Appendix 7.1 Hints Quarry, Tamworth, Staffordshire Preliminary Ecological Report SLR Ref: 406.00968.00040/406.04520.00026
October 2014 Lafarge Tarmac/Cemex
Version: FINAL
Hints Quarry i SLR Ref No: 406.00968.00040/406.04520.00026 Preliminary Ecological Report October 2014
CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Scope of Study ...... 1 2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 2 2.1 Desk-top Study ...... 2 2.2 Ecological Survey ...... 2 3.0 ECOLOGICAL BASELINE ...... 3 3.1 Results of Desk-top Study ...... 3 3.2 Habitat Survey ...... 6 3.3 Protected, Notable and Controlled Flora ...... 11 3.4 Fauna ...... 11 4.0 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 15 4.1 Habitats ...... 15 4.2 Species ...... 15 5.0 CLOSURE ...... 18
TABLES Table 1- Summary of Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations within a 2km radius .. 3 Table 2 – Sites on the Ancient Woodland Inventory ...... 4 Table 3 - Summary of Internationally and Nationally Protected and Notable Species Records within the 2km Search Area ...... 5 Table 4 - Target Notes from the Ecological Walkover Survey of Hints Quarry ...... 7 Table 5 – Previous Records of Great Crested Newt from within a 2km radius of the Study area Boundary ...... 13
DRAWINGS
Drawing 1 Ecological Walkover Plan and Target Note Reference Numbers
APPENDICES
Appendix A Staffordshire Ecological Record (SER) Search Report
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
SLR Consulting Limited (SLR) has been commissioned by Lafarge Tarmac and Cemex to provide ecological services in respect of Hints Quarry which is situated west of Tamworth, Staffordshire and is hereafter referred to as the ‘study area’. The approximate centre of the study area is located at National Grid Reference (NGR) Centred at SK160 046.
This report has been prepared by SLR Consulting Limited (SLR) on behalf of Lafarge Tarmac and Cemex to provide baseline information to inform an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in respect of planning submissions relating to the continuation of quarrying operations, restoration activities and potential extensions to sand and gravel quarrying at Hints Quarry to the east (Arquiva Land) and north-west (Bucks Head Farm) into areas of agricultural farmland. The precise boundaries of the proposed extensions are not yet clearly defined as site investigation works are on-going.
Advice was required from SLR in respect of the ecological constraints and issues that may need to be subject to further investigation.
1.2 Scope of Study
Although not a full ecological impact assessment, this report provides a baseline description of habitats found to be present and identifies the potential for protected species to be occur within, or in close proximity to, the study area.
The evaluation is based on an ecological desk study and walkover survey of the study area (extent as shown on Drawing 1).
Recommendations for further surveys have been made in Section 4 of this report to enable a more complete evaluation to be made.
No consultation with the Local Planning Authority Ecologist has taken place at this stage.
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2.0 METHODOLOGY
2.1 Desk-top Study
Natural England’s Nature on the Map website 1 was consulted for information relating to statutorily designated sites within 2km of the study area.
The Staffordshire Ecological Record (SER) was contacted for information on non-statutory designated sites and records of protected or notable species within the search area. For the purposes of the desk-top study, a 2km search buffer from the study area boundary was used.
2.2 Ecological Survey
The wider study area was initially visited on the 30 th April 2012 by a Senior Ecologist from SLR. This was followed by an update visit focussing on the proposed north east extension area on the 14 th July 2014. The update visit in 2014 found that the ecological baseline remained un-changed. The survey comprised of an ecological walkover of the study area, as shown on Drawing 1.
The potential for protected and notable species or features within the study area and adjacent area to support protected species was assessed and where present, recorded.
The presence of plant species included within Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) was searched for during the survey. Plants included within the schedule include Japanese knotweed ( Fallopia japonica), Himalayan balsam ( Impatiens glandulifera ) and giant hogweed ( Heracleum mantegazzianum ). Schedule 9 makes it an offence to plant or cause the spread of certain invasive plant species in the wild.
1 http://www.natureonthemap.naturalengland.org.uk/
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3.0 ECOLOGICAL BASELINE
3.1 Results of Desk-top Study
A summary of the statutory and non-statutory designated sites identified within the 2km search area is provided in Table 1 below.
The SER report, which includes citations and maps, received during the desk-top study has been included as Appendix A of this report.
Table 1- Summary of Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations within a 2km radius
Level of Value Site/Feature Main Reason for Importance at this Value International None n/a National – Site of Special None n/a Scientific Interest (SSSI) County (Site Biological Mascotte Semi-natural broad-leaved woodland. Importance/Biodiversity Covert Alert Site 2) Swinfen Lake Open water, marginal vegetation. Freeford Pools and woodland. Manor and Swinfen Park Black Brook Running water and improved and semi-improved Corridor – B.B grassland. Bridge to Heart of England Way Church Wood Woodland, grassland and tall fen. and Meadow Rough Woodland and small meadow. Leasow Moor Covert Woodland, grassland and open water. and Pool Rookery Woodland. Roundhill Woodland. Wood Ford (Oxbow Woodland, marsh and open water. Woodland) to Botley House, Bourne Book Corridor Snake’s Hill Woodland, marsh and open water. and River Oxbow, Black Brook Botley House Woodland, marsh and open water. to Bourne
2 SBI Sites of Biological Importance are equivalent to County Wildlife Sites ( i.e . of County Importance) and are included in the Local Plans of Staffordshire’s Local Authorities with a presumption against development. BAS Biodiversity Alert Sites are of Local Importance for Nature Conservation or other areas of interest for wildlife where there may be potential to improve the habitat to SBI standard with appropriate management. These sites are not normally included within the Local Plans.
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Bridge, Bourne Brook Hanging Wood Woodland. and Common Plantation Kendalls and Woodland, open water and boundaries. Pipes Wood Hopwas Woodland, heathland and tall herb. Hayes Wood Hopwas Woodland, grassland and tall herb. Coton House Grassland. Farm Dunstall Farm Woodland.
Table 2 lists those sites on the Ancient Woodland Inventory (AWI) within a 2km radius.
Table 2 – Sites on the Ancient Woodland Inventory
Grid Reference Site SK167038 Hanging Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
SK167041 Hanging Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
SK167052 Hopwas Hays Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland.
SK177058 Hopwas Hays Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
SK176032 Kendall's Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland.
SK178031 Kendall's Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
SK179031 Pipes Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland.
SK152025 Rookery Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
SK144029 Rough Leasow, Millditch Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland.
SK157022 Roundhill Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland.
