PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL
RELATING TO LAND AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION AT
ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION
For Tarmac
SEPTEMBER 2019 – REVISION A
PSL Report Reference Number: M13.116(q)R.006A
PREPARED BY PLEYDELL SMITHYMAN LIMITED
20a The Wharfage, Ironbridge, Telford, Shropshire, TF8 7NH
T: 01952 433211 F: 01952 433323 [email protected] PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Report Prepared for Tarmac, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, DE13 7LR PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL ON LAND AT ALREWAS QUARRY, CROXALL ROAD, ALREWAS, BURTON-ON-TRENT, STAFFORDSHIRE, DE13 7LR
By: Main Contributors Pleydell Smithyman Limited Kelly Hopkins, Nick Staples September 2019
Issued By Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
Revision A
……………………………………………….. Kelly Hopkins BSc (Hons) ACIEEM
Report Independently Checked
Pleydell Smithyman Limited 20a The Wharfage Ironbridge Telford Shropshire TF8 7NH Tel: 01952 433211 Fax: 01952 433323 E-mail: [email protected]
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Reference Contents Page Number
1.0 Introduction 1
2.0 Survey Methodology 3
3.0 Results 9
4.0 Conclusions and Recommendations 28
5.0 References 35
Drawings
M13.116(q).D.006 Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
M13.116(q).D.001 Bat Roost Potential Trees
Appendices
Appendix 1 - Information obtained from Staffordshire Ecological Record
Appendix 2 - Photographs
Appendix 3 - Site Plant List
Appendix 4 - HSI Calculations
Appendix 5 - Wildlife Legislation
Appendix 6 - Biodiversity Legislation and Policy
Appendix 7 - Confidential Appendix
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
1.0 INTRODUCTION Background and Proposals 1.1 Pleydell Smithyman Limited was instructed by Tarmac to undertake a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal of land at the proposed southern extension of Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire (hereafter referred to as the site). Please see Drawing Number M13.116(q).D.005: Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, for a plan showing the site boundary.
1.2 The survey was required to inform the preparation and submission of a planning application for the extraction of mineral and to help ensure compliance with national and European legislation.
Site Location
1.3 Alrewas Quarry is located on Croxall Road, approximately 240m to the east of the town of Alrewas in Staffordshire. The proposed southern extension is located approximately 1.8km to the south of the current plant site centred on grid reference: SK 166126.
Site Description
1.4 The proposed extension site is approximately 63.6 hectares and comprises mostly arable farmland with semi-improved grass headlands. Fine Lane bisects the Site and joins Stockford Lane which continues along the south-eastern boundary. Sittles Lane borders the north-eastern boundary of the Site. A Midland and Continental railway line forms the western boundary of the site and a block of mature broadleaved woodland lines the majority of the southern boundary. 1.5 In the wider area, the existing active Alrewas Quarry is present to the north, further to the east, west and south are arable fields with hedgerows and to the south-west is an industrial park. The River Tame is present approximately 1.2km to the east, with the A38 dual carriageway approximately 400m to the west.
Aims and Objectives of the Survey
1.6 There are two primary objectives of the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. The first was to classify the habitats present on the site according to the Phase 1 habitat survey methodology and the second was to establish the potential of the site to support protected and notable species, of which account must be taken prior to and during the planned works in accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended),
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 1 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (details of Wildlife Legislation in Appendix 5). 1.7 Where necessary, further (phase 2) detailed surveys are recommended to safeguard any existing ecological interests within the site and opportunities for mitigation or enhancement are proposed with reference to current legislation and guidance. 1.8 The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal also aims to identify key constraints of the project and make recommendations for design options where appropriate. 1.9 The site visit also focussed on assessing the potential of the site to support populations of priority species, whose protection and recovery is promoted under British or International legislation as stated below. Biodiversity Legislation and Policy 1.10 Details of National and International Biodiversity Legislation and Policy are found in Appendix 6. It should be noted that this is a summary of legislation and full original texts should be referred to for further details. 1.11 The Habitat Regulations 2017 (as amended) are the principal means by which Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats of wild fauna and flora (the ‘Habitats Directive’) is transposed in England and Wales and the adjacent territorial seas. They also transpose elements of the EU Wild Birds Directive in England and Wales. 1.12 The ‘UK’ Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework’ (JNCC & DEFRA, 2012) sets out a framework of priorities for UK-level work for the Convention on Biological Diversity. This framework replaces the original UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP, 2004). England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales have individual plans to protect and reverse the declines of more widespread species and habitats that (in England) are covered by Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 which states: “Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity”. Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs) are still in place under this framework to manage and conserve species and habitats of priority at a local level. Furthermore, the survey assessment recommendations are guided by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) amended in February 2019, where the policies in paragraphs 15 to 217, taken as a whole, constitute the government’s view of what sustainable development in England means in practice for the planning system.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 2 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
2.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY 2.1 The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal survey was undertaken on 17th July 2018 by Nick Staples BSc (Hons) MSC, DIC, CBiol, MRSB of Pleydell Smithyman Limited.
2.2 The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal was completed following the CIEEM guidance produced in 2017. The survey methodology used can be split into three main areas: a desk study, Phase 1 habitat survey and a protected species assessment. These are discussed in more detail below.
Desk Study 2.3 In order to obtain information on sites of nature conservation interest in the area, the Multi-Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) website was searched for ecological statutory, ancient woodland and priority habitats within a 2km radius around the central point of the site. An extended search for statutory designated sites was undertaken within 5km of the central point of the site and a 15km search radius around the central point of the site was searched for European designated sites.
2.4 In addition, Staffordshire Ecological Record (SER) was commissioned to undertake a data search for all protected and notable species and all sites of conservation importance within 2km of central grid reference SK166126. For relevant information please see Appendix 1.
2.5 Reference was also made to Ordnance Survey maps and aerial photography, which were used to determine the presence of open water and ponds in the area and to provide information on land use and habitat connectivity throughout the area. 2.6 Previous surveys have been completed on the existing areas of the quarry from 2007 to 2017. This is detailed in the table below. The information collated from these surveys has been reviewed to inform the results of this assessment. Table 1. Previous survey information Survey Type Date Work Completed By Great Crested Newt 2007, 2011 Middlemarch Survey Environmental Ltd Great Crested Newt 2014, 2017 Pleydell Smithyman Survey Limited Extended Phase 1 Habitat 2010 and 2011 Middlemarch
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 3 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Survey Environmental Ltd Extended Phase 1 Habitat 2014 Pleydell Smithyman Survey Limited Breeding Bird Surveys 2011 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd Breeding Bird Surveys 2014 Pleydell Smithyman Limited Bat Roost Surveys 2014, 2017 Pleydell Smithyman Limited Initial Bat Survey 2011 Middlemarch (Preliminary Roost Environmental Ltd Assessments) Wintering Bird Surveys 2011 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd Wintering Bird Surveys 2014 Pleydell Smithyman Limited Bat Activity Survey 2011 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd Bat Activity Survey 2014 Pleydell Smithyman Limited
Habitat Survey 2.7 The Phase 1 habitat survey of the site was carried out in order to assess the current ecological importance of the site. This involved identifying the main habitats and associated plant species present at the time of the survey. 2.8 The site was surveyed using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology (JNCC, 2010). This involves identifying the species present within each habitat and classifying the habitat types accordingly, following the Phase 1 habitat survey methodology. This technique provides an inventory of the basic habitat types present and enables areas of greater botanical interest which may require further, more detailed, surveys to be identified. 2.9 Habitats are mapped (Drawing Number: M13.116(q).D.006: Preliminary Ecological Appraisal) and ‘target notes’ are made to describe characteristic habitats, features of
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 4 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
ecological interest, or any other features which may present a potential constraint to the proposed development. 2.10 Whilst not a full protected species or botanical survey, the extended Phase 1 method enables a suitably experienced ecologist to undertake a baseline ecological appraisal of the site that: provides a preliminary evaluation of the nature conservation significance of the site and survey area and assess the potential for impacts on habitats/species likely to represent a material consideration in planning terms; and, determines the scope of further specialized surveys that may be required. 2.11 Higher plant species nomenclature follows that provided in Stace (2019) for vascular plants and Atherton, Bosanquet and Lawley (2010) for bryophytes. Protected Species Assessment 2.12 General faunal activity, such as birds or mammals observed or noted by call or, evidence of a species’ activity such as prints, droppings, burrows or similar, was also recorded with specific attention paid to the potential presence of any protected, rare and notable species, including species listed on local BAP or national priority lists. This involved assessing the suitability of the habitats present on the site for these species as well as the connectivity of the site to other areas of potentially suitable habitat nearby. In addition, specific survey work was undertaken for badgers (Meles meles), bats and great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and is outlined below. Badger 2.13 The badger survey comprises two main elements. Firstly, the site is searched thoroughly for evidence of badger setts. For any setts that may be encountered, each sett entrance would be noted and plotted even if the entrance appears disused. 2.14 Secondly, evidence of badger activity, such as well-worn runs and push throughs, snagged guard hair, footprints, latrines, dung pits, loose droppings and foraging signs, would be recorded so as to build up a picture of the use of the site by badgers. Please refer to the confidential appendix for a plan showing the survey extent for badgers. Bats
2.15 All trees within the site that were anticipated to be impacted by the development were assessed from the ground during the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal for potential features that may be used by bats for roosting (e.g. splits, cracks, rot holes or lifted bark) along with any direct evidence of bats (e.g. droppings and urine staining).
