Wild Islington
Islington’s Biodiversity Action Plan
Final Document Islington Biodiversity Action Plan Partnership
The following groups were involved in the production of this Biodiversity Action Plan:
London Borough of Islington London Wildlife Trust London Metropolitan University Friends of Gillespie Park British Waterways Islington Gardeners Society Quill Street Allotment Association BTCV Friends of New River Pollard Thomas & Edwards Architects Highbury Builders Collective Culpepper Community Gardens Thornhill Bridge Community Gardeners Arvon Road Allotments Association The Peabody Trust Hepher Dixon London Biodiversity Partnership Greater London Authority Islington Early Years Team Glendale Grounds Management Groundwork Camden and Islington Learning Through Landscapes Islington Arts and Media services Crouch Hill Community Trust
- 2 - Acknowledgements
We would like to thank all the members of the partnership who have contributed to the formulation of this document and look forward to their continued support in the implementation of this plan.
Further Information
For further information regarding this document contact:
Islington Nature Conservation Team Islington Ecology Centre 191 Drayton Park Gillespie Park Local Nature Reserve London N5 1PH
Telephone: 020 7354 5162 Fax: 020 7288 1717
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.islington.gov.uk
- 3 - Contents
Page Islington Biodiversity Partnership 2 Acknowledgements 3 Further Information 3
Introduction 5-7
1. What is Biodiversity? 5 2. The Earth Summit 5 3. The UK’s Biodiversity Program 5 4. Biodiversity in London 5 5. Biodiversity in Islington 6 6. Biodiversity and People 7 7. Abbreviations 7
The Habitat Action Plans 8-63 1. Built Environment 9 2. Canals and Waterways 18 3. Parks and Openspaces 30 4. Private Gardens and Allotments 38 5. Railside Land 46 6. School Grounds 52
The Species Action Plans 64-89 1. House Sparrow 65 2. Hedgehog 73 3. Stag Beetle 78 4. Bats 82 5. Black Poplar 86
- 4 - Introduction
1. What is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity is the word used to describe the abundance of life on earth. It covers the whole range of living things; animals and birds, trees and flowers, insects and fungi.
Biodiversity is not just about the rare and the threatened. It applies not only to whales and rain forests, but also to the wildlife we see and experience every day, from the robin on our bird table to the dandelions in our lawns.
It is absolutely vital that we protect and maintain our biodiversity. Biodiversity underpins the life systems of this planet that provide for all our needs: the food we eat, the air we breathe, many of the clothes we wear and many of our medicines. We are also part of the natural world and contact with it significantly improves the quality of our lives, reducing stress and helping us remain calm. It would be a much poorer world without the sound of bird song or the sight of daffodils in spring.
2. The Earth Summit
In 1992 over 150 countries, including the UK, came together at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro to make a formal commitment to work together to protect the environment. One of the agreements signed was the Convention on Biological Diversity, which aimed to protect the global diversity of species and habitats.
3. The UK’s Biodiversity Programme
The UK was one of the first countries in the world to follow up on the convention with the production of a UK Biodiversity Action Plan, published in 1994. This identified species and habitats, which needed protection and action across the UK. It was also recommended that every local area should develop its own Biodiversity Action Plan, put together by a partnership of local people and organisations.
4. Biodiversity in London
The London Biodiversity Action Plan was produced by the London Biodiversity Partnership. This Partnership consists of a large number of organisations including local government (GLA, Local Authorities), statutory bodies (English Nature, Environment Agency), NGO’s (RSPB, London Wildlife Trust) and private landowners (Peabody Trust, Thames Water). Volume 1 of the plan is an audit, describing the variety of habitats and species across the capital, and outlining the major threats as well as the opportunities for conservation. Volume 2, “The Action”, published in January 2001, outlines the action required to improve the
- 5 - plight of habitats and species found across London. This has set the format for all Biodiversity Action Plans across London, including Islington’s.
5. Biodiversity in Islington
When we talk about wildlife in Islington, many people might ask what wildlife? But that is not the case, there is an abundance of wildlife on our doorstep, you sometimes just need to take the time to look. Urban areas are becoming increasingly important refuges for wildlife as the intensification of agriculture has turned large parts of the countryside into ‘green’ deserts with little opportunity for wildlife. In fact, several nationally rare species such as the Black Redstart and the House Sparrow are dependent upon urban areas for their survival.
Islington is not without its rarities and more unusual wildlife. Gillespie Park Local Nature Reserve (LNR) had the first confirmed British breeding record of the Mediterranean butterfly, the Long-tailed Blue. Gillespie Park LNR also has two species of orchid; the Pyramidal and the Bee Orchid. The Borough also boasts two native Black Poplars, Britain’s rarest tree, and a Council Estate in Finsbury Park is home to a large population of Early Meadow Grass, a nationally scarce species normally only found in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Eighteen months ago the Islington Biodiversity Partnership was formed, led by the London Borough of Islington. The aim of the Partnership is to bring organisations and local people together with an interest in or have an influence over the natural environment of Islington, to write a strategy for the protection, conservation and enhancement of the wildlife in the Borough: the Islington Biodiversity Action Plan.
The Partnership looked at Biodiversity in Islington and agreed six priority habitats and five priority species, which are particularly important to Islington. The habitats and species prioritised are:
Habitats: Species: Built Environment House Sparrow Canals and Waterways Hedgehog Parks and Openspaces Stag Beetle Private Gardens and Allotments Bats Railside Land Black Poplar School Grounds
Each of these now has an Action Plan with information about the habitat or species, potential threats to it and actions and targets over the next five years. This plan is the resulting document.
The protection and care of our wildlife is something that everyone can contribute to and benefit from and this Action Plan will help to co-ordinate that approach.
- 6 - 6. Biodiversity and People
The Biodiversity Action Plan is not just something that will benefit wildlife; it will benefit people as well. Biodiversity is a quality of life issue. An environment rich in wildlife is a good quality environment for people to live in too. There are physical benefits to be obtained, for example the effect trees have on pollution levels and the microclimate of the streetscape, but there are others too. The benefits of natural areas to health are now well documented. There are physical health benefits to be gained from walking and exercising in these areas and even through practical nature conservation work. There are also mental health benefits from the reduction of stress and the promotion of general mental well being. Human beings are designed to be part of the natural system and in urban areas we can too often be cut off and isolated from the natural world, particularly those on low incomes who can’t so easily ‘escape’ out to the countryside.
Biodiversity should also be an important element of regeneration. Incorporating biodiversity elements into buildings, for example, green roofs can substantially contribute to making buildings more sustainable as they provide insulation and reduce water run off. They also improve the fabric of the building by protecting flat roofs and reducing running costs as well as making them more pleasant to occupy (improved internal climate, more visually stimulating than grey roofs).
7. Abbreviations
GLA Greater London Authority NGO Non Governmental Organisation RSBP Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
- 7 -
The Habitat Action Plans
1. Built Environment 2. Canals and Waterways 3. Parks and Openspaces 4. Private Gardens and Allotments 5. Railside Land 6. School Grounds
- 8 - 1. Built Environment
1. Aims
To promote and increase awareness of the potential and value of the built environment for biodiversity in Islington.
To encourage the establishment of suitable practices for biodiversity in the built environment.
2. Introduction
The London Borough of Islington is one of the smallest and most built up of the London boroughs, and has the smallest amount of green space per person.
For such a densely urban borough where green space is precious, the built environment provides the most significant opportunity we have to enhance biodiversity in the borough.
Buildings can provide nesting opportunities for birds such as the peregrine falcon and the black redstart. Walls can provide habitats for ferns, grasses and mosses as well as a number of other plant species such as ivy, shaggy soldier and buddleia. Trees and roadside verges not only provide visual enhancement to the built environment but also help reduce pollution and provide habitats for invertebrates and birds.
The enhancement of biodiversity in the built environment can be achieved through the use of green roofs, climbers on walls and artificial nest sites.
The built environment includes all physical features such as buildings and their associated surroundings, streets and hard surfaces, and roadsides and verges.
This action plan will not cover gardens and allotments, parks and open spaces, railside lands or school grounds, although these make up a significant part of the built environment. These have all been identified as being priority habitats in their own right and therefore have their own separate habitat action plans.
Several areas have been defined within the built environment, these are:
Existing built environment - Includes Private Housing (not including private gardens), Private commercial premises, London Borough of Islington housing land and Registered Social Landlord housing.
Street scene - Includes the physical characteristics of the street scene such as trees, lighting, roadside verges and highways.
- 9 - New buildings and developments - Includes any new development proposals within the borough, which could provide opportunities to enhance biodiversity in areas where there was little present before.
3. Current Status
The borough is approximately 87% built environment, based on the fact that 13% of the borough is open space.
Currently there are approximately 9,700 street trees and 11,400 trees on housing estates.
There are a number of developments within the borough which have the potential to enhance biodiversity; Arundel Square, City Road Basin Re- development, William of York School, Bingfield Park, Arsenal Football Club development and improvements to Paradise Park, which will hopefully include a park building which will have a ‘living’ roof and walls.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
4.1 New Developments
These can cause problems in increasing the density of building, removing any small areas of habitat remaining. Also new development can involve the removal of old buildings, which can be habitats for species such as bats.
4.2 Planning Pressure
The pressure of planning applications means there is a turnover period of 8 weeks. This is not time to give proper consideration to biodiversity concerns. Also a lack of guidance for developers as to what they could include in their applications is key.
4.3 Lack of Awareness
There is a lack of awareness of the potential opportunities to improve the biodiversity of the built environment. This can result in developments having a negative effect, for example the housing development around Drayton Park station resulting in the loss of the nesting sites for the Black Redstart a nationally rare bird. Also there is a public perception that climbers on walls damages and poses a security risk to property.
4.4 Repairs to Buildings
These can cause disturbance and a loss of existing nesting or roosting sites as well as potential new ones for species of bird and bat.
- 10 - 4.5 Pollution
This can have negative affects on the wildlife of the built environment. For example, one of the possible reasons for the decline of the house sparrow population is the loss of insects due to pollution. Light pollution is also a problem as increased lighting can have an adverse impact on wildlife, especially the bat.
4.6 Housing Estates
Not all housing estates are owned and managed by the London Borough of Islington, and so there are different priorities and management practices occurring on estates throughout Islington. Quite often contract specifications for the maintenance of areas on estates are not supportive of wildlife, such as pruning at inappropriate times of the year i.e. during nesting periods; and close cut mowing regimes.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Unitary Development Plan (UDP) currently has policies, Env 1 and Env 2, which deal with new developments, Env 3 which deals with environmental impact, Env 5 and Env 6, which considers the protection of trees, and the following deal with wildlife and ecology; Env 21, Env 23, Env 24, Env 25 and Env 26. H10 covers housing.
