Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline

Prepared by: The Environmental Dimension Partnership Ltd (EDP)

On behalf of: Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

February 2017 Report Reference EDP3431_02a

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Contents

Non-Technical Summary

Section 1 Introduction ...... 1

Section 2 Methodology (Baseline Investigations) ...... 3

Section 3 Results ...... 17

Section 4 Summary of Findings ...... 35

Annexes

Annex EDP 1 Designated Sites Maps

Annex EDP 2 Illustrative Photographs

Annex EDP 3 Bat Roost Inspection Results

Annex EDP 4 Automated Bat Detector Results

Annex EDP 5 Pond Habitat Suitability Assessment

Plans

Plan EDP 1 Phase 1 Habitat Plan (EDP3431/07c 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 2 Transect Route and Automated Detector Locations (EDP3431/21b 07 February 2017 LB/RF)

Plan EDP 3 Dormouse Tube and Reptile Mat Locations (EDP3431/11b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 4 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results - August Dusk (EDP3431/08b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 5 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Early September Dusk (EDP3431/09b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 6 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Late September Dusk (EDP3431/10b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

For EDP use Report no. C_EDP3431_02a Author Emily Williams/Rob Forbes Peer Review Rob Forbes Formatted Charlee Gaisford Proofed Donna Kraven Date 02 February 2017 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Section 1 Introduction

1.1 This Ecology Baseline Report has been prepared by The Environmental Dimension Partnership Ltd (EDP) on behalf of Persimmon Homes (Wessex) (hereafter referred to as ‘the Client’). This report contains technical baseline ecology information that is relevant to the Ecology Impact Assessment (Chapter 9 Nature Conservation) of the Environmental Statement (ES), supporting a full planning application for the residential development of Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, and Warminster (hereafter referred to as ‘the Site’).

1.2 EDP is an independent environmental planning consultancy with offices in Cirencester, Cardiff and Shrewsbury. The practice provides advice to private and public sector clients throughout the UK in the fields of landscape, ecology, archaeology, cultural heritage, arboriculture, rights of way and masterplanning. Details of the practice can be obtained at our website www.edp-uk.co.uk.

Site Context

1.3 The Site is approximately centred at Ordnance Survey Grid Reference (OSGR) ST 853 446 within the Local Planning Authority of Wiltshire Council (WC). The Site encompasses approximately 9.59 hectares of predominantly arable farmland, situated on the eastern outskirts of the town of Warminster. The centre of the Site is dominated by farm buildings with associated hardstanding and an access road from the A36. The A36 lies to the north and east of the proposed Site, buffered by native hedgerow, scrub, trees and a single track access road. The southern and eastern Site boundaries are delineated by native hedgerows.

1.4 Located on the edge of Warminster, the wider landscape to the north, west and south is dominated by arable farmland and woodland copses, whilst residential housing is located east of the Site. Approximately 0.75km south-west of the Site is Longleat Forest, whilst Cley Hill SSSI is approximately 1km west of the Site and Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is located within 100m of the western Site boundary.

1.5 The Site forms part of the proposed West Warminster Urban Extension (WWUE) allocated within the Wiltshire Core Strategy (adopted January 2015). Persimmon Homes, Hannick Homes and Redrow Homes have worked in partnership with the local community and local planning authority to develop a masterplan for the entire 115ha WWUE. This masterplan was submitted in February 2016 (reference 16/01323/MAS) and on 15 June 2016 was formally endorsed by Wiltshire Council as a “significant material consideration”. The masterplan states that the WWUE will deliver “approximately 1,550 new homes”.

1 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Development Proposals

1.6 A comprehensive development comprising 232 residential dwellings (use class C3), new vehicular access, public open space, landscaping, sustainable urban drainage and other associated infrastructure works.

1.7 The ecological sensitivities of the Site have influenced the evolution of the development layout through an iterative design process. Thus, the masterplan will incorporate a degree of ‘inherent’ mitigation to avoid or reduce the severity of potential ecological impacts.

Scope of Assessment

1.8 This Ecology Baseline Report describes the current ecological interest within and around the Site, which has been identified through standard desk and field-based investigations.

1.9 The purpose of this report is to provide technical baseline information that supports the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) of the residential proposals, for which the Applicant is submitting a full planning application. The EcIA is provided in Chapter 9 Nature Conservation of the Environmental Statement (ES) accompanying the application. This report therefore does not directly appraise the ecological impacts of any development masterplan, but provides the technical survey methodologies and baseline conditions that are present and highlights the Important Ecological Features (IEFs) requiring evaluation in the EcIA

1.10 The remainder of this report is structured as follows:

• Section 2 summarises the methodologies employed in determining the baseline ecological conditions within and around the Site (with further details provided within appendices and on plans where appropriate);

• Section 3 summarises the baseline ecological conditions (with further details also provided within the appendices and on plans where appropriate), identifies and values any IEFs in a geographic context; and

• Section 4 summarises any actual or potential IEFs which are pertinent to the EcIA of the development proposals.

2 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Section 2 Methodology (Baseline Investigations)

2.1 This section of the Ecology Baseline Report, summarises the methodologies employed in determining the baseline ecological conditions within and around the Site. The baseline collation and evaluation has been undertaken by appropriately qualified ecologists, using relevant best practice methodologies wherever possible.

Desk Study

2.2 The desk study comprises an important element of the baseline ecological appraisal of a site proposed for development, enabling the initial collation and review of contextual information such as designated sites and past records of protected and priority species.

2.3 The desk study involved collating information from both statutory and non-statutory bodies, including:

• Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Record Centre (WSBRC);

• Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC1); and

• National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway2.

2.4 The desk study was undertaken between August and October 2016 and involved obtaining the following information:

• International statutory designations (10km radius);

• National statutory designations (2km);

• Non-statutory local sites (1km);

• Annex II bat species3 records (4km); and

• All other protected/notable species records (1km).

2.5 In light of the scope of the proposals, the above mentioned search areas are considered sufficient to cover the potential zone of influence4 of the proposed development in relation to nationally important sites (or less), habitats and species.

1 www.magic.gov.uk 2 http://data.nbn.org.uk/ 3 Referring to those species listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive for which internationally protected Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are selected

3 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

2.6 The desk study also included a review of the ecology information supporting the West Warminster Urban Extension (WWUE), of which the Site forms a part, and adjacent planning applications:

• Land North of Victoria Road (Planning ref: 15/01800/OUT - yet to be determined) – up to 1200 dwellings on land immediately to the north of the Site on the opposite side of Victoria Road; and

• Land to the West of St Andrews Close (14/06562/FUL – granted subject to S106 agreement) – 203 dwellings immediately to the south east of the Site.

2.7 All pertinent information received as a result of the desk study has been referenced within Section 3 and a designated site map included at Appendix EDP 2.

Extended Phase 1 Survey

2.8 The survey technique adopted for the initial habitat assessment, was at a level intermediate between a standard Phase 1 survey technique5 based on habitat mapping and description, and a Phase 2 survey, based on detailed habitat and species surveys. Commonly known as an Extended Phase 1 Survey, this level of survey does not aim to compile a complete floral and faunal inventory for the wider Site, but instead aims to scope those potential key ecological receptors which may require further investigation.

2.9 The Extended Phase 1 Survey of the Site was completed on 09 August 2016. All principal habitat types and dominant plant species present per habitat type within the Site were identified and mapped during the survey. The distribution of habitats surveyed is illustrated in Plan EDP 1, with site photographs included within Appendix EDP 3. In addition to surveying habitats, any actual or potential protected species or species of principal importance likely to be supported, were also identified and scoped during the assessment.

2.10 The survey was undertaken at an optimum time of year during dry weather conditions and is therefore not considered to have been limited by seasonal or climatic factors.

Species Surveys

2.11 The scope of Phase 2 surveys undertaken within the Application Site was defined following the initial studies described above (desk study and Extended Phase I Survey), and consultation with the Wiltshire Council Ecology Officer in August 2016. The surveys ‘scoped in’ to the Ecology Baseline Report, based upon the findings of the Extended

4 Zone of Influence – the areas and resources that may be affected by the proposed development 5 Joint Nature Conservation Council (2004) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – A Technique for Environmental Audit (reprinted with minor corrections for original Nature Conservancy Council publication).

4 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Phase I Survey, are summarised in turn below, with references to sources of further detailed information where applicable.

Bats

2.12 The Site contains a number of buildings and mature trees which could have the potential to support roosting bats. In addition, the hedgerows bounding the Site were identified during the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey as having the potential to support foraging and commuting bats. The following surveys for bats were therefore undertaken, with reference to national best practice guidelines6:

1. Bat roosting:

(a) Visual assessments of semi-mature/mature trees for bat roosting potential; and

(b) Visual assessments and internal/external inspections of all buildings on Site for their potential to support roosting bats.

2. Bat foraging/commuting activity:

(c) Manual transect surveys conducted in August, early and late September; and

(d) Automated detector surveys conducted in August, early and late September.

Investigations of Bat Roosting – Trees

2.13 To determine the potential impacts of the proposed development on bats potentially roosting within trees across the Site, all suitable trees were subject to a visual assessment with reference to current best practice guidance.

2.14 The tree survey involved a ground-based visual assessment of trees for the presence of, or potential to support, roosting bats. The survey was undertaken on 09 August 2016 by a suitably qualified ecologist. The trees were searched as thoroughly as possible from ground level, with all elevations covered where accessibility allowed. Suitable features for roosting bats that were searched for during the assessment included:

• Loss/peeling/fissured bark;

• Natural holes e.g. rot holes and holes from fallen limbs;

• Woodpecker holes;

• Cracks/splits or hollow tree trunks/limbs; and

6 Collins, J. (ed.) (2016). Bat Surveys: for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edition). The Bat Conservation Trust, London

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• Thick-stemmed ivy.

2.15 Signs of roosting bats sought for included:

• Bat/s roosting in-situ;

• Bat droppings within or beneath a feature;

• Staining around or beneath a feature;

• Oily marks (staining) around roost access points;

• Audible squeaking from the roost;

• Large/regularly used roosts or regularly used sites may produce an odour; and

• Flies around the roost, attracted by the smell of guano.

