a snail Moths Noctua orbona lunar yellow underwing Molluscs Ena montana mountain bulin snail Moths Oncocera genistella a pyralid moth Molluscs Heleobia stagnorum a marine snail Moths Oria musculosa Brighton wainscot moth Molluscs Helicella itala heath snail Moths Paracolax tristalis clay fan foot Molluscs Helicodonta obvoluta cheese snail (derivalis) Molluscs Hydrobia ventrosa spire snail Moths Pareulype berberata barberry carpet Molluscs Lymnaea glabra glutinous snail Moths Pechipogo strigilata common fan foot Molluscs Monacha carthusiana carthusian snail Moths Polia bombycina pale shining brown Molluscs Ostrea edulis European oyster Moths Rheumaptera hastata argent and sable Molluscs Pisidium tenuilineatum Fine-lined pea mussel Moths Schrankia taenialis white-line snout Molluscs Pseudanodonta depressed river mussel Moths Scotopteryx bipunctaria chalk carpet complanata Moths Spilosoma urticae water ermine Molluscs Truncatella subcylindrica looping snail Moths Trichopteryx polycommata barred tooth-striped Molluscs Valvata Large mouthed valve snail Moths Tyta luctuosa four-spotted macrostoma Moths Xanthorhoe biriviata balsam carpet Molluscs Vertigo Desmoulin's whorl snail Reptiles Coronella austriaca smooth snake moulinsiana Reptiles Lacerta agilis sand lizard 39 of 59 Moths Acosmetia caliginosa reddish buff Sea-anemone Nematostella starlet sea-anemone Moths Adscita geryon cistus forester vectensis Moths Adscita statices forester moth Spiders Centromerus albidus a spider Moths Agrochola haematidea southern chestnut Spiders Hyptiotes paradoxus a spider Moths Agrotis cinerea light feathered rustic Spiders Uloborus walckenaerius a spider Moths Apoda limacodes festoon True Bugs Cicadetta montana New Forest cicada Moths Catocala promissa light crimson underwing True Bugs Orthotylus rubidus a capsid bug Moths Catocala sponsa dark crimson underwing Wasps Chrysis fulgida a ruby-tailed wasp Moths Chlorissa viridata small grass emerald Wasps Crossocerus vagabundus a wasp Moths Cleora cinctaria ringed carpet Wasps Homonotus sanguinolentus a spider wasp Moths Coscinia cribaria speckled footman moth bivittata Moths Cosmia diffinis white spotted pinion Moths Cossus cossus goat moth Moths Cuculia asteris starwort Moths Cucullia lychnitis striped lychnis Moths Cyclophora pendularia dingy mocha
40 of 59 Species of Principal Importance in England Listed by DEFRA Under the Provisions of Section 74 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000
The list is reproduced here in its complete form. Inclusion on this list does not imply occurrence within the borough.
Vertebrates Molva dypterygia Blue ling Amphibian Bufo calamita Natterjack toad Reinhardtius hippoglossoides Greenland halibut Amphibian Rana lessonae Pool frog Merluccius merluccius Hake Amphibian Triturus cristatus Great crested newt Molva molva Ling Bird Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic warbler Lophius piscatorius Sea monkfish/Angler fish Bird Acrocephalus palustris Marsh warbler Hoplostethus atlanticus Orange roughy Bird Alauda arvensis Skylark Sebastes spp. Redfish Bird Botaurus stellaris Bittern Coryphaenoides rupestris Roundnose grenadier Bird Burhinus oedicnemus Stone curlew Brosme brosme Torsk Bird Caprimulgus europaeus Nightjar Macrourus berglax Roughhead grenadier Bird Carduelis cannabina Linnet Argentina silus Argentine/Greater silver smelt Bird Crex crex Corncrake Micromesistius poutassou Blue whiting Bird Emberiza cirlus Cirl bunting Chaceon (Geryon) affinis Deep-water red crab Bird Emberiza schoeniclus Reed bunting Mammal Arvicola terrestris Water vole Bird Jynx torquilla Wryneck Mammal Barbastella barbastellus Barbastelle bat Bird Lanius collurio Red-backed shrike Mammal Lepus europaeus Brown hare Bird Loxia scotica Scottish crossbill Mammal Lutra lutra European otter Bird Lullula arborea Woodlark Mammal Muscardinus avellanarius Dormouse Bird Melanitta nigra Common scoter Mammal Myotis bechsteinii Bechstein’s bat Bird Miliaria calandra Corn bunting Mammal Myotis myotis Greater mouse-eared bat Bird Muscicapa striata Spotted flycatcher Mammal Phocoena phocoena Harbour porpoise Bird Passer montanus Tree sparrow Mammal Pipistrellus pipistrellus Pipistrelle bat Bird Perdix perdix Grey partridge Mammal Rhinolophus Greater horseshoe bat Bird Phalaropus lobatus Red-necked phalarope ferrumequinum Bird Pyrrhula pyrrhula Bullfinch Mammal Rhinolophus Lesser horseshoe bat Bird Sterna dougallii Roseate tern hipposideros Bird Streptopelia turtur Turtle dove Mammal Sciurus vulgaris Red squirrel Bird Tetrao tetrix Black grouse Mammal Baleen Whale species Bird Tetrao urogallus Capercaillie Balaenoptera musculus Blue whale Bird Turdus philomelos Song thrush Balaenoptera physalus Fin whale Fish Alosa alosa Allis shad Balaenoptera borealis Sei whale Fish Alosa fallax Twaite shad Balaenoptera acutorostrata Minke whale Fish Cetorhinus maximus Basking shark Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback whale Fish Coregonus albula Vendace Eubalaena glacialis Northern right whale Fish Coregonus autumnalis Pollan Mammal Small dolphin species Fish Lota lota Burbot Tursiops truncates Bottlenose dolphin Fish Raja batis Common skate Grampus griseus Risso’s dolphin Fish Commercial Fish species Lagenorhynchus White-beaked dolphin Gadus morhua Cod albirostris Merluccius merluccius Hake Lagenorhynchus Atlantic white-side dolphin Clupea harengus Herring acutus Trachurus trachurus Horse mackerel Delphinus delphis Common dolphin Scomber scombrus Mackerel Stenella coeruleoalba Striped dolphin Pleuronectes platessa Plaice Pollachius virens Saithe Solea solea Sole Merlangius merlangus Whiting Fish Deep water fish species Raja hyperborea Artic skate Aphanopus carbo Black scabbardfish