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 5 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
The potential for the trees to support bat roosts was ranked in accordance with the criteria set out Collins (2016) for Ground Level Bat Roost Assessments:
• Negligible Suitability – Negligible habitat features on site likely to be used by roosting bats. • Low Suitability – A structure with one or more potential roost sites that could be used by individual bats opportunistically. However, these potential roost sites do not provide enough space, shelter, protection, appropriate conditions, and/or suitable surrounding habitat to be used on a regular basis or by larger numbers of bats (i.e. unlikely to be suitable for maternity or hibernation). A tree of sufficient size and age to contain PRFs (Potential Roosting Features) but with none seen from the ground or features seen with only very limited roosting potential. • Moderate Suitability – A structure or tree with one or more potential roost sites that could be used by bats due to their size, shelter, protection, conditions and surrounding habitat but unlikely to support a roost of high conservation status (with respect to roost type only – the assessments are made irrespective of species conservation status, which is established after presence is confirmed). • High Suitability – A structure or tree with one or more potential roost sites that are obviously suitable for use by a large number of bats on a more regular basis and potentially for longer periods of time due to their size, shelter, protection, conditions and surrounding habitat.
2.16 An assessment was also made as to the suitability of the habitat to support foraging and commuting habitat for bats in line with Collins (2016). This included an assessment of the extent, quality and diversity of habitats present and their potential importance in providing linkages within the landscape for bats.
Great crested newt 2.17 A Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) assessment is usually undertaken on all waterbodies on the site and within 500m of the site boundaries (on the near side of major dispersal barriers and where access permission is granted). This follows the criteria produced by Oldham et al. (2000). This assessment is undertaken in order to establish the likelihood of great crested newt (GCN) either breeding on the site or dispersing to the site in their terrestrial phase.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 6 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
2.18 The HSI is a standard assessment method developed specifically to evaluate the habitat suitability for this species. A series of factors must be considered. Each factor is assessed along suitability guidelines and allocated a value of between 0.01 (highly unsuitable) to 1.0 (highly suitable). The geometric mean of these values provides an overall suitability score for each waterbody. Although this is no substitute for a dedicated survey, it does give an indication of whether such a survey is required. 2.19 A total of ten ponds and eight ditches were assessed on 10th May 2018, by Kelly Hopkins of Pleydell Smithyman Limited. The location of these waterbodies can be seen on Drawing M13.116(q).D.005.
Evaluation 2.20 The site’s ecological importance has been evaluated broadly following guidance issued by CIEEM in 2018, which ranks the nature conservation importance of a site according to a geographic scale of reference: international; national; regional, metropolitan, county, vice county or other local authority-wide area; local (district, borough or parish); and of importance at the zone of influence of the site only. In evaluating the nature conservation importance of the site, the following factors were considered: nature conservation designations; species/habitat rarity; naturalness; fragility and connectivity to other habitats. Ecological impacts are also assessed in line with CIEEM (2018) only where clear evidence is available to substantiate and justify the findings. In the absence of such evidence, the ecological feature is merely identified as a potential constraint to development. 2.21 Where ecological constraints to development are identified, further survey requirements and/or avoidance, mitigation, compensation measures that are proportionate to the predicted degree of risk to biodiversity and to the nature and scale of the proposed development are described.
Survey Constraints and Limitations 2.22 Species that may be present on the site would not necessarily be detectable during the survey assessment, since different species are apparent during different seasons and detailed species-specific survey work is often required to identify the presence or likely absence of particular species or species groups. However, a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal is considered to provide a robust assessment of the likelihood of various protected species to be present and to subsequently identify the need for further, more detailed, surveys to be undertaken at the correct time of year.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 7 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
2.23 The extended Phase 1 habitat survey was completed within the optimum time of year (between April and mid-July inclusive) and therefore the majority of annually occurring plant species are considered likely to have been recorded. 2.24 The information from the data search may return no records of a certain species or species group. This is not necessarily due to absence of this species or species group, but may be due to lack of recording in the area. 2.25 The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal aims to identify the likelihood of particular species or species groups occurring on the site, and is not a comprehensive survey for these individual species/species groups. Following this survey, where necessary, further protected species surveys are recommended to identify the presence/absence of these species/species groups.
2.26 It was not possible to view the whole of the tree in some cases, and therefore it is possible that some trees may support potential roosting features at a higher level. In these situations, these trees have been assessed as having low bat roosting potential and subsequent surveys have been recommended where these trees may be impacted by the proposals. 2.27 Land within an approximate 30m radius was surveyed for evidence of badger in line with the methods set out in the PEA. However land within a 30m radius of the site on the western side of the railway line and the arable fields not under the control of the client were not surveyed due to lack of access.
2.28 The ecological evaluation of the site is produced following the results of this Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and is not final. The ecological importance of the site may change following additionally recommended ecological surveys (where these are relevant).
2.29 Notwithstanding the above comments, it is considered that this report is accurate at the time of the assessment, taking into account all habitats present on the site at the time of the survey and their potential to support protected and notable species and the likely importance these combined factors give to the site.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 8 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
3.0 RESULTS Desk Study Ecological Statutory Designations 3.1 The data search returned no statutory designated sites present on the site. Two internationally designated sites were returned within 15km of the centre of the site and two statutory nationally designated sites were returned within 5km of the centre of the site.
3.2 The closest of these is the River Mease Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC) located approximately 2.6km to the east of the site. It should be noted that the existing consented site is approximately 925m from this SAC at its closest point (in Phase 1 of the approved scheme). The SAC is primarily designated for spined loach (Cobitis taenia) and bullhead (Cottus gobio) and also qualifies as ‘water course of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation’; white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) and otter (Lutra lutra). 3.3 Cannock Chase SAC is located approximately 14.5km to the west of the site. This is designated for the Annex 1 habitat ‘European dry heaths’ and also supports the habitat ‘northern atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix’. Given the scale and nature of the proposals and the distance between the proposed extension site and the SAC, no impacts are predicted. This site is not considered further. 3.4 Stowe Pool and Walk Mill Clay Pit SSSI is located approximately 4.5km to the south- west of the site and is 8.38 hectares in size. The site includes two pools within the centre of Lichfield known to support white-clawed crayfish.
