Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Extended Phase 1 Survey Report With recommendations

London Road Campus, Enterprise Site London Road, Harlow.CM17 0DE. Grid Ref TL47139 10292

25 May 2012 290512-ED-03

Contents Page

CONTENTS PAGE ...... 2 TERMS OF INSTRUCTION ...... 5 SCOPE ...... 5 LIMITATIONS ...... 5 DESK STUDY AND INFORMATION ...... 6 SITE VISIT ...... 7 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ...... 7 LOCAL PLAN AND POLICY CONTEXT ...... 7 SOILS ON THE SITE ...... 8 EACH HABITAT IS DESCRIBED ACCORDING TO JNCC EXTENDED PHASE ONE SURVEY HABITAT TYPES (2010 EDITION) ...... 9 DESCRIPTION OF HABITAT PARCELS (MAP REFERENCED) ...... 10 POOR SEMI IMPROVED GRASSLAND (B6) ...... 10 IMPROVED GRASSLAND ...... 11 AMENITY GRASSLAND ...... 11 SPECIES POOR HEDGEROW ...... 11 SPECIES RICH HEDGEROW ...... 11 HEDGE WITH TREES ...... 11 WOODLAND –SEMI-NATURAL...... 12 WOODLAND -PLANTATION ...... 12 PARKLAND. SCATTERED TREES ...... 13 BARE GROUND...... 13 SCRUB – DENSE AND SCATTERED ...... 13 TALL HERB AND FERN NON-RUDERAL ...... 14 INTRODUCED SHRUB ...... 14 EARTH BANK ...... 14 DITCH (WET) ...... 14 MARSHY GRASSLAND ...... 14 BUILDINGS ...... 15 OTHER FEATURE (E.G. UNDERGROUND CHAMBER) ...... 15 WALL ...... 15 PROTECTED WILDLIFE VERGE ...... 15 PHOTOGRAPHS OF SITE ...... 16 ADDITIONAL FEATURES TO THOSE LISTED ABOVE ...... 17 OUTLINING PROTECTIONS AFFORDED TO PRIORITY HABITATS ON SITE ...... 21 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURTHER PROTECTED SPECIES SURVEY ...... 24 ENHANCEMENT ...... 27 PRELIMINARY DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (TO BE FURTHER INFORMED BY DETAILED PROTECTED SPECIES ASSESSMENTS) ...... 27 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH AND RED LINE BOUNDARY ...... 30

(29/05/2012) Redline boundary of site

1 SUMMARY

1.1 The site was visited on Thursday, 26 April 2012in fair conditions by an experienced ecologist.

1.2 The conclusions of this assessment are that the potential to support notable or protected species exists in several habitats of site including trees and woodland; hedgerows (connected and not connected to ancient woodland); tussocky grassland; earthbanks, disturbed topography and ditches; log-piles and underground chambers; inundation vegetation in connection with mosaics of the above. In addition proposals would impact protected verges with notable flora.

1.3 Site was within 5 km of two SSSI designated sites (Sawbridgeworth Marsh and Hunsdon Mead) and adjacent to one Local Wildlife Sites (Markhall Wood Ancient Woodland) or potential Local Wildlife Sites (Gravel Pit Spring). See Appendix C for distances and citations.

1.4 Before planning consent is granted legal constraints should be investigated by proposers. Following this report, it is recommended that protected species surveys are undertaken for Bats, Dormouse, Birds of Conservation Concern (e.g. migrating

birds, Song Thrush, Fieldfare and Skylark on Essex BAP), Reptiles, Badger, Invertebrates and for Great Crested Newt (two waterbodies have direct connectivity to site (Promap). In respect of Great Crested Newt, full survey may be dismissed through Habitat Survey Index survey. Further waterbodies are found within 1km of site but barriers to dispersal are likely exclude these from assessment). Of the above protected species, all but Dormouse are recorded within 1km of site (BRD).

1.5 The proposal is likely to involve the loss of part of a protected wildlife verge (north west part of the site). The extent of the loss will depend on final location and design of the proposed access into the site. The Local Planning Authority should consider the loss, taking into account the proposal as a whole and the findings/recommendations of this report.

1.6 A bat roost immediately adjacent site is indicated by the presence of bat-tiles forming entrances and exits to several lofts of the recently re-built cottagesTN0 (by Maypole Social Centre). This indicates the potential for adjoining hedgerows /lines of trees to be important foraging and commuting routes (e.g. for Brown Long-eared bats).

1.7 Notable or protected habitats represented (to some extent) on site and recognised on the Essex Biodiversity Action Plan are:, ancient woodland, TPO trees, “important hedgerows”, hedgerows, and open mosaic habitats on previously developed land. They are described in this document individually and impacts on these must be considered in the planning process

1.8 Site adjacent habitats that could be impacted by the scheme in the absence of consideration are: lowland meadow, ancient woodland, potentially –wet woodland, protected verge and important hedgerows.

1.9 Monitoring for the impacts of development and a long-term management plan to ensure appropriate and sensitive use of site, should form part of conditions.

2 INTRODUCTION Terms of instruction

2.1 This report has been commissioned by Alex Robinson, Forward Planning Officer Harlow District Council. It is intended to provide initial assessment of ecological constraints in respect of London Road Site which has been previously selected as a site subject to a Local Development Order.

Scope

2.2 This report addresses issues relating to the risk of offence under national and European legislation providing protection to threatened or vulnerable species, “protected species” and details presence and character of priority or notable habitats. See s5 and s6.

Limitations

2.3 This is a preliminary survey and the conclusions reached are based upon an initial site assessment without the benefit of detailed Phase 2or further “protect species survey” data. Recommendations for further protected species surveys are included.

2.4 Conditions on a site change according to season and management. This survey was undertaken in spring and plant species lists will reflect the assemblages present at this time. A summer botanical survey is recommended where botanical interest is to be fully documented.

2.5 Outline development proposals, while formed, are not final. This report considers current proposals and indicates potential design-stage enhancements identified at an early stage and in the absence of detailed protected species survey data.

2.6 Access was constrained to the path of an access road located between buildings as marked on the map of survey findings between points TN46 and TN31 (the NW access road to the buildings at the south of site) which can be found at Appendix G. However, this was observed from gates at both ends and on aerial photography.

2.7 This report has been prepared with the benefit of BRD, although several vendors did not respond.

2.8 The contents of this report are copyright of Tim Moya Associates and may not be distributed or copied without the author’s permission. Tim Moya Associates standard Limitations of Service apply to this report and all associated work relating to this site. A copy has been supplied with our original quotation and further copies are available on request.

Desk Study and Information

2.9 The preparation of this report has been undertaken using the currently available aerial photography, Promap, topographical survey and Harlow Interactive Map (detailing specific site-related policy), Essex Biodiversity Action Plan, The National Biodiversity Network’s NBN Gateway http://data.nbn.org.uk, plan of the property and proposal and, geological data from the British Geological Survey (BGS).

2.10 Protected species data was sought from EESoS (Records Centre), Essex ARG, Harlow Badger Group, Essex Bird Watching Society Andrew Bryce, Essex small mammal recorder John Dobson, Essex Bat Recorders John Dobson and Peter Lane. Radius of search was 10km for Natura 2000 sites and between 1 and 5km for protected species and designated sites.

2.11 Priority Habitats and statutory and non-statutory sites of the local area were identified by observation and by using Natural England’s Nature on the Map http://www.natureonthemap.org.uk and the Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside Interactive Map (MAGIC) http://www.magic.gov.uk; also the UK Biodiversity Action Plan website http://www.ukbap.org.uk/NewPriorityList.aspx. Harlow District Council’s review of Local Wildlife Sites 2010 was studied for relevant data and Replacement Harlow Local Plan Supporting Document Wildlife Sites 2002 was studied for descriptions of LNRs.

3 OBSERVATIONS AND CONTEXT Site visit

3.1 Tatiana White, BSc Hons, cMIEEM and Natural England licence holder for Bats, GCN and Dormouse (with recently expired accredited agent Rare Reptiles).