Mammal Toothed whale species Beetle Aphodius niger Beaulieu dung beetle Hyperoodon Northern bottlenosewhale Beetle Bembidion argenteolum A ground beetle ampullatus Beetle Bidessus minutissimus A water beetle Ziphius cavirostris Cuvier’s beakedwhale Beetle Bidessus unistriatus A water beetle Mesoplodon bidens Sowerby’s beakedwhale Beetle Byctiscus populi Aspen leaf-rolling weevil Mesoplodon mirus True’s beaked whale Beetle Carabus intricatus Blue ground beetle Orcinus orca Killer whale Beetle Cathormiocerus britannicus Lizard weevil Globicephala melas Long-finned pilot whale Beetle Cicindela germanica Cliff tiger beetle Physeter macrocephalus Sperm whale Beetle Cicindela hybrida Northern dune tiger beetle Reptile Lacerta agilis Sand lizard Beetle Cicindela sylvatica Heath tiger beetle Reptile Marine turtle species Beetle Cryptocephalus coryli Hazel pot beetle Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback turtle Beetle Cryptocephalus exiguus Pashford pot beetle Caretta caretta Loggerhead turtle Beetle Cryptocephalus nitidulus Shining pot beetle Lepidochelys kempii Kemp’s ridley turtle Beetle Cryptocephalus primaries A pot beetle 41 of 59 Chelonia mydas Green turtle Beetle Cryptocephalus Six-spotted pot beetle Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill turtle sexpunctatus Invertebrates Beetle Curimopsis nigrita Mire pill beetle Ant Anergates atratulus Dark guest ant Beetle Donacia aquatica A reed beetle Ant Formica aquilonia Scottish wood ant Beetle Donacia bicolora A reed beetle Ant Formica exsecta Narrow-headed ant Beetle Ernoporus tiliae Bast bark beetle Ant Formica pratensis Black-backed meadow ant Beetle Gastrallus Maple wood-boring beetle (= Formica nigricans) immarginatus Ant Formica rufibarbis Red-barbed ant Beetle Gnorimus nobilis Noble chafer Ant Formica transkaucasica Bog ant Beetle Graphoderus zonatus Spangled water beetle (= Formica candida) Beetle Harpalus froelichi A ground beetle Bee Andrena ferox A mining bee Beetle Helophorus laticollis A water beetle Bee Andrena gravida Banded mining bee Beetle Hydrochara caraboides Lesser silver water beetle Bee Andrena lathyri A mining bee Beetle Hydroporus rufifrons A water beetle Bee Bombus distinguendus Great yellow bumble bee Beetle Laccophilus obsoletus A water beetle Bee Bombus humilis Brown-banded carder bee Beetle Limoniscus violaceus Violet click beetle Bee Bombus ruderatus Large garden bumble bee Beetle Lucanus cervus Stag beetle Bee Bombus subterraneus Short haired bumblebee Beetle Malachius aeneus Scarlet malachite beetle Bee Bombus sylvarum Shrill carder bee Beetle Melanapion minimum Sallow guest weevil Bee Colletes floralis Northern colletes Beetle Melanotus punctolineatus A click beetle Bee Nomada armata A cuckoo bee Beetle Oberea oculata Eyed longhorn beetle Bee Nomada errans A cuckoo bee Beetle Pachytychius haematocephalus Gilkicker weevil Bee Osmia inermis A mason bee Beetle Panagaeus cruxmajor Crucifix ground beetle Bee Osmia parietina A mason bee Beetle Paracymus aeneus Bembridge beetle Bee Osmia uncinata A mason bee Beetle Paratachys edmondsi Edmonds’ ground beetle Bee Osmia xanthomelana A mason bee (=Tachys edmondsi) Beetle Agabus brunneus A water beetle Beetle Procas granulicollis Climbing cordydalis weevil Beetle Amara famelica A ground beetle Beetle Psylliodes sophiae Flixweed flea beetle Beetle Anisodactylus A ground beetle poeciloides Beetle Pterostichus aterrimus A ground beetle Beetle Anostirus Chestnut coloured click beetle Beetle Pterostichus kugelanni Kugelann’s ground beetle castaneus
Beetle Rhynchaenus testaceus Alder flea weevil Fly Dorycera graminum A picture-winged fly Beetle Stenus palposus A rove beetle Fly Eristalis cryptarum Bog hoverfly Beetle Synaptus filiformis Hairy click beetle Fly Hammerschmidtia ferruginea A hoverfly Beetle River shingle beetle species Fly Lipsothrix ecucullata A cranefly Bembidion testaceum A ground beetle Fly Lipsothrix nervosa A cranefly Lionychus quadrillium A ground beetle Fly Lipsothrix nigristigma A cranefly Hydrochus nitidicollis A water beetle Fly Odontomyia hydroleon A soldier fly Meotica anglica A water beetle Fly Thereva lunulata A stiletto fly Perileptus areolatus A ground beetle Fly Thyridanthrax fenestratus Mottled beefly Thinobius newberyi A rove beetle Mollusc Anisus vorticulus Little ramshorn whirlpool snail Bryozoa Lophopus crystallinus A freshwater bryozoan Mollusc Atrina fragilis Fan mussel Butterfly Argynnis adippe High brown fritillary Mollusc Catinella arenaria Sandbowl snail Butterfly Boloria euphrosyne Pearl-bordered fritillary Mollusc Margaritifera Freshwater pearl mussel Butterfly Carterocephalus Chequered skipper margaritifera palaemon Mollusc Myxas glutinosa Glutinous snail Butterfly Eurodryas aurinia Marsh fritillary Mollusc Ostrea edulis Native oyster (= Euphydryas aurinia) Mollusc Pisidium Fine-lined pea mussel Butterfly Hesperia comma Silver-spotted skipper tenuilineatum Butterfly Lycaena dispar Large copper Mollusc Pseudanodonta Depressed river mussel Butterfly Lysandra bellargus Adonis blue complanata Butterfly Maculinea arion Large blue Mollusc Segmentina nitida Shining ramshorn snail Butterfly Mellicta athalia