A summary of the internationally and nationally protected and priority species records identified within the search area is provided in Table 3 below.
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Table 3 - Summary of Internationally and Nationally Protected and Notable Species Records within the 2km Search Area 3
Group Species Recorded Mammals Hazel dormouse, water vole, polecat, badger, otter, brown long-eared bat, soprano pipistrelle bat, pipistrelle bat, noctule bat, leislers, whiskered/Brandts bat. Birds Barn owl, little ringed plover, kingfisher, nightjar, peregrine falcon, hobby, brambling, woodlark, gold oriole, osprey, green sandpiper, redwing, fieldfare, skylark, mallard, pink-footed goose, meadow pipit, tufted duck, swift, lesser redpoll, common linnet, stock dove, cuckoo, house martin, lesser spotted woodpecker, corn bunting, yellowhammer, reed bunting, kestrel, brambling, swallow, lesser black-backed gull, black-headed gull, woodlark, grey wagtail, yellow wagtail, spotted flycatcher, wheatear, house sparrow, tree sparrow, willow warbler, green woodpecker, marsh tit, bullfinch, Dunnock, sand martin, woodcock, turtle dove, common whitethroat, little grebe, song thrush, mistle thrush, lapwing. Herpetofauna (Amphibians and Great crested newt, toad, grass snake, adder, Reptiles) common lizard, slow worm. Invertebrates Freshwater crayfish, wall, cinnabar, small heath, red wood ant, bumblebees. Plants (Vascular and non-vascular) Bluebell, floating water plantain, cornflower, common cudweed, dark-leaved hawkweed, Jacob’s ladder, field woundwort, water soldier, wild pansy.
3 It should be noted that not all records were provided at a resolution sufficient enough to give an accurate location from the study area.
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3.2 Habitat Survey
Overview
The study area occupies a large land area comprising of a centrally located operational sand and gravel quarry (Hints Quarry), a now worked quarry to the north east (Hopwas Quarry and former Hopwas Quarry Plant Site) and two areas identified for possible future extensions to the north (Bucks Head Farm) and to the east (Arquiva Land), which both mainly comprise of arable farmland with some areas of woodland in the latter.
At Hints Quarry, there is a processing and stockpile area with associated offices and a weighbridge. The quarry here is largely un-vegetated except for some retained or created strips of secondary and plantation woodland and ruderal grassland. The reserves in the centre of the study area are currently being worked resulting in large areas of bare ground, open silt-handling lagoons and overburden storage mounds.
Hopwas Quarry and Plant Site has now been worked of reserves and comprises of a varied topography of pits, low cliffs, mounds, tracks and five waterbodies, of which most are derived from former quarrying activities. Although much bare ground still persists, birch-dominated woodland and pioneer acid grassland is beginning to become established.
The agricultural farmland to the north and east which falls within the two proposed quarry extensions comprises of large arable fields with defunct species-poor hedgerows and smaller areas of scrubby woodland, ruderal grassland and bracken mosaics.
Table 4 provides Target Note (TN) descriptions of the habitat features within the survey area, the locations of which are shown on Drawing 1.
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Table 4 - Target Notes from the Ecological Walkover Survey of Hints Quarry
TN Photograph Description 1 Settlement Lagoon
A highly turbid settlement lagoon forming part of an operational water treatment system. The waterbody lacks any marginal or aquatic vegetation; the banks comprise of loose sand.
2 Settlement Lagoon
A highly turbid settlement lagoon forming part of an operational water treatment system. The waterbody lacks any marginal or aquatic vegetation; the banks comprise of loose sand.
3 Ruderal Bank
A site perimeter bund dominated by coarse grasses. Cock’s foot (Dactylis glomerata) and false oat-grass (Arrhenatherum elatius) are the most abundant species, together with occasional creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), broad-leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius), hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris). Additional species include dandelion (Taraxacum officinale sect.), common knapweed (Centauria nigra) and red campion (Silene dioica).
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5 Pioneer Vegetation
An area of partially disturbed ground, with bare sand and gravel and sparse vegetation cover. Scattered silver birch ( Betula pendula ) scrub is also present, although any trees are generally less than 0.5m in height.
Plant species include various mosses, willowherbs (Epilobium spp.), field pansy ( Viola arvensis ), small cudweed ( Filago minima ), colt’s foot ( Tussilago farfara ) and white clover ( Trifolium repens ). 6 Bucks Head Farm
A series of farm buildings, including a traditional style brick built barn (photographed).
7 Native Hedgerow
A species-poor hedge which averages 1.5m in height and whilst dominated by hawthorn ( Crataegus monogyna ), also contains occasional elder ( Sambucus nigra ) and bramble ( Rubus fruticosus agg.).
8 Arable Farmland
Three arable fields, which during the survey, contained remnants of the previous parsnip crop.
A section of defunct hedgerow separates the two westernmost fields, with a raised bank supporting ruderal grassland comparable to TN3 separating the two easternmost fields.
9 Irrigation Lagoon
An artificially lined irrigation lake which lacks any form of emergent or submerged aquatic vegetation.
The sides of the lagoon are being colonised by Cotoneaster horizontalis .
A narrow band of bramble and tall ruderal grassland is present outside of the perimeter fence.
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10 Native Hedgerow
Typically 3-4m in height and not subject to regular management, the hedgerow is generally intact and dominated by hawthorn, with occasional elder, and a single pear ( Pyrus sp.) tree.
11 Woodland Shelter Belt
A bridleway lined with mature, predominantly oak (Quercus robur ) trees in the 8-10 m height range, with gorse ( Ulex europeus ) and bramble also present.
The ground flora includes bluebell ( Hyacinthoides non- scripta ), wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia ), greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea ) and honeysuckle (Lonicera pericyclemum ). 12 Hopwas Quarry (Charity Land)
A former sand and gravel extraction area being re- colonised by vegetation, with areas of bare sand, including steep banks of varying aspect, acid grassland and scattered scrub.
13 Hopwas Quarry - Lagoons
A series of four shallow lagoons within the former operational area of Hopwas Quarry. The waterbodies have bare margins, often peninsulas of sand with varying colonisation by common bulrush ( Typha latifolia ) and goat willow (Salix caprea ). Tall ruderal vegetation dominates the outer margins comprising of thistles, ragwort ( Senecia jacobea ), greater willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum ) and soft rush ( Juncus effusus ).
14 Hopwas Quarry (Charity Land)
Vegetation in this area is generally longer established, although there remains a transition from bare, sandy, ground to more continuous scrub. Birch is a key species which is colonising much of the void together with hawthorn and some oak.