3.2 I visited the site on 26 April 2012when trees and other significant vegetation on and around the site (to approx. 50m) were inspected with reference to the JNCC habitat types recognised in Extended Phase 1 survey. Target Notes make reference to site features, condition and management, transitional habitats, features too small to map and in particular the potential to support protected species. Invasive species, if these are observed, are also noted.

Landscape character

3.3 The immediate local area excluding sitecontains:1Potential Local Wildlife Site or pLoWS: Gravel Pit Spring and 1 LoWS: Mark Hall Wood, 3+“Green Wedges” (one abutting the southern boundary and one separated from the northern boundary by the A414 plus others not immediately adjacent). Newhall Strategic Housing Site H3 is separated from the eastern boundary by London Road – this is land allocated for housing development or containing recently developed family-style housing. Site impacts include the leisure facilities including sports fields at the northern boundary and to the south there is a “Neighbourhood Centre.” Listed within the site boundary on the Local Plan, it is likely that the policy SD5 “Special Landscape Area” applies to the surrounding landscape also. See Appendix B.

Local Plan and Policy Context

3.4 The Local Development Framework (LDF) will provide the spatial planning strategy for Harlow up to and beyond 2021. Currently there are no adopted Development Plan Documents that make up the Harlow LDF. Therefore the most relevant adopted and saved Local Plan policies are reviewed against the development proposals.(Adopted Replacement Harlow Local Plan date July 2006).

3.5 On Site: (see Appendix B). Policies identified by the Council’s interactive map include Sustainability: SD5 Local Nature Reserve/Local Wildlife Sites, NE14 Special

Landscape Area and Protected Verges. Transport T11 (indicative route of New link Road) and Employment: ER1, 2 and 9.

3.6 Site surrounds: Policies identified by the Council include Leisure L1, 2, 7, 9, 10. Housing H3. Two potential Local Wildlife Sites are identified adjacent site and were reviewed in 2010.

3.7 The Adopted Replacement Harlow Local Plan states in policy NE14 that planning permission will not be granted for proposals that detract from the visual quality of Special Landscape Areas. Policy NE11 is considered in applications affecting trees and hedgerows and NE15/16/20are considered in respect of Wildlife and Biodiversity. NE17/18 places regard to impacts on Local Wildlife Sites, such as the adjacent potential LoWS Gravel Pit Spring, selected under HC2 for its value as natural greenspace. Policies NE18/25 place regard on the adjacent Markhall Wood (selected under HC1 as an ancient woodland and sharing a boundary with site). These sites are described and locations mapped in Appendix G.

Soils on the site

3.8 The soils information for this site has been taken from the on-line BGS data. This indicates that the property is within an area of Lowestoft Formation - Diamicton. Recorded as outside of the site’s east boundary, is an area of Glaciofluvial deposits of sand and gravel. Vegetation represents pockets of inundation together with more freely draining grasslands, and species indicate neutral soils.

4 HABITATS ON SITE Each habitat is described according to JNCC Extended Phase One survey habitat types (2010 Edition)

 Poor semi improved grassland

 Improved grassland

 Amenity grassland

 Species poor hedgerow

 Species rich hedgerow (BAP)

 Hedge with trees

 Woodland –semi-natural (Lowland Mixed deciduous = BAP)

 Woodland -plantation

 Parkland. Scattered trees

 Bare ground

 Scrub – dense and scattered

 Tall herb and fern non-ruderal

 Introduced shrub

 Earth Bank

 Ditch (wet)

 Marshy grassland

 Buildings

 Other feature (e.g. underground chamber)

 Wall

4.2 Habitats Adjacent Site (50m buffer)

 Ancient woodland with semi-natural regeneration

 Lowland Meadow (species rich grassland)

 Protected verge

 Important hedgerow

Description of Habitat Parcels (map referenced)

4.3 In paragraphs below each habitat is described with reference to its JNCC habitat code with a suffix number attributed to each parcel of that type sequentially. If a Target Note (TN) number is given for the feature, this is listed against the feature also and both references are made on the Phase One survey map at Appendix G. If a habitat type is uniform across site at the time of survey, the dominant species are listed for the habitat type and the habitat code. The map at Appendix G shows the locations of parcels of that type.

Poor semi improved grassland (B6)

 B6.No.1 /TN6. One fifth to one quarter of the area of the north field (where this includes the amenity grassland, this west portion is rough and tussocky). Agrostis stolonifera, Festuca sp, Taraxacum officinale agg., Ranunculus repens.

 B6.No2/TN17. Tussocky grassland to H20cm with umbelliferous herb

 B6.No3/TN26. Tall grassland H40cm with herbs to H1m. Banks of games court

 B6.No4/TN19. Tussocky, Similar in character to grassland surrounding. Drain W25cm around edge (filled with leaf litter). Tall Fescue, Ragwort.

 B6.No5/TN36. Tussocky. Potentially species-rich grassland. Festuca sp, Cock’s-foot Grass, Yorkshire Fog, Cowslip, Circium, Plantago lanceolata, Red Campion, Coltsfoot, Oxeye Daisy, Lotus corniculata, Viccia sativa,

 B6.No6/TN48. Tussocky. Potentially speciesrich protected verge. Identified from desk study. Relationship of proximity to important hedgerow listed on local plan.

Improved grassland

 B4 No.1 adjacent TN24. Observed from gate to access road

 J1.3 No.1/TN34. Short turf grassland with deer droppings at edge of car park. Festuca spp., Twayblade Orchid Neottia ovata, Selfheal, Circium, Taraxacum officinale agg., Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata, Goat Willow Salix caprea seedlings, Ragwort, Potentilla, Smooth Sow Thistle Sonchus asper, Cleavers, Bristly Oxtongue,

Amenity grassland

 J1.2 areas. See map. Species include Italian Rye Grass Lolium perenne, Daisy Bellis Perennis, Dandelion Taraxacum offinale agg., Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceloata.

Species poor hedgerow

 J2.1.2 No 1/TN5 H3m, W1.5m, adjacent hardstanding play area screening from car park. Leylandii only.

 J2.1.2 No 2/TN27 H<2mxW<2m. Cotoneaster sp

Species rich hedgerow

 J2.1.1 No 1/TN47.Potentially species-richunder Hedgerow Regulations 1997.

Hedge with trees

 J2.2.2 No1/TN13. H8mxW1m at base (and W3m at height). Ash, Sycamore, Hawthorn, Norway Maple, Cotoneaster, Mahonia, Bramble, Ribes, Field layer: Lords- and-Ladies Arum maculatum, Curled Dock Rumex crispus, Thislte Circium sp. Largely bare ground.

 J2.2.2 No2/TN15. H2.5 x W2m. Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, Elder Sambucus nigra with Horse Chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum standards. Base: Bramble Rubus fruticosus, Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster sp. Field layer: Cleavers Galium mollugo, Dog’s Mercury Mercurialis perennis and bare ground.

Woodland –semi-natural

 A1.1.1No1. Markhall Wood Designated Ancient Woodland (LoWS) with regeneration. 12.8ha woodland split by A414 of mixed canopy and including(east of A414): Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur, coppiced Hornbeam Carpinus betulus, Ash Fraxinus excelsior, Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, Maple Acer campestre, Elder Sambucus nigra, with Dog’s Mercury Mercurialis perennis, Wood Sedge Carex sylvatica, Bluebell Hyacynthoides non-scripta with bare ground. Southern section of woodland adjacent car park, observed from gates adjacent car park. Scrub at edges of woodland.

 A1.1.1No.2. TPOd belt of trees adjacent London Road. Marked on “pre 1875 maps” to be continuous with Markhall Wood (ancient woodland), however date of origin of woodland belt not verified. Pedunculate Oak canopy to 16m,with Crab Apple, Sycamore, Elder and Hedge Elm Ulmus procera planting and regeneration.. Understory: Bluebell Hyacynthoides non-scripta, Dog’s Mercury Mercurialis perennis, Wood sedge Carex sylvatica Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris.

 A1.1.1No3. TPOd belt of trees adjacent London Road. Marked on “pre 1875 maps” to be continuous with Markhall Wood (ancient woodland), however date of origin of woodland belt not verified. Pedunculate Oak canopy to 14m, with tall herb layer as A1.1.1No1. Hedge Elm Ulmus x sp planting and regeneration.