Heath fritillary Mollusc Thyasira gouldi Northern hatchet shell Butterfly Plebejus argus Silver-studded blue Mollusc Vertigo angustior Narrow-mouthed whorl snail Coral Eunicella verricosa Pink sea-fan Mollusc Vertigo genesii Round-mouthed whorl snail Coral Leptopsammia pruvoti Sunset cupcoral Mollusc Vertigo geyeri Geyer’s whorl snail Mollusc Vertigo moulinsiana Desmoulin’s whorl snail Cricket / Decticus verrucivorus Wart-biter grasshopper Moth Acosmetia caliginosa Reddish buff Grasshopper Moth Aspitates gilvaria gilvaria Straw belle Cricket / Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa Mole cricket Moth Athetis pallustris Marsh moth Grasshopper Moth Catocala promissa Light crimson underwing Cricket / Gryllus campestris Field cricket Moth Catocala sponsa Dark crimson underwing Grasshopper Moth Coleophora tricolor A case-bearing moth Cricket / Stethophyma grossum Large marsh Moth Coscinia cribraria Speckled footman Grasshopper grasshopper bivittata Moth Cosmia diffinis White-spotted pinion Crustacean Austropotamobius White-clawed crayfish Moth Cyclophora pendularia Dingy mocha pallipes Moth Dicycla oo Heart moth Crustacean Triops cancriformis Tadpole shrimp Moth Epione vespertaria Dark bordered beauty Damsel/ Coenagrion mercuriale Southern damselfly (= Epione paralellaria) Dragonfly Moth Eustroma reticulata Netted carpet Moth Heliophobus reticulata Bordered gothic Fly Asilus crabroniformis Hornet robberfly 42 of 59 Fly Blera fallax A hoverfly Moth Hemaris tityus Narrow-bordered bee hawk Fly Bombylius discolor Dotted beefly Moth Hydrelia sylvata Waved carpet Fly Bombylius minor Heath beefly Moth Hypena rostralis Buttoned snout Fly Callicera spinolae Golden hoverfly Moth Idaea dilutaria Silky wave Fly Chrysotoxum octomaculatum A hoverfly Moth Idaea ochrata cantiata Bright wave Fly Cliorismia rustica A stiletto fly Moth Jodia croceago Orange upperwing Fly Doros conopseus A hoverfly Moth Lycia zonaria britannica Belted beauty
Moth Macaria carbonia Netted mountain moth Fungus Hericium erinaceum Tree hedgehog fungus (=Semiothisa carbonaria) Fungus Hygrocybe calyptraeformis Pink meadow cap Moth Mythimna turca Double line Fungus Hygrocybe spadicea Date coloured waxcap Moth Noctua orbona Lunar yellow underwing Fungus Hypocreopsis rhododendri An ascomycete Moth Oria musculosa Brighton wainscot Fungus Microglossum olivaceum An earth tongue Moth Pareulype berberata Barberry carpet Fungus Poronia punctata Nail fungus Moth Pechipogon strigilata Common fan-foot Fungus Tulostoma niveum A stalked puffball Moth Polia bombycina Pale shining brown Fungus Threatened tooth fungi species Moth Pyropteron chrysidiformis Fiery clearwing Bankera fuligineoalba A tooth fungus (= Bembecia chrysidiformis) Hydnellum aurantiacum A tooth fungus Moth Rheumaptera hastate Argent and sable Hydnellum caeruleum A tooth fungus Moth Shargacucullia lychnitis Striped lychnis Hydnellum concrescens A tooth fungus (= Cucullia lychnitis) Hydnellum ferrugineum A tooth fungus Moth Siona lineata Black-veined moth Hydnellum peckii A tooth fungus Moth Trichopteryx polycommata Barred toothed stripe Hydnellum scrobiculatum A tooth fungus Moth Tyta luctuosa Four-spotted moth Hydnellum spongiosipes A tooth fungus Moth Xestia rhomboidea Square-spotted clay Phellodon confluens A tooth fungus Moth Xylena exsoleta Sword grass Phellodon melaleucus A tooth fungus Moth Zygaena loti scotica Slender Scotch burnet Phellodon tomentosus A tooth fungus Moth Zygaena viciae New Forest burnet moth Sarcodon glaucopus A tooth fungus argyllensis Sarcodon imbricatus A tooth fungus Sea Anemone Amphianthus dohrnii Sea fan anemone Sarcodon scabrosus A tooth fungus Sea Anemone Edwardsia ivelli Ivell’s sea anemone Lichen Alectoria ochroleuca Alpine sulphurtresses Sea Anemone Nematostella Starlet sea anemone Lichen Arthothelium dictyosporum A lichen vectensis Lichen Arthothelium macounii A lichen Spider Clubiona rosserae A spider (= Arthothelium reagens) Spider Dolomedes plantarius Fen raft spider Lichen Bacidia incompta A lichen Spider Eresus cinnaberinus Ladybird spider Lichen Belonia calcicola A lichen (= Eresus sandaliatus, Lichen Biatoridium monasteriense A lichen E. niger) Lichen Bryoria smithii A lichen Stone Fly Brachyptera putata A stonefly Lichen Buellia asterella Starry Breck-lichen Cicada Cicadetta montana New Forest cicada Lichen Calicium corynellum A lichen Wasp Cerceris quadricincta A solitary wasp Lichen Caloplaca aractina A lichen Wasp Cerceris quinquefasciata A solitary wasp Lichen Caloplaca luteoalba Orange-fruited elmlichen Wasp Chrysis fulgida A ruby-tailed wasp Lichen Catapyrenium psoromoides Tree catapyrenium Wasp Homonotus sanguinolentus A spider wasp Lichen Cladonia botrytes Stump lichen Wasp Pseudepipona herrichii Purbeck mason wasp Lichen Cladonia mediterranea A reindeer lichen Lower Plants Lichen Cladonia peziziformis A lichen Alga Anotrichium barbatum Bearded anotrichium Lichen Chaenotheca phaeocephala A lichen Alga Ascophyllum nodosum Knotted wrack Lichen Collema dichotomum River jelly lichen ecad mackaii Lichen Enterographa elaborata A lichen Fungus Armillaria ectypa An agaric Lichen Enterographa sorediata A lichen Fungus Battarraea phalloides A phalloid Lichen Graphina pauciloculata A lichen Fungus Boletus regius Royal bolete Lichen Gyalecta ulmi Elm gyalecta Fungus Boletus satanas Devil’s bolete Lichen Gyalideopsis scotica A lichen Lichen Halecania rhypodiza A lichen Fungus Buglossoporus pulvinus Oak polypore Lichen Heterodermia leucomelos Ciliate strap-lichen (= Buglossoporus quercinus)