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15 Hopwas Quarry (Plant Site)
The eastern area of the former quarry supports an established grassland sward, scattered gorse scrub and coniferous plantation with occasional silver birch.
Moving west, the central area of the ‘Plant Site’ contained former stockpiles that also support a mosaic of bare ground, sparse grassland and scrub vegetation on slopes of varying aspects. 16 Hopwas Quarry (Plant Site)
The western section contains a higher proportion of bare sand and gravel, with the exception of longer established banks of ruderal grassland in peripheral areas.
A large lagoon also occurs which has developed a natural appearance with approximately 15% cover of common bulrush and willow. The shallow margins are largely un-vegetated.
17 Arable Farmland
Arable farmland which at the time of survey was being used for silage production.
18 Broad -leaved Woodland
An area of secondary woodland, potentially subject to additional planting to provide enhanced screening of Hopwas Quarry during its operational phase.
The canopy largely comprises of oak and silver birch, with open areas being dominated by bracken ( Pteridium aquilinum ).
19 Semi -improved Grassland
Currently unmanaged and becoming rank in nature, the sward averaged 0.2m in height during the survey. Cock’s foot, false oat grass and ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata ) occur frequently, together with occasional broadleaved dock, ragwort ( Senecio jacobea ), creeping thistle and common vetch ( Vicia sativa ).
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20 Operational Areas of Hints Quarry
The operation site comprises of significant areas of bare and heavily disturbed ground, stockpiling and processing areas, mixing plant and site offices etc.
Some peripheral areas of ruderal grassland occur.
21 Woodland Planting
A restored embankment that has been planted with various willows (Salix spp.), silver birch, holly ( Ilex aquifolium ) and Scot’s pine ( Pinus sylvestris ).
The majority of tree growth is yet to exceed 4m in height, although occasional specimens of faster growing species do reach 6-7m high.
3.3 Protected, Notable and Controlled Flora
3.3.1 Notable Flora including Protected Schedule 8 Species
No plant species afforded special protection on Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were recorded during the survey.
It is possible that the full diversity of plant species would not have been evident during the survey due to the time of year that it was conducted. However, the majority of the study area has either been subject to quarrying or intensive agriculture. As such, the potential for plant species of high conservation concern to occur is considered to be negligible.
Due to soil disturbance arising from quarrying and previous agricultural use, it is however possible that uncommon/rare species of arable weeds may occur which may have remained dormant in the seed bank.
3.3.2 Invasive Plant Species
No invasive plant species as listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were recorded during the survey.
It is possible that due to the April survey date and the preceding dry weather that some species may not have been especially evident. The waterbodies were not inspected in detail due to the health and safety issues associated with quicksand and lone working. It is possible that alien aquatic plants may occur in these habitats.
3.4 Fauna
During the survey general observations were made of any faunal use of the study are or immediate surrounding land, with specific attention paid to the potential presence of protected or notable species.
The potential for such species to occur within the study area is set out below, with recommendations for further survey or assessment being made in Section 4 as deemed to be appropriate and necessary.
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3.4.1 Mammals
Bats
Records of six bat species were returned as part of the SER data search.
The majority of the tree resource is young and lacks the potential to support bat roosts, the exception being the sunken Holloway at TN 11 which contained mature oak trees. These trees were considered to have some potential to support roosts. Although not directly within a proposed extension area any bats using trees for roosting may use nearby habitats within the study area for foraging or commuting.
Buildings with the potential to support bats are restricted to a barn at TN 6. This is an agricultural building constructed using traditional materials and techniques. The barn lies outside of any extension area, however, any bats using this building for roosting may also use nearby habitats within the study area for foraging or commuting.
The other site buildings associated with the quarry are portacabins within the office/weighbridge complex with negligible potential to support bat roosts.
In respect of foraging and commuting by bats, there is some potential for this to take place locally along the edges of the study area along hedgerows and tree lines and over standing water.
Otter and Water Vole
The site sits on a raised sandstone escarpment. The Birmingham and Fazeley Canal and River Tame are present 2km to the east. The Black Brook is 1km to the south but is separated from the study area by the A5 road. Due to the lack of nearby running water and the recently established nature of many of the waterbodies within the study area, the presence of both otter and water vole is therefore considered to be unlikely.
3.4.2 Herpetofauna
Amphibians including Great Crested Newt (GCN)
The SER data search returned four records of GCN from within a 2km radius as shown in Table 5 below. The closest record is approximately 240m east.
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Table 5 – Previous Records of Great Crested Newt from within a 2km radius of the Study area Boundary Grid Reference Notes Site Two records from 2005 and Swinfen and Packington SK167042 2008. Count of three adults
in 2005. Hopwas Hays Wood SK175053 Field observation in 2004.
Dunstall Farm (north of), SK180058 Hopwas 1 count in 2006.
Other amphibian records supplied by SER from within the 2km radius include four records of common toad.
The study area contains standing water in the form of current and former quarry lagoons and also more natural features where water has collected in the quarry floors.
The operational lagoons (eg, TN 1 and 2) are unlikely to support amphibians including GCN as they lack aquatic/marginal vegetation or suitable terrestrial habitats.
The lagoons in Hopwas Quarry Plant Site and Hopwas Quarry (Charity Land) could support amphibians due to the fact that they are longer established. However, it was noted that aquatic vegetation is either absent or poorly developed in most of the waterbodies.
Reptiles
The SER data search returned records for all four of the commoner reptiles (ie. grass snake, adder, common lizard and slow worm) from within a 2km radius. No reptiles were recorded during the walkover survey, although the timing of the survey, the time employed and level of searching undertaken would not be sufficient to fully discount the presence of reptiles.
The emerging mosaic of bare ground, short acidic grassland, tall ruderal grassland, open water, scrub and secondary woodland in Hopwas Quarry could support species such as common lizard, slow worm and grass snake.
The agricultural farmland to the north and east has negligible potential to support reptiles due to the absence of structured semi-natural habitats.
3.4.3 Breeding Birds
Records of a number of large bird species were returned by the SER data search, including a number of species afforded special protection by Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and/or of conservation concern.
The study area has the potential to support waterfowl and species such as little ringed plover due to the presence of open ground near water.
Agricultural areas and buildings may hold territories of lapwing, skylark and yellowhammer and possibly the scarcer farmland birds such as tree sparrow or yellow wagtail.