3.5 The site is covered by two SSSI Impact Risk Zones (IRZ) that are put in place to highlight nearby SSSI that may be impacted by the proposals. The River Mease SSSI IRZ states that where planning applications for quarries are to be submitted, the Local Planning Authority (LPA) should consult Natural England on the likely risks. Ecological Non-Statutory Designations 3.6 SER returned four Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) and one Biodiversity Alert Site (BAS) within 2km of the central point of the site. A fifth LWS was listed 3.6km to the west of the site. These were:
Brookhay Wood LWS, immediately to the south of the southern boundary of the site;
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 9 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Wetleyhay Wood LWS, approximately 175mto the south of the site; King's Bromley Wharf to Fradley Jn, Coventry Canal LWS approximately 1km to the west of the site; Whittington Hurst (east of) LWS approximately 1km to the south of the site; A513 LWS approximately 1.2km to the north of the site boundary; and Hay End Lane (hedge 1) BAS approximately 1.3km to the west of the site.
3.7 Brookhay Wood is a large part ancient semi-natural, part ancient replanted wood with a mixed canopy with a rich ground flora, including ancient woodland indicator species. 3.8 Wetleyhay Wood is part ancient replanted woodland and part ancient broad-leaved woodland with a well-developed canopy, sub-canopy and a diverse woodland field layer. The Mare Brook runs along the north eastern edge of the site and a network of ditches intersects the site. 3.9 King's Bromley Wharf to Fradley Junction LWS comprises two lengths of canal that meet at Fradley Junction that support diverse bands of both marginal and emergent vegetation, which include several uncommon and rare species for the county. 3.10 Whittington Hurst LWS comprises part semi-natural, part broadleaved plantation, in places it supports both a well-developed shrub layer and species-rich ground flora including species like bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) and wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa) that suggest that parts of the wood are long established. 3.11 A513 LWS comprises largely intact hawthorn (Crataegus monygyna) hedgerows that are present on both sides of the survey area. Oak (Quercus sp.), elder (Sambucus nigra) and dog rose (Rosa canina) can also be found within the hedgerow. Planted false acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia) trees and rowans (Sorbus aucuparia) populate the verges towards the western end. 3.12 Hay End Lane BAS comprises a hedge valued, in particular for its large height and width and A-shape. The hedge had 29 standard trees along its length and 2 young trees. The hedge also had a grass verge of over 2m on one side and a ditch. 3.13 In addition, Croxall Lakes Nature Reserve is located approximately 2.04km to the north- east of the site at its closest point. It is situated to the east of the River Tame. The nature reserve supports two main lakes that attract a substantial number of wildfowl and waders during the autumn. Signs of otter have also been recorded at this site.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 10 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Ancient Woodland 3.14 There were two areas of ancient woodland within 2km of the site centre, none of which were on the site. These were recorded by SER as:
Brookhay Woodland, ancient replanted woodland and ancient and semi- natural woodland, approximately 6.03 hectares in size, located immediately adjacent to the southern site boundary; and Wetleyhay Wood; ancient replanted woodland and ancient and semi-natural woodland approximately 4.72 hectares in size, located 175m to the south.
3.15 One further ancient woodland site is located within 2km of the site boundary;
Fisherwick Wood ancient and semi-natural woodland, approximately 12.14 hectares in size, located 1.9km to the south.
Priority Habitats
3.16 The data search returned a number of habitats listed on the priority habitat inventory including coastal and floodplain grazing marsh, ancient woodland, deciduous woodland and traditional orchard. 3.17 None of this habitat was present on the site, with the closest area being the ancient and deciduous woodland present immediately to the south of the site in Brookhay Wood. 3.18 There were two areas of coastal and floodplain grazing marsh within 2km of the central point of the site. These are both present at least 1.4km to the north-east of the site, on the far side of the River Tame. This habitat is present further to the north-east and north in large areas. 3.19 There were 29 areas of deciduous woodland returned from the data search, with the closest being present immediately to the south of the site in Brookhay Wood. Additional blocks of woodland were present further south with scattered areas also present to the west. 3.20 One area of traditional orchard was present approximately 700m to the south-west of the site. This habitat is not particularly frequent in the wider area. Local Records
3.21 SER returned records of seven plants from the 2km search radius surrounding the site. This included common cudweed (Filago vulgaris), large-flowered hemp-nettle (Galeopsis speciosa), corn marigold (Gelbionis segetum), bluebell, curved wood-rush
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 11 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
(Luzula arcuata), corn spurrey (Spergula arvensis) and wild pansy (Viola tricolor). One of these records for large-flowered hemp-nettle was specific to the site and dated 2003. A small number of bluebell records were returned from Brookhay wood to the south of the site. All other records were not specific or adjacent to the site. None of the above species were recorded on the site during the survey. Phase 1 Habitat Survey 3.22 The following habitats/ecological features were identified within the site and classified according to the system prescribed in the JNCC ‘Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey’ (2010): Semi-improved neutral grassland; Arable; Intact hedgerow; Defunct hedgerow; Standard trees; Dense scrub; Scrub and grassland mosaic; Scattered scrub; Improved grassland; Standing water; Wet ditch; Dry ditch; and Hardstanding. 3.23 The location of these habitat types and features are represented on Drawing Number: M13.116(q).D.005: Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and described in detail below. Please see Appendix 2 for photographs of the site. Appendix 3 lists the Latin names of species recorded, as well as their frequency recorded on the site according to the DAFOR scale.