2.16 Based upon the results of the visual assessment and features/evidence identified, the following ratings for trees were used during the assessment:

• Known or confirmed roost - European Protected Species (EPS) licence required for works to tree to be completed lawfully;

• High potential – Tree supports one or more features that are obviously suitable for use by larger numbers of bats on a more regular basis and potentially for longer periods of time;

• Moderate potential – Tree supports one or more features that could be used by bats but are unlikely to support a roost type of high conservation status;

• Low potential – Tree supports one or more features that could be used by individual bats opportunistically, or is of sufficient size and age to contain such features; and

• Negligible potential – Negligible features likely to support roosting bats.

Investigations of Bat Roosting – Buildings

Visual Assessment

2.17 An assessment of the potential for the buildings within the Site to support roosting bats was undertaken during the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, on 09 August 2016 with reference to best practice guidelines.

6 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

2.18 The exterior walls and roofs of the buildings were viewed from ground level. The assessment included identifying features such as cracks/holes in the stone/brick/wood work, gaps under roof or ridge tiles, loose/lifted lead flashing or roofing felt, cavity walls with potential access points, gaps between lintels above doors and windows, gaps between the barge or soffit boards and outside walls, and cracks between the window frames and the walls were included in the search. Possible bat access points around the eaves and barge boarding were noted, and areas where bat droppings may accumulate such as on the ground, ledges, window sills and walls were noted.

2.19 The survey also involved a search of the interiors of the buildings for evidence indicative of past or current use by roosting bats. A systematic search for direct evidence of bat presence was undertaken, concentrating on the floors, windows, exposed surfaces and potential access points. Any evidence of bat activity, bat sounds, potential access points or potential roosting sites were noted during the site visit.

2.20 The signs searched for comprised the following:

• Bat(s) roosting within the buildings;

• Bat droppings or urine stains;

• Feeding remains (e.g. insect wings and beetle wing cases); and

• Oily marks (staining) around roost access points.

Limitations

2.21 Visual assessments for roosting bats can be undertaken at any time of year. As such these investigations were not limited by seasonal or climatic factors.

2.22 Bats are mobile animals and will move between a series of different roost sites, frequently establishing and occupying new roost sites depending on seasonal requirements and resources available locally. This survey, therefore, only provides a snapshot of the conditions present at the Application Site at the time of survey.

2.23 It should be noted that although inspections were undertaken, due to the construction of certain buildings, it is often not possible to exhaustively search for evidence of roosting bats within all areas. Where features exist and cannot be comprehensively inspected, an assessment of the likelihood of bats being present based on the size and location of the features is made. In this instance, due to the unsuitable nature of on-site buildings for roosting bats, these limitations are not considered to have affected the outcome of the survey.

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Bat Activity Surveys: Walked Transect Surveys

2.24 A dusk transect survey was completed on 15 August and 15 and 26 September 2016. With reference to best practice guidelines, dusk surveys were initiated at sunset and extended for at least two hours into the night. A summary of the survey including date, timing and weather conditions is included within Table EDP 2.1.

Table EDP 2.1: Summary of Bat Activity Dusk Surveys. Weather Conditions Start/ Sunset Wind Date Finish Time Cloud Time Temp (Cº) Rain (Beaufort Time Recorded (%) Scale)

Start 23 0 Nil 1 20:29 – 15/08/2016 20:29 22:29 End 11.9 0 Nil 1

Start 18.9 100 Nil 3 19:20- 15/09/2016 19:23 21:23 End 18.1 100 Nil 4

Start 16.1 25 Nil 3 18:52- 26/09/2016 18:56 20:56 End 14.7 40 Nil 2

2.25 During each of the surveys, a single transect route was walked by an experienced surveyor at a slow and steady pace, with routes designed to cover all suitable habitat features on site, including boundary woodland and hedgerows. Twelve ‘listening stops’ lasting approximately five minutes each were also incorporated within the transect route, to ensure good quality recordings were obtained and to allow for observations of behaviour to be recorded.

2.26 All bats recorded were marked on survey maps in order to characterise the value of the Site and its component habitats to foraging and commuting bats. Plan EDP 2 illustrates the transect route walked and the stopping point locations used during the surveys.

2.27 Activity surveys were conducted using Anabat SD2 bat detectors, with observations of the time, location, and activity of all bats seen or heard were noted. Bats were identified on the basis of their characteristic echolocation calls, which were recorded where appropriate and analysed using computer sonogram analysis (AnalookW 3.9f and Batsound 4.03) to confirm species identification. Species of Myotid bat (Myotis spp.) and long-eared bat (Plecotus spp.) are difficult to tell apart solely from their echolocation calls and were therefore grouped as such.

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Bat Activity Surveys: Automated Detector Surveys

2.28 Bat activity levels across the Site were also sampled using two automated Anabat Express bat detector’s strategically placed within suitable foraging and commuting habitat on three occasions. The automated detectors were deployed for a minimum of five consecutive nights on each occasion. The position of each detector was varied each month to get a good representation of bat activity across the entire Site. In each instance, the external microphone was positioned away from adjacent vegetation clutter to maximise detection sensitivity. The location of the detectors is illustrated on Plan EDP 2. 2.29 The sound files recorded by the Anabat were filtered for each of the UK’s bat species/species groups using Analook software’s filter function. The parameters for the species filters are based on those proposed by Chris Corben and Kim Livengood7 and have been fine-tuned using known call parameters for each of the species. All files passing the various filters were checked manually using sonogram analysis in accordance with published guides8 to confirm the species identification of each bat call.

Bat Activity Surveys: Limitations

2.30 Each transect survey was undertaken during suitable weather conditions at an appropriate time of year and as such is not considered to be limited by seasonal or climatic factors.

2.31 For sites of low suitability for commuting/foraging bats, an activity survey is required on a single occasion during spring, summer and autumn. Due to the lateness of the survey commission, activity surveys were instead undertaken during summer and on two occasions in autumn. However, in light of: the historical survey information relating to Site9, which comprised three dusk surveys, one dawn survey and static detector deployment in 2012; and the limited extent of suitable habitats present (predominance of arable habitat), the survey effort is considered to be sufficient to inform a robust impact assessment of the development proposals on local bat populations.

2.32 The identification of calls and species using Analook software is dependent upon the quality of the recording made, which can be influenced by weather conditions such as rainfall and wind. It can also be affected by the distance of the bats from the recording device, the presence of obstructions through which the noise must pass (i.e. trees) and the proximity of other noise sources such as roads.

2.33 Although the use of bat detectors is the most widely adopted method for undertaking bat surveys, it is naturally biased: bats that echolocate relatively loudly (e.g. noctule) are more easily detected than those that echolocate relatively quietly (e.g. long-eared bats) or those that focus their calls within a relatively narrow ‘beam’ (e.g. horseshoe bats).

7 Taken from Analook W training course and workshop, September 2013 8 Russ (2012). British Bat Calls, a guide to species identification. Pelagic Publishing, Exeter 9 Land North of Victoria Road - Planning ref: 15/01800/OUT

9 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

This can lead to some bat species being under-recorded during bat surveys. For this reason, a combination of survey methods (tree roost inspection (ground level), internal and external building assessment, dusk manual surveys and automated detector surveys were used in order to ascertain as much information as possible.

Barn Owl

2.34 Owing to the presence of buildings and mature trees on Site, in addition to historical records of a roost within one of the farm buildings, a search for signs of barn owl (Tyto alba) was undertaken on 09 August 2016. The survey included an internal and external inspection of all on-site buildings and a ground level inspection of mature trees. 2.35 The survey was undertaken by a barn owl licenced surveyor with reference to best practice guidance10. It involved searching for signs of current and historic nesting and roosting sites such as nesting and roosting debris, pellets, droppings or ‘liming’, feathers and individual birds.

Badger Survey

2.36 The Site offers suitable foraging and sett building opportunities for badgers and any evidence of their presence was recorded during the Extended Phase 1 Survey and monitored over subsequent survey visits for other species. During the surveys any signs of badger activity such as holes, latrines, trails, snuffle holes and hairs on fencing or vegetation were recorded. Where holes of a size and shape consistent with badgers were identified, the following signs of badger activity were searched for in order to determine whether they were currently in active use:

• Fresh spoil outside entrances;

• Old bedding material (typically dried grass) outside entrances;

• Holes being cleared of leaf litter;

• Badger guard hairs; and

• Fresh tracks leading to/from the holes.

Limitations

2.37 Given that badgers are highly mobile animals and that suitable foraging and sett building opportunities exist across the site, it is possible that the Site could support additional badger setts in the future, which may not have been recorded during the surveys undertaken to date.

10 Barn Owl Trust (2012) Barn Owl Conservation Handbook, Pelagic Publishing, Exeter.

10 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Dormouse

2.38 The Site is bounded by mature hedgerows and dormouse records are present from the wider landscape. A nest tube survey to determine the presence/likely absence of dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) from suitable habitats within the Site, was therefore undertaken between August and November 2016. Suitable habitat comprises approximately 1.4km of native hedgerows which delineate the Site boundaries.

2.39 A total of 75 standard nest tubes, each comprising a wooden tray and nesting tube made from plastic tree guard material11, were deployed throughout suitable hedgerow habitat bounding the Site at approximately 20m intervals on 31 August 2016 (see Plan EDP 3). Nest tubes were erected at approximately 1.5m to 2m above ground and tied to suitable horizontal branches located within the hedgerows or lower branches of trees. Tubes were left in situ and checked monthly for evidence of use by dormice on three separate occasions, during suitable weather conditions, in late September, October and November 2016.

2.40 Evidence such as the presence of individuals, nests and/or food caches was recorded during each of the surveys. Incidental sightings or evidence of wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus), or other small mammals, were also recorded during the surveys, during which all tubes were emptied of wood mouse nests and individuals, cleaned and re- hung.

Limitations

2.41 Owing to late season commission, the dormouse surveys only commenced at the end of August and continued through the autumn period. While this is an optimum period for such surveys, the survey effort fell just below best practice guidance12 for a sufficient survey effort to confirm the presence or absence of dormice. Survey effort is calculated according to set scores given for each of the different months (for a minimum deployment of fifty nest tubes), with a minimum survey effort score of 20 recommended. The survey effort is increased or decreased according to the number of tubes deployed, with 50 being the bench mark. A greater number of tubes were deployed on Site (75) to increase the probability of recording dormice. As illustrated in Table EDP 2.2 a survey effort score of 16.5 was therefore achieved.