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3.4.4 Invertebrates
The SER search returned an old record of white-clawed crayfish from Black Brook west of Hints Village. This is dated 1955 -1972. Due to the absence of watercourses within the study area, it is considered there is negligible potential for this species to occur.
Other records of invertebrates from SER included bumblebees, solitary bees, beetles and butterflies from within the 2km search area.
3.4.5 Other Protected Fauna
Based on the habitat types recorded, it is considered unlikely that any additional protected fauna groups would occur within or adjacent to the study area.
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4.0 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
An ecological desk-based study and walkover survey of the study area, as shown on Drawing 1, was undertaken during April 2012.
No statutory ecological designations were identified within or immediately adjacent to the study area.
The nearest non-statutory sites of biological importance are Hanging Wood which is approximately 150m south east of the study area, and Hopwas Hayes Wood which is approximately 170m north east of the study area.
The dominant habitats within the study area are bare open ground or arable farmland.
Further protected species surveys and habitat assessments would be required in order to confirm the presence or likely absence of protected and notable species, and allow a full evaluation of the study areas importance for biodiversity to be made (see below).
4.1 Habitats
The Extended Phase 1 survey did not record the presence of particularly extensive or diverse semi-natural vegetation and as such no further botanical/NVC surveys of plant communities are proposed.
4.2 Species
After careful consideration, it is considered that the following species/groups require further survey and assessment.
4.2.1 Bats
Both bats and their roosts are protected by UK and EU legislation. More specifically, The Habitats Regulations implement the requirements of the Habitats Directive for species listed in Annexe IV of the Directive. These species are commonly known as European Protected Species (EPS). All native bat species are European Protected Species and are offered protection under the above Act. All European protected species are also separately protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
Roosting
Further surveys of the farm buildings (TN 6) are required due to the loss of hedgerow TN 7 which may be a linking feature for any bats roosting in the buildings.
Foraging
The proposed extension areas comprise of large arable fields which are unlikely to be of value to bats as a foraging resource. However, there are shelterbelts and open woodland/bracken mosaics present close to the boundaries or in the case of the Arquiva land just inside.
4.2.2 Amphibian including GCN
Great crested newts (GCN) are a European Protected Species (EPS), listed on Annex II and IV of the EEC Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and Wild Fauna and Flora, receiving protection under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010.
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This species is also afforded full protection under the Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (WCA 1981). Under such legislation it is an offence to:
• Intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take a great crested newt; • Possess or control any live or dead specimen or anything derived from a great crested newt; • Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any structure or place used for shelter or protection by a great crested newt; and • Intentionally or recklessly disturb a great crested newt while it is occupying a structure or place which it uses for that purpose.
The more common British amphibians, i.e. common frog ( Rana temporaria ), common toad (Bufo bufo ), smooth newt ( Lissotriton vulgaris ) and palmate newt ( Lissotriton helveticus ), whilst only protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from sale, barter, exchange, transporting for sale and advertising to sell or to buy, are nonetheless UK Species of Principal Importance listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Communities Act (NERC) 2006 due to general declines in their numbers in recent years. As such, under this Act all ‘public authorities’, which includes local planning authorities, are to have due regard for biodiversity and Species of Principal Importance.
Due to the existence of previous records of amphibians including GCN from within a 2km radius, it is recommended that a survey of suitable waterbodies is undertaken between Mid March and Mid June in accordance with the standard survey methodology published by English Nature. The survey should be preceded by a walkover to assess habitat suitability and assess the health and safety issues associated with surveying the site. Surveys should involve a minimum of four visits to ponds using at least three survey methods per visit, as appropriate to site conditions. Should GCN be recorded then a further two visits are required to establish population size.
4.2.3 Reptiles
All terrestrial native reptiles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). The Act makes it an offence to intentionally, deliberately or recklessly kill or injure any British reptile. The most widespread reptile species comprising grass snake (Natrix natrix ), adder ( Vipera berus ), slow worm ( Anguis fragilis ), and common lizard (Zootoca vivipara ) are protected under Section 9 (Parts 1 and 5) against intentional killing, injury, and sale.
It is not possible to obtain a licence to legally kill or injure reptiles for the purposes of development; therefore where reptiles are present it will be necessary to take all reasonable precautions to avoid committing such an offence before commencing works within areas of suitable reptile habitat.
All species of reptiles are Species of Principal Importance and are listed as Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP).
Hopwas Quarry (Charity land) is considered to have the potential to support reptiles along vegetated interfaces with bare ground. The remainder of the study area is considered to have low potential to support reptiles.
It is therefore recommended that a reptile survey is undertaken between May and July or September to mid October using artificial refuges checked up to seven times during suitable weather after bedding in for a minimum of one week.
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4.2.4 Breeding Birds
The nests of all wild birds, with some exceptions, are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 against being destroyed. Some species are specially protected against being harmed or disturbed by Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
The SER search returned records of breeding birds from the 2km radius which included Schedule 1 species, several species of birds of prey and others of conservation concern.
The study area has the potential to support a varied range of breeding birds, including species such as little ringed plover, which receive special protection under Schedule 1.
A breeding bird survey of the study area and immediate surroundings is therefore recommended. Such a survey would record the bird assemblage present and allow an assessment of the study area’s importance for breeding birds to be undertaken.
The suggested survey effort would compromise of three survey visits between early April and July, following the Common Bird Census (CBC) Methodology (Gilbert et al , 1998).
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5.0 CLOSURE
This report has been prepared by SLR Consulting Limited with all reasonable skill, care and diligence, and taking account of the manpower and resources devoted to it by agreement with the client. Information reported herein is based on the interpretation of data collected and has been accepted in good faith as being accurate and valid.
This report is for the exclusive use of Lafarge Tarmac/Cemex and their retained consultants; no warranties or guarantees are expressed or should be inferred by any third parties. This report may not be relied upon by other parties without written consent from SLR.
The information presented in this report provides guidance to reduce the risk of offences under UK law. However, SLR is not a legal practice and disclaims any responsibility to the client and others for actions that lead to offences being caused, whether or not the guidance contained in this report is followed. Interpretation of UK legislation is presented in good faith; however for the avoidance of doubt, we recommend that specialist legal advice is sought.
SLR disclaims any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the agreed scope of the work.