Semi-improved neutral grassland;
3.24 Semi-improved neutral grassland was recorded along the edges of the arable fields (Photograph 1, Appendix 2), and alongside the hedgerows. These were generally unmanaged, and less than 1m in width. Sward length at the time of the survey was approximately 30-50cm. Grass species present included frequently occurring cock’s- foot, perennial rye grass and Yorkshire fog and occasionally occurring yellow oat-grass,
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 12 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
false oat-grass, red fescue, and reed canary grass. Herbs and tall ruderal plants recorded included frequently occurring spear thistle, creeping thistle, bramble, rosebay willowherb, nettle and common ivy. Occasionally occurring species included ribwort plantain, lesser burdock, common knapweed, cleavers, hedge bindweed and harebell. Rarely occurring species included black bindweed, figwort and globe thistle. Arable 3.25 The majority of the site comprised arable fields (Photograph 2, Appendix 2). At the time of the survey crops present included potatoes, wheat, barley and oil seed rape. Bramble, scentless mayweed, scented mayweed, fumitory, field pansy, and common poppy were also recorded frequently in these fields at the time of the survey. Intact Species-poor Hedgerows 3.26 There were two intact hedgerows on the site. These are shown as Hedgerow 6 and Hedgerow 8 on Drawing M13.116(q).D.005. Both hedgerows were 1-2m in height and width and regularly flailed. Hedgerow 6 was dominated by hawthorn, with additional species present including pedunculate oak, field rose and dog rose and contained standard trees (see Photograph 3, Appendix 2). The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Common ivy was frequent along the base of the hedgerow. This hedgerow is considered to be species-poor due to the presence of only four woody species. 3.27 Hedgerow 8 contained frequent hawthorn and crack willow and occasional alder, eared willow and gorse. The base of the hedgerow contained frequent cleavers, bramble and nettle and occasional creeping thistle. This hedgerow is considered to be species-poor due to the presence of only five species and a limited ground flora. Defunct Native Species-rich Hedgerows 3.28 There were seven defunct hedgerows on the site (Hedgerows 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 9). The majority of these were 1-2m in height and width and appeared to have been regularly flailed. Hedgerows 4 and 5 were approximately 3-4m in height, but still subject to regular management. 3.29 Hedgerow 1 was dominated by hawthorn, with frequent willow and occasional ash, pedunculate oak, field rose and dog rose (see Photograph 4, Appendix 2). The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species- rich due to the presence of six woody species.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 13 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
3.30 Hedgerow 2 was dominated by hawthorn, with frequent blackthorn and occasional holly, pedunculate oak, field rose, dog rose, grey willow and elder. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species- rich due to the presence of eight species. 3.31 Hedgerow 3 was dominated by hawthorn and goat willow, with frequent blackthorn and occasional ash, pedunculate oak, dog rose, white willow, crack willow and guelder rose. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species-rich due to the presence of nine species. 3.32 Hedgerow 4 had frequent hawthorn, blackthorn and goat willow, with occasional hazel, pedunculate oak and dog rose. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi- improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species-rich due to the presence of six woody species. 3.33 Hedgerow 5 had abundant hawthorn and frequent blackthorn, with occasional hazel, holly, pedunculate oak, field rose, elder and elm. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Common ivy was abundant along the base of the hedgerow also. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species-rich due to the presence of eight species. 3.34 Hedgerow 7 contained frequent hawthorn and goat willow and occasional alder, silver birch, hazel, ash, holly, pedunculate oak, field rose, dog rose, crack willow, elder, lilac and guelder rose. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi-improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species-rich due to the presence of fourteen species. 3.35 Hedgerow 9 contained frequent hawthorn and goat willow with occasional hazel, ash, pedunculate oak, field rose and dog rose. The base of the hedgerow comprised semi- improved neutral grassland species as listed above. Occasional standard trees were present. This hedgerow was considered to be species-rich due to the presence of seven woody species. Standard trees 3.36 A number of scattered, mature standard trees were recorded across the site (Photograph 4, Appendix 2). These included oak, ash, willow and silver birch. Standard
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 14 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
trees were present along most hedgerows; however additional trees were present towards the centre of the site. Dense Scrub 3.37 One area of dense scrub was present in the north-western corner of the site, surrounding Pond 7. This scrub grades into broadleaved woodland further north and west. This scrub was dominated by bramble and willow with frequent nettle and rosebay willowherb. Scrub and Grassland Mosaic 3.38 Towards the centre of the site was a standing waterbody with surrounding dense scrub planted on bunds (Photograph 5, Appendix 2). Species present included willow, silver birch, cherry, hawthorn, pedunculate oak saplings, rowan, gorse, alder, damson, buddleia and dogwood. This scrub was present over semi-improved grassland, with patches of more open grassland with limited scrub habitat. Ground flora species recorded included cock’s-foot, false oat-grass, sweet vernal grass, ribwort plantain, bird’s-foot trefoil, tufted vetch, hawkweed, ragwort, wild clary, red clover, ox-eye daisy, colt’s-foot, hairy willowherb, blue fleabane, pyramidal orchid and southern marsh orchid. This habitat did not appear to be managed, and was grazed only by rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) . The dense scrub and semi-improved grassland formed a mosaic in this area. Scattered Scrub 3.39 Scattered scrub was present along the northern and western boundary of the site. Species present included bramble, elder, hawthorn and willow scrub. Improved Grassland 3.40 Two areas of improved grassland were present towards the eastern site boundary. These areas were closely mown as they are used as runways for a private microlight. The habitat was dominated by perennial rye-grass, Yorkshire fog and red clover. Standing Water 3.41 There was one pond present on the site (Photograph 6, Appendix 2). This was present towards the centre of the site and was surrounded by dense scrub as detailed above. Aquatic plants recorded during the survey included occasional false pond sedge, yellow iris, bogbean, reedmace and white water lily. These were scattered around the edges of the pond at the time of the survey. The water quality appeared to be moderate, with no obvious pollution present. The banks of the pond were shallow, with steep banks surrounding the pond with dense scrub present. Large carp fish were
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 15
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
recorded in the pond during the survey. The pond was used to contain water that is used by the farmer for watering the land. A temporary pump was present on the northern boundary of the pond. Wet ditch 3.42 There were three wet ditches present at the time of the survey alongside the hedgerows, (Photograph 7, Appendix 2). These ditches (Ditch 1, 2 and 3) contained standing water and were considered likely to be dry at different times of the year. These ditches were overgrown with species present including bramble, bittersweet and upright hedge parsley. Other species present alongside the hedgerows also occurred in the ditches. Ditch 1 also had occasional fool’s water-cress present. Dry ditch 3.43 There were five dry ditches (Ditch 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8) present at the time of the survey alongside the hedgerows as shown on Drawing M13.116(q).D.005. It was considered likely that these ditches are seasonally wet. The ditches contained species that were recorded at the base of the hedgerows including occasional white bryony, wood sage, bramble and hairy willowherb. Building 3.44 A single, two-storey, derelict brick building was present within the site boundary, located towards the eastern boundary of the site. Trees and scrub were present within the building. The windows were no longer present and the roof was in poor condition. It is our understanding that this building will not be impacted by the proposals. Hardstanding 3.45 There was one road present towards the centre of the site that separates two areas of the site to be developed (Photograph 8, Appendix 2). This road is titled Fine Lane and is frequently used by cars any cyclists. No vegetation was recorded along this tarmac road at the time of the survey. Protected Species Assessment Bats Roosting habitat 3.46 There were five mature trees anticipated to be impacted by the proposals that could be used by roosting bats. The details of these trees are shown in the below table. Please see Drawing M13.116(q).D.001 for a plan of the trees with bat roosting potential on the site. Please see Photographs 9-11 in Appendix 2.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 16
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Table 2. Trees present and associated potential bat roosting features
Tree Number Species Bat Roosting Level of Bat Features Roosting Potential
Tree 1 Oak (Quercus robur) Mature tree with no Low obvious features observed from the ground inspection.
Tree 2 Oak Mature tree with no Low obvious features observed from the ground inspection. Barn Owl box present.
Tree 3 Oak Woodpecker hole Low present with limited roosting potential. Hole present on the northern side of the trunk at approximately 3.5m height.