Lichen Lecanactis Churchyard lecanactis Moss Ephemerum stellatum Starry earth-moss hemisphaerica Moss Fissidens exiguus Tiny fern-moss Lichen Opegrapha paraxanthodes A lichen Moss Leptodontium gemmascens Thatch moss Lichen Peltigera lepidophora Ear-lobed dog-lichen Moss Orthodontium gracile Slender thread-moss Lichen Pseudocyphellaria aurata A lichen Moss Orthotrichum Blunt-leaved bristle moss Lichen Pseudocyphellaria norvegica A lichen obtusifolium Lichen Schismatomma graphidioides A lichen Moss Orthotrichum pallens Pale bristle-moss Lichen Squamarina lentigera Scaly Breck-lichen Moss Pohlia scotica Scottish pohlia Lichen Teloschistes chrysophthalmus A lichen Moss Rhynchostegium Round-leaved feather-moss Lichen Thelenella modesta A lichen rotundifolium Liverwort Acrobolbus wilsonii Wilson’s pouchwort Moss Seligeria carniolica Water rock-bristle Liverwort Adelanthus Lindenberg’s leafy liverwort (=Trochobryum carniolicum) lindenbergianus Moss Sematophyllum Prostrate feather moss Liverwort Cephaloziella nicholsonii Greater copperwort demissum Liverwort Herbertus borealis Nothern prongwort Moss Sphagnum balticum Baltic bog moss Liverwort Jamesoniella undulifolia Marsh earwort Moss Thamnobryum Derbyshire feather moss 43 of 59 Liverwort Lejeunea mandonii Alantic lejeunea angustifolium Liverwort Leiocolea rutheana Norfolk flapwort Moss Thamnobryum Yorkshire feather moss Liverwort Marsupella profunda Western rustwort cataractarum Liverwort Pallavicinia lyellii Veilwort Moss Tortula cernua Flamingo moss Liverwort Petalophyllum ralfsii Petalwort (= Desmatodon cernuus) Liverwort Riccia huebeneriana Violet crystalwort Moss Tortula freibergii Freiberg’s screw-moss Moss Acaulon triquetrum Triangular pigmy moss Moss Weissia multicapsularis A moss Moss Andreaea frigida Icy rock-moss Moss Weissia rostellata Beaked beardless-moss Moss Bartramia stricta Rigid apple moss Moss Zygodon forsteri Knothole moss Moss Brachythecium Appleyard’s feather moss Moss Zygodon gracilis Nowell’s limestone moss appleyardiae Stonewort Chara connivens Convergent stonewort Moss Bryoerythrophyllum Scottish beard-moss Stonewort Chara curta Lesser bearded stonewort caledonicum Stonewort Chara muscosa Mossy stonewort Moss Bryum mamillatum Dune thread moss Stonewort Nitella gracilis Slender stonewort Moss Bryum neodamense Long-leaved thread moss Stonewort Nitella tenuissima Dwarf stonewort Moss Bryum warneum Sea bryum Stonewort Nitellopsis obtusa Starry stonewort Moss Buxbaumia viridis Green shield moss Stonewort Tolypella intricata Tassel stonewort Moss Cryphaea lamyana Multi-fruited river moss Stonewort Tolypella prolifera Great tassel stonewort Moss Ditrichum cornubicum Cornish path moss Higher Plants Moss Didymodon glauca Glaucous beard-moss Vascular Plant Alchemilla minima An alchemilla (= Barbula glauca) Vascular Plant Alisma Ribbon-leaved water-plantain Moss Didymodon mamillosus Perthshire beard-moss gramineum (=Barbula mamillosa) Vascular Plant Apium repens Creeping marshwort Moss Didymodon tomaculosus Sausage beard-moss Vascular Plant Arabis glabra Tower mustard (= Barbula tomaculosa) Vascular Plant Artemisia norvegica Norwegian mugwort Moss Ditrichum plumbicola Lead moss Vascular Plant Asparagus officinalis Wild asparagus Moss Drepanocladus Slender green feather-moss prostratus vernicosus (= Hamatocaulis vernicosus) Vascular Plant Athyrium flexile Newman’s lady-fern Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Bromus interruptus Interrupted brome loganicum Vascular Plant Calamagrostis Scottish small-reed Limonium A rock sea-lavander scotica paradoxum Vascular Plant Carex muricata muricata Prickly sedge Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Carex vulpine True fox-sedge parvum Vascular Plant Centaurea cyanus Cornflower Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Cerastium Shetland mouse-ear procerum nigrescens Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Cochlearia Mountain scurvygrass recurvum micacea Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Coincya wrightii Lundy cabbage transwillianum Vascular Plant Cotoneaster Wild cotoneaster Vascular Plant Linnaea borealis Twinflower cambricus Vascular Plant Liparis loeselii Fen orchid Vascular Plant Crepis foetida Stinking hawk’sbeard Vascular Plant Luronium natans Floating water plantain Vascular Plant Cypripedium Lady’s-slipper orchid Vascular Plant Lycopodiella inundata Marsh clubmoss calceolus Vascular Plant Melampyrum Small cow-wheat Vascular Plant Damasonium alisma Starfruit sylvaticum Vascular Plant Dianthus armeria Deptford pink Vascular Plant Mentha pulegium Pennyroyal Vascular Plant Epipactis Young’s helleborine Vascular Plant Najas flexilis Slender naiad youngiana Vascular Plant Najas marina Holly-leaved naiad Vascular Plant Endemic eyebright species Vascular Plant Pilularia globulifera Pillwort Euphrasia cambrica An eyebright Vascular Plant Potamogeton Grass-wrack pondweed Euphrasia campbelliae An eyebright compressus Euphrasia heslop- An eyebright Vascular Plant Potamogeton rutilus Shetland pondweed harrisonii Vascular Plant Ranunculus Three-lobed watercrowfoot Euphrasia rivularis An eyebright tripartitus Euphrasia rotundifolia An eyebright Vascular Plant Rumex rupestris Shore dock Euphrasia vigursii An eyebright Vascular Plant Salix lanata Woolly willow Vascular Plant Filago lutescens Red-tipped cudweed