Woodland -plantation

 A1.3.2 No1/TN1. Marked on historical maps prior to 1875 as contiguous with ancient woodland, yet containing no trees of significant age. Contains log piles/brash piles with cuttings, standing deadwood, undulating shallow ditches and banks. Elm dominates with Sycamore, Ash, Maple, Oak Shrub layer: Elder Sambucus nigra, Hawthorn Crataegus monogaster. Tall herb understory of Bramble, Dog’s Mercury, Nettle Urtica dioica, Ivy Hedera helix, Hedge Garlic Alliaria petiolata, Hybrid Bluebell, Lords-and-ladies.

 A1.3.2 No2/TN37. Young (H<4m) densely planted Maple, Hornbeam, Elm Ulmus procera , HawthronCrataegus monogyna, Beech Fagus sylvatica. Understory at

edges Cow Parsely Anthriscus sylvestris, Nettle Urtica dioica and Creeping bent grass Agrostis stolonifera

Parkland. Scattered trees

 A3.3 No1/TN34. Group of mixed Scots Pine with Silver Birch Betulapendulaand Willow, Corylus avellana and Eucalypt Eucalyptus sp. surrounding ornamental planting area / outdoor seating area in car park (approx 100mm dbh).

 A3.3 No2. Group of trees planted for aesthetic value -Silver Birch Betula pendula.

 A3.3 No.2. Occasional Coniferous Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris trees mixed with deciduous Silver Birch Betula pendula of approx 100mmdbh

 A3.1 No1/TN41. Weeping Willow Salix babylonica – mature with good aesthetic value.

 A3.2 No1/TN42.Leylandii – mature

 A3.2 No2/TN33. Occasional Coniferous Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris trees of approx. 100mmdbh

Bare ground

 J4 No1. Stripped grassland (topsoil)

 J4 No2. Shallow bare earth banks under edge-canopy of trees

 J4 No3/TN11.Bank of earth over underground chamber

Scrub – dense and scattered

 A2.2 No1/TN7. At the edges of the hard-standing and field margin. Ash Fraxinus excelsior seedlings, Elder Sambucus nigra, with understory Rubus fruticosus, Thislte Cirsium and Willowherb Epilobium sp

 A2.1 No1/TN31. Between car park and Woodland. Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna with Buddleja Buddleja daviddii, Bramble Rubus fruticosus, Cotoneaster Cotoneaster sp. and Sunshine Bush Brachyglottis sp.

Tall herb and fern non-ruderal

 C3.2 No1/TN2. Skeletons of umbeliferous herb over disturbed amenity grassland

 C3.2 No2/TN17. Skeletons of umbelliferous herb to H<1m across 70% of field, over tussocky grassland H20cm Creeping Bent grass Agrostis stolonifera with Bristly Oxtongue Picris echioides, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg, Ragwort Senecio sp., Spear-thistle Cirsium vulgare.

Introduced shrub

 J1.4 No1/TN34. Seating area within car park comprising ornamental shrubs with including low hedging species. Yew Taxus baccata, Cotoneaster horizontalis, Spurge Euphorbia, Buddleja davidii, Sunshine Bush Brachyglottis, Mahonia sp. and Rosa sp,

 J1.4 No2/TN45. Ornamental shrubs including Leylandii and Laurel Prunus laurocerasus(observed from the locked gates near TN41

Earth Bank

 J2.8 No1/TN11. Bank of 10m x 2m with grasses and bare ground covers what appears to be an underground chamber at the end of the rifle range. Chamber may be 10m x 2m (gaps at ground level reveal space behind). Access constrained.

 J2.8No2/TN1. Shallow earth banks to 0.5m and disturbed topography in line of trees.

Ditch (wet)

 G1.1No.1/TN9. Parallel to A414 and across to Wall adjacent rifle range. A wet ditch of 0.2-0.5m depth of cutting with mud substrate under deep shade of canopy.

 G1.1 No.2/TN49. Wet ditch of 0.5m cutting under hedge. Ditch present from west to east of site beneath hedge and trees (dry to eastern half).

Marshy grassland

 In particular two target noted (and tiny) parcels of marshy grassland with inundation vegetation.

Buildings

 J3.6/TN0. Cottages. Relatively recent construction. Containing bat tiles in each aspect of pitched roofs.

 J3.6/TN12.Single storey brick feature associated with rifle range. Negligible bat potential

 J3.6/TN14. Concrete with corrugated iron roof. Negligible bat potential

 J3.6/TN22. Two storey building displaying warning signs for asbestos. Evidence of fire. Open access to bats and breeding birds through fire damage.

 J3.6/TN23. Shed –No bat potential

 J3.6/TN43/TN46/TN18. Tight weatherboarding. Flat roof. Modern. Concrete construction, metal framed windows. Negligible potential for bats (similar for other buildings in southern group). TN18 is point at closest proximity of roof to woodland (no features offering potential for roosting bats visible from ground)

 J3.6/TN40. Single storey. Modern. Negligible potential for bats.

Other feature (e.g. underground chamber)

 J5No.1/TN10. Potentially a 10mx2m underground chamber, possibly a small gap under a constructed earthbank. Potential bat hibernacula. No access possible. Chamber implied by 20cm gaps at front of earthbank at ground level.

Wall

 J2.5/No1 (north of TN10). Gun fire containment wall at end of rifle range. Good condition. H3m

 J2.5. No2. surrounding TN29. Low garden retaining wall

Protected wildlife verge

 Protected wildlife verges are located to the northwest of the site, parallel to the A414 and adjacent this and an important hedgerow. Policy NE19 describes the protected wildlife verges adjoining the A414 as 'roadside bank, roadside verge'.

Photographs of Site

Evidence of mitigation for a bat roost at TN0

Potential to support reptiles and invertebrates

TN17 TN38

Additional features to those listed above

4.4 TN2/TN6/TN17/TN26/TN30/TN35/TN36/TN37in addition to tall herb layer at base of hedgerows and lines of trees: suitable for reptiles

4.5 TN3/TN8 Vet oak with split bark. Bat potential.

4.6 TN16 Mammal run adjacent south side of TN15 (badger). Connects to Mark Hall Wood south of rifle range and crosses site along TN15

4.7 TN29 Houses with pitched roofs. Good condition. No bat-tiles evident (in contrast to bat tiles at TN0).

4.8 See accompanying data sheets for extended details (Appendix H)

5 DISCUSSION OF PROTECTED SPECIES

Reptiles

5.1 The site contains patches of tussocky grassland suitable for reptile, in a mosaic with banks and hibernacula creating a site of high value for reptiles. Final design is likely to include significant enhancement for reptile to compensate for loss of habitat. Reptile disturbance (translocation of reptiles) may be minimised by a strategy that set-aside TN1/TN6 and the banks at TN38 and TN36, added a buffer strip around woodland and hedges, enhanced these areas for reptiles to increase carrying capacity with view to adequately providing for translocated reptiles from the southern grassland pockets and TN17.

Bats

5.2 If linear feature such as TN1 is confirmed as bat commuting route, consider retaining majority of linear trees and remove only the number necessary to accommodate a road beneath – with overhanging canopy. Engage ecologist to conduct 3 emergence surveys in accordance with Bat Survey Guidelines 2012, to assess presence/absence of roosting bats at potential roost sites (including for brown long- eared bat). Conduct bat activity surveys of linear features.

5.3 Connectivity is interrupted where canopy breaks, some species will not cross gaps. The line of trees connects a likely bat roost with alternative potential roost (large vet oak) and ancient woodland foraging ground.

Invertebrates

5.4 A design principle to minimise disturbance to a buffer strip along the lines of trees (TPOd woodland) and adjacent scrub and inundation vegetation near TN10, would protect many of the valuable areas of site. TN6, TN17 and TN38 also provide high invertebrate value. The addition of wildflower seeding with sensitive management,

and of hibernacula (for reptiles) will provide additional habitat.