Table EDP 2.2: Index of Probability of Finding Dormice Present in Nest Tubes in Any One Month, as Extracted from Bright et al. (2006). Month Index of Nest Tubes Checked Survey Date Probability August n/a Nest tubes deployed 31/08/2016 September 7 X 30/09/2016 October 2 X 27/10/2016 November 2 X 23/11/2016

11 Specifications as per Mammal Society nest tube product 12 The Dormouse Conservation Handbook (second edition) 2006 English Nature.

11 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Month Index of Nest Tubes Checked Survey Date Probability Total Survey 11 x 1.5 (75 tubes) = 16.5 Effort Score

2.42 In addition, some tubes (c.10) were still present and intact (or needing minor repair) from the 2012 surveys, undertaken to inform the Land North of Victoria Road proposals (Planning ref: 15/01800/OUT). These tubes were checked accordingly as part of the update survey to increase the survey effort.

2.43 While this survey effort falls slightly below best practice, this needs to be taken in the context of the historical surveys of the Site. The south eastern boundary hedgerow was subject to full dormouse surveys to inform the adjacent Land to the West of St Andrews Close planning application (14/06562/FUL) in 2013 and no evidence of dormice was recorded. In addition, full dormouse surveys of the Land North of Victoria Road undertaken in 2012, which also included a partial survey of the Site, did not identify any evidence of dormice South of Victoria Road13. Only a single possible nest was recorded 1km north of the Site during the surveys. Victoria Road and the residential development along the northern boundary present a potential barrier to dispersal between this potential population and the Site. Furthermore, the Site falls within a parcel of land that is isolated by roads (A36) and the urban area of Warminster.

2.44 In light of the above and the limited direct impacts upon boundary hedgerows (the primary loss is along the southern hedgerow which was subject to full surveys in 2013), the survey effort is considered to be adequate to confirm the likely absence of dormice.

Great Crested Newt

2.45 The desk study exercise and field survey identified seven waterbodies within 500 metres of the Site. Of these, four were located beyond main roads, which pose a barrier to the movement of great crested newts (Triturus cristatus) and/or have been surveyed in association with other development proposals. The remaining three water bodies which lie within or immediately adjacent to the Site (see Plan EDP 1), were subject to Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) Assessments and conventional great crested newt surveys in 2012 and 2013, as part of the Land North of Victoria Road planning application. No evidence of great crested newts was recorded, however, given the time that has elapsed, an update HSI and environmental DNA sampling was undertaken in 2016.

Habitat Suitability Assessment (HSI) of Waterbodies

2.46 The three waterbodies within the Site were subject to update HSI assessments on 13

13 Pers. Comm. with Aspect Ecology in November 2016 confirmed that dormouse tubes were deployed within the Site and initially subject to some checks in 2013. However, as a result of this area being dropped from the Land North of Victoria Road, checks were ceased and the results were never written up. However, they confirmed that if dormouse had been recorded this would undoubtedly have been reported.

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May 2016 in accordance with best practice guidance14 to determine each waterbodies potential to support great crested newts. HSI is a standard assessment system that uses numerous criteria such as water quality, fish/waterfowl presence and surrounding terrestrial habitat from which a score is derived.

2.47 Water bodies with higher scores are considered more likely to support great crested newts than those with low scores. HSI scores relating to the suitability of the pond assessed to support great crested newt are described within Table EDP 2.3.

Table EDP 2.3: HSI Scores and Inferred Pond Suitability. HSI Score Pond Suitability to Support Great Crested Newts <0.5 Poor suitability 0.5 – 0.59 Below average suitability 0.6 – 0.69 Average suitability 0.7 – 0.79 Good suitability > 0.8 Excellent suitability

Environmental DNA Sampling

2.48 To confirm the continued absence of great crested newts within the three waterbodies identified within the Site, water sampling of each waterbody was undertaken on 13 May 2016. In aquatic environments, animals including amphibians shed cellular material into the water via their saliva, urine, faeces, skin cells, etc. This DNA may persist for several weeks, and can be collected through a water sample, and analysed to determine if the target species of interest (great crested newt) is/has been present in the water body. Each sample was undertaken by a great crested newt licenced EDP ecologists in accordance with those methodologies set out by the Freshwater Habitats Trust15 and using separate sterile equipment packs provided by SureScreen for the collection of eDNA samples. Briefly, the protocol involves:

• Collecting 20 water samples from selected areas evenly spread around the accessible perimeter pond including both open water and vegetated areas;

• At each sampling location, a ladle of water is collected by stirring the water column without stirring up sediment, and poured into the provided sampling bag. When all 20 ladles are collected, the bag is shaken thoroughly;

• 15ml of this mixed sample is then pipetted into each of six conical tubes containing preserving fluid and each tube is shaken thoroughly to homogenize the sample. There are six tubes per pond; and

14 Oldham R.S., Keeble J., Swan M.J.S. & Jeffcote M. (2000). Evaluating the suitability of habitat for the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus). Herpetological Journal 10 (4), 143-155. 15 GCN eDNA protocol, P. Williams, Freshwater Habitats Trust. August 2013

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• These tubes are then labelled appropriately and couriered to the Fera laboratory for real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis16.

Limitations

2.49 According to the guidance there is a 99.3% detection rate of great crested newt DNA when 80-90% of the pond margin is sampled, and this detection percentage decreases with decreasing area of pond margin that is sampled. Pond access only restricted sampling at Pond 2 where only 60% of the pond could be sampled owing to the presence of thick scrub and a dangerous bank. However, this former slurry pond has also been subject historically to conventional surveys and dried out in the early summer.

Reptiles

2.50 To confirm the presence or likely absence of reptiles and the extent of their usage of the Site, detailed refugia-based reptile surveys were undertaken within the limited extents of suitable habitat on Site. With reference to best practice guidance17, seven survey visits were undertaken across September 2016. The approximate locations and number of reptile refugia is illustrated on Plan EDP 3.

2.51 During the detailed reptile surveys, a total of 90 artificial refugia comprising roofing felt sheets measuring approximately 1m x 0.5m were deployed within suitable habitat across the Site on 31 August 2016. Suitable habitat was predominantly limited to hedgerow boundaries and ruderal margins around the farmyard. Reptile refugia were left in situ for approximately one week prior to the commencement of the seven reptile surveys visits. Weather conditions recorded during each survey visit is summarised in Table EDP 2.4

Table EDP 2.4: Date, Timing and Weather Conditions of Reptile Survey Visits Undertaken During 2016 Visit Date Start- Air Temp Wind Cloud Cover Rain No. Finish Range (°C) Speed (%) Time (Beaufort) 1 08/09/2016 09:45- 19.4-20 0-3 10-20 None 10:45 2 14/09/2016 10:00- 20.4-20.9 0-2 2-100 None 11:00 3 20/09/2016 10:10- 17.5-18.0 0 100 None 11:00 4 22/09/2016 14:50- 16.7-17.2 2-3 5-10 None 15:30 5 26/09/2016 16:00- 15.0-17.0 1 90 None

16 Biggs J, Ewald N, Valentini A, Gaboriaud C, Griffiths RA, Foster J, Wilkinson J, Arnett A, Williams P and Dunn F 2014. Analytical and methodological development for improved surveillance of the Great Crested Newt. Appendix 5. Technical advice note for field and laboratory sampling of great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) environmental DNA. Freshwater Habitats Trust, Oxford. 17 Froglife (1999) Reptile survey: an introduction to planning, conducting and interpreting surveys for snake and lizard conservation. Froglife Advice Sheet 10, Froglife, Halesworth; DMRB (2005) Nature conservation advice in relation to reptiles and roads. Volume 10, Section 4, Part 7, HA/116/05. DMRB

14 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Visit Date Start- Air Temp Wind Cloud Cover Rain No. Finish Range (°C) Speed (%) Time (Beaufort) 17:00 6 28/09/2016 11:00- 18.0-19.0 2-3 2--40 None 11:45 7 30/09/2016 10:00- 14.6-17.7 1-2 50-90 None 12:00

2.52 During each survey visit, artificial refugia were individually checked by experienced ecologists with any reptiles observed recorded, along with notes on their life stage (adult/juvenile) and sex where possible. In addition, direct visual searches of suitable habitat were undertaken at the same time.

Limitations

2.53 The surveys took place in September, an optimum month for surveying for reptiles, however two of the surveys were undertaken when temperatures reached 20 C and could therefore be considered to be sub-optimal. ⁰ 2.54 A study by Sewell et al (2012)18 investigating the detection probability of reptile species in the UK concluded that the number of survey visits required to determine species presence at an occupied site with a given certainty was:

- 1 to 2 visits for 80% confidence;

- 2 to 3 visits for 90% confidence; and

- 3 to 4 visits for 95% confidence.

2.55 Given that temperatures were only marginally sub-optimal on two of the surveys, the results are therefore not considered to be significantly limited by seasonal or climatic factors.

Surveys Scoped Out

2.56 Table EDP 2.1 summarises other survey types which, while commonly required as part of an Ecological Appraisal for development sites, were not considered necessary/appropriate in this case.

18 Sewell, D., Guillera-Arroita, G., Griffiths, R. A. & Beebee, T. J. C. (2012) When Is a Species Declining? Optimizing Survey Effort to Detect Population Changes in Reptiles. PLOS ONE Vol. 7, Issue. 8.

15 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Table EDP 2.5: Ecology Surveys Scoped Out Survey Type Reasons for Scoping Out Botanical surveys (e.g. Phase 1 survey information was sufficient to confirm habitat value grasslands or and there is no notable grassland or other habitats potentially of high woodlands) value present. Hedgerow surveys Phase 1 survey information was sufficient to confirm habitat value to inform masterplanning. Wintering or breeding Small scale of the site and extent of habitats supported, in addition bird surveys to the species identified by the historical breeding bird surveys in 2012. Otter, water vole and Limited quality and extent of suitable habitats. crayfish surveys Invertebrates Limited quality and extent of suitable habitats.