Vascular Plant Saxifraga Yellow marsh saxifrage Vascular Plant Filago Broad-leaved cudweed hirculus pyramidata Vascular Plant Scandix Shepherd’s needle Vascular Plant Fumaria Western ramping fumitory pecten-veneris occidentalis Vascular Plant Schoenoplectus Triangular club-rush Vascular Plant Fumaria Purple ramping fumitory triqueter purpurea Vascular Plant Scleranthus perennis Prostrate perennial Vascular Plant Galeopsis angustifolia Red hemp-nettle prostratus knawel Vascular Plant Galium tricornutum Corn cleavers Vascular Plant Silene gallica Small-flowered catchfly Vascular Plant Gentianella anglica Early gentian Vascular Plant Sium latifolium Greater waterparsnip Vascular Plant Gentianella uliginosa Dune gentian Vascular Plant Sorbus leyana A whitebeam Vascular Plant Hieracium Sect. Alpestria Hawkweeds Vascular Plant Spiranthes Irish lady’s tresses Vascular Plant Juncus pygmaeus Pygmy rush romanzoffiana Vascular Plant Juniperus communis Juniper Vascular Plant Thlaspi Perfoliate pennycress Vascular Plant Leersia oryzoides Cut-grass perfoliatum Vascular Plant Rock sea-lavender species Vascular Plant Torilis arvensis Spreading hedgeparsley 44 of 59 Limonium A rock sea-lavander Vascular Plant Trichomanes speciosum Killarney fern britannicum Vascular Plant Valerianella Broad-fruited corn salad Limonium A rock sea-lavander rimosa dodartiforme Vascular Plant Woodsia ilvensis Oblong woodsia
45 of 59 Appendix 7: Triggers for Phase 2 Ecological Survey
Please note the following is a guide to situations where surveys are likely to be required. But it is not exhaustive, and professional advisors may recommend, or the council may require, surveys in other circumstances.
Development Activities Surveys Required
Where there is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Survey and report on condition and status National Nature Reserve, Local Nature Reserve or of any features for which the site is Site of Importance for Nature Conservation within designated, plus any species surveys 500 metres of the site. identified, as necessary from the initial extended phase 1 survey.
Development of the following types where the proposed work involves modification, conversion, demolition or removal of dwellings and structures (especially roof voids):
• All buildings with weather boarding and/or Bats hanging tiles that are within 200m of woodland OR water • Pre-1960 detached buildings and structures within 200m of woodland OR water • Pre-1914 buildings within 400m of woodland OR water • Pre-1914 buildings with gable ends or slate roofs, regardless of location All rural buildings (eg farmhouses, cottages and Bats and birds, including barn owls and barns) other nesting birds such as swifts, swallows, house martins and house sparrows
All developments affecting buildings, structures or Appropriate surveys for the species other features where bats, barn owls and breeding known to be present birds are known to be present. Any development, including vegetation clearance or Great Crested Newts (GCN) management within 100m of a pond, ditch or other Exceptions: non-flowing water body. GCN may not be an issue if it can be shown there are permanent obstacles between known breeding ponds and the proposed development site that would stop GCN reaching the site. Obstacles may include major rivers, roads (with curb stones both sides), or heavily developed areas. However, advice from an ecological consultant/wildlife consultant must be sought, and a statement provided to support a case for not undertaking a survey.
Development in, or adjacent to, rivers, streams, Water vole, otter, Schedule 1 birds, such canals, ditches, lakes, ponds and other aquatic as kingfisher, all breeding birds, habitats. amphibians and reptiles, white clawed crayfish and bats.
46 of 59 Plus, where the proposals involve alterations to watercourses, changes in flow rate, sediment load, licensed discharges or risk of pollution to watercourses:
• the above surveys should be continued down stream for the whole zone of influence • where a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Local Nature Reserve or Site of Importance for Nature Conservation designation applies to the river or associated wetland/floodplain habitats, an extended phase 1 habitat survey and report on condition and status of any features for which the site is designated, plus any further species surveys identified as necessary from the initial extended phase 1 survey
Developments affecting woodland, rural hedgerows, Dormouse, reptiles, badgers, bats and tree belts and scrub. Schedule 1 birds.
Developments affecting woodland, rural hedgerows, White-letter hairstreak butterfly. tree belts and scrub where elm is present.
Development that may involve removal or pruning of Bats, Schedule 1 birds such as barn owl, trees that are mature, and/or have obvious holes, and all birds when nesting/breeding. and/or a girth greater than 1m at 1.5 metres from ground level.
Developments affecting ‘derelict’ land, brownfield Reptiles. sites, or railway land or road verges where there is rough grassland, scrub, and/or other vegetation has colonised parts of the site. Development on existing mature gardens or old Reptiles. allotments. Developments affecting any features or locations Any relevant protected species notified to where protected species are known to be present, the applicant. which may be brought to the attention of applicants during pre-application discussions.