There are currently 38 designated conservation areas within the borough. Although these designations are not directly associated with conserving biodiversity, they can reduce development pressures which could be detrimental to biodiversity.
There are a number of trees, which have Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s) to protect them.
There are also a number of species including bats, which are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
5.2 National Action
The Mayor’s Biodiversity Strategy “Connecting with London’s nature” which is a strategy to establish a Londonwide framework for maintaining London’s diversity of wildlife. This includes the Built Environment as one of London’s wildlife habitats.
The London Biodiversity Action Plan has a species action plan for the Black Redstart, which is a nationally rare bird that used to be found in Islington.
- 11 - 5.3 Local Action
5.3.1 London Borough of Islington Tree Policy
An important aim of this policy is to combine the management of public and private trees. It identifies the importance of trees making a vital contribution to the biodiversity and wildlife value of the borough, as they support other species in terms of invertebrates and birds in particular.
5.3.2 Strategies
The Peabody Trust has produced an ecology strategy for their housing land, which include; strategies such as improving ground maintenance routines, creating new landscapes for areas that are very bare, encouraging resident involvement, assessing the buildings themselves and implementing a tree strategy in partnership with Islington Council.
5.3.3 Improvements
The London Borough of Islington's Nature Conservation Team have carried out a variety of improvements to the built environment to increase biodiversity. These have included the building and installation of peregrine nest boxes on to some of the taller tower blocks and bat boxes around common feeding sites.
5.3.4 Supplementary Planning Guidance on Green Construction
This provides more detailed advice on how applicants can ensure greater environmental sustainability in developments, refurbishments and alterations to existing buildings. The London Borough of Islington has adopted this as Council policy.
6. Flagship Species
These special plants and animals are characteristic of the built environment in Islington.
This birds' natural habitat is normally cliffs, but is increasingly spotted in urban Falco environments since its decline in the Peregrine Falcon peregrinus middle of the 20th century. Large buildings act as a substitute artificial nesting sites. This bird can be seen hunting insects in the air. It can be found nesting in cracks Common Swift Apus apus and crevices, under the eaves of buildings and in church towers.
- 12 - This once common urban bird is now in rapid decline. It can be found nesting in Passer House Sparrow buildings, cracks and crevices as well as domesticus in roofs; it also can nest in creepers on walls or in trees and shrubberies. A nationally rare bird which used to breed in Islington. Prefers wasteland Phoenicurus Black Redstart and industrial sites. Green roofs can ochruros provide an alternative habitat for this species. Asplenium A fern rarely found in urban areas, but Black Spleenwort adiantum- can be found along some of Islington’s nigrum walls. Good for wildlife as it provides nesting Ivy Hedera helix sites for birds and is a late nectar source for invertebrates. London’s most common bat. Many bats Pipistrellus have adapted to living in buildings, with Pipistrelle Bat pipistrellus the decline of their natural roost sites in trees and woodlands.
7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To influence the planning process and increase overall biodiversity gains from new development proposals.
Target To make available guidance to planners, developers and architects about maximising biodiversity in the built environment.
Target Other Action Lead Date Partners
To raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and the built environment through ongoing NCT PPP guidance notes and briefing sessions.
Include a chapter about biodiversity in the 2006 NCT PPP development control manual.
Produce guidance for developers about PPP 2007 NCT sustainability and biodiversity at the building SU regulation stage.
- 13 -
Ensure Built Environment HAP is considered Ongoing PDC NCT when planning decisions are made.
Produce guidance on plants and climbers PPP beneficial to biodiversity for landscaping 2006 NCT HW schemes around new developments.
Put links on the 'Green Portal' website to the Ongoing NCT CM biodiversity guidance for developers.
Produce guidance notes for developers on creating habitats on and around buildings 2007 NCT PPP including their immediate footprint for the development control stage of planning.
NCT Promote Green Construction Policy to Ongoing PPP SU developers, architects and Councillors. EC
Objective 2 Promote awareness and understanding of green roofs.
Target Establish one acre of green roof space on new developments per year.
Target Other Action Lead Date Partners
To hold a series of green roof seminars for planners, developers, architects and 2006 NCT PPP Councillors to raise awareness of the potential value of green roofs.
Produce guidance notes on green roofs for 2007 NCT PPP planners, developers and architects.
NCT Identify any development projects where Ongoing PDC SU green roofs may be feasible and work in
- 14 - partnership with developers to achieve maximum biodiversity gains.
Create a portfolio of existing and planned Ongoing NCT PPP green roofs in Islington.
Pool information resources on green roofs 2006 NCT PPP suitable for a wide audience.
Encourage extensive and semi-intensive Ongoing PDC NCT green roofs where appropriate to achieve the maximum biodiversity gains from green roofs.
Objective 3 To promote awareness of and take action to implement measures to increase biodiversity in and around existing structures.
Target Implement 3 pilot projects promoting biodiversity in and around existing built environment.
Target Other Action Lead Date Partners
Run a local campaign around greening properties, tie in with the Islington in Bloom 2006 GS Competition.
Produce advice and guidance on biodiversity ALMO improvements around estates and promote to 2007 NCT RSL LBI housing, RSL's, ALMO's and TMO's.
Promote and implement a pilot project in ALMO partnership with LBI Housing, a RSL and local 2009 NCT RSL residents for creating wildflower meadow areas on 4 estates.
- 15 - Objective 4 To raise awareness of the potential value of the streetscene to wildlife.
Target Install 3000 nest boxes on street trees, private houses and new developments
Target Other Action Lead Date Partners
Install nest boxes along the A1 corridor to RSPB enhance biodiversity, as part of the Councils 2005 NCT LBG A1 Borough Project.
Provide information / guidance on the construction and appropriate installation of 2006 NCT HBC nest boxes.
Develop projects with schools and community 2008 NCT HBC groups to construct and install nest boxes.
Work with tree contractors to install nest Ongoing TS NCT boxes on street trees and park trees.
Research opportunities for creating wildflower 2008 NCT HW verges on the highway.
Identify and establish a trial site for greening of walls on the public highway and set up a 2010 HW NCT pilot project involving the local community and business.
Links with other Islington Habitat and Species Action Plans
Habitats Species School Grounds Black Poplar Private Gardens House Sparrow Rail side Land Bats
- 16 - Links with National and Regional Policies
Islington Unitary Development Plan London Borough of Islington Supplementary Planning Guidance of Green Construction London Borough of Islington Sustainable Planting Policy London Borough of Islington Tree Policy
Abbreviations
RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds LBI London Borough of Islington NCT Nature Conservation Team HBC Highbury Builders Collective ALMO Arms Length Management Organisation RSL Registered Social Landlord LBG London Bat Group PPP Planning, Policy and Performance PDC Planning Development and Control EC Energy Centre GS Greenspace and Leisure Service TS Islington Tree Service HW Islington Highways Department CM Islington Communications Team SU Islington Sustainability Team
- 17 - 2. Canals and Waterways
1. Aims
To improve the biodiversity and amenity value of the existing canal / waterway habitats through good management.
To raise awareness of the biodiversity value / requirements of canals / waterways and involve the community in their protection and enhancement.
To improve the monitoring of biodiversity.
To improve the water quality of the canals and waterways.
2. Introduction
Islington contains just two significant water bodies, The Regents Canal and the New River. Waterways thus represent a very rare habitat for Islington, which contains no large water bodies and few ponds. This action plan includes all aspects of the waterways, from the water itself to the bank side vegetation, adjoining paths and adjacent open spaces.
3. Current Status
3.1 Regents Canal
Only a relatively short section of the Regents Canal runs through Islington, totalling 1.8km. It begins at Maiden Lane Bridge (York Way) in the west to Sturt’s Lock (just past Packington Street Bridge) in the east. The site also includes the Islington Tunnel, which runs from Muriel Street to Colebrooke Row. It is 878m in length.
The canal water and basins are owned by British Waterways including the towpath. Certain sections are leased to London Borough of Islington including Vincent Terrace and the City Road Basin. Islington Greenspace on behalf of British Waterways manages the towpath. Islington Greenspace also manages the adjacent open spaces including Treaty Street canal-side, Thornhill Bridge Wharf, Muriel St embankment and Packington Gardens.
The two open sections of the canal support an interesting flora and fauna typical of open water. The towpath and banks support grassland, woodland and scrub, together forming an extremely important wildlife corridor.
Canadian pondweed, fennel-leaved pondweed, curled pondweed and spineless hornwort, which are very rare in London, have all been found in the channel,
- 18 - particularly near the City Road Basin. Plants found growing in cracks in the concrete bank include gypsy-wort, buddleia, Canadian fleabane and several uncommon species, including common skullcap, lesser hairy willowherb, hemlock water dropwort and the introduced connate bur marigold. Hart’s-tongue and male ferns and wall rue are found on the Colebrooke Row tunnel entrance. The woodland banks between Caledonian Road and Muriel Street and Colebrook Row provide good habitat for birds. Eel, pike, roach, perch and dace have all been caught from the canal. Coot, moorhen, mallard and tufted duck all breed in the area and mute swans, herons and sea birds are frequently seen.
The site has been designated a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation in the Unitary Development Plan. The canal is also designated a Conservation Area.
3.2 New River Walk
The New River runs from St Paul’s Road in the North to Canonbury Road in the South. The New River site itself is actually much longer than this but this is the only section, in Islington that now has water.
The site is owned and managed by the London Borough of Islington's Greenspace section but has a strong involvement by the Friends of New River Walk. The New River was created between 1609 and 1613 to supply London with clean water. The original aqueduct entered Islington at Petherton Road and terminated in a large reservoir on Rosebury Avenue. Surface water flow now ends at Clissold Park in Hackney. Below this the majority of the former channel has been in filled, covered or landscaped, with the exception of two long ponds in the Walk section.
The sections between St Paul’s Road and Canonbury Road were made into a linear park in the early 1950’s when most of the present soft landscaping was undertaken. The Walk is divided into two sections known as 'the long' and 'the short'. In 1975 the long section, north of Douglas Road and Canonbury Road was restored with a concrete lining and a new water circulatory system. It was also made narrower at this time. The short section, south of Cannonbury Grove was restored in 1996 with Heritage Lottery funding. It was dredged, relined with puddle clay and an improved water circulatory system was installed.