Great Crested Newt

5.5 GCN Tritarus cristatus is considered unlikely to be using site due to the absence of ponds within the site and surrounds as isolated by London Road, the A414 and Church Langley Road. However records obtained from desk study shows GCN within 500m of site (see Appendix E). It is likely that GCN has used the site historically, and

OS maps from 1950s show connectivity between site and Marks Hall Wood (ancient woodland with current GCN record). However population changes are likely to reflect more recent changes to topography, particularly the separation on site from Mark Hall Wood and other GCN sites through the presence of barriers to dispersal. Ditches on site, whilst currently wet in patches (with a few centimetres of water after heavy rains), are less than 1m cuttings and not of the character to be assessed as ponds. If a pond or suitable waterbody is identified within the site and surrounds (the land parcel within 500m of site and contiguous with site, a GCN survey would then be recommended to establish the use of this species of site.

Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC)

5.6 Lee Valley Ramsar/SPA is designated in part for wintering and migrating birds including:

5.7 Bittern (non-breeding) (Globally Threatened Declining Species, UK BAP) (JNCC UKSPA-A6-138) Targeted conservation management of Lee Valley SPA.

5.8 Shoveler Anas Clypeata (non-breeding) along river valleys in wetlands, flooded grasslands (6-19%), flooded mineral workings.

5.9 Gadwall Anas strepera (non-breeding) most notable wintering populations incl. Lee Valley SPA (inhabiting marshy grassland/flood meadows – JNCC UKSPA A6-298).

6 PRIORITY HABITAT CONSIDERATIONS Outlining protections afforded to priority habitats onsite

Protected Protected Measure Rationale or Notable habitat Habitat yes/no

Poor semi- N Tussocky grassland There is potential for compensation improved at TN6 and rank for loss of small parcels of tussocky grassland grassland at TN17 grasslands within the scheme through e.g. was surveyed in April improving quality of remaining TN6/TN17 (sub-optimal for grasslands. Those of greatest value botanical are TN36 (buffer and basking bank), assessment). Unlikely TN38 (buffer and basking and to contain species invertebrate bank), TN6 (reptiles and indicating valuable potentially lower fertility grassland) unimproved and TN17 (rank, higher species count grassland or than surrounding). TN6 and TN17 degraded meadow, provide substantial areas for the but of value to support of populations of reptiles. reptiles, invertebrates and birds and could be renovated as meadow through the scheme and future management.

Ancient Y Designated site.UK Value of ancient woodland quickly woodland BAP. Harlow Local degraded by trampling of ground flora Plan. Retain and leading to loss of buffer against invertebrates/birds/disturbance to bats degradation due to etc. Ancient woodland is irreplaceable increased in associated time-scales. recreational use. Maintain soft edges (scrub/damp ground to north)

Lines of See TPO Retain in principle Shown on historical maps (origin trees unknown but identified as present in (ecological) 1875) the line of mature trees adjacent London Road represents an established natural feature with established species assemblages.

Re-creation of mature trees is not possible in associated time-scales.

TN1 (a line of mature trees), although “TPOd” appears to be regenerated in character. However, it represents an important link between St. Marks Hall woodland and woodland/line of trees to the east of site.

Important Y. Policy Extent of impact Translocation not considered hedgerows* NE11 and depends on final economically viable. Degree of impact 12 and location and design of primarily associated with breaking Hedgerow road access to site at habitat corridor for commuting and Regs 97 NW) but expected to sheltering species. be limited (a small portion of the whole Important hedgerows are material hedgerow). Measures consideration in planning and if found to minimise impact “important” under Hedgerow should be Regulations 1997, hedgerow value incorporated. should be assessed within context of Potential for scheme. compensation should be explored. Opportunities include planting a native species-dense hedge at the north boundary of site to connect the lines of trees to the east and west of site

Protected Y Local As above. Identify as To be considered during hedgerow verges* Plan field layer of assessment. important hedgerow or not. If separate re- - Limited impact (local value). Re-use use topsoil on of topsoils will retain a proportion of invertebrate banks. species in the seed-bank. Consider as field layer of hedgerow if hedgerow found “important” under Hedgerow Regulations ‘97. Local Planning Authority to consider loss as part of the overall scheme.

Lowland Y. Grassland banks at Lowland meadow is a BAP habitat in meadow south boundary of Essex. UK BAP site form a buffer (NE16) between the (Green NE1 Wedge) meadow adjacent site and the site itself. Retain this buffer.

Table 1.Outlining protections afforded to priority habitats on site

7 RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendations for further protected species survey

Receptor Desktop Onsite potential to Recommendation (1km) support presence

Hedgerow Yes (at Assess impact in relation to Ecologist to re-assess northwest of site boundary and planned qualification (as “important” site) road serving new under Hedgerow development at NW corner Regulations 97) of any impacted northwest hedgerow and make recommendations.

Protected Yes (at Assess impact in relation to Local value. LPA to assess verge northwest of association with “important within context of whole site) hedgerow”, site boundary scheme. If associated with and planned road serving important hedgerow, should new development at NW be assessed and corner considered as part of hedgerow. If impacted: re- use topsoil in new reptile banks.

Dormouse No Connectivity of hedgerows Dormouse Survey and scrub to ancient (triggered by adjacent (species woodland ancient woodland and under- connectivity of mixed represented hedgerows and scrub to in Essex) ancient woodland. High potential to impact if species is present. Mitigation to be planned at earliest stages if confirmed present.

Bat Yes (old – Potential roosts at Maypole High potential for impact. probably Social Club/Cottages Further assessment for bat under- adjacent social club/vet oak potential with activity recording) at access to social club and surveys and dawn-dusk vet oak in Site-adjacent surveys as appropriate are woodland. Potential recommended. Avoid hibernacula in tree roosts damage to mature Oaks

and at TN10/TN11. (and line of trees at TN1 Commuting and foraging and any trees with potential routes between cottages for roosting bats (e.g. TN3). and woodland/foraging and veteran oaks

Badger Unknown Damp woodland and Employ sensitive working mammal tracks adjacent methodologies. Cover holes TN15 associated with works before leaving site in evenings. Do not leave fresh concrete or chemicals exposed. If a sett is discovered onsite or adjacent during works, cease works within 30m of sett and promptly obtain advice from a suitably qualified ecologist.

BoCC and Wintering/m Proximity to SPA and Ornithologist to comment on Breeding igrating presence of seasonally wet potential use of existing birds birds (see grassland and woodland. grasslands to migrating 5.5) Site is between Gravel Pit birds (see s5.5) Spring (pLoWS) and Markhall Wood LoWS – Vegetation clearance must st both noted in the RHLP not occur between 1 st Wildlife Site Supporting March and 1 September document as having unless under supervision of importance for birds. suitably qualified ecologist (to confirm absence). Disturbance of breeding birds is not permitted at any time.

Reptiles Yes Grasslands/woodland/interf Potential for high impact aces between scrub, (site level) due to the hedgerow and grassland, Maintain features required for viable population Due to Hedgerows and banks barriers to dispersal formed by the A414, Church Presence of tussocky grassland e.g. at TN6, 26, Langley Way and London 30, 35, 36, 37 17& TN19 at Road, it is considered that a hedges and ditches and reptile mitigation strategy involving translocation of under linear wooded any reptiles present would features).These are Reptile be required. Reptile foraging/basking areas in mitigation should be timed

association with hibernacula between March and early e.g. at TN1 (line of trees), October in any given year and in composting or piled (and may not be completed brash. within one year). A reptile mitigation strategy will involve presence/absence, population assessment survey and translocation. Exclusion may be indicated, for the duration of works.

Great Yes – GCN Two waterbodies onsite HSI assessment of Crested well- (highlighted in Promap- see waterbodies onsite (see Newt recorded in Appendix 5) Appendix 5) to confirm (Habitat landscape suitability (and requirement Suitability surrounding Site-adjacent or connected for further survey) or Index site to east ditches observed in the dismiss as unsuitable. survey) and west Phase 1 were shallow and considered unlikely to shelter GCN

Invertebrat Grasslands / Inundation Employ measures to avoid es vegetation adjacent impact: Avoid potential for woodland change to essential hydrology of damp woodland edge through drainage, abstraction, over- use or pollution. Translocate protected verge to nearby unprotected verge. Avoid removal of important hedgerow if possible (replant high species-density section if unavoidable). Resist over- sanitising vegetation interfaces (maintain sense of “naturalness”)

Table2. Recommendations for Protected Species Survey

7.1 A summary of recommendations in respect of six Priority Habitats is given in s6, Table 1.

7.2 There is resistance to impact on these habitats in local and national policy. Ancient Woodland in particular is irreplaceable in any applicable time-frame. Lowland meadow is also established over decades.