SLR
SER/12/125 Nature Conservation Sites and Species $$$ The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT Tel: 01889 880100 Fax: 01889 880101 within 2km of Hints Quarry (SK162044) NN Email: [email protected] Note: Badger records are excluded, and only 100m precision sightings are plotted
FreefordFreeford ManorManor andand Key to symbols SwinfenSwinfen ParkPark For a full list of symbology refer to separate key (( 33"" 2km Search radius 33 33 33 (( Staffordshire boundary 33 33 )) SwinfenSwinfen LakeLake (south(south of)of) ""(2(2 Search Location ""22 (SK162044 client supplied) 22 HopwHopwasas HayHayeses WoodWood ))2(2( (( ))2(2( DunstallDunstall FarmFarm (north(north of)of) ))(( "" MoorMoor CovertCovert andand PoolPool (( "" (( "" "" ""2(2( HopwHopwasas (disused(disused sandsand && gravelgravel pit)pit) 44 22 MascotteMascotte CovertCovert ""33 33 (( (( 5522 (( "" ChurchChurch WoodWood andand MeadowMeadow )) CotonCoton HouseHouse FarmFarm (south(south of)of) betwbetweeneen itit andand BlackBlack BrookBrook 22 "" 22 HangingHanging WoodWood (( (( 33 33 "" 22 BlackBlack BrookBrook Corridor:Corridor: B.B.B.B. BridgeBridge (((( HangingHanging WoodWood andand (( (( (( toto HeartHeart ofof EnglandEngland WayWay CC CommonCommon PlantationPlantation Kendall'sKendall's andand PipesPipes WoodWood (((( (((( Kendall'sKendall's andand PipesPipes WoodWood RoughRough LeasowLeasow ))(( !(!( 33 (((( 44 Snake'sSnake's HillHill andand RiverRiver OxbowOxbow,,, RoughRough LeasowLeasow,,, (( BlackBlack BrookBrook MillditchMillditch WoodWood (( (( )) FordFord (Oxbow(Oxbow Woodland)Woodland) toto BotleyBotley (( RookeryRookery House,House, BourneBourne BrookBrook CorridorCorridor 0 1,500
metres RoundhillRoundhill WoodWood 33 BotleyBotley HouseHouse toto BourneBourne Bridge,Bridge, Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey mapping with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown copyright 2010, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Licence No. 100050351 BourneBourne BrookBrook
Mr A. Law SLR Consulting Mytton Mill Forton Heath Montford Bridge Shrewsbury. SY4 1HA 1st May 2012 Please reply to: SER Reference: SER/12/125 Client Reference: 406.3751 Dear XXXX, G.C.Slawson B.Sc. (Hons) Ecological Records Re Data Search: Hints Quarry SK16283 04483 (2km buffer) Co-ordinator The Wolseley Centre With regard to the above location, I am including the following information for Wolseley Bridge this area: Stafford ST17 0WT * 1) Map showing the extent of Sites of Biological Importance (SBIs) and Tel: 01889 880100 * Biodiversity Alert Sites (BASs) in the area in question. Fax: 01889 880101 2) A list of SBIs/BASs and other statutory and non-statutory sites of biological or geological importance, together with a list of woodlands listed on the Natural England Ancient Woodlands Inventory
3) An annotated list of protected species within the search area, covering European and UK protected species and species occurring on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) (short list) and Staffordshire BAP.
4) Citations for non-statutory sites – the cost of this (£35 plus VAT) will be excluded from the final cost if no sites are found.
As agreed the cost of producing this information is £125 plus VAT and an invoice will be sent separately.
Yours sincerely,
Partners: Natural England G.Craig Slawson B.Sc.(Hons.) Cannock Chase District Council Ecological Records Co-ordinator East Staffordshire Borough Council Environment Agency Lichfield District Council The National Forest Company Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council * SBI Sites of Biological Importance are equivalent to County Wildlife Sites ( i.e . of County South Staffordshire Council Importance) and are included in the Local Plans of Staffordshire’s Local Authorities Stafford Borough Council with a presumption against development. Staffordshire County Council BAS Biodiversity Alert Sites are of Local Importance for Nature Conservation or other areas Staffordshire Moorlands District Council of interest for wildlife where there may be potential to improve the habitat to SBI Staffordshire Wildlife Trust standard with appropriate management. These sites are not normally included within the Stoke-on-Trent City Council Local Plans. Tamworth Borough Council
2
Ecological Information for Hints Quarry (SK162044) 1) Location and extent of important sites : See attached map
2) List of important sites
Statutory Sites (SSSIs/LNRs) None know within search area Non-statutory Ecological Sites (SBIs/BASs) 10/35/63 SK136053 Mascotte Covert Retained SBI (1982) 10/36/52 SK135062 Swinfen Lake (south of) Retained SBI (1982) 10/36/65 SK136065 Freeford Manor and Swinfen Park SBI (1995) 10/43/26 SK142036 Black Brook Corridor: B.B. Bridge to Heart of BAS (2003) England Way 10/43/37 SK143037 Church Wood and Meadow between it and Black BAS (2003) Brook 10/43/40 SK144030 Rough Leasow Retained SBI (1974) 10/45/55 SK145055 Moor Covert and Pool SBI (2011) 10/52/25 SK152025 Rookery SBI (2011) 10/52/72 SK157022 Roundhill Wood SBI (2011) 10/52/85 SK158025 Ford (Oxbow Woodland) to Botley House, Bourne BAS (2003) Brook Corridor 10/53/42 SK154032 Snake's Hill and River Oxbow, Black Brook SBI (2003) 10/62/93 SK169023 Botley House to Bourne Bridge, Bourne Brook BAS (2003) 10/64/70 SK167040 Hanging Wood and Common Plantation SBI (2003) 10/73/82 SK178032 Kendall's and Pipes Wood SBI (1995) 10/75/53 SK175053 Hopwas Hayes Wood SBI (2004) 10/75/84 SK178054 Hopwas (disused sand & gravel pit) SBI (1995) 10/84/59 SK185049 Coton House Farm (south of) BAS (2008) 10/86/12 SK181062 Dunstall Farm (north of) Retained SBI (1982)
Site on the Natural England Ancient Woodland Inventory (AWI) SK167038 Hanging Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland SK167041 Hanging Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland SK167052 Hopwas Hays Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland SK177058 Hopwas Hays Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland SK176032 Kendall's Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland SK178031 Kendall's Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland SK179031 Pipes Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland SK152025 Rookery Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland SK144029 Rough Leasow, Millditch Wood Ancient Replanted Woodland SK157022 Roundhill Wood Ancient & Semi-Natural Woodland
Regionally Important Geological/geomorphological Sites (RIGS) None known within the search area 3) Protected Species within search area
An annotated list of all Internationally and UK protected species together with species from the UK and Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plans is attached.