There are two principal habitats along the New River Walk, the parkland, comprising dense shrubberies, mown lawns and flowerbeds with scattered mature trees, and the open water of the pond and associated marginal vegetation.
Trees include sycamore, ash, sweet gum, weeping willow and alder. Bank side shrubs consist mainly of exotic species including berberis, hypericum, oregon- grape and privet. The ground vegetation includes ivy, great willowherb, docks,
- 19 - and common nettle together with ornamental plants including bamboo, bluebell, daffodil etc. Submerged vegetation includes a profusion of spiked water milfoil. Emergent vegetation includes yellow flag iris and reed-mace.
Recorded fauna includes breeding mallard and coot, although moorhen is now absent. Other breeding birds include blackbird and wren. Blue tit, great tit, goldfinch, greenfinch, song thrush and house sparrow have also been observed. Grey heron is a regular visitor to the site.
The site is designated as a Borough Grade 1 Site of Importance for Nature Conservation in the UDP. Also the round brick-built watch house (late 17th – early 18th century), and the iron railings which enclosed the New River along Canonbury Grove and Douglas Road (mid 19th century) are both statutorily listed Grade II features.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
The canal in particular is a site that has multiple use and functions. It was of course primarily designed as a waterway to support boat traffic, that use has now broadened as a leisure facility for angling, walking and cycling. In producing this Habitat Action Plan we are recognising the different uses and functions of the waterways of which nature conservation is one and that a balance needs to be struck where those uses may conflict and ways sought to reduce that conflict where possible.
4.1 Canal Boats
Passing boat traffic causes the sediment to be stirred up, particularly if the boats are going fast. This disturbs the freshwater invertebrates at the canal bottom. Of course the primary purpose of the canal is for navigation so this will always be a factor.
4.2 Dredging
It is sometimes necessary to dredge the canal either for development works or to ensure that the waterway remains navigable. This will obviously result in disturbance to the canal bottom. British Waterways operate within strict guidelines when carrying out these operations and have to consider impacts on the biodiversity of the canal. Measurements are taken each day of water quality to ensure that things like available oxygen and turbidity do not exceed agreed limits.
- 20 - 4.3 Use of towpath
The towpath is a popular route for pedestrians and cyclists, both as a travel route and a recreational path. The high density of use can result in the erosion of the grass verge.
4.4 Dogs
Both the canal and the New River are popular with dog walkers. Dogs are actually banned form the New River Walk but this is not enforced. Dogs can directly disturb wildlife, particularly birds, but also indirectly thorough dog fouling. This can lead to excessive nutrients in grassland reducing the diversity of wildflowers. They can also make new planting difficult to establish due to trampling. Dog walkers though do provide a positive presence on the canal helping other users to feel safe and thus be able to access the areas and their associated wildlife.
4.5 Anglers
The canal is very popular with anglers. They can have two effects, one is erosion of the canal-side verge from over use and the other is excessive nutrients in the water from over-baiting.
4.6 Ducks
Everyone likes to feed the ducks. Unfortunately if too many people feed the ducks it just contributes to the over nutrification of the water.
4.7 Alien species
Exotic crayfish, carp and red-eared terrapins are all present in this habitat. They have an impact on the native species, competing for food, habitat or directly predating the native species.
4.8 Shading by trees
Some areas of the canal and large parts of the New River are badly affected by shading from trees. Lack of sunlight reduces the productivity of the water reducing the biodiversity and the fallen leaves rot down depleting the oxygen levels in the water.
4.9 Problem plant species
Some aquatic plants can dominate aquatic systems in high densities in response to poor water quality and a particular set of abiotic conditions. Duckweed (Lemna spp.) is a particular problem on the long section of the New River
- 21 - completely covering the water and shading the ecosystem and causing the aquatic system to become depleted in oxygen as they decompose. Blanketweed may also be present.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
The Regents Canal is designated as a Site of Metropolitan Importance, as are the majority of London’s canal systems.
The New River is designated a Site of Borough Importance (Grade 1)
5.2 Local Action
5.2.1 Regents Canal
There are a number of projects and initiatives that are currently ongoing or in the pipeline, which are of relevance to this Action Plan.
5.2.1.1 Grounds management
The east side of the canal will continue to be managed by the Greenspace Grounds Maintenance section under an improved contract specification. This will also require the production of a site improvement plan; this will be required to contain a section on sustainability issues.
The west section will be managed differently. The external contractor Glendale will continue to pick litter and empty the bins. The local community supported by BTCV in partnership with the Nature Conservation team will carry out the remainder of the works.
5.2.1.2 Thornhill Bridge Wharf Redevelopment
The two pocket parks either side of Thornhill Bridge have been redeveloped. The area known as Thornhill Bridge Community Garden has been redesigned in consultation with the local community and now forms a toddlers' play area and community garden.
The other side has been re-landscaped to stop the erosion caused by pedestrian desire lines, some of the trees have been thinned to increase light levels and re- planted with native ground cover plants and low growing shrubs to create a woodland garden.
- 22 - 5.2.1.3 Muriel Street Ramp
A new disabled access ramp has been installed at the Muriel Street entrance along with a viewing platform by the tunnel entrance. This has included replanting around the ramp with native species.
5.2.1.4 Towpath Improvements
As part of a Transport for London (TfL) funded Green Routes programme. The canal towpath is to be improved over the next couple of years. This will involve the re-surfacing of some parts and widening the towpath where possible. This will mean the loss of some areas of grass verge on the canal side of the towpath and eating into some parts of the bank side vegetation. Loss of habitat will be kept to a minimum. Works have already been carried out on the Thornhill Wharf to Muriel Street section.
5.2.1.5 City Road Basin
There is a proposal to redevelop the City Road Basin and a Master Plan has been produced. Sustainability and the ecology of the basin is a key part of the Master Plan and so represents a significant opportunity to enhance the areas biodiversity.
5.2.1.7 Other Development
There is a new development that has received planning permission at 92-96 York Way. This will have some negative impacts on the canal from the overshadowing it will cause but there will be some gains. The building will have a green roof and will incorporate artificial nesting sites. There is also section 106 money available for improvements to the canal, which will hopefully include the provision of marginal vegetation.
5.2.2 New River
Around 1996, Thames Water was commissioned to carry out a major restoration programme for the New River for the Cannonbury Road, short section. This involved the removal of large quantities of silt that had been allowed to build up, repairs to the embankments and the installation of a new pump system to restore the circulation of the water. This works has significantly improved the water quality and the associated pond fauna. The long section was dredged in 1990. The circulation system was restored in the last two years and has been working intermittently since then.
A large amount of money has been secured from Groundwork Hertfordshire to spend on interpretation, planting and markers along the New River. This is for the whole route of the New River. The pumps on the long section have now
- 23 - failed completely. Money has been identified to replace them with more suitable pumps that hopefully will not fail on such a regular basis.
6. Flagship Species
These special plants and animals are characteristic of the canals and waterways in Islington. A smallish, black water bird with white Gallinula Moorhen tail, long-toed green feet and a red and chloropus yellow bill. A tall, slender bird with long legs and Ardea Grey Heron neck and a sharp, dagger-shaped bill cinerea used for catching fish and amphibians. A large bat and one of only two species
found in Islington. Typically found in
Nyctalus small woodlands and parks and will also Noctule bat noctula hunt insects over water. They are
remarkably noisy and their calls often
betray the existence of a roost. Dramatic, easily recognisable insects when adults. Favour still or slow moving Dragonfly Odonata water. Nymphs require emergent vegetation to enable their change to adult-hood. A fern with bright green tongue shaped Asplenium Harts Tongue Fern leaves. Often found growing on canal scolopendrium walls and around the tunnel entrances. A tenacious little plant belonging to the nettle family, with a square stem, spear- Scutellaria Skullcap shaped leaves and lilac-blue flowers, galericulata often found growing from cracks in canal walls and on lock gates. A submerged water plant with feathery leaves arranged in whorls of 4 around the stem. Not to be confused with its Myriophyllum Spiked water-milfoil close relative parrots-feather, which spiactum originates from South America and can be an aggressive coloniser if left unchecked. A submerged aquatic plant that is very
Ceratophyllum rare in London. It was present in the Soft hornwort submersum canal although we can no longer be
certain. Yellow daisy like flowers appear on Tussilago Coltsfoot distinctive stalks in February and March farfara before the leaves appear.
- 24 - 7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To ensure new developments along the canal do not have an adverse impact on the canal's biodiversity and to ensure biodiversity issues are included in any section 106 agreements or planning conditions. Also to ensure that large regeneration strategic projects recognise and incorporate this HAP objectives.
Target All canalside development schemes to incorporate at least one biodiversity initiative.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To raise awareness of importance of biodiversity and the canal with planners and Ongoing NCT PPP developers through briefings, advice notes and meetings.
To establish HAP as a material consideration in planning decisions relating to developments 2005 NCT PPP beside the canal.
For biodiversity to be included in all Section Ongoing NCT PPP 106 agreements relating to developments beside the canal.
Objective 2 To develop and implement habitat improvement and creation initiatives along the Regents Canal and New River Walk.
Target To have delivered an identified program of habitat initiatives by 2010.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
BW To implement 5 nesting raft schemes. 2006 NCT BTCV
To identify 5 sites for marginal vegetation 2007 NCT BW
- 25 - schemes using coir baffles or equivalent and LB implement (including reed planting in horse FoG ramps).
To plant bare walls along towpath with 2006 NCT BTCV climbers.
To install 40 bird and bat boxes along the BTCV 2005 NCT waterways. FoG
To establish aquatic submerged vegetation in areas that are currently devoid and where 2007 NCT BW suitable.
To create new marsh area at end of New 2005 NCT GM River Walk.
Objective 3 To ensure biodiversity requirements underpin the management of the waterways
Target To produce and implement management plans for the two waterways.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners GR To produce updated management plans for BW 2006 NCT the Regents Canal and the New River Walk. FoG LMU
To ensure mowing regimes on towpaths allow Ongoing NCT GM the flora of the waterways to flourish.
To implement environmental appraisals on Ongoing NCT BW projects affecting the canal biodiversity.
- 26 - Objective 4 To increase interpretation of the biodiversity of the waterways.
Target To have delivered a identified program of interpretation.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To install three biodiversity interpretation 2007 NCT FoG points.
To produce interpretation leaflet for Regents FoG Canal and the New River linked around 2008 NCT BW walking routes.
To produce biodiversity information for 2006 NCT BW businesses and boaters along the canal.