47 of 59 Appendix 8: Checklists
Checklist 1: Deskstudies of Existing Information
Issue Sources of information Proposed site’s relationship to settlement Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan policy boundaries, noting whether it is within, 1996-2011 proposals maps. on the edge of, or outside, such a boundary. Protected areas that might be affected (taking into account the full potential zone of influence): • North Wessex Downs Area of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 1996-2011 proposals maps • Special Protection Areas (SPA) or Special Natural England, Nature on the Map resource Areas of Conservation (SAC)1 (there are at: currently none in the borough, but the www.natureonthemap.org.uk/map.aspx?map zones of influence for certain proposals =int_sites could extend to those SPAs and SACs that are outside) • Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)2 Local Plan proposals maps; and Natural England, Nature on the Map resource at: www.natureonthemap.org.uk/map.aspx?map =int_sites Condition assessment data for SSSIs are available through the Natural England website at: www.english- nature.org.uk/Special/sssi/reportIndex.cfm • Sites of Importance for Nature Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre Conservation (SINC) (see Appendix 4 for contact details). Please note there is a charge for this service. Records of notable species within the zone of Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre influence (see above) Landscape Character Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment [15] Hampshire Historic Landscape Assessment [14] The North Wessex Downs Landscape: A Landscape Assessment of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty [17] North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan [17] Countryside Design Summary [7] Basingstoke Urban Character Study [2] Relevant village design statements www.basingstoke.gov.uk/planning/leaflets/vill agedesigns.htm Public Rights of Way Hampshire County Council website: www3.hants.gov.uk/locating-row/row-online-
2 Where the initial desk study reveals European sites or SSSIs to be within the zone of influence, pre-application liaison with Natural England is recommended (see contact details in Appendix 4). 48 of 59 maps.htm or to view the definitive map, call the Rights of Way Office on 01962 846955.
Access land (declared under the Countryside Natural England website: and Rights of Way Act 2000) www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk Flood risk Environment Agency indicative flood maps (see Appendix 4 for contact details) Local Plan proposals maps or Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (see contacts under Conservation - Appendix 4) Historic features • Scheduled Ancient Monuments Local Plan proposals maps • Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England • Parks and Gardens of Local Interest Hampshire County Council (see contact • Archaeological potential details in Appendix 4) • Listed Buildings, Buildings of Local Interest • Ancient woodland Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre (see Appendix 4 for contact details). Please note there is a charge for this service. Or Natural England website: www.english- nature.org.uk/pubs/gis/gis_register.asp • Tree Preservation Orders Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (see contacts under Tree Preservation Enquiries - Appendix 4) • Conservation Areas Local Plan proposals maps or Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (see contacts under Conservation - Appendix 4) Conservation Area appraisals www.basingstoke.gov.uk/planning/historic/caa Geology, including any areas within, or British Geological Survey (see Appendix 4 for adjacent to, the site that may be subject to contact details) vegetation-induced subsidence problems Easements or other restrictive legal Landowner or agent arrangements relating to the site and other land within the zone of influence that is under the applicant’s ownership or control
49 of 59 Checklist 2: Constraints and Opportunities Plans
Constraints and opportunities plans be prepared taking into account: • land ownership and development site boundaries • adjacent land use and buildings • ground levels, showing the gradients where there is a significant change in level • existing services (above and below ground) and way-leaves that need to be maintained • easements and opportunities for re-routing, or removal • any rights of way or access land • opportunities to link with paths, bridleways and cycleways (care should be taken not to link major centres of activity through quiet residential developments) • barriers to access and movement, and the scope for improvements (within the site and links to local facilities and amenities) • views into and out of the site, noting those unobstructed or filtered by vegetation or other landscape features, and whether they are local, middle or long distance views (the seasonal variation in screening provided by deciduous trees should be taken into account) • key views across the wider landscape that need to be maintained and safeguarded from intrusive development • areas and features that appear to attract anti-social behaviour and present opportunities for crime • any areas liable to flooding • all trees, shrubs and hedgerows of grade C and above (grade C trees should not be treated as a constraint, but should be shown as an opportunity for retention where other considerations allow) • the Root Protection Areas (RPAs) that would need to be maintained around trees, shrubs and hedgerows during construction if they are to be successfully retained. RPAs should be determined in accordance with the guidance in Section 5 of BS5837: 2005 [5]. Working room must be added to the Root Protection Areas so that there is sufficient room to carry out the development without compromising tree protection measures • above-ground constraints around trees, shrubs and hedgerows, based on ultimate size and potential for conflict with proposed site use, due to shading (summer sunpath diagrams can be used to help assess this) • scheduled ancient monuments (SAMs) and any other archaeological features to be protected and areas where archaeological excavations may be required • any sites designated for their nature conservation value (eg SSSIs and SINCs) or important habitats listed in Appendix 6 and buffer zones required to protect them (see Box 4) • other features of habitat value, such as ditches, non-chalk streams and rivers, secondary woodland, scrub, and ruderal vegetation • refuges/shelters/roosts/nesting sites etc relating to important species, and buffer zones needed to avoid or reduce development impacts
50 of 59 Checklist 2: Constraints and Opportunities Plans cont.