16 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Section 3 Results

3.1 This section summarises the baseline ecological conditions determined through the course of desk and field based investigations described in Section 2. These findings should be read in conjunction with the appendices and plans contained within this report and referenced below where appropriate.

Designated Sites

3.2 Statutory designations (those receiving legal protection) and non-statutory designations (those receiving planning policy protection only), identified during the desk study are discussed in turn below.

Statutory Designations

3.3 Statutory designations represent the most significant ecological receptors, being of recognised importance at an International and/or National level. International designations include Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Ramsar Sites. National designations include Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and National Nature Reserves (NNRs).

3.4 No part of the Site is covered by any statutory designations but there are three international and two national designations within the Site’s potential zone of influence, as summarised in Table EDP 3.1.

Table EDP 3.1: Statutory Designations within the Site’s Potential Zone of Influence. Name and Direction and Interest Feature(s) Designation Distance from Site (Approximate) International River Avon SAC 2km South East Habitats: The River Avon is a large lowland river system that includes sections running through chalk and clay. Five aquatic Ranunculus species occur within the river system. The river qualifies as a water course of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitro-Batrachion vegetation, an Annex I habitat.

Species: The SAC is designated or its populations of Desmoulin’s whorl snail, brook lamprey, sea lamprey, bullhead and Atlantic salmon.

17 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Name and Direction and Interest Feature(s) Designation Distance from Site (Approximate) Salisbury Plain 4km North East Species: This site qualifies under Article 4.1 of the SPA Directive (79/409/EEC) for supporting populations of European importance of the following species listed on Annex I of the Directive: breeding stone curlew; and over wintering hen harrier. Salisbury Plain 4km North East Habitats: Salisbury Plain represents Juniperus SAC communis formations on heaths or calcareous grassland, near the southern edge of the habitats range in southern England, where it is rare and also supports the priority habitat type orchid rich sites. The site is believed to be the largest surviving semi- natural dry grassland, an Annex I habitat, within the EU.

Species: Although not a primary reason for selective of this site, the SAC also supports populations of marsh fritillary. National Cley Hill SSSI 0.9km West Habitats: Cley Hill is an area of botanically rich chalk grassland.

Species: Cley Hill supports two plants which have a restricted distribution, early gentian (Gentianella anglica) and bastard-toadflax (Thesium humifusum) and the uncommon mosses Entodon concinnus, Weissia controversa var. crispata and Fissidens incurvus.. It is notified for populations of the nationally scarce adonis blue, the snail Abida secale and the plant bug Sehirus dubius. Small brook 2km East Habitats: The LNR is located on the southern edge of Meadows LNR Warminster and is a meadow habitat supporting a range of plant and orchid species.

3.5 Small brook LNR are considered to be at significant indirect or direct risk of impacts, arising from the development proposal due to its spatial separation from the site, the scale of the proposals in the context of the Warminster population and regular public use already with well-marked footpaths. As such, it has been scoped out of the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) as an IEF.

Non-statutory Designations

3.6 Non-statutory designations are also commonly referred to in planning policies as ‘local sites’, although in fact these designations are typically considered to be important at a county level. In Wiltshire, such designations are Wildlife Trust Reserves (WTR) and Local Wildlife Sites (LWS). Additional designated sites that should be considered at this level

18 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

include Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW), where these are not covered by other designations.

3.7 No part of the Site is covered by any non-statutory designations. However, there are three non-statutory designations within the Site’s potential zone of influence. A summary is provided within Table EDP 3.2 below.

Table EDP 3.2: Non-statutory Designations Within the Site’s Potential Zone of Influence. Name and Direction and Interest Feature(s) Designation Distance from Site (Approximate) Cannimore Farm 480m South East Habitats: Lowland meadow and valley fen with a Meadow LWS stream running through it, with species-rich boundary hedgerows with mature trees.

Norridge Wood 650m North Habitats: A large ancient woodland site, mostly LWS replanted with broadleaves & conifers, but with substantial semi-natural areas. Coldharbour 930m North East Habitats: Species-rich grassland and swamp Meadows LWS vegetation in a flood storage basin along with areas of reedbed, wet-woodland and associated habitats. Located on the northern edge of Warminster.

3.8 None of the non-statutory designations are considered to be at significant indirect or direct risk of impacts arising from the development proposal. The reasons for this include: their spatial separation from the Site, including a lack of direct footpath links; lack of public access (Cannimore Farm LWS); regular public use already and well-marked footpaths; the scale of the residential development proposals in the context of the population of Warminster; an absence of receptor pathways (e.g. streams); and the sensitivity of the habitats and species they have been designated for.

3.9 All non-statutory sites have therefore been scoped out of the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) as IEFs.

Habitats

3.10 Information on habitats within and around the Site was obtained during the Desk Study and Extended Phase 1 survey in August 2016.

3.11 The distribution of the different habitat types within and adjacent to the Site is illustrated on Plan EDP 1, with illustrative photographs provided in Appendix EDP 3. The main habitat types present and immediately adjacent to the Site are described in turn below.

19 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

3.12 Tree and hedgerow numbers are consistent with the Arboricultural Report to assist with cross-referencing (report reference: EDP3431_05a)

Arable

3.13 The Application Site is dominated by two arable fields (Appendix EDP 3 - Photo EDP 1, 4 and 8) subdivided by an area of ruderals surrounding a former slurry lagoon and farm buildings. At the time of survey, the eastern field had been recently ploughed whilst barley crop was present within the western field. At the end of the summer the eastern field was sown with an improved grassland mix and the western field had been cultivated.

3.14 The fields were ploughed or farmed right up to the field boundaries with no notable arable margins and only occasional wayside and disturbed ground species present such as black medick (Medicago lupulina), field speedwell (Veronica persica) and bristly oxtongue (Helminthotheca echioides). The arable habitat is considered to be of Negligible value.

Buildings and Hardstanding

3.15 The centre of the Site is dominated by farm buildings (refer to Appendix EDP 4 for building images) with associated hardstanding. Buildings are largely characterised by large and small concrete and corrugated open sided sheds used for the storage of grain and formerly livestock. The buildings and hardstanding are considered to be of Negligible value.

Ephemeral/Short Perennial Vegetation

3.16 The base of a former building has been colonised by ephemeral vegetation (EDP Photo 7) colonised by greater willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum), sow thistle (Sonchus sp.) and fat hen (Chenopodium album). In respect of the relatively small area and limited botanical diversity, this habitat is considered to be of Negligible value.

Native Hedgerows

3.17 The Site is delineated by a network of native hedgerows subdivided into defunct, species-poor and species-rich.

3.18 H5, H21, H23 and H37 are species-poor hedgerows predominantly tall (2-4 metres high and leggy) and only occasionally managed. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogynea) and bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) are typically dominant with hazel (Corylus avellana), elder (Sambucus nigra), ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) also abundant.

3.19 H8-H9 H15, H25-26, H28 and H32 are more botanically diverse and, therefore, considered species-rich. These hedgerows are again subject to occasional management

20 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

with some evidence of flaying present. Abundant species including hawthorn, hazel, blackthorn, elm (Elmus sp.), holly (Ilex aquifolium), ash, Rosa sp. and bramble. H28, a relatively newly planted double banded hedgerow along the southern Site boundary, is particularly diverse with immature silver birch trees (Betula pendula), sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), butterfly bush (Buddleja sp.), alder (Alnus glutinosa), wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana), Prunus sp., rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), field maple (Acer campestre) and spindle (Euonymus europaeus) also recorded.

3.20 The ground flora associated with the hedgerows is relatively species poor with bramble and common wayside grasses such as cock’s foot (Dactylis glomerata), Poa sp. and Yorkshire fog (Holcus lunatus) dominant. Species indicative of shaded hedgerow environments occasionally present included: red campion (Silene dioceia), lords and ladies (Arum maculatum), hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica), black horehound (Ballota nigra) and dead nettle (Lamium sp.).

3.21 Native species-rich and native species-poor hedgerows are priority habitats for England. Species-rich hedgerows are also a Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) habitat within Wiltshire. Native hedgerows provide a linear feature for commuting wildlife and connect the Site with the wider landscape, thus contributing to the wider green infrastructure resources. As such, hedgerows are considered to be of Local value.

Non-native Species-poor Hedgerows

3.22 A single non-native hedgerow (H1) approximately 3-4 metres high and dominated by Leylanddi cypress (Cupressus × leylandii), delineates the boundary between the farmstead property and the eastern arable field. The non-native hedgerow forming the curtilage of a residential property is considered to be of Negligible value.

Standing Water

3.23 Three waterbodies were identified within the Site as illustrated in Plan EDP 1.

3.24 P1 (Appendix EDP 3 – EDP Photo 2) is a relatively small waterbody located within the south-east corner of the site. The pond is relatively small with steep banks colonised by goat willow (Salix caprea), bramble, greater willowherb and common nettle (Urticia dioecia). Aquatic species include duckweed (Lemna sp.), water-cress (Apium nodiflorum), yellow iris (Iris pseudocorus) and brooklime (Veronica beccabunga).

3.25 P2 is a relatively large former slurry lagoon associated with the farm. It has a large earthen bund around the outside which has become colonised by scrub and ruderals dominated by goat willow, elder, bramble, great willowherb, hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and nettles. The waterbody appears to dry frequently (dry in summer 2016) exposing a heavily silted base (see EDP Photo 3). Few aquatic species are present as a result. Clumps of soft rush (Juncus Effusus) are present along the northern margins.

21 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

3.26 P3 (EDP Photo 5) is a relatively small pond situated north of Bugley Barton farm buildings with shallow slopes colonised by willowherb, common nettle and encroaching bramble scrub. Soft rush, burdock (Arctium lappa), black medick, ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) and white clover (Trifoilum repens) are all present around the margins. As with P2, this pond appears to dry frequently.

3.27 On-site waterbodies, principally P1, are considered to be of up to Local value. Scattered Trees

3.28 Scattered trees and tree groups present along the eastern site boundaries are typically characterised by mature oak (Quercus sp.), hazel, ash and sycamore with an understorey dominated by hazel and hawthorn. A dense line of ash trees (G20) is also present along the southern boundary. Oak, ash, hawthorn and elder are also scattered along field margins throughout the Site. Further details on the value of the tree stock are provided in the Arboricultural Report.