Create links with partner organisations such as London Canal Museum, Islington 2005 NCT Narrowboat Association and Camley Street to promote biodiversity.
Objective 5 To increase community involvement and engagement in the BAP process
Target To establish regular community involvement in events and activities along the waterways
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To involve the Friends groups in the Ongoing NCT FoG implementation of the Waterways HAP
To produce program of regular events and BW Ongoing NCT talks with biodiversity theme BTCV
- 27 - To involve 4 businesses along the canal in biodiversity improvements either through 2006 NCT BTCV sponsorship or direct practical involvement
Objective 6 To improve the monitoring of biodiversity.
Target To establish a regular monitoring program for the waterways.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Carry out surveys to establish baseline survey data and improve biodiversity knowledge NCT 2005 LMU through surveys prior to projects and BW developments.
To establish a program of regular bat walks Ongoing NCT along the Regents Canal.
To involve local people in carrying out BTCV 2006 NCT surveying and monitoring (establish links with FoG other schemes e.g. Canal Wardens).
Objective 7 To improve the water quality of the canals and waterways.
Target To have achieved a significant measurable increase in water quality on the Regents Canal and the New River.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To fix water pump on long section of New 2005 GSF GR River and to ensure continued working.
Establish water quality on the Regent’s canal 2005 BW NCT and realistic techniques to improve this.
Ensure that developments consider SUDS in Ongoing NCT PPP
- 28 - design-which is positive for flood BW management, water quality and biodiversity.
Abbreviations
NCT Nature Conservation Team BW British Waterways BTCV British Trust for Conservation Volunteers GM Grounds Management Section LMU London Metropolitan University FoG Friends of Groups LB Local Businesses GSF Islington Greenspace Fitters Service GR Islington Greenspace Rangers
- 29 - 3. Parks and Open Spaces
1. Aims
To raise awareness of the importance of Parks and City Squares in the conservation of Islington’s biodiversity.
Working alongside local people, to promote enjoyment of wildlife, increase biodiversity and encourage good conservation practice within Islington’s parks and city squares.
2. Introduction
The Islington Greenspace Strategy states that green space is a quality of life issue. Our parks are, within the context of a busy city, the spaces that allow us to breathe. We live in an urban setting, with all the advantages and disadvantages associated with city life. Amidst the stress of modern life, regular visits to wildlife friendly parks can do much to promote a sense of well being.
This action plan deals specifically with the parks and city squares within Islington. Within a densely urban borough such as ours, green space is in short supply and the importance of appropriate management cannot be overstated.
A key objective within Islington’s Greenspace Strategy is to promote sustainability. This is listed as a core value, which underpins its entire service provision. Parks traditionally have been considered places of human recreation, and managed as such. In recent years there has been a change in attitude to green space in general and we have come to appreciate the importance of wildlife in our lives. With the increasing pressure to build upon the little green that remains, it is important that we recognise the impact of this loss, not just upon our wildlife species, but also upon the human population in terms of our emotional and spiritual well being.
The action plans are being developed at a time when all over Britain concern is being expressed about the lack of resources allotted to our parks generally, this follows financial cut backs over many years.
The Council manages in total 79.76 hectares (ha) of parkland and open space. This is a mixture of large areas of parkland such as Highbury Fields, by far the largest and best-known park in Islington, with an area of 11.75 ha, and many smaller open spaces, particularly in the south of the borough, where the numerous city squares provide attractive green space for residents.
Key sites within the borough are the Local Nature Reserves: Gillespie Park, the Parkland Walk (which we share with Haringey Council) and Barnsbury Wood.
- 30 - These areas have their own management plans, written and implemented by the Nature Conservation Team.
3. Current Status
In 1981, the former London Ecology Unit, through the study of aerial photographs, stated that parks comprise about 8% (12,000 ha) of London’s total land area. Islington’s total green space comprises 0.32 % (82 ha) of London. Approximately 20% of Islington’s green spaces are Sites of Nature Conservation Importance, which have been identified and listed in Islington’s Unitary Development Plan (UDP).
The Sites of Nature Conservation Importance within Islington’s green space were agreed in 1991 following consultation with the London Ecology Unit. This designation was amended recently in line with the UDP revision in 2002.
A number of initiatives within the borough have already contributed to habitat improvement. This includes the adoption of a sustainable planting policy, a wild flower meadow creation scheme in a number of our parks and the establishment of on-site composting facilities in 13 parks.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
4.1 Public Perception
There is a diversity of opinion as to what constitutes appropriate park management. For example, having preference for short or long mown grassland and the perception of woodland habitats being unsafe due to the absence of clear sight lines.
4.2 Contract Specification
The current procedures governing contractors within the borough have an obvious impact on wildlife habitats. For example:
The use of chemicals, which can have a deleterious effect on a range of wildlife not targeted by the spraying, but which may be exposed to these substances.
Grass cutting regimes which may be inappropriately timed and do not remove cuttings. Cutting too early can prevent species flowering and setting seed for the next year, and rotting cuttings adds nutrients to the soil, favouring a few competitive species at the expense of greater diversity.
Having a partnership that includes the contractors responsible for implementing the new management specifications is, of course, vital to the delivery of the plan.
- 31 - 4.3 Invasive exotic plant species
Whilst in London there are plants, many of them ‘garden escapes’ that might be considered an acceptable part of our rich wildlife, there are others, such as the Japanese knotweed, which can pose serious problems unless managed.
4.4 Dog Fouling
This is being treated as a serious problem within the borough with a number of regular publicity events taking place promoting responsible dog ownership. Apart from the antisocial issues and the matter of hygiene, the extent of the problem is such that the nitrogen levels within the soil are being increased. This increase in nutrients creates an ideal habitat for some of our more vigorous plant species, such as stinging nettle, which can quickly dominate an area.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Although a number of the sites covered in the Plan are designated Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation (SINC’S), this does not provide statutory protection and their only protection is afforded through policies in the UDP. It is stated within the Mayor’s Biodiversity Strategy that London boroughs give strong protection to Sites of Metropolitan Importance in all planning proposals.
The status of all SINC’S is set out in Appendix A.
5.2 Local Action
5.2.1 New schemes
The boroughs new park, Royal Northern Gardens, has had nature conservation elements included, e.g. a native species hedge and a wild flower meadow. A wildflower meadow was created in Caledonian Park and Laycock Street Open Space, during 2003. Astey’s Row – a part of the New River has had a new Fernery installed. Regent’s Canal (West) – a new garden area and woodland planting. The new Greenspace Ranger Service covering all parks in the Borough. A commitment to reduce chemical use within parks at the rate of 10% per year over the next five years has been made by Glendale Grounds Management.
- 32 -
5.2.2 On-going Action:
The continued implementation of management plans within the Local Nature Reserves. Meadow creation projects. Wild flower meadows have been created in the following areas: Whittington Park, Barnard Park, Elthorne Park, Royal Northern Park and Rosemary Gardens. Required management implemented so that Gillespie Park continues to achieve Green Flag Status. Dog fouling: we are joined up to a London wide Kennel Club campaign, with publicity material, waste bags etc. being provided by that organisation.
6. Flagship Species
These special plants and animals are characteristic of parks, squares and / or amenity grassland in Islington.
The most commonly seen bat in Erinaceus London. Like all Bats this animal is Pipistrelle Bat europaeus threatened by loss of habitat particularly roost sites. Toads are found across London, they Common Toad Bufo bufo require ponds for breeding and damp cover for hunting and hibernation. Making a come back in the London Sparrow hawk Accipiter nisus area, this magnificent bird of prey is regularly seen in this area of London. For reasons not completely Passer understood, this previously common House Sparrow domesticus bird is under threat with numbers declining. This much loved songbird is present Turdus throughout London, but prone to cat Song Thrush philomelus predation and slug pellets entering the food chain. This attractive garden bird benefits Great Tit Parus major from bird feeding stations during the winter period especially. This butterfly may be seen from early Gatekeeper July to late September. The Pyronia tithonus Butterfly caterpillars feed upon a variety of grass species. One of our earliest butterflies, this Holly blue Celastrina species has two broods feeding upon Butterfly argiolus holly and ivy, but also upon certain
- 33 - other plants. Nationally significant, this endangered Greater Stag Lucanus cervus species may be helped by the creation Beetle of specific stag beetle ‘loggeries’. Unlike its ‘greater’ relative, this Lesser Stag Dorcus species is regularly found in and Beetle parallelipipidus around rotting wood such as old tree stumps. This meadow wildflower has been Chrysanthemum Ox-eye Daisy sown into a number of our parks and leucanthemum is continuing to set seed and prosper. Bulbous Ranunculus This buttercup species is found in a Buttercup bulbosus number of the boroughs parks.
7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To increase biodiversity in parks by promoting good management for nature conservation.
Target To have raised the SINC status of at least two of our parks per year and achieved a measurable increase within our parks biodiversity.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To produce site improvement plans for our NCT parks. The Nature Conservation Team is to GL 2008 GR be a consultee in the production of these DLO plans. OC
To identify 2 sites per year to enhance SINC status by one level. Suggested sites GL Annual include Highbury Fields, Elthorne Park, NCT GR On-going Sunnyside Gardens, Kings Square and FoG Newington Green.
To develop ponds and wetlands as a habitat GR 2008 NCT in our parks. GS
- 34 -
To develop a policy that any change in the ‘footprint’ of a park would not only result in no 2005 NCT PD overall loss of green space, but also no overall loss of biodiversity value.
To have nature conservation and biodiversity as a major part of management plans for all On-going NCT GR parks.
To ensure that biodiversity is taken into On-going PD NCT account during the development and design phase of new parks projects.
Objective 2 To gather information of flora and fauna (including exotic species) in Islington’s Parks.
Target To have accessible information available to all interested groups.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To develop community involvement in the surveying of wildlife including Flagship 2008 NCT LWT Species.
LWT To establish a biological monitoring system 2005 NCT GR with the provision of training.
Objective 3 Working alongside local people to promote and enhance enjoyment of the natural landscape within our parks.
Target An increase in public involvement in the HAP process: the creation of voluntary warden scheme for each of our parks; an on-going series of awareness raising events within the borough, including the promotion of a reformed Islington Wildlife Group.
- 35 - Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To promote a Voluntary Warden scheme for 2008 NCT Parks and Nature reserves.
Involve ‘Friends of’ groups in the BAP by On-going GR NCT attending and contributing to meetings.
Holding Biodiversity Day events with On-going NCT workshops laid on.