• any resources significant in sustaining identified important species, including sources of water, foraging areas and routes between such areas and refuges/shelters/roosts/nesting sites • microclimatic considerations, showing sunny and shaded, sheltered and exposed areas, as well as potential frost pockets • areas of potential for landscape planting, which should include provision for tree planting to address any deficiency of younger trees on the site and to offset losses of existing trees that would be removed to accommodate development. This can avoid the problem of planting trees in inappropriate locations that arises when landscaping is not considered until buiding and road layouts have been determined • areas of potential habitat creation that would provide biodiversity enhancements, particularly by helping to link existing habitats. Advantage should be taken of inherent site characteristics. For example, areas of naturally poor drainage may be suitable for creation of wetland communities • opportunities to restore or enhance landscape character by reinstating or establishing features such as hedgerows, ponds and parkland trees • opportunities to meet open space requirements, which are set out in our planning guidance, Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure [23]
51 of 59 Checklist 3: Design Objectives for Landscape and Biodiversity
• achieving a framework of existing and new landscape features in which to set the development • ensuring that open spaces contribute to the greenspace network of the local area • achieving a legible and permeable layout (ie one that is easy to ‘read’ with recognisable routes and landmarks, and clearly defined changes from the public realm to communal and private areas) • maintaining, enhancing or restoring local landscape character, as appropriate from the evaluation undertaken • protecting key biodiversity interests (ie designated habitats and protected species, and important habitats and species, as listed in Appendix 6) • contributing to a net gain in biodiversity, through the creation and enhancement of habitats • ensuring changes in landform are sympathetic to the surrounding area and not incongruous • maintaining and/or enhancing the character of conservation areas, where applicable • designing buildings, and choosing materials, in keeping with landscape character • providing adequate open space, in accordance with Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure [23] • retaining category A and B trees, and category C trees where possible, with adequate space to grow, without causing conflicts with other aspects of the design • ensuring trees do not dominate buildings, cause unreasonable reduction in light to habitable buildings, or completely block direct sunlight to gardens. The necessary assessments should be based on the ultimate likely size of a tree, rather than its current size • providing for new tree planting to offset the loss of category C and R trees • ensuring all open space is functional, and avoiding small awkward and hard- to-maintain areas • ensuring open spaces are accessible and user-friendly for all • ensuring landscapes engender feelings of safety and avoid creating opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour (buildings should have active frontages facing open space, where possible to increase natural surveillance) • ensuring buildings will tolerate vegetation-induced subsoil movement, where there is a shrinkable/expandable clay soil
52 of 59 Checklist 4 (part 1): Biodiversity Impacts
• Changes to water table height and hydrology of the area and the subsequent impact on habitats and important plant communities • changes to stream/river flow and the resulting impacts on aquatic and riparian ecology • pollution of water courses from run-off from roads and parking areas • impacts of any archaeological investigations or remediation of contaminated land on habitats not identified through constraints mapping • wildlife disturbance and damage to habitats through recreation and increased risks of unlawful activities, such as trespass and vandalism. This should extend to offsite effects via public rights of way, other publicly accessible land, permissive routes and potential routes of trespass • loss of foraging habitat for important species • loss of general ecological resources needed to support biodiversity, such as water sources, food plants and nectar sources, and nest sites and song posts for birds • effects of lighting, especially any strong floodlighting, on important species • disturbance of important species due to construction work, and the intended use of the proposed development • risk of pollution from construction materials/effluents, such as cement powder or cement washings • storage of materials, location of site huts, construction traffic (parking, turning areas, routes and site access • effects on the long-term viability of land management required to conserve important habitats
53 of 59 Checklist 4 (part 2): Landscape Impacts
• visual intrusiveness, taking into account the visibility of the proposals and their compatibility with the character of the surrounding area (for example, context of viewing population should be taken into account as the reasonable expectations of rural footpath users will differ from urban footpath users) • changes in the degree of landscape enclosure (for example, through loss of vegetation or upgrading of lanes and footpaths) • impact of lighting, roads and other hard landscape elements, signage, utilities, and other urbanising influences on countryside character and tranquillity • interference with key views, including to, across, and out of, settlements • compatibility of building materials within the context of the surrounding area, with reference to published guidance, such as Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment [15], village design statements, and the council’s Countryside Design Summary [7] • overall positive or negative changes in landscape character, resulting from the loss of existing, and introduction of new elements • interference with rights of way and their quiet enjoyment • construction phase impacts, including temporary footpath diversions, compaction of soil within potential planting areas, and contamination of planting areas with construction materials • effects on the long-term viability of land management required to conserve important habitats
Checklist 4 (part 3): Tree Impacts
• potential conflicts between the aims of retaining trees, taking into account their potential ultimate size, and the intended use of the site. This should include consideration of shading (windows and gardens), the potential leaf fall and other debris from the species concerned. It is important to avoid layouts that result in large tree species such as oak, ash and beech being retained in small private gardens or where they overhang these areas • impacts of any archaeological investigations or remediation of contaminated land not identified through constraints mapping • direct damage, such as root zone compaction, trunk impacts and branch damage from construction activities
54 of 59 Checklist 5: Reducing Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour
• public and private spaces must be clearly defined, through appropriate layout and relationship to buildings, and reinforced through the use of planting and hard landscaping • Where possible, natural surveillance of public open space from adjacent houses, or well-used rights of way, should be achieved • consideration must be given to the compatibility between adjacent land uses (for example, likely gathering areas should be located away from adjoining properties • parking should be close to, and visible from, the vehicle owners’ homes • footpaths and alleyways that give unobserved access to the rear of properties should be avoided and, if this is not possible, the access should be controlled, for example, through lockable gates • where maintenance access is needed to the rear of properties (for example, to aid the management of tree belts), planting, designed to discourage intruders, can be used between the access route and rear gardens. The access can also be controlled through lockable gates • boundary walls and fences should be designed so as not to provide climbing aids that enable access to properties • routes should be designed for good natural surveillance, avoiding sharp bends, and the creation of narrow corridors with dense vegetation close to the edges. These could create, or be perceived as, hiding places • consideration must be given to adequate lighting, but this must relate to the environmental context of the site. It should respect historic character, tranquillity of the countryside, and biodiversity • footpaths in built-up areas should be lit (but see para 6.5.4), unless this will have an unacceptable impact on wildlife, in which case, alternative night-time routes should be provided • careful use can be made of thorny or spiky plants to prohibit the use of tall shrubs as hiding areas, and to deter undesired access to specific areas • planting can be used to create gateway features indicating the threshold to local neighbourhoods. This can help deter potential offenders by indicating defensible space • interpretation signage should be used for wildlife areas, and community participation in their monitoring, and management, should be encouraged