Enhancement

7.3 The recently published NPPF renders ODPM circular 05/06 and PPS9 obsolete, however the obligation to have due regard to biodiversity is retained in the NERC Act s40 and local planning policy. The Adopted Replacement Harlow Local Plan cites Policy NE18 in determining that major development proposals must incorporate biodiversity and NE16 that they must not harm biodiversity unless it can be demonstrated that the reason for the proposal outweighs the need to protect the habitat feature.

7.4 Initial extended Phase 1 survey identifies several areas for potential benefit through design (see Table 3 below). These include areas where impacts may be significant. Evaluation of potential impacts must be assessed though protected species survey (see s5) with consideration given to seasonal requirements of species. The table below is an informative and makes preliminary suggestions for enhancement of the scheme.

Preliminary design considerations (to be further informed by detailed protected species assessments)

Species Suggested enhancement

Bats/Reptiles/Birds/Invertebrates Retain intact the line of trees at TN1. TN1 is likely to form a commuting route for bats/reptiles/invertebrates (and potentially dormouse) and a hibernacula for reptile. Alternatively create proposed road under overhanging canopy and retain as much of the line of trees feature as possible. Compensate loss at ground level by planting trees to connect the cottages (TN0) with the line of trees. Minimise further breaks in the line of trees to the eastern boundary.

Invertebrates Hedgerows should maximise potential value for invertebrates through use of mixed native species and long-flowering species, and through management. Wildlife management of hedgerows entails not clipping at the base, clipping in rotation and after flowering, leaving dead flower heads and including a strip of tall herbs and wildflowers adjacent the hedgerow.

Design may include wildflower verges adjacent pedestrian paths and include sunshine traps/banks of

flowers and grasslands managed with a rotational mowing regime. Retain removed deciduous timbers on site and part bury at woodland edge and in pockets around site (e.g. adjacent hedgerows). Timber piles may be designed to form seating areas (e.g. stacked logs in shaped chicken-wire cages) or be part-turved to form banks with an exposed (log-stack) face.

Retain winter wet areas in association with tall herbs e.g. Inundation vegetation/spring at TN7 and TN10 (F2.2). Adds value to habitat mosaic, supporting species requiring this atypical resource in combination with tall herb and woodland.

Retain tussocky grassland at TN6 and determine a strip of Ladyshot Playing field (adjacent the A414) to be managed for reptile and invertebrates to connect the allotments and the Mark Hall Wood for connectivity in the landscape

Birds, Reptiles, Great Crested Add a wildlife pond with gradual planted margins and Newt, invertebrates (indistinct)wetland edges

Bats Adopt sensitive lighting regime at site if works continue through dusk periods. Adopt bat-sensitive lighting in design.

Hedgerows Where removing hedgerow, create a species rich alternative to ensure no loss of commuting and sheltering/migrating routes for dependent species or fragmentation of landscape. A hedgerow at the northern boundary to link west and east is suggested (in addition see recommendations for bats and TN1)

Subway underpass under A414 If strategic planning (e.g. for pedestrians/cyclists predisposes: Create vegetated over/underpasses for wildlife (e.g. bats/dormouse/other small mammals)

Monitoring and management Secure funds to ensure the landscape is successfully plan established and maintained sensitively to maintain viability of enhancements

Table 3.Preliminary design considerations (to be further informed by detailed protected species assessments)

8 CONCLUSIONS

8.1 In summary it is evident that there is an infrastructure deficit in Harlow and that there is a requirement to meet development needs for Harlow East. This report has identified potential ecological constraints and map habitats according the sections of the extended Phase 1 JNCC protocol together with target notes, used in standard practice to identify such constraints.

8.2 Aerial photography and mapping shows the site to be part of a relatively green corridor linking Harlow east and west. Consideration to this will need to be given in design and suggestions for preliminary enhancements to the design are provided in this report for early consideration

8.3 There is a potential risk of impact to several protected species receptors (see Recommendations for further protected species survey). Detailed survey may discount the requirement for extensive mitigation in respect of individual protected species.

8.4 There is a potential risk of impact to several protected habitat receptors (see Priority Habitat considerations). Design may incorporate the important habitats on site and enhance these.

APPPENDIX A - AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH AND RED LINE BOOUNDARY

APPENDIX B – LDO BOUNDARY IN HARLOW LOCAL PLAN MAP 2012

Site is shaded in purple and lavender

APPENDIX C – DESIGNATED SITE LOCATIONS

Site

Rye Meads SSSI and Lee Valley SPA/Ramsar

Site

Sawbridgeworth Marsh SSSI and Hunsdon Mead SSSI

Site

APPENDIX D – LOCAL SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE

Site

1.1 Local Nature Reserves and Priority Habitaats (nature on the Web)

8.5 Site

MAGIC Ancient Semi‐natural Woodland (2012)

Site

APPENDIX E POTENTIAL FOR USE OF SITE BY GREAT CRESTED NEWT

Promap Streetview image:

Two waterbodies are highlighted with connectivity to site. BRD records reveal (recent) populations of newt in Markhall Wood and Gravelpit Spring (adjacent site to the east and here marked New Hall Cottages). In addition to ditches and the two waterbodies marked here, site contains hedgerows and areas suitable for hibernation and migration.

NBN Gateway search for Great Crested Newt

Tritarus cristatus show multiple records adjacent site.

Taxon Gridref Date

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL430085 16 Jul 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL436081 30 Aug 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL440098 06 Aug 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 55kHz TL440105 13 Jul 2007

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL444086 10 Jul 2010

Plecotus auritus TL445071 25 Jun 2010

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 55kHz TL447097 03 Jul 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL451078 05 Apr 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL456091 17 Jun 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL456091 12 Jun 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL460098 24 Jun 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 55kHz TL461078 07 Sep 2007

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL468083 21 Jul 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL469115 18 May 2006

Plecotus auritus TL475125 04 Sep 2008

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL482092 10 Sep 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL504140 02 Sep 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL506139 05 Jul 2006

Pipistrellus pipistrellus 45kHz TL514111 30 Sep 2010

Nyctalus noctula TL514111 30 Sep 2010

Pipistrellus pygmaeus TL514111 30 Sep 2010

APPENDIX F – BAT RECORDS WITHIN 5KM OF SITE

• Below is a table containing bat roost information.

Grid ref Date Species Connectivity to site

TL475125 04 Sep 2008 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in house N

TL489079 24 Sep 2011 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL480109 31 Aug 2009 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL465126 22 Aug 2007 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL465126 17 Aug 2003 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL465126 22 Aug 2000 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL465126 30 Aug 2002 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL465126 17 Aug 2004 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL424073 08 Jul 1989 Pipistrelle roost in house N

TL450085 02 Sep 2003 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL458088 22 Jun 1992 Pipistrelle roost in house N

TL486113 27 Nov 1987 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in house N

TL445070 19 Aug 1995 Noctule recorded foraging

TL445070 19 Aug 1995 Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL439079 06 Nov 1999 Pipistrelle found by member of public

TL461098 01 Aug 1999 Brown Long-eared Bat

TL508136 12 Jan 2010 Common Pipistrelle hibernating in N barn

TL475098 15 Jul 1999 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL475098 15 Jul 1999 Noctule recorded foraging

TL475098 15 Jul 1999 Brown Long-eared Bat recorded foraging

TL475098 15 Jul 1999 Daubenton's Bat recorded foraging

TL450098 10 Jul 1999 Pipistrelle found by member of public

TL465102 31 Dec 1990 Pipistrelle found by member of public

TL494078 28 May 1985 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in house N

TL512108 22 Oct 2003 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in house N

TL476087 02 Oct 2002 Soprano Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL508138 06 Feb 1993 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in church N

TL515112 19 May 2009 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in house N

TL428090 21 Feb 1991 Pipistrelle found by member of public

TL485113 28 May 2009 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL485113 28 May 2009 Noctule recorded foraging

TL455085 21 Jul 2004 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL455085 21 Jul 2004 Soprano Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL469053 22 Jan 2002 Common Pipistrelle found by member of public