Liaison with Business Section, Operations BS and Contractors, to ensure that all HAP Aims On-going NCT DLO & Objectives are correctly implemented. GL
The production of up to date interpretation On-going NCT and publicity regarding the BAP in parks.
Liaison with the Kennel Club as part of their DLO SU London-wide campaign in the promotion of On-going NCT GS responsible dog ownership with regard to dog KC mess.
Links with National and Regional Policies
London Borough of Islington Tree Policy London Borough of Islington Sustainable Planting Policy
Abbreviations
BAP Biodiversity Action Plan HAP Habitat Action Plan NCT Nature Conservation Team DLO Direct Labour Organisation GL Glendale Managed Services GR Islington Greenspace Ranger Service FoG Friends of Groups GS Islington Greenspace and Leisure PD Projects and Development Section
- 36 - LWT London Wildlife trust BS Business Section SU Sustainability Team KC Kennel Club LNR Local Nature Reserve SINC Site of Importance for Nature Conservation
Appendix ‘A’
Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation in Islington:
Designations: Sites of Local Importance Sites of Borough Importance Sites of Metropolitan Importance Local Nature Reserve
Archway Road Cutting SBI Grade 1 Archway Park SLI Barnsbury Square Gardens SLI Barnsbury Wood LNR SBI Caledonian Park SBI Grade 1 Parkland Walk (Islington stretch) LNR & SMI Culpepper Street Open Space SBI Grade 2 Dartmouth Park SBI Grade 1 Elthorne Park SBI Grade 2 Foxham Gardens SLI Gillespie Park LNR SMI Granville Square SLI Highbury Fields SLI Kings Square SLI Market Road Gardens SBI Grade 2 Newington Green Gardens SLI New River Walk SBI Grade 1 St Mary Magdalene Church Gardens SLI St Paul’s Shrubbery SLI Thornhill Square SLI Wilmington Square Gardens SLI
- 37 - 4. Gardens and Allotments
1. Aims
To establish baseline information about the status of wildlife in Islington’s private gardens and allotments.
To educate the community in the benefits, pleasures and importance of wildlife gardening.
To identify and protect the existing biodiversity of gardens in the borough, and improve individual private gardens and allotments as wildlife habitats.
To influence the planning and development policy of the local authority in favour of the biodiversity potential of gardens and allotments.
2. Introduction
Within this action plan we have defined as private gardens those garden areas where householders have sole responsibility for management. This designation also applies to allotment holders.
In a borough as lacking in green spaces as Islington private gardens and allotments form an important part of our landscape. We have included allotments in this plan because they provide the individual allotment holder with an opportunity to cultivate the soil and affect nature positively. There are currently only 15 plots owned by the Council on one site, & 32 plots at Arvon Road Allotments site. An additional 10 plots are being developed at Evershot Road. In comparison to other boroughs, the total number of allotment sites and plots in Islington is very small.
Gardens are important to the survival of a broad range of wildlife. As sources of nectar for butterflies and bees they are vital. The very existence of amphibians is linked to the availability of pond water; the same, of course, applies to fresh water invertebrates. The perimeter of an allotment site can provide important cover for hedgehogs and other small mammals. Gardens are often adjacent to wildlife corridors such as canals, railway lines, parks and nature reserves. In this situation they become potential ‘feeding stations’ for a wide range of creatures.
The presence of wildlife in an inner-city garden adds to our quality of life. To be able to enjoy, for example, the sight of goldfinches feeding upon teasel heads, or brimstone butterflies winging through the garden and pausing to feed upon nasturtium flowers, can promote a sense of well-being. The sight of a hedgehog crossing the lawn at night is a great pleasure as well as being a sustainable way to deal with snails in the vegetable patch.
- 38 - Allotments are important community meeting places for people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. The communal use of compost facilities, produce exchange and the use of rainwater collected in butts for the watering of gardens, all go towards an enhanced sense of community.
3. Current Status
The rapid growth of suburban London since the 1900's has meant that undeveloped land has become ever scarcer, with gardens coming under pressure for development.
The former London Ecology Unit carried out an analysis of aerial photographs taken in 1981 and found that private gardens comprise approximately 20% of Greater London. The percentage for the London Borough of Islington at that date was 25% and this has not changed significantly.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
4.1 Management
Management style has a profound effect on whether wildlife thrives within a garden. A garden intensively managed, for example with close-cropped lawn, regularly dosed with weed killer and worm repellent, or hard landscaped with concrete slabs and a pond full of goldfish, will support fewer species than a garden with a range of natural habitats. Predation by pets, particularly cats, poses a threat to mammals and birds. Over-tidy gardeners who remove all leaf litter and dead logs are removing hibernation sites for hedgehogs, frogs and toads and habitats for fungi and invertebrates. Conversely, a completely neglected garden may be invaded by a vigorous non-native plant species such as Japanese Knotweed, and this can prove equally damaging to wildlife.
4.2 Planting
The plants within a garden are directly linked to wildlife species found there. Nectar sources such as iceplant (sedum), nasturtium, buddleia, and wallflowers are important, but the planting of native wildflowers with their associated invertebrates is also to be encouraged. This provides an opportunity for residents to contribute positively to our environment. The inclusion of a ‘wild area’, if space allows, is also useful. A nettle patch supports early summer butterfly larvae, with the possibility of cutting back in July for new growth and a fresh lot of caterpillars pupating and emerging as adult butterflies later on.
The planting of sterile plants such as species with double-headed flowers is to be discouraged; although attractive visually, they produce neither nectar nor fruit.
- 39 - 4.3 Pesticide use
The use of pesticides within Islington’s parks is currently being reduced in the grounds maintenance contract by a rate of 10% annually for the next five years. In line with this we would like to discourage the use of all toxic chemicals within gardens and allotments in Islington. Whilst acknowledging that in certain cases this might prove difficult, i.e. slug pellets and weed killer, we feel it is worth providing residents with the latest in alternative strategies: the use of beer traps and mulching with wood-bark, or a suitable alternative.
4.4 Scale
The typical Islington private garden is very small, and the available allotment sites are fewer than other boroughs. Wildlife benefit is maximised when gardens and allotments are adjacent to a ‘wildlife corridor’ or park open space. However, individuals can increase the size of potential habitats through linking with neighbours. For example, a series of households planting hawthorn creates a hedgerow; in Hackney, a pair of gardens have a large pond built across the joint back garden boundary.
4.5 Planning Controls
The Borough’s Unitary Development Plan, in policy H6, states that: "new developments on existing gardens will not normally be permitted. Exceptions will only be allowed where the applicant can demonstrate that there will be no significant loss of nature conservation amenity. Also, that the scheme will not adversely effect the amenities of nearby occupiers". In addition, policy 4.1.17 states that: "garden areas are also important for wildlife by virtue of their size and links with other gardens and green spaces and the range of habitats they provide". The UDP also points out that the Greater London Authority encourages local planning authorities to oppose developments that result in significant harm to the character and biodiversity of garden areas. In addition, developers are encouraged through policy H10 to include new garden areas in new schemes, where this is appropriate and practical.
4.6 Wider Factors
In many ways this is an educational project and necessitates a raising of awareness around environmental sustainability. There is a current trend in garden ‘makeover’ programmes on television to treat gardens as an extra room of the house. This approach rarely promotes wildlife-friendly gardening. Most garden centres do now stock some organic and environmentally responsible products. However, toxic pesticides and fungicides predominate, and many unsustainable products are on offer such as wild plants, peat, tropical hardwoods and natural stone, collected from threatened habitats around the world. The public can be encouraged to use wood from sustainable sources by purchasing
- 40 - Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) products, and general awareness raised for consumers to look out for the FSC logo. Garden centres, the media, and the horticultural industry as a whole have a significant role to play in educating individual gardeners and encouraging a more eco-friendly practice.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Islington Unitary Development Plan
5.2 Local Action
Since the Islington Ecology Centre was built in 1994, it has held a number of events publicising wildlife friendly gardening, taking a proactive role in this by giving away native shrubs and trees of benefit to the environment. Also within the borough, Culpeper Community Gardens and Sunnyside Gardens have long campaigned for a more widespread use of compost bins. Organic gardening practices are promoted by all these organisations.
6. Flagship Species
These special plants and animals are characteristic of Gardens and Allotments in Islington
Toads are found across London, they Common Toad Bufo bufo require ponds for breeding and damp cover for hunting and hibernation. This popular songbird (and snail Turdus Song Thrush eater!) is prone to cat predation and philomelos slug pellets. This attractive garden bird benefits Great Tit Parus major from bird feeding stations during the winter period especially. This beautiful butterfly has one generation per year. The caterpillars Peacock Butterfly Inachis io feed almost exclusively upon stinging nettle. An important food source for a wide range of creatures. For example, Butterflies such as the Peacock and Small Tortoiseshell and Moths, such Stinging Nettle Urtica dioica as the Scarlet Tiger and the Beautiful Golden Y, have the nettle as a food source. Nettles are also a very good fertilizer, being rich in nitrogen.
- 41 - Due to changes in agricultural practice and habitat loss, this familiar insect is Bumblebee Bombus spp. in trouble. Gardens play a vital role in their survival. Another great eater of slugs, and popular with everyone. Threats include slug pellets and steep sided Erinaceus Hedgehog ponds. Another hazard being the europaeus removal of leaf litter and the lighting of bonfires in which they may be hibernating.
7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To establish baseline information about the status of wildlife in Islington’s private gardens and allotments
Target To run a public survey every 5 years to monitor the wildlife in Islington’s gardens and allotments
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners RSPB Collect existing statistics on wildlife within the LWT 2006 IG Borough. GLA NCT
Build up a database of garden size and distribution within the Borough using aerial photographs to provide a baseline for 2005 IG monitoring garden extent, any future reductions, the location of green corridors, and areas of deprivation.
Distribute a basic survey to enable the public to record species in their gardens & allotments, NCT AA’s and the measures they take to make these 2006 IG areas attractive to wildlife. Publicise the results.
Repeat survey every 5 years to monitor 2010 & NCT AA’s progress. onwards IG
- 42 -
Objective 2 To educate the community in the benefits, pleasures and importance of wildlife gardening.
Target To produce a wildlife gardening pack and ensure it’s wide distribution and accessibility to Islington’s residents
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
LWT Compile and collate a user-friendly literature 2005 NCT CWG for the wildlife gardening pack. IG
Place such literature on the Nature Conservation Teams website; distribute at the IG 2005 NCT Ecology Centre & relevant events, & use public GR notice boards.