3.29 Scattered trees provide potential habitat for nesting birds and foraging/roosting bats as well as provide a linear feature for commuting/foraging bats. Scattered trees are therefore considered to be of importance at the Local value when considered in combination with the hedgerow network.

Tall Ruderal

3.30 A small area of tall ruderal vegetation is located immediately south of building B5 and surrounding the Pond 2. Tall ruderal vegetation is dominated by common nettle and hogweed with bramble and goat willow scrub also frequent. In consideration of the small extent of this habitat and its limited botanical diversity tall ruderal vegetation is considered to be of Site value.

Summary of Habitat Types

3.31 A summary and qualitative assessment, of these habitats is provided in Table EDP 3.3.

Table EDP 3.3: Summary of Habitats Within the Application Site Habitat or Distribution Within Intrinsic Ecological Potential/Confirmed Value feature Application Site Importance to Protected Species Spp.

Breeding Foraging Refuge Dispersal Arable Predominant habitat Negligible, owing to Badger  within Site. low botanical Birds  interest and widespread distribution within the wider landscape.

22 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Habitat or Distribution Within Intrinsic Ecological Potential/Confirmed Value feature Application Site Importance to Protected Species Spp.

Breeding Foraging Refuge Dispersal Buildings and Farm buildings dominate Negligible, owing to Birds  Hardstanding the centre of the Site, their low ecological adjacent to the northern value and boundary. unsuitability for roosting bats (see species subsection that follows). Ephemeral Sparsely colonised Negligible, owing to Vegetation ground east of Bugley small extent and n/a n/a Farm buildings. limited ecological value for protected species. Hedgerow A network of species- Local, owing to Amphibians    and Tree rich and species-poor potential to support Badger     Network hedgerows with a number of scattered trees delineate protected species Bats    the Site boundaries. and connects the site with suitable Birds     habitat in the wider Dormouse     landscape. Reptiles    Standing Three standing Local, principally P1 Amphibians     Water waterbodies are present owing to its within/immediately potential for Bats  adjacent to the Site restoration and to Birds   boundary. support notable species.

Tall Ruderal Small patch surrounding Site, owing to small Amphibians   P3. extent and limited Birds   ecological value for protected species. Reptiles  

3.32 As noted within Table EDP 3.3, the habitats within the Site are of predominantly of low ecological value, although the hedgerow and tree network and ponds are considered to be of Local value.

23 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Protected and/or Notable Species

3.33 The likelihood of presence, or confirmed presence, of protected/and or notable wildlife species within the Site is summarised below with reference to desk study records, habitat suitability, incidental sightings and detailed surveys where relevant. Further details are made available within the appendices and plans where referenced.

Bats

Desk Study

3.34 A number of records for bats, including confirmed bat roosts, were received from WSBRC during the course of the desk study, including the following pertinent records of bat roosts confirmed within 4km of the Site boundary:

• A building bat roost (possible Pipistrellus sp.) approximately 1.7km south of the Site in 1993;

• An unconfirmed greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) night roost and soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygaemus) maternity roost approximately 3.5km south of the Site in 2015;

• A greater horseshoe bat night roost approximately 1.5km south of the Site in 2008;

• Multiple records of roosting brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus) roost approximately 2.2km north of the Site between 1986 and 2011. A Pipistrelle sp. and Daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii) roost was also identified at same grid reference;

• A lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) maternity roost approximately 3.4km north of the Site in 2006. Additional night roosts were identified in associated out buildings;

• A greater horseshoe bat night roost approximately 2.2km east of the Site in 2006;

• Common Pipistrelle bat (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) maternity roost was identified approximately 2.5km south-east of the Site in 2010 whilst a brown long-eared roost was identified in 2007;

• Multiple records for a common pipistrelle roost approximately 2.5km south-west of the Site between 2013 and 2015. A soprano pipistrelle roost was identified at the same location. Further south within the same area, a common pipistrelle maternity roost was identified between 2008 and 2015 in addition to a soprano pipistrelle roost. All roosts are associated with Longleat village and wider forestry area;

24 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

• A brown long-eared, lesser horseshoe and barbastelle (Barbastella barbastellus) bats roost was identified in 2002, 2km south-west of the Site in Longleat;

• A serotine bat (Epesicus serotinus) roost approximately 450m south-west and 3.9km south-east of the Site in 1987 and 1993 respectively;

• Long-eared bat (Plecotus sp.) roost approximately 3.9km north-west of the Site in 2007 and a serotine roost recorded at the same grid reference in 2011; and

• A soprano pipistrelle and noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula) roost approximately 450m south of the Site in 2006.

3.35 Multiple records of bat activity within 4km of the Site have been received including records of Daubenton’s bat, serotine, barbastelle, noctule, soprano pipistrelle and Myotis sp. from Longleat Park and forestry south-west of the Site, in 2008. Additionally, records of activity from Myotis sp., noctule, common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and brown long-eared bat were received 330m east of the Site in 2004.

3.36 Bat roost inspection surveys of buildings associated with Land to the North of Victoria Road in 2012, identified a brown long-eared bat night/feeding roost of low conservation significance in a residential building, approximately 1.1km north-east of the Application Site. Bat activity surveys undertaken during the same year and including surveys of the Site itself, identified common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, nathusius’ pipistrelle (Pipistrellus nathusii), Myotis sp., noctule and serotine bats. Activity levels were relatively low, particularly within the Site, and the assemblage was valued at the local level.

3.37 Bat emergence and re-entry surveys of trees associated with the development proposals to the south east of the Site in 2013 did not record any roosts. Three transect activity surveys undertaken the same summer recorded low numbers of common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and brown long-eared bats foraging and commuting along the boundary hedgerows. The assemblage was valued at the local level.

3.38 The majority of the Site is comprised of arable land and is therefore considered to be of limited value for foraging bats. The network of native hedgerows and trees, however, provides suitable linear features for commuting bats between the Site and the wider landscape and is also a potential foraging resource.

Investigations of Bat Roosting – Trees

3.39 The daytime assessment of mature trees within the Site identified a total of three trees with the potential to support roosting bats, with one tree (T17) identified as having moderate potential and two (T16 and T22) as low potential. Results of the tree assessment are provided within Appendix EDP 4 and their locations illustrated on Plan EDP 1.

25 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

3.40 T17 was subject to further survey as part of the adjacent development proposals in 2013 which did not record the presence of any roosts.

Investigations of Bat Roosting – Buildings

3.41 A group of farm buildings and sheds, formerly comprising an active dairy farm and now used to store wood and machinery, is located within the centre of the Site. The results of the internal and external inspections of these buildings is detailed in Appendix EDP 4 and illustrated on Plan EDP 1. All buildings on-site were considered to have negligible potential to support summer roosting and hibernating bats, thereby confirming the findings of the 2012 surveys of these buildings associated with the Land North of Victoria Road development proposals. The assessment identified a red brick cow shed and chimney with moderate potential for roosting bats outside of the Site boundary to the north.

Bat Activity

3.42 Bat foraging and commuting activity recorded during each of the surveys undertaken in August, early and late September 2016, is illustrated on Plan EDP 4-6 and a summary of the results is presented in Table EDP 3.5.

Table EDP 3.5: Approximate Levels of Bat Activity Recorded by Surveyors On and Adjacent to the Site Bat Species Approximate Number of Individuals Recorded Relative Abundance; Across Transects Surveyed Associated Feature(s) August Early Late Total Dusk September September Dusk dusk Brown Long- 2 4 - 6 Activity predominately eared around farm buildings. Common 20 9 7 36 Dominant species; Pipistrelle relatively widespread throughout the Site and associated with boundary features. Lesser - - 1 1 A single recording within Horseshoe the south-west corner of the Application Site. Myotis sp. - 1 - 1 A single recording of foraging activity along the non-native hedgerow in the north of the Application Site. Soprano - 5 8 13 Relatively widespread Pipistrelle throughout the Site and associated with boundary features.

26 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Bat Species Approximate Number of Individuals Recorded Relative Abundance; Across Transects Surveyed Associated Feature(s) Total 22 19 16 57

3.43 A total of 5 species were recorded during the manual transect surveys including common pipistrelle, soprano pipistelle, brown long-eared, lesser horseshoe bat and Myotis sp. The majority or activity recorded related to common and soprano pipistrelle bats foraging or commuting along the boundary hedgerows. Brown long-eared bats were also recorded during the August and early September surveys predominantly associated with the farm buildings. This suggests there may be a roost within one of the off-site buildings nearby, which appear to offer greater opportunities for roosting bats. A Myotis sp. of bat and lesser horseshoe bat were identified on a single occasion, during early September and late September respectively.

3.44 The limited species assemblage recorded by the transect surveys is comparable to the findings of previous bat activity surveys undertaken in 2012, with activity dominated by common pipistrelle and largely confined to hedgerow boundaries.

Bat Activity Survey – Automated Detector Survey

3.45 Results of the automated detector surveys completed in August, early and late September 2016 are detailed within Appendix EDP 4 and should be read in conjunction with Plan EDP 3. A total of ten bat species/groups were recorded by the automated detectors deployed on Site as summarised in Table EDP 3.6.

Table EDP 3.6: Approximate levels of bat activity recorded by Automated Detectors Bat species Total Number of Recordings Relative Percentage Common Pipistrelle 2867 43.7 Soprano Pipistrelle 2655 40.5 Myotis sp. 741 11.3 Noctule 161 2.5 Barbestelle 84 1.3 Greater Horseshoe 20 0.3 Lesser Horseshoe 16 0.2 Leisler’s 14 0.2 Serotine 3 0.05 Nathusius Pipistrelle 1 0.01

3.46 Overall, activity was dominated by common and/or soprano pipistrelle bats, which accounted for 84% of recordings. Relatively high levels of Myotis sp. were, however recorded along the northern boundary of the Site, west of the farm buildings, during early September and along the non-native hedgerow on the northern boundary during late September. On these occasions Myotis sp. was typically the dominant/co-dominant species. Noctule bats were also recorded fairly frequently and widely across the Site, reflecting this species open flying nature.