A Partnership operated by English Nature, Staffordshire County Council, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Stoke-on-Trent City Council
88 88 88 88
44 "" 22 (( (( && CC CC !! !! 55 33 (( (( )) ’’ ...... .. "" ""
Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 Administrative Areas based on the National Biodiversity Network Dictionary © NBN, 1999-2002 Site Key: 10/75/53 Site Type: Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland {B} Site Name: Hopwas Hays Wood Grid Ref: SK175053 Civil Parish Wigginton and Hopwas, Lichfield, Staffordshire, England Civil Parish Fisherwick, Lichfield, Staffordshire, England GB Vice-County Staffordshire, Keywords Keyword Details Date associated information amendments File ref changed from the erroneous '10/74/35' and grid ref 2003 adjusted accordingly location access Permission initially refused, SWT are now in contact with Oct 03 Tarmac and the MOD to negotiate carrying out a survey in spring 2004. Local Site Status NI 197 Site Baseline - Advice Mar 08 Site of Biological previously Grade 1 in 1980 and retained in 1995 9/11/04 Importance uncategorised local keywords Original Recorder Code 6283 no date Site Designation Criteria General 9/11/04 Chair of Designation: Smith, Mr John R. Designation Cmttee: DC, GCS, JW, AL, MT, CM, JE. Conservation Status Status Details Date Local Wildlife Site previously Grade 1 in 1980 and retained 9/11/04 in 1995 Biotopes (Habitats) Code Habitat Area (ha) A111 Woodland: broadleaved, semi-natural (areas alder/willow dominant and birch 100.63 dominant) A1221 Woodland: coniferous, plantation, high forest 43.85 A42 Recently felled woodland: coniferous 2.02 C11 Tall herb and fern: Bracken, continuous 4.58 C31 Tall herb and fern: other, tall ruderal 1.29 D52 Heathland: dry heath/acid grassland mosaic, lowland 5.16 J36 Built up area, buildings Dimensions
01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 1 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 Dimension Value/units size 157.53ha Contacts field surveyor 11/6/04 Weightman, Judith field surveyor 11/6/04 Cadman, David field surveyor 20/5/04 Jukes, Andy field surveyor 20/5/04 Slawson, G.Craig field surveyor 20/5/04 Crawley, Derek field surveyor 20/5/04 Mott, J.Nick T. field surveyor 20/5/04 Lawley, Sue D. field surveyor 20/5/04 Smith, John R. field surveyor 20/5/04 Cadman, David field surveyor 20/5/04 Henshall, Sarah field surveyor 20/5/04 Weightman, Judith field surveyor 20/5/04 Jones, E landowner (in part) 2004 Defence Estates landowner (in part) 2004 Fyles, G.D advisor 2004 Broom, D. field surveyor 1/8/95 Radford, Elaine field surveyor 1/8/95 Bryant, Marion J. landowner (in part) 1995 Tilcon landowner (in part) 1995 Ministry of Defence field surveyor 1989 Smith, A.V. (Tony) interested person 21/2/80 Arnold, George A. interested person 21/2/80 Arnold, Maurice A. landowner (in part) 1980 Birmingham Sand & Gravel Co. Site Description Source: Cadman, Smith, et al, 2004 Summary: Hopwas Hays Wood is situated to the west of the village of Hopwas, near Tamworth. Hopwas Hays Wood covers an area of approximately 158 hectares and is the largest ancient woodland site in the Lichfield District region. The majority of the woodland consists of a mixed age range of trees that include broadleaved, coniferous and regeneration communities.
A mature Scots pine canopy dominates the southern section of the woodland, adjacent to the A51. Throughout the canopy isolated pockets of broadleaved assemblages occur, these include beech, silver birch, rowan and pedunculate oak. Hazel and elder are the dominant species amongst the understory, which is fragmented and occurs with frequency surrounding the houses on Hopwas Hill. The corresponding ground flora supports large stands of acidic woodland indicators that include heath bedstraw, bluebells, wood sage and climbing corydalis. Bramble is locally frequent amongst this section with false oat-grass, Yorkshire- fog, wavy hair-grass and common bent being the dominant grass species. Adjacent to the network of paths are occasional wet flushes, which support dense stands of soft rush.
01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 2 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003
Dense stands of birch regeneration are prevalent in the central section of Hopwas Hayes. These stands are often impenetrable and support a very sparse ground flora community that consists of bramble, bracken and occasional stands of wavy hair-grass. Where the canopy is less dense rosebay willowherb and rhododendron form expansive swathes.
On the western side of the site, and to the north of 'The Woodhouse', is an area of broadleaved woodland. The canopy is comprised of a combination of sycamore, pedunculate oak, silver birch and a number of mature conifers. A well-developed understory is present in the form of hazel, elder, hawthorn and occasional holly. The ground flora consists of an assemblage of ancient woodland indicator plant species and characteristic woodland species that include bluebell, wood millet, yellow archangel, wood anemone, wood-sorrel, sweet woodruff, enchanter’s-nightshade. Wood anemone and bluebell form locally frequent swathes, while yellow archangel scrambles among the ground layer in the steeper parts of the woodland. Bracken is locally abundant and a stand of scaly male fern was located on the western side of the woodland.
An area of clear felled woodland is situated to the south west of 'The Woodhouse', and on the eastern side is an area of recently planted coniferous woodland.
The northern section is dominated by immature stands of birch with localised stands of rhododendron. The majority of the birch stands exhibit a dense, closed canopy with a poorly developed ground flora. In areas where the woodland canopy is less dense the ground flora consists of bracken, wavy hair-grass, creeping soft-grass and occasional swathes of heath bedstraw and climbing corydalis. Adjacent to the paths are long, linear expanses of acidic grassland. Reaching an average width of 1 metre, the strands of acidic grassland consist of common bent, sheep’s sorrel, field wood-rush, wavy hair-grass, and rarely heather, bilberry and wood sage.
Towards the north-eastern section of the woodland, adjacent to the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal, lies an area of mature broadleaved woodland. Sycamore is the dominant species amongst the canopy, along with smaller pockets of rowan, common lime, holly, field maple and hazel forming the shrub layer.
Throughout this section the ground flora is botanically diverse, exhibiting many of the species associated with areas of semi-natural ancient woodland in the British Isles. Bluebells, dog’s mercury, sweet woodruff, wood-sorrel and, especially along the steep banks, wood anemone form dense, expansive stands. Other botanical species of note include wood melick, yellow archangel, enchanter’s-nightshade, ground ivy and wood speedwell.
Small stands of sanicle and hart’s-tongue were also located within the woodland assemblage, both of these species are uncommon in the County.