Raise awareness through articles in the local GR press, and in local societies and residents and NCT Ongoing CCG tenants’ associations’ newsletters, and have a IG RA’s presence at community outdoor events.
Make contact with 1 local garden centre to encourage the promotion of wildlife-friendly & 2007 NCT sustainable products, and stock FSC logo products.
Establish what gardening courses are available within the borough; identify 1 organiser with whom to work, with a view to 2008 IG the inclusion of a greater wildlife element in their course.
Add a wildlife gardening category in the 2006 NCT IG Islington in Bloom Competition.
- 43 -
To produce guidance notes on problem 2005 NCT species i.e. foxes, squirrels, Japanese knotweed
Objective 3 To identify and protect the existing biodiversity of gardens in the borough and to improve individual private gardens and allotments as wildlife habitats.
Target To engage local residents in groups and events that promote wildlife gardening
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Establish 1 demonstration wildlife garden as 2006 NCT an example of good practice.
Identify boundaries or unused areas within allotments which could be used as green 2005 ARAA AA’s corridors.
To establish & publicise a Wildlife gardening sub-group as part of the Islington Wildlife 2005 SL NCT Group.
Hold 1 wildlife gardening event each year for Annually SCG the public, at which suitable plants can be to NCT IG handed out free of charge, if possible. 2009
Objective 4 To influence the planning and development policy of the local authority in favour of the biodiversity potential of gardens & allotments.
Target To increase the number of allotments in the borough
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Encourage the provision of more 2009 ARAA AA’s allotments. These could be provided as a
- 44 - planning gain when new developments are approved.
Achieve a reduction in the building over of backlands, in accordance with the 2009 NCT PPP borough’s Unitary Development Plan & establish current rates.
Establish agreement with one major PPP developer to include native planting in 2009 NCT ARAA landscaping schemes of private gardens. RS’s
Links with other Islington Habitat and Species Action Plans
Habitats Species Built Environment Hedgehog Parks and Open Spaces House Sparrow
Abbreviations
NCT Nature Conservation Team IG Islington Gardeners RSPB The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds LWT London Wildlife Trust GLA Greater London Authority AA’s Allotment Associations CWG Centre for Wildlife Gardening GR Islington Greenspace Rangers CCG Culpeper Community Garden RA’s Residents’ Associations ARAA Arvon Road Allotments Association SCG Sunnyside Community Garden RS’s Residents’ Societies PPP Planning, Policy and Performance SL Sue Lees
- 45 - 5. Railside Land
1. Aims
To conserve and enhance the biodiversity of railside land.
To raise the awareness of railside land’s value for biodiversity.
To develop key sites as sites of importance for nature conservation.
2. Introduction
Railside land forms important areas of value for nature conservation. In inner London they are particularly important as they can make up a significant proportion of the land of value for nature conservation. In fact in the 1987 habitat study, undertaken by the London Ecology Unit, it was found that 75% of the ‘wild’ land in Islington was railside land. They provide habitats that can support populations of butterflies, grasshopper and birds. On Islington’s railside land plants such as welted thistle and fennel have been found along with breeding birds such as black redstart a national rarity. The land adjacent to rail lines can also function as green corridors which help the movement of species from different sites to others. This is one of the reasons that Gillespie Park Local Nature Reserve has such a large number of bird sightings.
3. Current Status
The areas of railside land which have value for nature conservation have been designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation and Borough Importance – Grade 1. These are the lines around Drayton Park Station, the North London Link, Upper Holloway station to Crouch Hill station, Copenhagen Junction, Holloway Road to Caledonian Road, Junction Road cutting and Isledon Road. However since the study was carried out there has been large losses of land. These have occurred around the Holloway Road to Caledonian Road section of the main Kings Cross line, the area known as Copenhagen Junction and at Isledon Road. Also a number of stretches of the line are in a poor state due to the dumping of litter and the dominance of alien species such as Japanese knotweed.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
4.1 Unsympathetic management practices
Railside land is of importance due to the variety of habitats that occur. In the past the linesides were intensively managed and mostly maintained as grassland. However from around the 1950’s the level of management has decreased and scrub and woodland have developed. At the present the
- 46 - management of the land guided by operational standards aims to prevent trees from growing to close to the track. In order to achieve this a 15 metre strip is regularly cleared felled. However this level of management is not enough to prevent the loss of the remaining grassland. In most places a sycamore / ash scrub has developed.
4.2 Development pressures
Development pressures are a big problem in Islington where there is a big demand for land for housing and business. A number of the large areas of railside Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation have suffered loss due to development. These include the Isleden Road and Drayton Park Station sites to housing developments. None of the railside land SINC’s have been completely lost but some including the above mentioned have suffered a large loss of area.
4.3 Litter and Dumping
This is a problem as it can physically damage the habitat and also it reduces their amenity value. It is a problem on Islington’s railside land and is seen as a particular problem in the section of the North London link which runs from Highbury and Islington station to Dalston Kingsland Station.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
The areas of rail side land that are designated as SINC’ s are protected by the policies in the UDP. The main polices for the protection of SINC’s are Env 22 and 23.
5.2 National Action
The management of these areas is carried out by Network Rail. This is a new company which has taken over from Railtrack. They have a commitment to manage the lines having regard to nature conservation but only within operational limits.
5.3 Local Action
Due to the closed nature of the sites there is currently little local action
6. Flagship species
These special plants and animals are characteristic of Railside lands
- 47 - Polyommatus This butterfly is the most common blue Common Blue icarus butterfly in Britain.
Lasiommata This butterfly is so named due to its Wall Brown megera habit of resting on walls in the sunshine. Native multi-stemmed shrub often found in hedgerows with a rounded leaf Corylus tapering to a point. Serrated edges with Hazel avellana soft hairs on the underside. Produces bunches of nuts (cobs) valuable for a variety of mammals and birds. This is a small bird that likes to live in Troglodytes overgrown areas. It is shy and due to its Wren troglodytes habitat not seen very often. However it is in fact one of Britain’s most numerous birds. This is a rare bird that has moved from Phoenicurus its natural habitat of rock ledges to the Black Redstart ochruros ledges of buildings often in former
industrial areas.
These are large noisy insects. The Grasshoppers Acrididae sp sound they make is made by rubbing wing on leg.
7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To work with relevant management companies to improve management practices along railside lands.
Target Agree management guidelines
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Arrange meetings with Network Rail and other relevant bodies to discuss possible 2005 NCT NR improvements to the management of railside lands for the benefit of nature conservation.
- 48 - Produce management guidelines that take into account the management of railside land 2006 NCT NR for its nature conservation value.
To develop a framework for the implementation of these guidelines in 2006 NCT NR agreement with Network Rail.
Objective 2 To raise the awareness of planners and the general public to the value of railside land.
Target Ongoing raised awareness.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Liaison with Planning, Development and Control over applications effecting railside Ongoing NCT PPP land. The Nature Conservation Team should be consulted over any such applications.
Produce publicity raising the awareness of the benefits of railside land. This could include the 2007 NCT NR production of a leaflet, interpretation boards and general publicity campaigns.
Objective 3 To develop suitable areas of railside land as nature reserves.
Target To have one additional site managed as a nature reserve.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Identify possible sites that have an existing NR 2005 NCT level of value for nature conservation. CPRUG
- 49 -
Liaise with local community to gauge public NR 2007 NCT opinion CPRUG
Liaise with land owners 2007 NCT NR
Produce management regime for the site that will conserve and enhance the nature 2008 NCT NR conservation value of the site.
Designate site as a Site of Importance for 2008 NCT NR Nature Conservation in consultation with the Greater London Authority
Objective 4 To improve the visual quality of railside land.
Target To remove litter and dumping from one section of line.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To identify section of line to tackle. This will happen after a survey of the lines to establish 2005 NCT NR the areas worst effected.
Liaise with the relevant authorities such as Network Rail and the rail operator, to obtain 2007 NCT NR permission to carry out the work.
Involve the local community, in a clearance 2007 NCT NR project.
Produce anti dumping and litter publicity. 2008 NCT NR
- 50 - Links with other Habitat and Species Action Plans
Habitats Species Parks and Openspaces Bat House Sparrow
Links with National and Regional Policies
Islington Unitary Development Plan PPG 9 (Planning Policy Guidance: Nature Conservation, 1994)
Abbreviations
NCT Nature Conservation Team PPP Planning, Policy and Performance NR Network Rail CPRUG Caledonian Park Rail Users Group SINC Site of Importance for Nature Conservation
- 51 - 6. School Grounds
1. Aims
To raise awareness of biodiversity and school grounds as a biodiverse environment within the school community.
To conserve and enhance existing biodiversity, and encourage good nature conservation practice within the school environment.
To provide support and information enabling schools to realise the educational value of biodiversity within their grounds.
2. Introduction
The Habitat Action Plan for School Grounds considers the grounds of all educational facilities in Islington including adventure playgrounds and privately run as well as local government schools. Due to the lack of green spaces within the grounds of these facilities both hard and soft landscapes will be included.
Table 1. Educational facilities in Islington
Educational Type Number Nurseries 125 Primary (Private and Local Government) 47 Secondary (Private and Local 9 Government) Special 5 Pupil Referral Unit 3 Early Years Centre 10 Adventure Playgrounds 12 College 1 University 2
2.1 Importance
2.1.1 As wildlife refuges
Although many school grounds are largely made up of hard landscaping they can often comprise of relatively large areas that provide refuge and home to a variety of wildlife. The hours within which school grounds are used, and the fact that some areas remain undisturbed for long periods, also means that wildlife is able to flourish in relative safety. In addition to this many schools have already taken
- 52 - the initiative to develop ‘wild areas’ or ‘nature gardens’ resulting in a variety of habitats being created such as:
Ponds Meadows Scrub Raised Beds / Containers
The nature of school grounds also means that they are often easily definable areas which are managed by an identified person(‘s) and as a result can be easily improved for wildlife value.
2.1.2 As educational resources
School grounds often provide young people with their first and often most memorable experiences of the natural world at an age when they are most impressionable. As Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Citizenship become incorporated into the National Curriculum, school grounds have become an ever more important cross-curricular resource and their development and utilisation is seen by Ofsted as being increasingly essential.
School grounds and the development of the idea of the ‘outdoor classroom’ not only provide beneficial experiences through the formal curriculum but also provide enjoyable surroundings through which pupils can learn through the informal curriculum. School grounds can provide pupils with the opportunity to develop their sensory awareness as well as instilling a sense of stewardship for the world around them developing opportunities for life long learning.