TL462081 18 Sep 2002 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL434052 19 Jul 1999 Pipistrelle roost in house

TL470110 02 Apr 1983 Serotine roost in house (pictured Y below)

TL490144 12 Oct 2002 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL476099 30 Jul 1993 Brown Long-eared Bat roost in barn N

TL473121 02 Oct 2003 Brown Long-eared Bat found by member of public

TL475055 24 Jul 2002 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL442102 26 Jul 2002 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL457079 14 Aug 1984 Pipistrelle roost in house N

TL513083 07 May 1993 (and subsequently) Pipistrelle roost in N church

TL513083 08 Aug 1992 Brown Long-eared Bat droppings in N church

TL436072 09 Jun 1996 Common Pipistrelle recorded foraging

TL 470 110 Serotine roost (1983) recorded in house at site of Marks Hall Sports

Site

APPENDIX G – EXTENDED PHASE ONE MAP

J3.6 J1.4 A3.3 A3.3 A3.3 TN32A2.1 A3.3

J1.4 A3.3 A1.1.1 A3.3 A1.1.1 TN31

A3.3/1 A3.3 A3.3 A3.3 A2.1 TN33 J1.3/No1 A3.3 A3.3 A3.3

A3.3 TN31 TN34 A3.3 J3.6 A3.3 I A3.3 A3.3 A1.3.2

J1.4

A1.1.1

A3.2 A3.2 B6 A3.3 TN39 A3.2 A3.2 A3.2 A3.2 B6 S1 A3.2 B6 B2.1 J2.8 A3.2 TN35 J2.8 B6 B6 A3.2 J5 A1.3.2/No2 (Steps) A3.2 A3.3 A3.2 TN37 A3.2

A3.2 A3.2 B6 A1.3.2/No2 B6 B6 A3.2 A3.2 TN38 I A3.2 A3.2 J2.8 B2.1 J2.8 TN38 B2.1 - - - TN37 B6 J2.8 REVISIONS Base Drawing - - - J2.8 S1 I 1m 0 5m 10m TN36 TN36 J2.8 Title Phase 1 Habitat Survey N

Client Harlow Enterprise B2.1 B2.1 Project London Road, Harlow CM17

Date Drawn by B2.1May 2012 KL

Drawing No Rev Scale B2.1 220410-E-01-06 - 1:500 @A1

DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions

B2.1

Unit 8 Feltimores Park Harlow Essex CM17 0PF

Tel: 0845 094 3268 Fax: 0845 094 3269

www.tma-consultants.co.uk J2.3.2 A2.1 TN16 TN19 J2.5 J3.6 A1.1.2 J2.3.2 A1.1.1 A1.1.2 J2.3.2 J2.4 TN20 A2.1 B6 B6

J2.4 B6 J2.4 TN17 J2.4 J2.4 A2.1 S1

J2.3.2

B6/2 TN17 B6 B6 B6 B6 TN21 S1 A2.1 B6

TN18 A1.1.1 B6 B6 J3.6 B6 B6 J3.6

J1.4 B6 B6 A1.1.1 B6 J2.8 B6 TN45 SI B6 B6 B6 TN46 J3.6 A3.3 TN24 SI J1.4 TN22 TN17 B6 J3.6 J3.6 I

TN23 A3.3 J1.2 B6 J2.8 TN43 J3.6 TN42 A3.2 A1.1.1

J3.6 J2.8

J3.6 - - -

B6 REVISIONS TN41 Base Drawing A3.1 - - - J2.4 A3.3 TN40 A1.1.1 1m 0 5m 10m J2.8 A3.2 B6 TN36 Title Phase 1 Habitat Survey A3.1 N A3.3 A3.1 Client Harlow Enterprise A3.3 TN41 A3.1 Project TN30 A3.1 London Road, Harlow CM17 A3.1 A3.1 J3.6 A1.1.1 Date Drawn by I May 2012 KL A3.1 TN27 J1.4 J1.4 J2.8 A1.1.1 Drawing No Rev Scale TN25 220410-E-01-05 - 1:500 @A1 J1.4 J2.1.2/No2 DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions A3.3 B6/No3 A3.1 J2.5 A3.3 A3.3 B6 A3.3 J2.8 Unit 8 Feltimores Park TN26 Harlow TN29 A3.3 Essex CM17 0PF B6 Tel: 0845 094 3268 Fax: 0845 094 3269

www.tma-consultants.co.uk B6 J2.4 TN15/J3.2.2/No2 TN14 J2.3.2

J2.3.2 A2.1 TN16 TN19 J2.5 J3.6 A1.1.2 J2.3.2 A1.1.1 A1.1.2 J2.3.2 J2.4 TN20 A2.1 B6 B6

J2.4 B6 J2.4 TN17 J2.4 A1.1.1 J2.4 A2.1 S1

J2.3.2

B6/2 TN17 B6 B6 B6 B6 TN21 S1 A2.1 B6 A2.1 TN18 A1.1.1 B6 B6 J3.6 B6 B6 J3.6

J1.4 B6 B6 J3.6 A1.1.1 J3.6 B6 J2.8 B6 TN45 SI 1 B6 J3.6 B6 B6 TN46 J3.6 A3.3 TN24 A1.1.1 SI J1.4 TN22 TN17 J3.6 B6 J3.6 J3.6 J3.6 I

TN23 J3.6 A3.3 J1.2 B6 J2.8 TN43 J3.6 TN42 A3.2 A1.1.1

J3.6 J2.8 J3.6 J3.6 J3.6 A1.1.1 B6 TN41 A2.1 A3.1 J3.6 J2.4 A2.1 A3.3 TN40 A1.1.1 TN32 A1.1.1 J2.8 A3.2 B6 TN36 A3.1 A3.3 A3.1

A3.3 TN41 A3.1

TN30 A3.1 A1.1.1 A3.1 A3.1 J3.6 A1.1.1 I A3.1 TN27 J1.4 J1.4 J2.8 A1.1.1 TN25 J3.6 J1.4 J2.1.2/No2 A3.3 B6/No3 A3.1 J2.5 A3.3 A3.3 B6 TN32A2.1 A3.3 J2.8 J1.4 TN26 TN29 A3.3 - - - A1.1.1 B6 A3.3 REVISIONS A1.1.1 TN31 Base Drawing - - - J2.8 A3.3/1 1m 0 5m 10m A3.3 A3.3 B2.2 A3.3 J2.8 A2.1 J2.5 J1.3/No1 A3.3 TN33 A3.3 A3.3 TN39 Title B2.2 TN31 TN34 A3.3 Phase 1 Habitat Survey N J3.6 A3.3 B2.2 A3.3 J2.8 A3.3 I A3.3 A3.3 B2.2 A1.3.2 Client B2.2 Harlow Enterprise J1.4 J2.5 A1.1.1 Project A3.2 A3.2 London Road, Harlow CM17 B6 A3.3 TN39 A3.2 A3.2 Date Drawn by A3.2 A3.2 B6 May 2012 KL S1 A3.2 B6 Scale B2.1 J2.8 A3.2 Drawing No Rev TN35 J2.8 B6 220410-E-01-04 - 1:500 @A1 B6 A3.2 J5 A1.3.2/No2 DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions (Steps) A3.2 A3.3 A3.2 TN37 A3.2

A3.2 A3.2 B6 A1.3.2/No2 B6 B6 TN38 A3.2 A3.2 Unit 8 Feltimores Park I A3.2 A3.2 J2.8 Harlow B2.1 J2.8 TN38 B2.1 Essex CM17 0PF TN37 B6 J2.8 Tel: 0845 094 3268 J2.8 S1 Fax: 0845 094 3269 I TN36 TN36 J2.8 www.tma-consultants.co.uk B6

C3.2 TN5 F2.2 TN21 TN3 A2.2/1 J2.1.2/1 J1.2 TN7 TN1 A1.1.1

C3.2 A1.3.2/1

TN3 C3.2 TN12 C3.2 TN1

J3.6 TN2

J2.5 No1 F2.2 TN10/No1 J4/3 J2.8/1 TN11 J1.2

J1.2 J2.3.2 I J1.2

J5 J1.2 TN13

TN15 A J1.2

J1.2 A2.1 J2.3.2/1 A1.1.1 I J1.2 - - - B4 J2.3.2 REVISIONS TN15/J3.2.2/No2 B6 Base Drawing J2.4 - - - TN14 J2.3.2 1m 0 5m 10m