Small wet hollows are evident along the pathways. These hollows appear to have been created by the passing of heavy, all-terrain vehicles and have been colonised by a range of species that include tufted hair-grass, common figwort and soft rush.
On the edges of the sycamore dominated assemblages the ground flora takes on the characteristics of acid woodland communities. Amongst these assemblages are bilberry, 01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 3 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 wavy hair-grass, wood-sorrel, creeping soft-grass and small amounts of heather.
The northern boundary of the site has two further woodland communities, a small expanse of mature plantation beech woodland, which has an extremely sparse ground flora and abundant leaf litter, and some coniferous woodland. The coniferous woodland is dominated by Scots pine and larch. In this area many of the coniferous trees have been closely planted with the corresponding ground flora being characteristically limited.
The terrestrial invertebrate fauna throughout the southern area of the woodland is relatively poor. This is largely due to the presence of red wood ants, which predate on many species of terrestrial invertebrate. The species forms characteristic nests that are situated throughout the southern compartments of the woodland. The red wood ant is rare and localised in Staffordshire, with Hopwas Hays being only the third recorded site they inhabit in the County.
Other notable invertebrates recorded during the survey include the cranefly 'Ctenophora atrata'. ' Ctenophora atrata' is a large and spectacular cranefly that mimics a red and black Ichneumon wasp. The larvae of the species occur in rotting wood, especially birch, in woodland at the edge of heathland. 'Ctenophora atrata' is listed in the Red Data Book as a notable b species.
The survey also discovered the first county record for large fleck-winged snipefly. The large fleck-winged snipefly is locally abundant in northern and upland Britain. The species is predatory on small soft-bodied invertebrates and is usually found in bushy places and woodland edges.
A selection of invertebrates were also recorded during the survey, these were: a number of nomad and solitary bees, which are Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan (SBAP) Species, a range of bumble bees that include white-tailed bumble bee, red-tailed bumble bee, carder bee, a froghopper, a 7 spot ladybird and wood lice.
During the survey a sighting of a slow worm was reported to the survey team by a local resident. The area in question was investigated but this search proved to be inconclusive. However, a grass snake was discovered immediately south of Hopwas Wood Bridge.
Mammalian interest at Hopwas Hays Wood is composed of a number of species that include: red fox, grey squirrel, rabbit, badger, bank vole and hedgehog. Field signs, most notably, droppings, tracks and feeding remains, were the main forms of evidence at the site. The main area of interest for many of the mammals recorded at Hopwas Hays Wood appeared to surrounding The Woodhouse in the southern section of the site.
Otter spraints were located near to the Hopwas Wood Bridge. Whilst the spraints were thought to be quite old, sightings of the species in this vicinity have been reported to Staffordshire Ecological Record.
Bird species recorded during the survey include buzzard, cuckoo, kestral, green woodpecker, wren, blackbird and chiffchaff.
01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 4 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 Source: Radford & Bryant, 1995 Summary: Hopwas Hayes Wood covers an extensive area to the west of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal. A series of public footpaths run through the wood, although those in the northern section are often closed (usually Monday to Friday) as this part of the wood is owned by the MOD and used for military exercises. Their firing ranges are located directly to the west of the wood.
It has been agreed in principle that sand and gravel can be extracted from the southern part of the wood. Tilcon owns this area and they refused permission for us to resurvey this part of the site.
According to the range warden a fire during the very dry summer of 1976 took out approximately one third of the wood and these areas now have a dense growth of birch. The MOD now maintains a series of wide rides to act as fire breaks in the northern part of the wood.
The Northern Part of the Wood (MOD Owned Area)
Much of the northern part of the wood is dominated by stands of birch some of which are as yet immature, but others are reaching maturity. On the almost level ground in the west, where the soils are very sandy, the ground vegetation is dominated by wavy-hair grass with patches of heather and occasionally a little bilberry.
The wide rides that traverse this area support a mosaic of heather and acid grassland with extensive areas of heather in places, some of which are being colonised by young birch. Additional species include a little broom and western gorse with good amounts of bilberry in places. A number of mosses typical of such soils such as Polytrichum juniperinum and Hypnum cupressiforme and a lichen of the Cladonia group occur on the edges of the rides.
Where the ground begins to slope down towards the canal at the eastern side of the site, the ground vegetation beneath the birch is characterised by creeping soft-grass with bluebell interspersed with stands of bracken. There are several additional species in the community including woodland herbs such as enchanter's nightshade. Rowans are locally frequent amongst the birch here.
On the slopes directly above the canal the mature canopy is dominated by sycamore. There is a sparse understorey of coppiced hazel and hawthorn, with rowan locally frequent. In a localised area where the soils are more nutrient rich the ground vegetation is dominated by dog's mercury with frequent wild arum and occasional hart's tongue fern interspersed with patches of bramble. On the lowest part of the slope wood melick is dominant with locally abundant woodruff and yellow archangel. A little sanicle is also present. Elsewhere beneath the sycamore canopy, generally on the upper part of the slope, the ground flora is of creeping soft-grass and bluebell with locally abundant wood stitchwort and locally frequent wood sorrel and quite extensive stands of bracken.
On some of the steeper parts of this slope above the canal there are areas of bare ground, which seem to be used by mountain bike riders and possibly motor cyclists.
Bracken dominates the quite extensive open areas which are generally located on the more 01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 5 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 level ground towards the western side of the wood. Immature specimens of birch are scattered through these stands.
In the northern corner of the wood conifers, which are now reaching maturity, have been planted in blocks. Bracken and areas with wavy hair-grass occur beneath them. Locally there is only a deep leaf litter.
The Southern Part of the Wood (Tilcon Owned Area)
This part of the site is fenced from the remainder and was not entered. The areas adjoining the fence seemed to have a similar birch woodland to that in the northern part of the site. From the aerial photographs extensive areas appear to be have the young birch woodland, which has grown up since the fire interspersed with stands of bracken.
Fauna at the Site
A few common resident birds such as robin and wren were seen at the site. A green woodpecker was observed in the birch-wavy hair grass woodland and great spotted woodpecker are also reported to be present. Butterflies were quite numerous, especially along the sheltered rides and on the woodland edge with several species represented, including small copper, peacock and meadow brown. Two of the hawker dragonflies were also seen in flight along the rides. Source: Arnold & Arnold, 1980 Summary: Woodland with limited public access, becoming more restricted in recent years. Often closed as rifle range firing takes place. Several footpaths inside the wood.