The frequent visits of young people also allow long term studies and the observation of gradual change to be undertaken. It is by reaching these young people and making them aware of the threats that face wildlife and how they themselves can make a difference at a local level that will decide the long-term success of the Islington Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) and the extension of its objectives into the wider community.
3. Current status
From the Nature Conservation in Islington Ecology Handbook 19 [1] produced by the London Ecology Unit (1991) the following schools were highlighted as Sites of Local Importance (SLI).
1. Tufnell Park Primary School Nature Garden
2. Margaret McMillan Nursery School Garden
3. Hatchard Road Wildlife Garden
4. Kingsway College
- 53 -
5. St. Mary Magdalene School Rough and Nature Garden
Many of Islington’s schools have developed or are planning to develop wildlife areas within their grounds which are utilised for a variety of educational uses (see Appendix 1). This development has included the running of out of school hours learning (OSHL) clubs whose activity are based around wildlife study and growing.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Habitat
4.1 Contract Specification
Most schools have either an employee of the school or one of the boroughs contractors managing their grounds. Management practices are often undertaken with wildlife conservation as low priority with often negative impacts on potentially biodiverse habitats such as pesticide use and close cut mowing regimes.
4.2 School support
Many schools within the borough have developed ‘wildlife areas’ within their grounds. These areas have often been maintained by a key member within the teaching staff. As a result of this key person leaving or adopting other responsibilities, care and upkeep of such ‘refuges’ is often not sustained and as a result they become neglected and left in an unmanaged state.
4.3 Inappropriate use
Often 'wildlife gardens’ are created within schools in areas that receive heavy use from pupils. As a result they are unsustainable and become heavily damaged.
4.4 Safety
Many schools consider wildlife areas to be unsafe environments where things such as brambles, nettles and especially ponds can be seen as potential hazards to pupils. As a result such areas are either never created or, as health and safety restrictions increase, are developed for other use.
4.5 Aesthetics
Wildlife areas can often appear unkempt and aesthetically unpleasing due to their ‘wild’ appearance. Schools often therefore prefer to develop traditionally planted beds and amenity grass which lack wildlife value.
- 54 - 4.6 Time constraints
Wildlife areas are often seen by schools as time consuming and a heavy responsibility for already stretched staff although with the correct management regime even the small improvements for wildlife can often save time and resources.
4.7 Land use
If pupil numbers increase buildings are often extended to accommodate such numbers causing the loss of valuable ‘natural’ habitat. In conjunction with this green space is often taken up with the extension of school and visitor car parks.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
The Unitary Development Plan (UDP) [2] outlines a number of school grounds as Sites of Local Importance (SLI):
Margaret McMillan Nursery school Garden at Tufnell Park Primary School Site r/o St. Mary Magdalene School Moreland School – Garden St Mary’s School Winton School – Garden
It is the responsibility of schools to ensure the maintenance of their own grounds which is often carried out by a maintenance contractor or a member of staff within the school.
School grounds are protected areas of open space and cannot be put to alternative uses without special permission from the Secretary of State for Education and Employment.
5.2 National Action
School grounds make up 5% of all the built areas in the UK and more emphasis is being placed upon the management of these in an environmentally responsible way. The development of school grounds as biodiverse resources and the inclusion of education for sustainable development within the national curriculum are becoming increasingly recognised by the QCA, DfES and Ofsted as an important part of the delivery of subjects such as Science, Geography, Citizenship and PSHE. Ofsted’s recently published document outlines the future for ESD in the curriculum and shows the importance that is now being put on ESD and its incorporation in the National Curriculum. ‘Taking the first step
- 55 - forward…towards an education for sustainable development’ [3] outlines biological diversity as one of the most important ESD concepts. In particular in its own assessment criteria, school grounds as a ‘learning environment’ are highlighted as important including ‘focusing on the use of school grounds and facilities; wildlife gardens; use and upkeep of green space; nature set-aside; recycling facilities; use of school grounds for teaching as well as enhancing the taught curriculum; diversification of school buildings and grounds outside school hours, for example for community education. In their schools self assessment procedure [4 it also highlights ‘The active involvement of pupils in initiatives that promote sustainability – for example, to conserve energy, recycle materials and improve the whole school environment, including the school grounds’ as important.
In support of this the DfES has launched a ‘green agenda’ for schools, colleges and universities in the form of its Sustainable Development Action Plan [5 to promote greater consideration to the environment and society. The management of school grounds for the delivery of ESD is again at the forefront of this document
Many national organisations exist to provide support to schools in the delivery of environmental education and the development of school grounds as biodiverse resources (for examples of current national programmes see Appendix 1).
5.3 Local Action
Within Islington there are a variety of environmental organisations assisting schools in the development of their grounds and environmental education. These organisations support schools through a variety of Environmental Education Programmes providing resources and information. A series of small grants are also administered by Groundwork as part of the Islington Community Environment Scheme (ICES). Such organisations provide an important support network for schools in the development and utilisation of their grounds for environmental education and will play a vital role in the delivery of the School Grounds Habitat Action Plan.
6. Flagship Species
These animals and plants are characteristic of school grounds in Islington
Familiar amphibian commonly Rana greenish yellow to brown in colour. Common Frog temporaria Smoother than the common toad and a widespread resident of ponds. Characteristic wagtail with pied plumage Pied Wagtail Motacilla alba and typically long tail frequently flicked. A visitor of gardens nesting in ivy and
- 56 - often seen feeding in playgrounds A striking butterfly that is common in Vanessa gardens and parks, feeding on flowers Red Admiral atalanta and fallen fruit. Lays eggs on stinging nettle which is caterpillars food plant. Perhaps the most familiar of London’s garden birds although the ‘cockney sparrer’ is in rapid decline. Male is an Passer attractive bird with black bib and face House Sparrow domesticus mottled brown back and pale underside. The female is duller and lacks head colours. There nests are built in colonies often around buildings. Native multi-stemmed shrub often found in hedgerows with a rounded leaf Corylus tapering to a point. Serrated edges with Hazel avellana soft hairs on the underside. Produces bunches of nuts (cobs) valuable for a variety of mammals and birds. Perhaps the most distinctive and common of all our grasses is course with stiff hard stems and hairy sharp- Dactylis Cocksfoot edged leaves. It grows rapidly and glomerata recovers quickly after cutting. Particularly good for butterflies such as the speckled wood and gatekeeper.
7. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To engage Islington schools in the organisation and delivery of a Biodiversity Day in conjunction with education week.
Target For 30% of Islington schools to take part in a Biodiversity Day increasing by 5% each year.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners CEA To work with CEA and ILEA in the co- ILEA 2005 NCT ordination and delivery of a borough wide GR schools biodiversity day. LT
To produce a Biodiversity Day pack and 2006 NCT online material to assist in the running of
- 57 - a Schools Biodiversity Day. CEA To set up pupil biodiversity award ILEA 2006 NCT highlighting pupil achievement in GR Biodiversity related activity. LT
Objective 2 To increase the number of Islington Schools actively managing their grounds sustainably for biodiversity and ensure that sites outlined in the UDP retain their status.
Target For 40% of schools to develop an un-mown grass area within their grounds.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
To support schools in entering Islington in Bloom and to disseminate examples of GR good practice, ensuring 5% of schools 2005 NCT IWG enter in 1st year increasing by 1% in IG subsequent years.
To produce a programme of basic guidance, advice and training for school GL grounds contractors and educational staff 2006 NCT DLO in the management of school grounds for PAN Biodiversity.
To develop an agreed management plan GR and environmental policy in 10% of IWG Islington’s schools, to promote 2007 NCT GL biodiversity within their grounds DLO increasing by a further 1% in subsequent LMU years.
Through training and advice encourage GR 50% of schools to adopt a pesticide free IWG policy and the use of pesticide free 2007 NCT GL alternatives, rising by 10% in subsequent DLO years. PAN
- 58 -
- 59 - Objective 3 To establish a number of wildlife areas within identified schools as a demonstration of good practice.
Target To develop best practice wildlife areas in three educational establishments one primary, one secondary and one tertiary.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
To survey school grounds and work with GR partners in designing and developing 2006 NCT IWG wildlife areas. LMU
To work with partners and provide support in the application of funding for wildlife 2006 NCT GR area development.
CEA Involve other schools through workdays, ILEA seminars and the production of 2008 NCT GR information material as a means of LT disseminating ideas for best practice.
Objective 4 To encourage schools to survey biodiversity within their school grounds.
Target For 20% of schools to carry out species surveys as part of borough monitoring.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
To set up and support a schools CEA ‘Biodiversity Investigator’ network ILEA 2006 NCT encouraging pupils to undertake GR biodiversity monitoring. LT
To produce self survey forms (on line and GR paper based) and other resources to 2006 NCT LT support schools in surveying flagship species on a quarterly basis.
- 60 -
GR
To create a school grounds biodiversity NCT LT 2007 database. LMU IWG
IWG Provide on line dissemination of results 2007 NCT LMU and follow up educational resources.
Objective 5 To produce a bank of resources allowing schools to engage fully with the biodiversity in their school grounds.
Target To ensure that Biodiversity resource material is available through public and school library services.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
To deliver a series of Biodiversity themed sessions for schools to be delivered within 2005 NCT GR school as well as the Islington Ecology Centre.
To produce a Biodiversity themed curriculum pack / online resources as part of Nature Conservation Website and 2008 NCT LMU distribute – to include work produced by pupils.
To produce a ‘Biodiversity Treasure Chest’ GR 2008 NCT for the schools library service. LMU
To advise on the utilisation of biodiversity as a resource within the national Ongoing NCT GR curriculum through a programme of INSET and demonstration events e.g. Pond building.
Links with other Islington Habitat and Species Action Plans
- 61 - Habitats Species Private Gardens Hedgehog Parks and Open Spaces House Sparrow Bats Greater Stag Beetle
Links with National and Regional Policies
Islington Unitary Development Plan London Borough of Islington Supplementary Planning Guidance on Sustainable Building Construction London Borough of Islington Sustainable Planting Policy London Borough of Islington Grounds Maintenance Contract London Borough of Islington Tree Policy Curriculum 2000 (the national curriculum for school pupils 5 – 16 years). [6] Ofsted report ‘Taking the first step forward…towards an education for sustainable development’. DfES Sustainable Development Action Plan. DfES Strategic Framework. [7] Islington Education Development Plan 2002 - 2004.[8]
Key references
[1] Nature Conservation in Islington. Ecology Handbook 19. London Ecology Unit 1993
[2] Unitary Development Plan. Islington Planning Service 2002
[3 Taking the first step forward…towards an education for sustainable development. Good practice in primary and secondary schools. Ofsted 2003.