Tree 4 Oak Lifted bark present Moderate and broken limb. Broken limb on north facing side of the trunk at approximately 4m height. Ivy present on the trunk
Tree 5 Oak Lifted and loose Moderate
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 17
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
bark present on limbs
3.47 There were also a number of mature trees along the external boundaries of the site that offered roosting potential for bats. It is our understanding that these trees will not be removed and will not be impacted by the proposals. These trees ranged from offering low to moderate roosting potential for bats. 3.48 The woodland to the south of the site was not assessed for its potential for roosting bats. Due to the presence of mature trees within this woodland, it is considered likely that this would contain trees that offer roosting potential for bats. 3.49 There was one building present within the site boundary, located towards the eastern boundary of the site. This was a derelict two storey brick building with trees and scrub present within the building. The windows were no longer present and the roof was in poor condition. It is our understanding that this building will not be impacted by the proposals. 3.50 Bat roost surveys completed in 2014 on the existing quarry identified one tree with a single occasional soprano pipistrelle roost and one tree with a possible occasional soprano pipistrelle roost. Bat roost surveys completed in 2017 on the existing quarry identified one possible occasional brown long-eared roost. No other roosting bats were observed during these surveys. Bats recorded foraging and commuting during these surveys included common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Nathusius’ pipistrelle, noctule, bats in the genus Myotis, brown long-eared bat and Leisler’s bat. Foraging and commuting habitat 3.51 SER returned records of Pipistrelle bat species (Pipistrellus sp.), common pipistrelle (P. pipistrellus), soprano pipistrelle (P. pygmaeus), Nathusius’ pipistrelle (P. nathusii), noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), Leisler’s bat (N. leislerii), brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus), Daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii) and Myotis bat (Myotis sp.) within 2km of the central point of the site. A small number of records for common and soprano pipistrelle were specific to the site. These were recorded in 2011. 3.52 The closest European Protected Species (EPS) licence in relation to bats from MAGIC is approximately 1km to the west of the site. This licence relates to brown long-eared bat and was valid between January 2013 and October 2015. The licence allowed the destruction of a resting place. There is one other licence present within a 2km radius of
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 18 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
the central point of the site. This licence is also approximately 1km to the west of the site and relates to a brown long-eared bat. This licence was valid between August 2012 and September 2014 and allowed the destruction of a resting place. 3.53 Previous bat activity surveys completed on the existing quarry identified common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, noctule and bats in the genus Myotis during bat activity surveys carried out in 2011 and 2014.. 3.54 The majority of the site was comprised of arable farmland, and as a result offers limited foraging opportunities for bats. However, there were a number of areas which offer more suitable foraging habitat in the form of hedgerows, standard trees, scrub and ponds. In addition, broad-leaved woodland borders the southern site boundary. Many of these features provided foraging habitat for bats as well as commuting routes through the site to the local area and additional areas of foraging habitat such as the areas of woodland to the south and the River Tame to the east. The site as a whole, in line with Collins 2016, is considered to be of moderate habitat quality due to the connections of the hedgerows into the wider landscape. However, in this case, as the majority of the boundary features which provide connectivity to the wider area will be retained and unaffected, the site is assessed to offer low habitat quality due to the largely arable composition, with additional suitable areas of foraging habitat located in the wider area. 3.55 Pipistrelle and noctule bat are listed on the Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan. Otter 3.56 SER returned a total of 74 records of otter from the 2km search radius surrounding the site. None of these records were specific to the site. The majority of the records were returned from Brookhay Bridge approximately 450m to the south-west of the site. These records dated between 1999 and 2014. No records were returned closer to the site. 3.57 There was one pond present on the site and a small number of occasionally wet ditches present around the boundaries of the fields. These ditches were not considered likely to hold water all year round and are frequently dry making them unsuitable for otters to forage and commute along. The pond supports a number of large fish which could provide suitable prey for otters; however this pond is poorly connected to suitable waterbodies in the wider area. The site is not considered suitable for otters, and therefore this species is not considered further in this report.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 19
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Great crested newt
3.58 The data search returned from Staffordshire Ecological Record returned 21 records of GCN from a 2km radius surrounding the central point of the site. The majority of these records were from previous ecological surveys conducted on the wider part of the site. The records are dated between 2005 and 2017. 3.59 Previous surveys have been conducted on a number of ponds within and surrounding the site. GCN were recorded from Ponds 6 and 7 during the 2010 surveys completed by Middlemarch Environmental. A peak count of 10 GCN was recorded in Pond 6 and a peak count of 1 GCN was recorded in Pond 7 during these surveys. The surveys completed in 2014 by Pleydell Smithyman Limited recorded a peak count of 15 GCN in Pond 6 and 12 GCN in Pond 7. During surveys completed by Pleydell Smithyman Limited in 2017, a peak count of 8 GCN was recorded in Pond 6 and a peak count of 27 GCN was recorded in Pond 7. Surveys have not been completed on any of the other ponds on or within 500m of the site.
3.60 There was one waterbody that occurred on the site and an additional nine waterbodies within 500m that are not separated by major dispersal barriers. A number of these waterbodies have previously been subject to an HSI assessment or presence/absence or population surveys (Pleydell Smithyman Limited, 2017). Full access to HSI three ponds (Pond 13, 17 and 18) was not available and therefore these ponds have been assessed from a distance only. The ditches present within the site were also assessed for their suitability for great crested newts (GCN). 3.61 The pond that occurred on the site is Pond 9. It was a large square pond that is stocked with large fish including carp, (Cyprinus carpio) and perch, (Perca fluviatalis). It supported minimal aquatic vegetation and was shaded across approximately 25% of its edges. This pond was subject to an HSI assessment during the 2014 surveys conducted by Pleydell Smithyman Limited and at this time it observed an average suitability score of 0.68. Full HSI Results can be found in Appendix 4. 3.62 The ponds located outside of the site boundary were Ponds 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19. Please see Drawing M13.116(q).D.005 for a plan showing the pond locations. The pond numbering is carried over from previous surveys completed on the wider area of the quarry. 3.63 Pond 6 has been subject to numerous GCN population surveys over the last 7 years with numbers slowly decreasing. The pond is a rectangular pond with steep sides and
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 20
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
minimal aquatic vegetation (approximately 10%). It is located approximately 50m to the north of the site. The HSI assessment conducted on this pond in 2017 by Pleydell Smithyman Limited recorded a good suitability score of 0.73. 3.64 Pond 7 has also been subject to regular GCN population surveys over the last 7 years with numbers slowly increasing. The pond supports approximately 40% aquatic vegetation, and at certain times of the year is entirely covered in willow catkins. It is located approximately 10m to the north of the site at its closest point. The pond is immediately surrounded by trees and scrub. 3.65 Pond 13 is a large pond used by Spires Fishing Club. The pond is located approximately 100m to the west of the site at its closest point. The pond was not able to be accessed closely, but instead was viewed from a distance. It is considered highly likely that the pond is densely stocked with fish and supports very minimal aquatic vegetation. The water quality is considered to be poor due to the dense numbers of fish present. 3.66 Ponds 14 and 15 are very similar and are fairly newly created ponds in the grounds of the Lichfield and District Crematorium. They are considered unlikely to support fish and may support small numbers of waterfowl. They have varying degrees of vegetation, with Pond 14 supporting approximately 40% vegetation and Pond 15 supporting approximately 75% vegetation. Both of these ponds are on the far side of the railway line, approximately 20m to the west of the site boundary. 3.67 Pond 16 is a small pond in the corner of an agricultural field approximately 20m to the west of the site boundary on the far side of the railway line. The pond is almost entirely shaded and supports approximately 50% aquatic vegetation. 3.68 Pond 17 and 18 are both large ponds associated with a farm approximately 200m to the east of the site boundary. It is possible that fish occur in these ponds and it is likely that these ponds have poor water quality due to agricultural run-off. These ponds were not able to be closely accessed and therefore they were assessed from a distance. 3.69 Pond 19 is a small pond that has been recently created in the grounds of the Lichfield and District Crematorium. This pond has been lined and is subject to regular disturbance due to the presence of a water feature. The water is very turbid in this pond and there is very minimal aquatic vegetation present. It is possible that fish are present in this pond.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 21
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
3.70 A table summarising the results of the HSI calculations for each of the ponds within the site and within 500m of the site boundary is presented within Table 3 below. Please see Appendix 4 for full details of the calculations. Table 3. Summary of HSI data Waterbody HSI Score Suitability
Pond 6 0.67 Average
Pond 7 0.74 Good
Pond 9 0.63 Average
Pond 13 0.41 Poor
Pond 14 0.77 Good
Pond 15 0.74 Good
Pond 16 0.64 Average
Pond 17 0.64 Average
Pond 18 0.64 Average
Pond 19 0.60 Below Average
3.71 The above table shows a range in HSI scores for the waterbodies assessed. Ponds 7, 14 and 15 exhibit the highest HSI scores, with these being assessed as having a ‘Good’ suitability rating for GCN. Pond 7 has previously been surveyed for GCN and populations were found to be present. As a result, this pond is considered highly likely to support this species. 3.72 Ponds 6, 9, 16, 17 and 18 were all assessed as having an ‘average’ suitability for GCN, however Pond 6 has previously recorded small-medium populations of GCN. 3.73 Pond 19 observed a below average suitability score due to the lack of vegetation and poor water quality. 3.74 Pond 13 observed a poor suitability score due to the presence of high numbers of fish. This pond is considered highly unlikely to support GCN as the fish present will eat all vegetation that GCN can utilise for laying eggs and also eat any eggs present on this vegetation making it extremely difficult for GCN to support viable populations in this pond.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 22
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
3.75 The ditches bordering the field boundaries around the site, varied in suitability for GCN, with some ditches appearing very polluted with limited aquatic vegetation that could be used for egg-laying. Ditch 1 was considered more suitable for GCN due to the presence of aquatic vegetation and good water quality. However, it is considered to be highly likely that the water quality and flow rate of the ditches significantly fluctuates throughout the year, particularly in those that border roads or fields subject to more frequent or intensive use of herbicides, pesticides and fertilisers. It is also considered likely that fish are present in all ditches that contain water, as these would be subject to water that has flowed from streams present in the wider area. As a result, the overall suitability of the ditches as breeding habitat for GCN is considered to be unfavourable to sub-optimal. 3.76 The site supports suitable habitat for GCN in the form of hedgerows, associated grassland and scrub. The arable land is largely unsuitable for GCN due to the frequent disturbance and change in crop cover.