Primarily oak standards $Quercus robur$ and hazel coppice, $Betula pubescens$, $Acer pseudoplatanus$, $Fraxinus excelsior$, $Alnus glutinosa$, $Salix$ sp., $Sorbus aucuparia$. Also much $Rhododendron ponticum$. Large plantations of $Pinus sylvestris$, $Larix decidua$ and of exotic conifers including $Pseudotsuga taxifolis$, $Cedrus lubanensis$, etc. Bibliography listed Cadman, D. & Henshall, S. (2003) Resurvey of Lichfield District, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (Wolseley Bridge) described Cadman, D. & Smith, J.R. (et al) (2004) SWT Survey of Tarmac Land at Hopwas Hays Wood, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (Wolseley Bridge) described Radford, E. & Bryant, M. (1995) The SBI Resurvey of Lichfield 1995, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (Sandon, Staffordshire) described SNCT (County Survey) (1984) The Phase 1 Survey of Staffordshire - 1978-1984, Staffordshire Nature Conservation Trust (Sandon, Staffs.)
End of Report
01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 6 of 6 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/75/53 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 Administrative Areas based on the National Biodiversity Network Dictionary © NBN, 1999-2002 Site Key: 10/64/70 Site Type: Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland {B} Site Name: Hanging Wood, Common Plantation and the Devil's Dressing Room. Grid Ref: SK167040 Civil Parish Wigginton and Hopwas, Lichfield, Staffordshire, England Civil Parish Swinfen and Packington, Lichfield, Staffordshire, England Civil Parish Hints, Lichfield, Staffordshire, England GB Vice-County Staffordshire, Keywords Keyword Details Date site integrity The Devil's Dressing Room excluded from the site due to 2003 lack of permission survey. Local Site Status Site of Biological also grade 1 in 1995 2003 Importance uncategorised local keywords Original Recorder Code 689 no date Conservation Status Status Details Date Local Wildlife Site also grade 1 in 1995 2003 Biotopes (Habitats) Code Habitat Area (ha) A1111 Woodland: broadleaved, semi-natural, high forest A1121 Woodland: broadleaved, plantation, high forest C11 Tall herb and fern: Bracken, continuous Dimensions Dimension Value/units altitude 120-140m area 6.3ha Contacts field surveyor 1995 Radford, Elaine landowner (in part) 1995 Armstrong, Leslie landowner (in part) 1995 Wylie, G. field surveyor 1995 Bryant, Marion J. Site Description Source: Radford & Bryant, 1995 Summary: Hanging Wood and Common Plantation lie on steep east and south-facing slopes and are mainly surrounded by intensively managed agricultural land. An active quarry is located to 01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 1 of 2 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/64/70 Staffordshire Ecological Record Ecological Site Report Produced in GeoConservation © SER, HWEHT 2003 the west of Common Plantation. A ride runs along the bottom edge of Hanging Wood.
The Devil's Dressing room is located a short distance to the east of Hanging Wood.
Fauna at the Site:
Only a few common resident birds were heard or seen in the woodland. There were frequent rabbit holes and scrapes, especially in Common Plantation. A few common species of butterfly were noted on the woodland edge, including the speckled wood. Bibliography described Radford, E. & Bryant, M. (1995) The SBI Resurvey of Lichfield 1995, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (Sandon, Staffordshire)
End of Report
01 May 2012 © Staffordshire Ecological Record, 2012 Page 2 of 2 The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford. ST17 0WT 10/64/70 AYLESBURY EDINBURGH NOTTINGHAM 7 Wornal Park, Menmarsh Road, No. 4 The Roundal, Roddinglaw Aspect House, Aspect Business Park, Worminghall, Aylesbury, Business Park, Gogar, Edinburgh Bennerley Road, Nottingham NG6 8WR Buckinghamshire HP18 9PH EH12 9DB T: +44 (0)115 9647280 T: +44 (0)1844 337380 T: +44 (0)131 3356830
BELFAST EXETER ST. ALBANS 24 Ballynahinch Street, Hillsborough, 69 Polsloe Road, Exeter EX1 2NF White House Farm Barns, Gaddesden Co. Down, BT26 6AW Northern Ireland T: + 44 (0)1392 490152 Row, Hertfordshire HP2 6HG T: +44 (0)28 9268 9036 T: +44 (0)1582 840471
BRADFORD ON AVON FARNBOROUGH SHEFFIELD Treenwood House, Rowden Lane, The Pavilion, 2 Sherborne Road, South STEP Business Centre, Wortley Road, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 2AU Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 6JT Deepcar, Sheffield S36 2UH T: +44 (0)1225 309400 T: +44 (0)1252 515682 T: +44 (0)114 2903628
BRISTOL GLASGOW SHREWSBURY Langford Lodge, 109 Pembroke Road, 4 Woodside Place, Charing Cross, Mytton Mill, Forton Heath, Montford Clifton, Bristol BS8 3EU Glasgow G3 7QF Bridge, Shrewsbury SY4 1HA T: +44 (0)117 9064280 T: +44 (0)141 3535037 T: +44 (0)1743 850170
CAMBRIDGE HUDDERSFIELD STAFFORD 8 Stow Court, Stow-cum-Quy, Westleigh House, Wakefield Road, 8 Parker Court, Staffordshire Technology Cambridge CB25 9AS Denby Dale, Huddersfield HD8 8QJ Park, Beaconside, Stafford ST18 0WP T: + 44 (0)1223 813805 T: +44 (0)1484 860521 T: +44 (0)1785 241755
CARDIFF LEEDS WARRINGTON Fulmar House, Beignon Close, Suite 1, Jason House, Kerry Hill, Suite 9 Beech House, Padgate Business Ocean Way, Cardiff CF24 5HF Horsforth, Leeds LS18 4JR Park, Green Lane, Warrington WA1 4JN T: +44 (0)29 20491010 T: +44 (0)113 2580650 T: +44 (0)1925 827218
CHELMSFORD MAIDSTONE WORCESTER Unit 77, Waterhouse Business Centre, 19 Hollingworth Court, Turkey Mill, Suite 5, Brindley Court, Gresley Road, 2 Cromar Way, Chelmsford, Essex Maidstone, Kent ME14 5PP Shire Business Park, Worcester CM1 2QE T: +44 (0)1622 609242 WR4 9FD T: +44 (0)1245 392170 T: +44 (0)1905 751310
DUBLIN NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE 7 Dundrum Business Park, Sailors Bethel, Horatio Street, Windy Arbour, Dublin 14 Ireland Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PE T: + 353 (0)1 2964667 T: +44 (0)191 2611966