27 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

3.47 A number of rare barbastelle bats (Barbastella barbastellus) were recorded, predominantly along the southern hedgerow boundary (detectors 4 and 5 accounted for 78 of the 84 recordings – see Plan EDP 2). A small number of greater horseshoe bats were also recorded predominantly along this boundary (17 out of 20 calls). The small number of lesser horseshoe and Leisler’s (Nyctalus leisleri) records were more widely distributed. In September serotine was also recorded on three occasions and nathiusus pipistrelle once.

3.48 Far greater diversity and levels of activity were recorded in September, which may reflect certain species wider use of the landscape in the latter stages of the season following breeding. Indeed, the Site is considered to only afford limited opportunities for foraging owing to the predominance of arable habitat, while the hedgerows provide important movement corridors across the wider landscape. The diversity of species recorded is therefore considered likely to reflect the presence of higher quality foraging and roosting opportunities within the surrounding landscape.

Evaluation

3.49 Common and soprano pipistrelle bats are common and widespread across the UK. Whilst having suffered significant historic declines, national population monitoring19 indicates that these species are stable nationally. These species were found to be the co- dominant species and the populations present are considered to be of Local value.

3.50 Myotis sp. are difficult to separate through their echolocation calls alone and are therefore grouped as such. Myotis bat species occur throughout most of the UK, although some species are more scarce than others. One of the Myotis species, the Bechstein’s bat, is rarer than the rest and is listed as an Annex II species. The Bechstein’s bat is also known as a woodland bat species and could potentially therefore be present in the wider landscape given the presence of woodland (e.g. Longleat Forest). Generally, Myotis species populations are considered to be either stable or increasing depending on the species. Individuals of Myotis bats were regularly recorded foraging and commuting across the Site throughout the survey period and sometimes co-dominant with pipistrelle bat species. Given the potential presence of Bechstein’s bats, Myotis species are considered, as a precaution, to be of local to District value.

3.51 Barbastelle is a rare species of bat listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. They are known as a woodland bat species, usually roosting in trees and moving regularly between roosts. It is documented in the 2016 BCT guidelines that Barbestelles ‘Core Sustenance Zone’ is anything up to 6km around its roost. This implies that barbastelles are known to fly up to 6km from the roost when foraging and commuting, and therefore the barbastelles recorded within the Site could be roosting in any of the woodland blocks within a 6km radius. The timing of the recordings, which were primarily from around 1.5 to 2 hours after sunset, does not indicate roosting on or near to the Site. While the number of calls seems relatively low, when compared to the

19 Bat Conservation Trust, 2016. The National Bat Monitoring Programme. Annual Report 2015

28 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

survey effort (average of 2.8 passes per night), the vast majority (78 out of 84) relate to the two detectors deployed along the southern boundary hedgerow in September. While the Site does not afford significant foraging opportunities for this species, this corridor may form an important commuting route with the wider landscape. Given the species conservation status barbastelle is considered to be of District value.

3.52 Greater horseshoe bat and lesser horseshoe bats are rare and endangered species in the UK, and predominantly confined to the south west of England and south Wales, though their population status is understood to have increased since 1999. A number of roosts were identified in the wider area, particularly associated with Longleat, south-west of the Site. Recordings of these species in small numbers are therefore not unusual in the local context and usage of the site was relatively limited with the majority of greater horseshoe records associated with the southern boundary. Nonetheless, their rarity warrants this species to be valued at up to District value. 3.53 The remaining species are only considered to be of Site to Local level value due to either their relatively common status and/or the relatively low number of recordings made.

3.54 The abundance and diversity of bat species recorded on site is not considered to be unexpected for an urban edge farmland site in Wiltshire, with common and widespread generalist species such as common and soprano pipistrelle and Myotis bats accounting for the vast majority of foraging and commuting activity (95%). However, a relatively diverse assemblage of bats was recorded, including the nationally rare species barbastelle, greater horseshoe and lesser horseshoe. While foraging opportunities within the interiors of the Site are limited, the boundary hedgerow and tree network, particularly along the southern boundary, may be important to these species commuting across the wider landscape. In light of this, the bat assemblage is considered to be of up to District value.

Breeding Birds

3.55 Red listed species of Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) returned from the desk study included multiple records of starling (Sturnus vulgaris), house sparrow (Passer domesticus) and song thrush (Turdus philomelos) adjacent to the southern Site boundary in 2008. A record for barn owl (listed on schedule I of the WCA), occurring on Site in 2012 was also returned. The following red listed species were also identified within the wider area: yellowhammer (Emberiza citronella), redwing (Turdus iliacus), cuckoo (Cuculus canorus), grasshopper warbler (Locustella naevia), lapwing (Vanellus vanellus).

3.56 The Site is not considered to be suitable for any of the bird species associated with the Salisbury Plain SPA designation. While the arable fields may in certain years have appropriate cropping regimes to provide suitable habitat for the SPA species stone curlew, owing to the limited extent of this habitat and proximity to the urban area (with associated disturbance), the habitat on Site is not considered to be capable of supporting these species.

29 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

3.57 Breeding bird surveys relating to the Land North of Victoria Road development proposals were undertaken in May and June 2012 and included sightings of the following species within the Site: mallard (Egretta garzetta), tufted duck (Aythya fuligula), buzzard (Buteo buteo), moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) and swallow (Hirundo rustica). In addition, evidence of barn owl roosting was recorded in one of the farm buildings on Site.

3.58 Evidence of roosting barn owl was again confirmed, within the same building (B5 – Plan EDP 1), with a small number of pellets (c.6) varying in age of between 3-12 months recorded. No evidence of nesting was observed and the building is relatively light and open. It is also used as a log store and therefore subject to regular disturbance. The number and age of pellets recorded are indicative of a sporadically used roost, however, the hanging ceiling boards (See Appendix EDP 4) could potentially afford suitable nesting opportunities. No evidence of barn owls was recorded within the other buildings on Site and the farmer has not seen any barn owls for a number of years.

3.59 Red listed species incidentally recorded during other survey work on Site include linnet (Carduelis cannabina), house sparrow and starling, in addition to the amber listed species dunnock (Prunella modularis) and bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula).

3.60 The agricultural land associated with the Site may at times support foraging and nesting opportunities for declining farmland species, subject to the cropping regime. However, conditions over the summer in 2016 were considered to be sub-optimal, with an intensively grown barley crop in one field and bare ground in the other. The hedgerows provide greater opportunities to support a range of both common and more notable species. The bird assemblage is therefore considered of to be of Local value.

Badger

3.61 WSBRC returned a record of an active outlier badger sett approximately 450 metres south of the Site and multiple records of badger road casualties associated with the A36 confirming presence in the local area.

3.62 Surveys of the Site and land to the north of the Site in 2012 and 2014, associated with the Land North of Victoria Road proposals, identified a single outlier badger sett comprising one entrance within woodland habitat to the north of Victoria Road outside of the Site.

3.63 Arable fields can provide foraging habitat for badgers, whilst hedgerow banks and boundaries provide suitable cover for this species and their setts. A badger sett comprising of 5 holes, two in active use, was identified during the Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey, within the hedgerow along the southern boundary of the Site (see Plan EDP 1). This sett was subsequently monitored during ongoing survey work with the latest check made during the November 2016 dormouse survey. A maximum of three holes were recorded as being actively or partially in use over the course of the monitoring surveys, and only a single hole was found to be in active use in November.

30 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Latrines were also regularly recorded at various locations around the western field boundary.

3.64 By virtue of its size and level of activity, the sett is considered to be a subsidiary sett to a main sett that must be located somewhere off site. Badgers are considered to be common within the local area and the limited badger population is therefore considered to be of value at the Site level only.

Dormouse

3.65 The desk study identified records from Longleat Forestry, approximately 2.5km south- west of the Site, although the LPA ecologist suggested there are closer records that have not been added to the record centre database, including anecdotal records of dormice along the A36.

3.66 Nest tube surveys of land to the North of the Victoria Road in 2012, including a partial survey of the Site itself, identified a single dormouse nest within a double hedgerow approximately 1km north of the Site. This hedgerow was limited in its extent (approximately 80m long) and therefore only capable of supporting a small number of animals. As a precaution it was assumed that dormice were present elsewhere within the Land North of Victoria Road. The LPA ecologist suggested that this is likely to form a meta-population focussed around Norridge Wood to the west.

3.67 Full nest tube surveys to inform the Land to the West of St Andrews Close development proposals in 2013, which included a survey of the shared hedgerow boundary where the main hedgerow impacts are anticipated, did not record the presence of dormice.

3.68 The network of species-poor and species-rich native hedgerows which delineate site boundaries are considered suitable to support dormouse, however they do not connect to significant areas of suitable habitat within in the wider area. No evidence of dormouse was recorded during any of the survey visits undertaken across the Site in 2016. A small number of wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) and wood mouse nests were recorded during the surveys.

3.69 While the presence of dormouse has been proven within the wider landscape, the Site itself forms part of an island of land enclosed by major roads (Victoria Road and A36) and the urban edge of Warminster. The historical survey results for adjacent sites, including the Site itself, and update survey work undertaken in 2016 is considered to provide sufficient certainty that a dormouse population is not present within the Site. Dormouse is therefore not considered to be an IEFs warranting further consideration in the EcIA.

Otter and Water Vole

3.70 Two records of otter (Lutra lutra) approximately 845m north of the Site in 2010 were returned. Both were records of road kill near to the source of the River Were. With

31 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

respect to water vole (Arvicola terrestris), there are multiple records along the River Were, the closest within 540m of the Site in 2005.

3.71 Owing to the limited size, extent and connectivity of the waterbodies on Site there are no suitable habitats for otter or water vole present and these species are therefore not valued as IEFs.

Great Crested Newt

3.72 No records of great crested newt were returned during the desk study. A record for common frog (Rana temporaria), approximately 20 metres east of the Site was returned from 2002, whilst a record for common toad (Bufo bufo) adjacent to the south-east corner of the Site in 2014 was also returned. Both records are associated with residential gardens.

3.73 A HSI assessment and conventional surveys of on-site waterbodies was previously undertaken in 2012 and 2013 to inform the Land North of Victoria Road development proposals. These surveys did not identify the presence of great crested newts although a medium smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) population was identified in Pond 1. All waterbodies were identified as average suitability to support great crested newts.