Badger 3.77 Evidence of badger was recorded across the site. This information is confidential and is therefore appended to this report in a confidential appendix (Appendix 7). The site offers suitable habitat for foraging and commuting badger in the form of hedgerows and arable fields. Suitable sett building opportunities are also present along hedgerows with dry ditches and within the bund surrounding the pond that supports scrub. 3.78 SER returned 17 records of badger from the 2km search radius surrounding the central point of the site. These records ranged between 2001 and 2016 and none records were specific to the site. Water vole 3.79 SER returned one record of water vole (Arvicola amphibius) from the 2km search radius surrounding the central point of the site. This was dated from 2002 and returned from Coventry Canal approximately 500m to the east of the site at its closest point. 3.80 There was one pond present on the site and a small number of occasionally wet ditches present around the boundaries of the fields. These ditches were not considered likely to hold water all year round and are frequently dry. The pond did not offer any suitable habitat for water vole due to the lack of suitable banks for burrowing and the lack of connectivity to suitable waterbodies. No evidence of water vole was
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 23
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
observed in the ditches at the time of the survey. The site is not considered suitable for water vole, and therefore this species is not considered further in this report. Reptiles 3.81 The site offers small areas of suitable habitat for reptiles in the form of the hedgerows that could be used to forage, bask and commute. 3.82 The hedgerows are relatively well connected to the wider area, connecting the site within the wider landscape. 3.83 SER did not return any records of reptiles from the data search. 3.84 Although no records of reptiles were returned from the data search, it is possible that grass snake (Natrix helvetica) could occur on the site when commuting along the hedgerows and ditches. Grass snakes can travel considerable distances and may use features such as hedgerows and ditches whilst commuting to other more suitable areas in the wider landscape. Other mammals
3.85 The data search returned from SER returned three records of harvest mouse (Micromys minutus) from the 2km search radius surrounding the central point of the site. These records were returned between 2002 and 2010 and the closest record was approximately 500m to the west of the site, on the far side of the River Tame. The other two records were returned with a 4 figure grid reference which is present approximately 1.3km to the north of the site.
3.86 SER also returned records of polecat (Mustela putorius), hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) and brown hare (Lepus europaeus) from the data search. None of the records returned were specific to the site. Two records of polecat were returned from the data search; these were dated 2002 and 2008 and were returned with four figure grid references that were not specific to the site and at least 1km from the site boundaries. Fifteen records of hedgehog were returned from the data search, these were dated between 2008 and 2015. None of these records were specific to the site, with the closest record approximately 800m to the north-west of the site, on the far side of the A38. The site does support suitable habitat for polecat and hedgehog in the form of hedgerows and scrub. These features are well connected to the wider landscape and to Brookhay Wood to the south. 3.87 SER returned 12 records of brown hare from the data search. None of these records were specific to the site, with the closest record approximately 400m to the east of the
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 24
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
site. The records were dated between 2000 and 2018. The site provides suitable habitat for brown hare in the form of arable land. Brown hare is listed on the Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan. 3.88 Evidence of the non-native pest species, rabbit was observed on the site. 3.89 No signs of any other protected, rare or notable mammal species were recorded. 3.90 The site supports suitable habitat for harvest mouse in the form of hedgerows and associated tall ruderal habitat and tall rank grassland. The arable land may also provide suitable habitat dependent upon the crop being grown. Birds 3.91 The site offers suitable habitat for nesting, foraging and wintering birds in the form of arable land, hedgerows, scattered trees, scrub and waterbodies. 3.92 Numerous trees on the site showed features suitable for barn owl roosting and breeding, and one tree supported a barn owl nest box. The site also supports suitable habitat for foraging barn owls. 3.93 Breeding and wintering bird surveys have been completed on other parts of the existing quarry in 2014 by Pleydell Smithyman Limited and by Middlemarch Environmental Ltd in 2011. These surveys recorded a number of common and widespread species as well as species listed on the BoCC red and amber lists. 3.94 The 2011 breeding bird surveys included the site subject to this PEA. Species of note recorded on the site in 2011 included bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula), yellow wagtail (Motacilla flava), kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), yellowhammer (Emberiza citronella), reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus), song thrush (Turdus philomelos), corn bunting (Emberiza calandra), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), tree sparrow (Passer montanus), skylark (Alauda arvensis) and linnet (Carduelis cannabina). Additional species of note recorded in the wider area (outside of the site boundary) included grey partridge (Perdix perdix), lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) and stock dove (Columba oenas). The 2014 breeding bird surveys completed on the existing quarry only also recorded starling (Sturnus vulgaris), curlew (Numenius arquata), dunnock (Prunella modularis) and mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). 3.95 The 2011 wintering bird surveys included the site subject to this PEA. Species of note recorded included mute swan (Cygnus olor), grey partridge, lapwing, starling, fieldfare (Turdus pilaris) and redwing (Turdus iliacus). Notable species recorded in the wider area (outside of the site boundary) included wigeon (Anas Penelope), goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), pochard (Aythya ferina), redshank (Tringa totanus), green sandpiper (Tringa
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 25
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
ochropus) and little egret (Egretta garzetta). The 2014 wintering bird surveys completed on the existing quarry also recorded kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) 3.96 SER returned a large number of bird records from the 2km search radius surrounding the centre of the site. None of these records were specific to the site, although the majority of records had a four figure grid reference, with a small number being SK1711 which could occur on the site. The vast majority of the records were from Croxall Lakes or Whitemoor Haye to the east of the site. Records returned included ground nesting birds, passerines and wading and water-birds. It is possible that the ground nesting birds, passerines, waterfowl and waders could occur on the site.
3.97 As the wider area supports similar habitat, and the habitats recorded on the site are common and widespread, it is not considered necessary to conduct specific wintering bird surveys on the site. In addition, the wintering bird surveys previously recorded on the site and in the wider area did not record large flocks of geese or wading birds or large numbers of rare wintering birds. The site has not changed considerably since these surveys were completed (2011). The restoration plan should incorporate habitats that are similar to the current situation, and should include enhancements to increase the suitability of the site for wintering birds.