J2.3.2 A2.1 TN16 TN19 J2.5 J3.6 A1.1.2 Title J2.3.2 Phase 1 Habitat Survey N A1.1.1 A1.1.2 J2.3.2 J2.4 TN20 Client A2.1 B6 Harlow Enterprise B6

J2.4 B6 Project J2.4 London Road, Harlow CM17 TN17 J2.4 J2.4 Date Drawn by A2.1 S1 May 2012 KL

J2.3.2 Drawing No Rev Scale 220410-E-01-03 - 1:500 @A1 B6/2 TN17 DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions B6 B6 B6 B6 TN21 S1 B6 A2.1 Unit 8 Feltimores Park Harlow Essex CM17 0PF TN18 A1.1.1 Tel: 0845 094 3268 B6 Fax: 0845 094 3269 B6 J3.6 www.tma-consultants.co.uk B6 B6 B6 A1.1.2

C3.2 A1.1.2 C3.2 G1/1 F2.2 TN21

A2.2/1 J1.2 TN7

TN9 C3.2 A1.3.2/1

TN12 C3.2 TN1

J3.6

J2.5 No1 TN8 F2.2 TN10/No1 J4/3 J2.8/1 TN11 J1.2 A1.1.1 J1.2 J2.3.2 I J1.2 J5 TN13

A A1.1.1 J1.2 J2.3.2/1 A1.1.1 I J1.2 - - - B4 REVISIONS Base Drawing J2.4 - - - TN14 1m 0 5m 10m J2.3.2 TN16 J2.5 J3.6 A1.1.2 Title Phase 1 Habitat Survey N A1.1.2 J2.3.2 Client A2.1 Harlow Enterprise

J2.4 B6 Project J2.4 TN17 London Road, Harlow CM17

A1.1.1 J2.4 Date Drawn by A2.1 S1 May 2012 KL

J2.3.2 Drawing No Rev Scale 220410-E-01-02 - 1:500 @A1 B6/2 DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions B6 B6

S1 B6 A2.1 Unit 8 Feltimores Park A2.1 Harlow TN18 Essex CM17 0PF

Tel: 0845 094 3268 B6 Fax: 0845 094 3269 B6 J3.6 www.tma-consultants.co.uk B6 Ditch continuous G1.1/No2/TN49 B2.1 A1.3.2 A1.3.2 G1(ditch) TN48 A1.3.2 A1.3.2 J2.6/ TN49

G1.1 /No2 / TN49 J2.3.1 No1

TN47

J 2.1.1 G1(ditch) or J 2.4 TN6 A3.3 A1.3.2 A1.3.2

S1 J1.2 B6

J1.2 A3.3 TN6

B6 J1.2

A3.3 B6 A1.3.2

TN6 J1.2 TN4

- - - B6 A1.1.2 REVISIONS Base Drawing - - -

B6 1m 0 5m 10m

Title C3.2 A1.1.2 Phase 1 Habitat Survey N C3.2 G1/1 Client TN5 F2.2 TN21 Harlow Enterprise

TN3 Project A2.2/1 J2.1.2/1 J1.2 London Road, Harlow CM17 TN7 TN1 A1.1.1 Date Drawn by May 2012 KL

C3.2 A1.3.2/1 Drawing No Rev Scale 220410-E-01-01 - 1:500 @A1

TN3 DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions C3.2 TN12 C3.2 TN1

J3.6 TN2 Unit 8 Feltimores Park Harlow Essex CM17 0PF J2.5 No1 F2.2 Tel: 0845 094 3268 TN10/No1 Fax: 0845 094 3269 J4/3 J2.8/1 www.tma-consultants.co.uk TN11 J1.2 J1.4 J1.4 J2.8 A1.1.1 TN25 J3.6 J1.4 J2.1.2/No2 A3.3 B6/No3 A3.1 J2.5 A3.3 A3.3 B6 A3.3 J2.8 J1.4 TN26 TN29 A3.3 B6 A3.3

J2.8 A3.3/1 A3.3 A3.3 B2.2 J2.8 A3.3 J2.5 J1.3/No1 A3.3 TN33 A3.3 A3.3 TN39 B2.2 TN34 A3.3 A3.3 B2.2 A3.3 J2.8 A3.3 I A3.3 A3.3 B2.2 A1.3.2 B2.2 J1.4 J2.5

A3.2 A3.2 B6 A3.3 TN39 A3.2 A3.2 A3.2 A3.2 B6 S1 A3.2 B6 J2.8 A3.2 J2.8 B6 B6 A3.2 J5 (Steps) A3.2 A3.3 A3.2 A3.2

A3.2 A3.2 B6 B6 B6 A3.2 A3.2 TN38 A3.2 I A3.2 - - - J2.8 J2.8 TN38 REVISIONS B2.1 Base Drawing - - - B6 J2.8

1m 0 5m 10m

J2.8 S1 I TN36 Title J2.8 Phase 1 Habitat Survey N

Client Harlow Enterprise

Project London Road, Harlow CM17 B2.1 B2.1 Date Drawn by May 2012 KL

Drawing No Rev Scale B2.1 220410-E-01-07 - 1:500 @A1

DO NOT SCALE Use only figured dimensions

Unit 8 Feltimores Park B2.1 Harlow Essex CM17 0PF

Tel: 0845 094 3268 Fax: 0845 094 3269

www.tma-consultants.co.uk

APPENDIX H – DETAILED NOTES TMA Ecology Key

A1.1.1 A3.2 C3.2 J2.1.1 Target note Woodland and Scrub, Woodland and Scrub, Tall herb and fern, Other, Miscellaneous, Boundaries, Woodland, Broad-leaved, Parkland.Scattered trees, Non-ruderal Intact hedge, Native Semi-natural Coniferous species-rich TN

A1.1.2 A3.3 A3.3 F2.2 J2.3.2 Woodland and Scrub, Woodland and Scrub, Swamp, marginal and Miscellaneous, Boundaries, Woodland, Broad-leaved, Parkland.Scattered trees, inundation, Inundation Hedge and trees, Species Plantation Mixed vegetation poor

J2.3.2

A1.3.2 B2.1 G1 J2.4 Woodland and Scrub, Grassland and marsh, Open water, standing water Miscellaneous, Boundaries, Woodland, Mixed, Plantation Neutural grassland, Fence Unimproved

A2.1 B2.2 G1.1 J2.5 Woodland and Scrub, Scrub, Grassland and marsh, Open water, Standing water, Miscellaneous, Boundaries, Dense/continuous Neutural grassland, Eutrophic Wall SI Semi-improved E

A2.2 B4 J1.2 J2.8 Woodland and Scrub, Scrub, Grassland and marsh, Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous, Boundaries, Scattered Improved grassland Cultivated/disturbed land, Earth bank I Amenity grassland

A3.1 B6 J1.4 J3.6 Woodland and Scrub, Grassland and marsh, Poor Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous, Built-up areas, Parkland.Scattered trees, semi-improved grassland Cultivated/disturbed land, Buildings Broad-leaved Introduced shrub Unit 8 Feltimores Park Harlow A3.1 Essex CM17 0PF

Tel: 0845 094 3268 SI Fax: 0845 094 3269 www.tma-consultants.co.uk

TN Feature Quality/ Ecologically Cardinal Key Comments and Recommendations number associate orientation of dimensions‐ Condition features feature if tree other (consider purpose of survey) roost/sett etc description

H/D/L/W

0 Cottages (all) TN1 Bat NW S & E Bat mitigation measures visible in each roof. Raised access tiles.

1 Plantation woodland Poor – Tall herb H 7‐8m Reps/badgers/ BR bird checks. Log piles/hibernation potential. (line of trees) trees understory Damaged bark. Shady deadwood. Ditches/banks/bin.