3.74 The Site is largely dominated by arable land which is not considered suitable habitat for amphibians. Field margins and hedgerow boundaries do, however, provide suitable terrestrial habitat that connects the Site to the wider landscape. Additionally, residential gardens adjacent to the northern boundary of the Site provide suitable foraging and resting opportunities for amphibian species.

3.75 Following an update HSI assessment, P1 was found to be of average suitability for great crested newt, whilst P2 was below average and P3 poor. No evidence of great crested newt eDNA was found in any of the waterbodies surveyed and this species does not therefore require consideration as an IEF.

3.76 During the reptile surveys, common toads were found on a number of occasions under the reptile mats along the sites northern boundary, adjacent to the residential properties and around Pond 2 in the centre of the site. This included a maximum count of 8 on one survey, the vast majority of these were toadlets suggesting that the species successfully breeds in Pond 2.

3.77 Common toads although relatively common and widespread have suffered significant population declines and have been listed as a species of principal importance in England. The population present, while not considered to constitute an IEF in its own right, is considered to be valuable at a Site level and should be given due consideration by the development proposals with respect to minimising potential impacts and enhancing opportunities for this species over the long term.

32 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Reptiles

3.78 Multiple records of common lizard (Viviparus viviparous) approximately 295m north-east of the Site from 2004 and 2009 were returned by the desk study. An additional record for grass snake (Natrix natrix) in 2009 was also identified at the same location.

3.79 Reptile surveys to inform the Land North of Victoria Road proposals in 2012 identified a good population of common lizard and a low population of grass snake in association with hedgerow boundaries and grassy road verges of the A36. The closest record of both common lizard and grass snake to the Site was 0.72km and 1.07 km, north-east respectively.

3.80 Surveys of the land adjacent to the south east of the Site in 2013, as part of the adjacent development proposals, did not record any reptiles.

3.81 The Site is largely dominated by arable land which is not considered to be suitable for common reptiles. In the absence of field margins, suitable habitat is primarily restricted to ruderal and scrub habitat surrounding Pond 2 and the farmyard in the centre of the Site. Residential gardens adjacent to the northern boundary of the Site also potentially provide suitable foraging, basking and resting opportunities for common reptiles.

3.82 No reptiles were identified following detailed surveys of suitable habitat across the Site. As such, reptiles are not considered to constitute an IEF requiring further assessment. Other Species Potentially Supported

Other Mammals

3.83 A single record for brown hare (Lepus europaeus) in 2015 approximately 1km west of the Site was returned by WSBRC. Additionally, multiple records for hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) were returned, the closest of which is adjacent to the southern boundary of the Site from 2015. Both are Species of principal importance in England, whilst brown hare is also a Local BAP species for Wiltshire.

3.84 No evidence of either species was recorded incidentally during other field surveys and opportunities for these species are considered to be relatively limited. While arable land on-site provides suitable habitat for brown hare, owing to the use of the Site by dog walkers, its close proximity to the urban environment and it’s relatively enclosed nature, it is considered unlikely that this species is present.

Invertebrates

3.85 A number of invertebrate records were returned during the desk study, primarily associated with Cley Hill SSSI. Species identified included duke of burgundy (Hamearis ucina), grizzled skipper (Pyrgus malvae), wall (Lasiommata megera), small heath, chalk hill blue (Lysandra coridon), Adonis blue (Lysandra bellargus), dingy skipper (Erynnis tages), white letter hairstreak (Satyrium w-album), purple emperor (Apatura iris), high

33 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

brown fritillary (Fabricana adippe), oak hook-tip (Watsonalla binaria), bright neb (Argolamprotes micella), small phoenix (Ecliptopera silaceata), dark-barred twin-spot (Anthorhoe ferrugata), carpet (Tineola bisselliella), knot grass (Acronicta rumicis) and small square-spot (Diarsia rubi).

3.86 The species listed are typically associated with grasslands and field margins. As the Site is dominated by arable land, notable populations of these species are extremely unlikely to occur on Site.

Flora

3.87 A number of notable species were returned by the desk study typically in association with Cley Hill SSSI and Longleat Park. Records of meadow saffron (Colchium autumnale), a damp grassland species, were returned within 315m north of the Site.

3.88 The Site is dominated by arable farmland and is considered to be of low botanical interest with areas of higher interest confined to boundary features. As such, populations of notable species are not considered to be present within the Site.

34 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Section 4 Summary of Findings

4.1 Based on the baseline investigations described in Section 3, the Important Ecological Features pertinent to the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) of the proposed development at the Site (Chapter 9 of the ES) are listed in Table EDP 4.1 below.

Table EDP 4.1: Important Ecological Features to be considered by the EcIA. Receptor Key Attributes Nature Conservation Value Designated Sites River Avon A large lowland river system supporting populations International SAC of Desmoulin’s whorl snail, brook lamprey, sea lamprey, bullhead and Atlantic salmon. Salisbury Plan Populations of European importance of the following International SPA species: breeding stone curlew; and over wintering hen harrier. Salisbury The site is believed to be the largest surviving semi- International Plain SAC natural dry grassland within the EU and also supports populations of marsh fritillary. Cley Hill SSSI An area of botanically rich chalk grassland National Habitats Hedgerows Network of hedgerow and trees of variable species Local and richness and quality that provide local dispersal Scattered corridors for wildlife in an agricultural landscape. Trees Standing Contributes to wider habitat mosaic and local Local Water biodiversity. Fauna

Bats Commuting and foraging activity around the Local to District (Foraging/Co Application Site boundaries predominantly by mmuting) common and widespread species but including the presence of some rarer and more specialist species. Breeding Common and widespread species likely to nest within Local Birds suitable habitats within the Application Site. Occasional roosting barn owl within building B5. Badger Subsidiary sett along the southern boundary of the Site Application Site. Evidence of foraging and dispersal (Included as IEF due activity along site boundaries. to legal protection)

35 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

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36 Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Annex EDP 1 Designated Sites Plan

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Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Annex EDP 2 Illustrative Photographs

Photo EDP 1: Arable land dominates the Photo EDP 2: Pond 1 within eastern boundary of Application Site. View towards the Application Site. north-east corner.

Photo EDP 3: Pond 2 – a periodically wet slurry Photo EDP 4: View of western arable field looking pond located south of the farm east towards farm buildings. buildings.

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Photo EDP 5: Pond 3, predominantly dry Photo EDP 6: Active outlier badger sett on waterbody. southern boundary.

Photo EDP 7: Ephemeral/short perennial Photo EDP 8: Arable field bounded by native vegetation growing over hedgerows later in the season hardstanding. following recent sowing of improved grassland mix. View towards south- east corner of Site.

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Annex EDP 3 Bat Roost Inspection Results

Table EDP A3.1: Building Bat Roost Inspection Survey Building Building Description Features Suitable for Bat Roosting Reference Roosting Bats Signs Potential B1 None. The barn is open None. Negligible and light with no potential cavities. It is also in regular use and therefore subject to disturbance.

Section of old internal brick wall with no cracks or fissures. Large barn with corrugated roof and wood and metal cladding. B3 None. The barn is open, None. Negligible Corrugated barn with breeze block light and exposed with no and metal clad walls. suitable crevices or cavities. B2 None. The barn is open None. Negligible and light with no potential cavities. The extension, is darker and less exposed but of similar construction and in active use as a farm store. It is therefore subject to disturbance, including the use of lights.. Large corrugated barn with pitched corrugated roof and small breeze block extension. B4 Open sided corrugated cattle shed. None. The barn is open, None. Negligible light and exposed with no suitable crevices or cavities. B5 None. The barn is open at None. Negligible each end and exposed and light inside. While in places Barn owl some ceiling boards are roosting present beneath the confirmed corrugated sheets the gap between the two materials is substantial and not considered suitable for roosting. The barn is currently in use as a wood store and is subject to regular disturbance.

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Building Building Description Features Suitable for Bat Roosting Reference Roosting Bats Signs Potential Six barn owl pellets of between 3-12 months in age were found at the southern end of the building. The ceiling boards, which are open and hanging in places, Single storey corrugated cattle shed could provide limited with breeze block walls, open ends nesting opportunities and wooden slat window openings. although no evidence of nesting was observed. B6 None. The barn is open, None. Negligible light and exposed with no suitable crevices and cavities.

Open former cattle shed with slat boarding and breeze block sides and a corrugated sheet roof. B7 None. The barn is open, None. Negligible light and exposed with no suitable crevices or cavities.

Small barn with open side, breeze block walls and corrugated metal roof. B8 Brick tower has a cavity at None Moderate - (off site) the bottom that could principally allow access for bats to associated roost within the dark with the stack. There are also a chimney. small number of cracks and fissures in the disused Brick outbuilding (former dairy building that could present parlour) with corrugated roof and limited opportunities for adjacent brick chimney stack. crevice dwelling species.