Terrestrial Invertebrates
3.98 The site does not support any habitats that are not common in the wider area, with the exception of the scrub and grassland mosaic surrounding the pond. It is therefore anticipated that a number of invertebrates are likely to occur on the site, as well as in the wider area. During the Phase 1 Habitat Survey, red admiral (Vanessa atalanta), small tortoiseshell (Aglais urtica), peacock (Aglaisis io) large white (Pieris brassicae), small white (Pieris rapae), brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni), green-veined white (Pieris napi), meadow brown (Maniola jurtina), speckled wood (Pararge aegeria), ringlet (Aphantopus hyperantus), small heath (Coenonympha pamphilus), comma (Polygonia c- album) and gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus) butterflies were noted on site. 3.99 The area considered to support a diverse assemblage of invertebrates is restricted in size and the development is temporary in nature, with a restoration proposed that will create additional habitat of greater benefit. In addition, the wider area supports similar habitat to the majority of the site, and the main habitats recorded on the site are common and widespread, it is therefore not considered necessary to conduct specific invertebrate surveys on the site; providing that the restoration plan incorporates
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 26
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
habitats that are similar or likely to support a more diverse range of invertebrates as the current situation.
3.100 SER returned a number of invertebrate records from the data search including butterflies, moths and bees. None of these records were specific to the site; however these species could occur on the site.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 27
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
4.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Ecological Designations 4.1 There were no nationally important statutory designations present on the site, however, two were returned within 5km and two European protected sites were returned within 15km. The closest of these was approximately 2.6km to the east of the site boundary. This was the River Mease SSSI and SAC. Due to its European designation, it will be important to fully assess any impacts on this designation from any hydrological changes caused by the development. It is considered likely that at least a Stage 1 Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) will be requested by the Local Planning Authority. 4.2 Stowe Pool and Walk Mill Clay Pit SSSI is located approximately 4.5km to the south- west of the site. This site supports white-clawed crayfish that is a species that is slowly being driven to extinction in the UK as a result of disease spread by and competition from the American, signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Large, isolated populations such as those at Stowe Pool and Walk Mill Clay Pit are, therefore, particularly important in both regional and national contexts. Due to the distance between the site and this SSSI, no impacts on this SSSI or its population of white- clawed crayfish are predicted as a result of the proposals. 4.3 Brookhay and Wetlayhay Woods ancient woodlands and LWS are located to the south of the site, and therefore measures will need to be put in place to ensure that the proposed quarry extension does not cause any negative impacts on the integrity of these sites. Hydrological monitoring and air quality assessment works will be required as well as an assessment of the impacts of air quality and dust. A suitable stand-off of 30m should be observed from Brookhay Wood. Air Quality and hydrological assessments should inform any mitigation required to protect these ancient woodlands. 4.4 All other non-statutory designations are located at least 1km from the site boundaries and therefore are not considered to be impacted by the development due to the separation distance. 4.5 One other area of ancient woodland was present approximately 1.9km to the south of the site. Due to the distance between the ancient woodland and the development site, this ancient woodland is not anticipated to be impacted by the proposals.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 28
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Habitats 4.6 A significant number of priority habitats were returned from the data search, with none present on the site and the closest being the deciduous and ancient woodland listed above. All other priority habitats in the wider area are not considered to be impacted by the proposals, providing that good practice working measures are adhered to with regards to reducing impacts from dust and hydrological changes. 4.7 The majority of the habitats present within the site are considered to be of relatively low ecological importance due to their species poor and widespread nature. The scrub and grassland mosaic recorded around the pond on site supported less common floral species. 4.8 Due to the presence of some less common species, this mosaic habitat was assessed against Staffordshire’s Wildlife Sites Criteria. The species assemblage recorded a total of 11 points. For this habitat to be considered for a Site of Biological Importance the habitat needed to be over 0.25ha and scoring over 20 points. For the habitat to be considered for a Biodiversity Alert Site, the habitat needed to over 0.25ha and scoring between 14 and 19. Therefore, the habitat is not of a high enough value to be considered for a Staffordshire Local Wildlife Site. 4.9 Where possible, the seed bank in this area should be translocated and stored and used in the restoration. The reinstating of this seed bank will provide an area of species-rich grassland that can be managed to keep scrub levels to a minimum. 4.10 It is recommended that as part of the proposed development plan, a suitable stand-off is observed from the boundary features of woodland and hedgerows to maintain their quality. Where possible, mature standard trees present on the site should be retained. 4.11 The hedgerows present on the site should be surveyed in line with HEGS methodology to measure the quality of the hedgerows according to the Local Wildlife Site criteria for Staffordshire. 4.12 Given the nature of the habitats present on the site, and their widespread presence in the wider area, it is unlikely that they will be of greater than local significance. 4.13 Development plans should, as far as reasonably practical, avoid impacts on habitats of nature conservation importance. Where avoidance is not possible, impacts should be minimised through design and mitigation measures. In the event that likely impacts remain after mitigation, these should be compensated for by enhancement or creation of habitats. The restoration plan should include habitats of equal or greater quality than the current situation.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 29
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
4.14 The scheme should aim to provide improvements resulting in an overall net gain in biodiversity, which can be achieved through appropriate management of habitats within the site and the creation of additional habitats of greater ecological importance. Where possible, this should include grasslands that are of high quality, in line with the Staffordshire Wildlife Site criteria. Protected Species Bats 4.15 Bats are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation affords them protection against killing, injury and disturbance, as well as the damage, destruction or obstruction of access to their resting places, in addition to other actions (please see Appendix 5 for details of wildlife legislation). 4.16 Five trees were present on the site that were considered to be impacted by the proposals and that offered bat roosting potential. These included three trees that offered low roosting potential and two trees that offered moderate roosting potential. These trees should therefore be subject to bat roost surveys to identify any bat roosts that may be present within the trees. 4.17 Bat roost surveys should be conducted following best practice guidelines produced by Collins in 2016. These guidelines state that for trees with moderate bat roosting potential, two surveys are required. These surveys should comprise one dusk emergence and one dawn re-entry survey =. The surveys can only be conducted between May and September inclusive, with the optimum time for surveys being May to August. It is recommended that one surveyor is present per tree to ensure adequate coverage of potential roosting features. 4.18 For trees with low bat roosting potential, the guidelines do not require additional surveys; however a single bat roost survey could be conducted to identify the bat activity levels around these trees. An alternative survey method is for a qualified arboriculturalist and licensed bat worker to climb these trees to inspect for any evidence of bat roosting potential. Where evidence of roosting bats are observed, further surveys as detailed above may be required. 4.19 It is our understanding that the boundary trees of the site will be retained throughout the duration of the works. It is understood that three trees with low bat roosting potential require crown lifting operations to allow an appropriate visibility splay for a crossing point. These trees should be climbed and inspected for potential bat roosting
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 30
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
features prior to any tree works. Should any additional trees be removed or require works, these trees will require a preliminary roost assessment to identify any potential roosting features for bats. Following this assessment, further detailed bat roost surveys may be required as well as associated mitigation and/or compensation strategies that might require European Protected Species (EPS) licensing. 4.20 The site as a whole, in line with Collins 2016, is considered to be of moderate habitat quality due to the connections of the hedgerows into the wider landscape. However, in this case, as the majority of the boundary features which provide connectivity to the wider area will be retained and unaffected, the site is assessed to offer low habitat quality due to the largely arable composition, with additional suitable areas of foraging habitat located in the wider area. 4.21 It is recommended that bat activity surveys are completed to identify the number of species of bats that use the site, and any areas that are important for bats. 4.22 These surveys should be completed following the methodology for activity transect surveys for low quality habitat (Collins, 2016). For this site, it is considered that one transect will be sufficient to cover suitable bat foraging and commuting habitat.