Good ‐ reps

Disturbed amenity gr In access with 10 &15m Rep mats. with tall herb. plantation 2

3 Mature oak with vet Poor tree. Line of trees/tall N aspect 2 H8 Bat potential in split at N aspect (+rottedlimb) Log pile beneath – features Good herbs. understory reptile sv) roost Potential to except crevices dish. appearing.

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4 Single storey Maypole Good Weatherboard E Single Low bat potential at weatherboarding particularly E aspect. Flat social centre storey 30‐ roof, good condition. Assoc with 2 lines of trees. 50m

5 Leylandii hedge Poor ‐ 3m H x 1.5w No value

Rough grassland B6 Good TN1/reptiles ‐ 1/5 field Rep sv /inverts/bird foraging Festuca/Agrostis area stolo/Taraxacum/Ranunculus 6 Assoc with banks/hibernac/ + scrubs at TN1(+N/W hedges)

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7 (A2 2) Scrub Good Rep ‐ Edges orf N Rub fru, Sambucus, Epilobium, Cirsium, Fraxinus seedlings field and H BR Bird Reptile/ Breeding bird

8 BP in mature standard Veteran Ditch Community Cracks/splits at height. Vet features. oaks 15m from A14 in feature routes big woodland. Woodland tree.18m x 1.2m

Further Understory – dogs notes mercury/hedge garlic/ TN..1 hybrid bluebell/ nettle/ lords and ladies

Shrubs – elder/haw ‐‐‐ /sycamore

9 Ditch GCN/Reps/Iverts Along A14 Some very Some inundation vegetation near rifle range. shallow ‐‐‐‐ wet. (20>50cm)

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10 Underground space No access Bab Woodland S Access Timing of works/ No access possible. through 8’’ warnings Wet gap at Feature in rear bank above ground. ground level Grassland could be 10m x 2 chamber

11 Bank of earth over Assoc Reps S 10 x 2m Undisturbed range of features for reps incl hibernaculum. underground feature. with brick and grassland

12 Single storey brick poor ‐‐2 x 2 x 2 No value in context expect re basking.

13 Defunct sp poor hedges poor Bat comm N‐S H 8m x 1m Ribes/ Ash/ Bramble/ Sycamore/ Haw/ Cotoneaaster‐‐‐‐‐‐ Norway and trees at base. 3m maple at height Lords and ladies/ bare ground/ dock/ circium

14 J3.6 Concrete w poor ‐‐10 x 4m w No bat potential corrugated X 2.3 h flat

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15 J2.3.2 Screening hedge Good Badger? E‐W 2.5w x 2w x Horse Chestnut standards with Sycamore/ Hawthorn/ Elder/Cotoneaster over Bare ground, Dogs Mercury, Cleavers, Sp poor hedge and trees Br/bird Bramble with flood lights

16 Mammal run adjacent Good Badger likely E‐W to wood 30cm w Badger sv hedge Path exits hedge near compound fencing and pollards towards woodland.

17 Poor semi‐smp rough gr Short‐‐‐‐ Badger ‐ Entire field Umbellifer skeletons<1m H 70% blanket over 20cm tussocking grasses e.g ag stol w bristley oxtonge/ dandelion/ thistle/ Tall herb Reps ragwort/ spear thistle.

18 Building ‐ ‐ ‐4 storey Flat roof with housed features (probably water and heating)

Post 70’s Flush windows. Nesting possible (N corner meets wood) glass

concrete

19 Covered reservoir Good Rep 40m x 40m Has 25cm wide “drains” around edges. Tussocks tall fescue and ragwort. Reps assoc with logpiles near London Road in scrub.

H/D/L/W

20 Deadwood piles in assoc Good Reps ‐ 8m x 4m Rep sv. Br bird in assoc trees if to be disturbed. with banks/ underground hides and water ‐‐‐‐ Trees: Horse chestnut/ hawthorn/ oak/

Grassland under canopy. Over Ragged robin, Hedge garlic/ Cleavers

21 Inundation veg Winter wet (& 1m x 1m Sparse hard rush in depressions spring)

22 Single storey building Poor Bat Single storey brick building boarded. Fire damage to parts Unsafe including plastic weatherboard under flat roof line causing Bird lift>low bat potential

Metal tower – Breeding pigeon potential

Asbestos warnings

23 Shed No bat potential

24 Building Good Negligible for 2 Storey engineered brick. bat

25 Building Good 10 x 10m x Flat roof, felt and soffit in good repair. Negligible bat potential. 3m H No sv bat

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26 Rough grassland Herb <1m Reps Banks reps grass > Poor semi ‐ imp 40mm

27 Cotoneaster hedge Good ‐ ‐ <2m H x 2m Bees – spring W Birds – Autumn

28 Hibernacula Average Rep 5 x 5m x Brash cutting pile assoc to woodland (slow worm) <3m H

29 Houses with pitched Good Over 2 Storey Good state of repair. Modern houses adjacent site. Pitched. areas adjacent site. with pitches Neglig pot. Bat

30 Tussocky poor Good reps S facing (w/e) Good Reps svs if disturbed during works. feature – Semi improved ground retain

31 Dense continuous scrub Good Br Birds Buddleja/ rubus/ cotoneaster/ crateagus mon/ brachyglottis between wood/car‐park cover

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32 Oak ‐ Ash Br birds Regen around Oak standards value. Br birds. Open character. Screening. Inverts

Badgers

33 Hard standing Fair Birds shelters Whole of Mixed coniferous/deciduous trees of diminutive growth (<3m). ornamental planting parking area ‐‐‐‐‐ inverts between Silver birch with scots pine +cotoneaster horizontalis, buddleja, islands building and brachyglottis, rosa, mahonia, taxus, salix, eucalypt, over vinca, banks euphorbia. Trees approx. 10cm dbh

34 B1.2 Grassed Diverse sward? 10 x 3m Festuca, circium, taraxacum, plantagom Salix cap, Senecio, Twany blades Potentilla Sonchus asp, Galium, Picris hier, Short acid grassland Mown orchid? Prunella/ daisy/ moss/ Twayblade orchid

Deer droppings

35 Good Reps Bank in all Log and gravel steps assoc with tussocky. Grassland and shrub across banks in every orientation. Deer

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36 Poor Semi – imp Good – Reps Between Rep sv if disturbed. poss London Grassland meadow Deer Road Br bird in planted trees to edge. junction Cowslip – good population. with A14 and multi Red campion, Coltsfoot, Oxeye daisy, Cow parsley, birds‐foot storey car trefoil, Vetch, Circium – spear and creeping, Ribwort plantain park. Cock’s foot tussocks,

37 Plantation woodland Good Bird Retain in assoc with grassland for reps/birds recent ‐‐‐‐ Field maple/ Hornbeam/ Elm/Haw/Beech over cow parsley, (<4m) nettle, creeping bent

38 Inverts All 15m w x ?L Basking in all aspects/ invert corridor/ wildlife corridor/ remove fertilizer and then add wildflower seed. Existing: Grape Reps hyancinth, Vetch, Bluebell, Black medic, Daisy, Dandelion, Sticky Mouseear, Mallow, Fairy flax, White clover, Selfheal, Prickly sow thistle, Mugwort, Narcissus,

39 Poor semi imp gr Inverts All Banks either side of Reps access road.

40 Building Good Bat All ‐ Single storey modern. Negligible bat potential

H/D/L/W

41 Weeping willow Bird All Mature 15m

42 Leylandii Bird All Mature 15m

43 Building Good Tight weatherboarding. Flat roof/ modern

Concrete/ metal windows. Negligible bat potential

Access constrained but view

44 ‐

45 Ornamental planting Good Ornamental shrubs – leylandii/ Laurel

46 Building Good Bat negative Concrete/ pebble dash/ metal windows

Flat roof.

Negligible potential – Bats.

47 Potentially species rich No hedge Imp hedge in Inverts/parish boundary?/intersects and over 30 hedge sv local plan conducted

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48 Protected verge Sub‐ On local plan Assoc with imp hedge, providing diverse field layer. Avoid/Re‐use optimal sv or translocate season for botanical asst

49 Ditch Good Bird/invert/reps E‐W Width of Wet to west, dry to east half. Unlikely to support GCN. Shallow, field D usually dry. (unusually heavy rains prior to survey) 0.5m, Width 0.4m