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Table EDP A3.2. Tree Bat Roost Inspection Survey Results Tree Reference Species Age Features Suitable for Roosting Bats Roosting Potential T16 Ash Mature Dead limb with possible cavities. Low (Category 2) T17 Ash Mature Dead limb with cavity. Peeling bark. Moderate (Category 1) T22 English Oak Mature Dense ivy over may conceal suitable Low cavities or cracks. (Category 2)

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Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Annex EDP 4 Automated Bat Detector Results

Table EDP A4.1: Bat Activity Survey Results - August Position Bat Species Number of Bat Passes Recorded per Night Total %of Total 09 10 11 12 13 Aug Aug Aug Aug Aug

1 Barbastelle Bat 0 1 2 0 1 4 7.5 Common pipistrelle 3 5 6 9 8 31 58.5 Bat Greater horseshoe 0 0 0 0 1 1 2.0 Bat Leisler’s Bat 0 1 0 0 0 1 2.0 Myotis sp. Bat 0 1 0 0 2 3 5.5 Noctule Bat 0 1 0 0 2 3 5.5 Soprano Pipistrelle 2 2 1 2 3 10 19.0 Bat Total 5 11 9 11 17 53 2 Common Pipistrelle 10 21 1 0 0 32 42.1 Bat Leisler’s Bat 1 0 0 0 0 1 1.3 Myotis sp. Bat 3 6 3 0 0 12 15.8 Soprano Pipistrelle 2 19 10 0 0 31 40.8 Bat Total 16 46 14 0 0 76

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Table EDP A4.2: Bat Activity Survey Results – early September Position Bat Species Number of Bat Passes Recorded Per Night Total %of Total 08 Sep 09 Sep 10 Sep 11 Sep 12 Sep

3 Barbastelle Bat 0 1 0 0 0 1 1.8 Common Pipistrelle 0 0 4 5 3 12 21.8 Bat Leisler’s Bat 0 0 0 1 1 2 3.6 Myotis sp. Bat 8 6 10 5 8 37 67.3 Soprano Pipistrelle 2 0 0 0 1 3 5.5 Bat Total 10 7 14 11 13 55 4 Barbastelle Bat 3 7 0 6 24 40 2.1 Common Pipistrelle 173 41 9 424 634 1281 68.6 Bat Greater Horseshoe 0 0 0 0 17 17 0.9 Bat Leisler’s Bat 1 1 0 2 2 6 0.3 Lesser Horseshoe 1 0 2 3 0 6 0.3 Bat Myotis sp. Bat 58 16 46 84 83 287 15.4 Noctule Bat 2 2 0 7 31 42 2.2 Serotine Bat 1 0 0 1 0 2 0.1 Soprano Pipistrelle 18 18 1 62 87 186 10.0 Bat Total 257 85 58 589 878 1867

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Table EDP A4.3: Bat Activity Survey Results – late September Position Bat Species Number of Bat Passes Recorded Per Night Total %of Total 20 Sep 21 Sep 22 Sep 23 Sep 24 Sep

5 Barbastelle Bat 11 7 3 2 15 38 0.9 Common pipistrelle 61 630 35 339 320 1385 33.3 Bat Leisler’s Bat 0 3 1 0 0 4 0.1 Lesser Horseshoe 0 2 0 1 0 3 0.1 Bat Myotis sp. Bat 36 73 30 32 47 218 5.2 Nathusius’ Bat 0 0 0 0 1 1 0.0 Noctule 0 29 2 38 21 90 2.2 Soprano Pipistrelle 43 962 32 503 885 2425 58.2 Total 151 1706 103 915 1289 4164 6 Barbastelle Bat 0 0 0 0 1 1 0.3 Common pipistrelle 37 7 52 17 13 126 38.9 Bat Greater Horseshoe 0 2 0 0 0 2 0.6 Bat Lesser Horseshoe 1 2 1 3 0 7 2.2 Bat Myotis sp. Bat 46 22 49 23 21 161 49.7 Noctule Bat 11 2 8 1 1 23 7.1 Serotine Bat 0 0 1 0 0 1 0.3 Soprano Pipistrelle 2 0 0 0 1 3 0.9 Bat Total 97 35 111 44 37 324

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Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Annex EDP 5 Pond Habitat Suitability Assessment

Table EDP A5.1: HIS Assessment Survey Results Suitabilit Criteria Definition Possibl P1 P2 P3 y Index e Score

SI1 Geographic Zone A - optimal 1 1.0 1.0 1.0 Location Zone B - marginal 0.5 Zone C - unsuitable 0.01

SI2 Pond Area Pond surface area to the nearest * 0.1 1.0 0.1 50m2

SI3 Permanence Never Dries 0.9 1.0 0.1 0.1 Rarely dries (Dries no more than 1 2/10 years or in drought only) Sometimes dries (Dries between 0.5 3/10 years to most years) Dries annually 0.1

SI4 Water Good (abundant & diverse 1 0.67 0.33 0.33 Quality invertebrate community) Moderate (moderate 0.67 invertebrate community) Poor (low invertebrate diversity, 0.33 few submerged plants) Bad (clearly polluted, pollutant 0.01 tolerant invertebrates present, no submerged plants)

SI5 Shade % shade of pond perimeter to at * 1.0 1.0 1.0 least 1m from the shore

SI6 Waterfowl Absent (no evidence of 1 1.0 1.0 1.0 waterfowl, excluding moorhen) Minor (waterfowl present, 0.67 though little impact) Major (severe impact of 0.01 waterfowl)

SI7 Fish Absent (no records of fish 1 1.0 1.0 1.0 stocking and no fish seen during survey) Possible (no evidence of fish, but 0.67 conditions suggest presence) Minor (small numbers of crucian 0.33 carp, goldfish or stickleback) Major (dense populations of fish 0.01 present)

SI8 Pond Count No. ponds within 1 km of survey * 0.55 0.55 0.55 pond not separated by major barriers and divided by 3.14

SI9 Terrestrial Good (extensive habitat offering 1 0.67 0.33 0.33 good opportunities for foraging and shelter surrounding pond)

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Suitabilit Criteria Definition Possibl P1 P2 P3 y Index e Score Moderate (habitat offering 0.67 opportunities for foraging and shelter, but not extensive and does not completely surround pond) Poor (habitat with poor 0.33 structure, offering limited opportunities for foraging and shelter) None (No suitable habitat 0.01 around pond)

SI10 Macrophyte % pond surface area occupied * 0.6 0.6 0.8 s by macrophyte cover (excluding duckweed) and submerged plants reaching the surface * * 1/10 HSI Score = (SI1*SI2*SI3*SI4 SI5*SI6 SI7*SI8*SI9*SI10) 0.66 0.57 0.47 Pond Suitability Average Below Poor (<0.5 = poor; 0.5-0.59 = below average; 0.6-0.69 = average; 0.7-0.79 Average = good; >0.8 = excellent)

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

Plans

Plan EDP 1 Phase 1 Habitat Plan (EDP3431/07c 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 2 Transect Route and Automated Detector Locations (EDP3431/21b 07 February 2017 LB/RF)

Plan EDP 3 Dormouse Tube and Reptile Mat Locations (EDP3431/11b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 4 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results - August Dusk (EDP3431/08b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 5 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Early September Dusk (EDP3431/09b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Plan EDP 6 Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Late September Dusk (EDP3431/10b 07 February 2017 LB/EW)

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster Technical Appendix 9.1: Ecology Baseline C_EDP3431_02a

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Application Site Boundary

Broad-leaved Semi-natural Woodland Scattered Trees/Tree Groups (Broad-leaved)

T1/H2/G3 Tree/Hedgerow Number (Consistent with Arboricultural Report)

Intact Species-rich Hedgerow

Intact Species-poor Hedgerow G45 G43 Defunct Species-poor Hedgerow PP33 T44 G3 G2 T4 Intact Species-poor Hedgerow B8 and Trees B4 T42 B3 Tall Ruderal T41 H1 T6 Dense Continuous Scrub H34 T39 T38 T40 T35 B5 Scattered Scrub B1 H5 B7 B6 A B2 T36 Ephemeral/short Perennial T7 G31 H37 A Arable Grassland

H9 H8 P1P1 G10 Pond P2P2

B1 Building Number T11 T22 P1P1 Building/Tree with Moderate Bat T24 H23 H15 G12 Roost Potential H32 Building/Tree with Low Bat Roost T19 H14 T17 T16 T13 Potential Building/Tree with Negligible Bat A H25 Roost Potential G30 H21 H18 Hardstanding G33 Subsidary Badger Sett T27 Barn Owl Pellets H26 G20

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP H28 Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, G29 Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster N drawing title

Plan EDP 1: Phase 1 Habitat Plan

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by JTF 0 50m drawing number EDP3431/07c checked EW scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 Application Site Boundary

Transect Route

1 Stopping Point

Automated Detector Location

6

6 9 4 5

12 1 1

11

7 4 N 2 3

0 50m

3 8

5 2

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 10 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

drawing title

Plan EDP 2: Bat Transect Route and Automated Detector Locations

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by LB drawing number EDP3431/21b checked RF scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 Application Site Boundary

110 Dormouse Tubes and Numbers

10 Reptile Mat Locations and Number

5

1 13

72 73

10

10 12 16 11 75 12 20

35 34 N

0 50m 8

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

drawing title

Plan EDP 3: Dormouse Tube and Reptile Mat Locations

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by LB drawing number EDP3431/11b checked EW scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 Application Site Boundary

Bat Activity (Colour denotes species)

Heard but not seen

Bat commuting (one chevron per bat)

Foraging Behaviour

Foraging Behaviour

Bat Species

Common pipistrelle

Brown Long-eared

N

0 50m

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

drawing title

Plan EDP 4: Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – August Dusk

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by LB drawing number EDP3431/08b checked EW scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 Application Site Boundary

Bat Activity (Colour denotes species)

Heard but not seen

Foraging Behaviour

Foraging Behaviour

Bat Species

Common pipistrelle

Soprano pipistrelle

Myotis Sp.

Brown Long-eared

N

0 50m

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

drawing title

Plan EDP 5: Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Early September Dusk

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by LB drawing number EDP3431/09b checked EW scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 Application Site Boundary

Bat Activity (Colour denotes species)

Heard but not seen

Bat commuting (one chevron per bat)

Foraging Behaviour

Foraging Behaviour

Bat Species

Common pipistrelle

Soprano pipistrelle

Lesser horseshoe

N

0 50m

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP Tithe Barn, Barnsley Park Estate, Barnsley, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5EG t 01285 740427 f 01285 740848 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

client

Persimmon Homes (Wessex)

project title

Bugley Barton Farm, Land South of Victoria Road, Warminster

drawing title

Plan EDP 6: Manual Bat Activity Survey Results – Late September Dusk

date 07 FEBRUARY 2017 drawn by LB drawing number EDP3431/10b checked EW scale Refer to scale bar QA LH

© Environmental Dimension Partnership. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673 THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION PARTNERSHIP

CIRENCESTER (Head Office) CARDIFF SHREWSBURY Tithe Barn First Floor The Stables Barnsley Park Estate The Bonded Warehouse Sansaw Business Park Barnsley, Cirencester Atlantic Wharf Hadnall, Shrewsbury Gloucestershire GL7 5EG Cardiff CF10 4HF Shropshire SY4 4AS t 01285 740427 t 029 21671900 t 01939 211190 e [email protected] www.edp-uk.co.uk

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