4.23 The guidelines also require one static detector to be placed around the site each season. The detectors must be left on site for five consecutive nights each month in appropriate weather conditions for bats. 4.24 Further recommendations with regards to bats will be made following the completion of the additional surveys. Great crested newt
4.25 Great crested newts (GCN) are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation affords them protection against killing, injury and disturbance, as well as the damage, destruction or obstruction of access to their resting places, in addition to other actions (please see Appendix 5 for details of wildlife legislation).
4.26 The site supports suitable terrestrial habitat for GCN in the form of hedgerows, associated grassland and scrub. There are six ponds within 500m of the site that offer suitable breeding habitat/ have previously supported populations of GCN. It is therefore recommended that presence/absence or populations surveys are completed on these ponds to establish the population numbers of this species.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 31
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
4.27 Presence/absence surveys require four surveys to be undertaken in line with current best practice (Froglige, 2001) between mid March and mid June, with at least two surveys completed between mid April and mid May.
Badgers
4.28 Badgers are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended). For further details of the legislation pertaining to badgers, please refer to Appendix 5.
4.29 The results of the badger findings are reported separately in the confidential annex. It is recommended that a minimum of a 30m stand-off zone from heavy machinery works is observed from all active badger setts present, where retention is possible and appropriate. Where this is not possible, a licence for the disturbance or destruction of badger setts may be required. Update badger surveys should be conducted prior to commencement of works to ensure that there are no changes to the badger activity levels in the intervening period. Please refer to the confidential annex for further details.
Reptiles 4.30 All British reptiles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) against killing and injury amongst other actions. 4.31 The site offers small areas of suitable habitat for locally common species in the form of the hedgerows , ditches, arable margins and ponds. SER did not return any records of reptiles from the data search.
4.32 It is considered possible that grass snakes may commute along the hedgerows and ditches to obtain access to areas of higher suitability in the wider area. Due to the mobile nature of this species, it is not considered necessary to complete reptile surveys on the site. This is due to the limited suitable habitat present on the site and the extensive suitable habitat in the wider area. However it is recommended that during any hedgerow and ditch removal works, this work is completed during the active season for reptiles (typically March to September) and this work is supervised to identify any reptiles that may be present. The habitat should be cleared directionally ensuring that any reptiles that are present can be flushed off site or translocated to an external boundary of the site that will not be impacted by the proposals.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 32 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
Harvest mouse 4.33 Harvest mouse is listed as a priority species in England due to recent declines in population numbers. The presence of priority species should be taken account of during development works, and measures should be put in place to protect the species and their associated habitat and minimise any impacts. 4.34 The site offers suitable habitat for harvest mouse in the form of hedgerows and associated grassland. There are also local records of harvest mouse. It is therefore recommended that artificial harvest mouse refugia are placed around the site in suitable locations and inspected on a number of occasions throughout the summer and autumn. Any evidence of harvest mouse i.e. nests or individuals will be recorded during the surveys.
Breeding Birds
4.35 All wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from the time that the nest is being built until the nest is no longer in use (the nesting season is typically between late February and late August). 4.36 The site supports suitable habitat for nesting birds in the form of arable land, hedgerows, scattered trees, scrub and waterbodies. In addition, numerous trees on the site showed features suitable for barn owl roosting and breeding, and one tree supported a barn owl nest box. 4.37 It is therefore recommended that breeding bird surveys (incorporating barn owl) are completed on the site. This should follow the breeding bird survey methodology which recommends three breeding bird surveys to be undertaken, with the first survey (early visit) carried out between April and mid-May and the remaining two (late visits) between mid-May to late June with at least four weeks between the early visit and the first late visit.
Other protected and notable species 4.38 Apart from the species listed above, there are no obvious and immediate issues regarding other protected and notable species on the site. Enhancements 4.39 In line with recommendations within the NPPF and to ensure an overall biodiversity net gain, enhancements should be delivered on the site that are above and beyond the requirements for mitigation or compensation as a result of the proposed quarry extension. Enhancements should be specific to the species recorded on the site, or to
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 33
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
the species that have potential to occur on the site. All habitats created through the restoration should seek to meet targets produced by national and local priorities and BAPs and should be managed appropriately to achieve the highest biodiversity net gain possible.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 34
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
5.0 REFERENCES
1 Atherton, I., Bosanquet, S., Lawley, M., (2010) Eds. Mosses and liverworts of Britain and Ireland: A field guide. British Bryological Society
2 Averis, B. (2013). Plants and Habitats: An Introduction to Common Plants and Their Habitats in Britain and Ireland.
3 Blockeel, T.L and D.G. Long (1998). A checklist and census catalogue of British and Irish bryophytes. British Bryological Society Publication.
4 BS42020:2013 (2013). Biodiversity: Code for Planning and Development. BSI 5 Bunter, V., Cadman, D., Glaisher, A., Lawley, S., Maxwell. A., Slawson, C., Smith, J., Webb, J., Weightman, T., Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Staffordshire Wildlife Sites Partnership (2017). Guidelines for the selection of Local Wildlife Sites in Staffordshire. Version 6. Unknown. 6 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2017). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Hampshire. 7 Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2018). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland; Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Hampshire.
8 Collins, J. (ed.) (2016). Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines, 3rd Edition. The Bat Conservation Trust, London.
9 Joint Nature Conservation Committee, (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey A technique for environmental audit. Peterborough, Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).
10 Langton, T., Beckett, C., and Foster, J. (2001). Great crested newt conservation handbook. Froglife, Suffolk.
11 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Bat Activity Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. RT-MME_109380-05. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
12 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Breeding Bird Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. RT-MME_109380-03. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 35 PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
13 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. L13-07-817 MW. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
14 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Great Crested Newt Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. RT-MME_109380-04. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
15 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Initial Bat Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. RT-MME_109380-01. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
16 Middlemarch Environmental Ltd, (2011). Wintering Bird Survey for Proposed Extension at Alrewas Quarry, Staffordshire. RT-MME_108633. Coventry, Middlemarch Environmental Ltd.
17 Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006) (http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ ukpga_20060016_en_1)
18 Newton, J., Nicholson, B., Saunders, R., Willets, R. & Venables, R. (2011) Working with wildlife: guidance for the construction industry (2nd Ed.). CIRIA, London. 19 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. 20 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Bat Activity Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(d).R.002. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 21 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Bat Roost Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(d).R.003. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 22 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Breeding Bird Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(d).R.001. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 23 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(b).R.001. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited.
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 36
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
24 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Update Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey relating to Phase 1 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116.R.001. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 25 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Great Crested Newt Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(d).R.004. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 26 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2014). Wintering Bird Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(c).R.001. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 27 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2017). Update Bat Roost Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(k).R.005. Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited. 28 Pleydell Smithyman Limited, (2017). Update Great Crested Newt Survey relating to Phases 2-5 of the proposed extension area at Alrewas Quarry, Lichfield. M13.116(k).R.003 Ironbridge, Pleydell Smithyman Limited.
29 Rose, F., (2006). The Wild Flower Key, Revised edition. Frederick Warne & Co.
30 Stace, C. A. (2019). New Flora of the British Isles. Fourth Edition. Cambridge University Press.
31 The National Planning Policy Framework http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/ planningandbuilding/nppf
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 37
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
DRAWING M13.116(q).D.005
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 38
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
DRAWING M13.116(q).D.001
BAT ROOST POTENTIAL TREES
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 39
PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL AT THE PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION OF ALREWAS QUARRY, STAFFORDSHIRE
APPENDIX 1
Information obtained from Staffordshire Ecological Record
S:\M13.116(q) Alrewas Quarry - Phase 6 Ecological Surveys\Document_Report\M13.116(q).R.006 PEA Report\M13.116(q).R.006A PEA Report REVA.docx Pleydell Smithyman Limited Printed copies of this document may be out of date Revision A – September 2019 40