55 of 59 Checklist 6: Key Considerations for Landscape Detailing
• Paving and surfacing materials, including kerbs and crossings, should provide a unified effect throughout the site. These should be appropriate to the character of the receiving environment, with special consideration given within a conservation area or the setting of a listed building • permeable paving systems should be used, where appropriate, as part of a sustainable drainage system for the site • where tree pits are required (eg. in paved areas) they should be large enough to provide an adequate volume of soil to sustain trees for the duration of their intended lifespan. In clay soils, it is essential that drainage is installed to prevent the pit from becoming waterlogged (simply putting gravel in the base of the pit will not prevent this). If rows or clusters of trees are to be planted, trenches or larger communal pits, to accommodate all the trees, should be used where possible. Special load-bearing tree soils can be used to support certain types of hard surface over the top of large communal pits and trenches • where possible, road markings and signage should be sympathetic to the surrounding area. In particular, innovative measures, which should be agreed with the highway authority (see Appendix 4), should be considered to avoid urbanising the character of rural areas • desire lines must be taken into account when planning the route of footpaths and cycleways • clutter from signs should be avoided, only installing them where they are necessary and mounting them on buildings, where possible, rather than sign or lamp posts. If posts must be used, they should be shared wherever possible • other utilities must be considered at the landscape design stage, to ensure compatibility with landscape and biodiversity aims. The use of standard fittings and fixings can detract from the quality of the design, and the sense of place. Therefore, features such as manhole covers, columns and posts should be chosen to integrate with the rest of the hard landscape • underground services and soakaways should be routed to avoid habitats and the root protection areas around trees that are to be retained. If they have to be located close to areas of new tree planting, they should use shared ducts, where possible, to reduce future damage from maintenance or upgrading work
56 of 59 Checklist 7: Soft Landscaping Proposals Checklist
• include drawings at a minimum scale of 1:200 (with large-scale extracts where necessary to show details), showing planting locations, clearly referenced to a corresponding planting schedule (on the same drawing) providing details of: • species/variety/form (with botanical names) • numbers and densities • stock type and size (eg. whip, feathered, selected standard) • means of support and protection • show, in the context of the existing situation, any alterations to landform and the resulting changes in level • show existing vegetation, including any trees to be retained, and the root protection areas that apply • show planting constraints such as sightlines at road junctions, lighting columns and soakaways • information on topsoil/planting medium and site preparation, including de- compaction, changes in drainage and any soil amendments to be used • post-planting maintenance programme including weed control, protection, irrigation and formative pruning • include details of habitat creation, including soils and hydrological information, site preparation, details of planting stock or other methods of vegetation establishment, post-establishment maintenance and management
57 of 59 Checklist 8: Hard Landscaping Proposals Checklist
• include drawings at a minimum scale of 1:200 (with sections, construction drawings and other illustrations to show details, typically at scales of 1:50 or 1:20) • show, in the context of the existing situation, any alterations to landform, the resulting changes in level, drainage falls, and details of any necessary retaining walls • show existing vegetation, including any trees that are to be retained and the root protection areas that apply • provide details of surfacing materials (layout, size, colour, texture and coursing) • incorporate any special engineering measures agreed, to mitigate impacts of hard landscape elements on existing trees • provide details of walls, fences, gates and rails • provide details of tree planting pits/trenches • show the location and specification for seating, litter bins, bollards, cycle parking, lighting, signage, telephone kiosks, post boxes, bus stops and other street furniture • provide details of play areas and play equipment • provide details of any public art • provide details of the location and depth/height of services, and any markers and way-leaves and junction boxes, substations or similar structures • provide details of structures for building services, including ventilation outlets/inlets and refuse stores
58 of 59 Appendix 9: Arboricultural Requirements for S.38 (Highway) Agreements
1. Consultation with the Hamsphire County Council Arboricultural Section will be necessary when any existing trees, hedges, significant shrub areas, or tree and shrub planting are proposed within the prospective Adopted Highway.
2. Proposals should clearly identify the Highway limits and the location of any of the above features within the proposed Highway.
3. Where existing trees, hedges or shrub areas are to be Adopted, we will require an Arboricultural Report from an appropriately qualified arboricultural consultant (eg. Arboricultural Association Registered Consultant ) to include:
• Survey (to BS5837) of such features including details of species, dimensions, age, vigour, condition, class, growth potential and legal status. • Schedule of any defects and remedial works required to bring them into appropriate condition for Adoption. • Arboricultural Impact Assessment to assess the impact of proposed works, including below- ground utilities. • Recommendations for protection zones, protective measures and Method Statement for works near trees. • Subsidence Risk Assessment if necessary (see para.5).
4. Where tree or shrub planting is proposed within the prospective Adopted Highway, we will require: • Full details and specifications for ground preparation, plants, planting, and 3 years’ maintenance. • The design and specifications should be prepared by a qualified landscape architect, and preferably supervised by the same to successful establishment.
5. Where any vegetation, existing or proposed, is considered for Adoption we will require a soils report to identify whether shrinkable clays are present. If so, the Arboricultural Report must include an assessment of the risk of subsidence to adjacent structures, existing or proposed (see para.3).
6. Sub-contractors for arboricultural works shall be in the current Directory of Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors or approved by the County Arboricultural Officer.
7. Works shall comply with the following British Standards, or other current best practice industry guidelines as appropriate.
• Topsoiling BS 3882 : 1994 • Tree Work BS 3998 : 1989 • General Landscape Operations BS 4428 : 1989 • Trees in Relation to Construction BS 5837 : 2005
In addition, all Utilities shall be reminded of their obligations under NJUG Publication No.10 “Guidelines for Working Near Trees”.
8. An agreed commuted sum for existing and proposed trees and shrubs will need to be determined.
9. There must be a formal handover involving the Arboricultural Section when existing or proposed trees and shrubs are Adopted at the end of the maintenance period. This is to ensure standards and allow release of final Bond sums.
10. If further clarification of the above is required please contact the Arboricultural Officer. (T H Bradnam Tel: 01962 846674 or E-Mail [email protected] )
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