[4] Framework 2003 - Inspecting Schools. Ofsted 2003 [5] Sustainable Development Action Plan for Education and Skills. DfES 2003
[6] Curriculum 2000 (the national curriculum for school pupils 5 – 16 years). DfES 2000
[7] Delivering Results, A Strategy to 2006. DfES 2002
[8] Islington Education Development Plan 2002 – 2007. CEA@Islington 2002
Abbreviations
BTO British Trust for Ornithology
- 62 - CEA Cambridge Education Authority DEFRA Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs DfES Department for Education and Skills ESD Education for Sustainable Development GCI Groundwork Camden and Islington GLA Greater London Authority GL Glendales Grounds Management HAP Habitat Action Plan DLO Direct Labour Organisation IG Islington Gardeners Association GR Islington Greenspace Rangers NCT Islington Nature Conservation Team IWG Islington Wildlife Group JNCC Join Nature Conservation Committee LBI London Borough of Islington Ofsted Officer for Standards in Education OSHL Out of School Hours Learning PAN Pesticides Action Network PSHE Personal, Social and Health Education QCA Qualification and Curriculum Authority SAP Species Action Plan SLI Site of Local Importance UDP Unitary Development Plan LMU London Metropolitan University (volunteers) LT Local Teachers
Appendix 1
National organisations supporting environmental education and school grounds development.
Organisation Action
Department for Education Run the ‘Growing Schools’ initiative to develop and Skills (DfES) opportunities that enhance teaching and learning through farming and growing. Council for Environmental CEE, the Council for Environmental Education, is Education a national umbrella body in England. The Council consists of 76 national organisations with interests in education, the environment and sustainable development London Wildlife Trust – Wildlife Watch is the junior branch of The Wildlife Wildlife Watch Trusts whose aim is to encourage children to engage in their environment and the issues affecting it. This is done though Watch groups, projects and members' publications.
- 63 - Learning Through LTL are leaders in the field of school grounds and Landscapes provide a 'one stop shop' for any issue relating to school grounds run the National School Grounds week and administer the EDF Energy School Grounds Awards Groundwork Groundwork is a federation of Trusts working with their partners in poor areas to improve the quality of the local environment and the lives of local people including the development of school grounds. Groundwork also administer the Living Spaces Grants Programme. Royal Society for the The RSPB is a national charity working for a Protection of Birds (RSPB) healthy environment rich in birds and wildlife. The organisation runs a comprehensive education programme and run Wildlife Explorers, an exciting club for 8 - 13 year olds who are interested in the environment. The largest environmental club of its kind for young people in the world. Federation of City Farms City farms and community gardens are and Gardens community-managed projects working with people, animals and plants. They range from tiny wildlife gardens to fruit and vegetable plots on housing estates, from community polytunnels to large city farms. Duchy Originals HDRA The schools branch of the Henry Doubleday Organic Gardens for Research Association who promoting organic Schools growing. Provide a wide range of materials and resources including seeds. Field Studies Council (FSC) The Field Studies Council (FSC) is a pioneering educational charity committed to bringing environmental understanding to all. The FSC has a national network of 17 education centres, international outreach training projects, research programmes, information and publication services.
- 64 - The Species Action Plans
1. House Sparrow 2. Hedgehog 3. Stag Beetle 4. Bats 5. Black Poplar
- 65 - 1. House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
1. Aims
To raise awareness of the decline of the house sparrow and the need for its conservation.
To preserve existing populations and undertake measures to raise numbers within the borough.
2. Introduction
Of all the British birds the house sparrow has the closest relationship with people and no where is this more evident than in London. Almost synonymous with urban living and the countries capital the cockney ‘sparrer’ or house sparrow has a place in the hearts of many Londoners. The house sparrow with its relatively tame nature and lively social behaviour is a regular visitor to garden bird tables.
In W.H Hudson’s day house sparrows could be found in their thousands however the Bird Breeding Survey (BTO, JNCC and RSPB) run between 1994 and 200 showed a different picture with a fall in sparrow numbers by as much as 59% in some parts of London.
As a native species, the house sparrow extends from North Africa through Central Europe and Central Asia, northwards beyond the Arctic Circle. It has also established in a number of other countries as a result of introduction by man. House sparrow distribution is related to human settlement and they nest mainly in buildings, in cracks and crevices as well as roofs. It also may nest in climbers and creepers on walls or in tress and shrubberies. In a good year a pair of house sparrows can raise between two and five broods. It’s food sources vary from scraps and bread from garden bird tables as well as seeds and flowers in parks and gardens. When feeding young, insects such as aphids and caterpillars are a more important part of it’s diet.
3. Current Status
Until about ten years ago the house sparrow was one of the most familiar and common of urban British birds. The house sparrow population in London and the rest of the UK is declining fast. There are still between 6 and 7 million pairs of house sparrows in Britain, however, in the 1970’s there were 12 million pairs[1]. Declines in suburban and urban gardens started in about 1984 and are still continuing with reports as part of the BTO Garden Bird Feeding survey and the RSPB Wildlife Explorers Big Garden Bird Watch both showing a 50% decline since the late seventies. As a result of house sparrow populations falling by more than a half the house sparrow is now on the ‘Red List of British Birds’, which lists species of highest conservation concern[2].
- 66 -
The London Biodiversity Partnership undertook one of the largest wildlife surveys in London named ‘Where have all the sparrows gone?’ which provides a detailed picture of how the house sparrow is doing in London with worrying results. Although there is little known about the current status of house sparrows in the borough, Islington was ranked 30th within the survey with only 54% of homes that responded to the survey recording house sparrow sightings.
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Species
4.1 Factors relating to food supply
Food supplies in towns and cities may have been reduced with the development of new buildings on previously derelict land. House sparrows need aphids, weevils, grasshoppers and caterpillars to feed their young and these may now be harder to find in our towns and cities.
The intensified use of pesticides and herbicides which reduces the amount of insects and weed seed food. Changes in agricultural practice such as a switch to autumn sowing of cereals and a lack of stubble as autumn and winter-feeding habitat may have an impact. Such practice would especially affect house sparrows within London particularly in late summer / autumn when the birds disperse from their nesting sites to seed-feeding sites. The reduction in Aphid numbers as a result of the effects of lead-free petrol. Competition by other birds for food could also play a role.
4.2 Availability of Nest Sites
Reduction in the availability of nest sites through the renovation of old buildings especially roofs with a reduction in access to roof space. Clearance of shrubberies in parks and removal of creepers from wall.
4.3 Population Shift
Decreased immigration of house sparrows from outside London.
4.4 Predation
The effect of predation by sparrow hawks, magpies, grey squirrels, crows, jays and the domestic cat.
4.5 Pest Control
The house sparrow is still recognised as a pest species in some quarters and is controlled legally.
- 67 - 4.6 Disease
A virus or salmonella infection has been suggested as this has often been attributed to declines of this scale amongst other species. Few diseased birds have ever been recorded in this country however corpses would quickly be disposed of by carrion feeders. If birds were weakened however through disease this would make them more susceptible to predation which would mean that a rise in predator numbers would have a greater effect upon their population.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Like all other native birds house sparrows are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it illegal to intentionally kill, injure or take a house sparrow, or to take damage or destroy an active nest or its contents. Preventing the birds from gaining access to their nests may also be viewed as illegal by the courts. However, general licences issued under the Act (Statutory Instrument no 3010 1992) allow for the control of house sparrows by an authorised person in three specific circumstances: for the prevention of serious damage to agriculture, for the preservation of public health/air safety, and to conserve wild birds. An authorised person is usually the landowner or occupier or his/her agent. In the opinion of the RSPB nuisance is not a legitimate reason for control, and as such a roof nest cannot legally be removed unless it can be demonstrated that removal was undertaken under the terms of one of the government licences.
5.2 National Action
5.2.1 British Trust for Ornithology
The BTO is currently running a house sparrow appeal with the aim of a new nationwide sparrow survey, volunteer-led surveys in a range of key areas and supporting detailed scientific research. The BTO also carries out the Common Bird Census, Garden Bird Feeding Survey and Breeding Birds Survey which is carried out jointly with the BTO/JNCC/RSPB and aims to keep track of bird breeding populations of widespread bird species across the UK.
The BTO has also been working nationally to improve knowledge of the current status of the house sparrow with a research project funded by DEFRA.
5.2.2 Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
The RSPB carried out the a survey of house sparrows across the UK called Sparrow Watch, undertaken in 2003, to find out where house sparrow nesting sites are. The RSPB also runs the Big Garden Bird Watch getting people all over
- 68 - the country to record bird numbers during 2 weeks in January. As part of this the Big Schools Bird Watch has also been initiated both of which aim to get as many people as possible to watch birds.
5.3 Local Action
Launched at the Islington Ecology Centre, the London Biodiversity Partnership undertook a survey of the status of house sparrows in London. Nearly 12,000 people filled in the survey forms between 18th June and 19th July 2002 providing information about house sparrows in 9,172 homes and 3,698 other places in London. More analysis of the results is taking place and further studies are planned with the aim of directing future action in London
As part of this a number of awareness raising events were undertaken by the London Borough of Islington Nature Conservation Team including schools workshops, distribution of house sparrow information material and borough wide poetry competition. The NCT has also worked with a number of youth groups as part of the CSV Action Earth award scheme in producing House Sparrow boxes for Islington’s local nature reserves. The NCT has also produced supplementary planning guidance for sustainable building construction including the incorporation of artificial nesting sites for birds such as the house sparrow.
The London BAP has a Species Action Plan for the house sparrow.
The London Wildlife Trust has carried out a garden bird watch scheme and the London Natural History Society is conducting a monitoring programme of house sparrows in London gardens.
The RSPB offers schools visits, focused on sparrows (Charlie the Sparrow Detective) and other London Wildlife, through their London Sparrows Schools Liaison Officer. A ‘Sparrow Champion’ network is also being established across the London Boroughs, with the aim of putting up between 400 and 2000 nest boxes across London for detailed studies. This is being undertaken as part of the City Birds Project delivered by RSPB.
5.4 Advice
Further advice can be sought from English Nature, the RSPB, the British Trust for Ornithology, London Wildlife Trust and the London Natural History Society.
6. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 Encourage the spread of the house sparrow population through the provision of suitable nesting sites and food sources.
- 69 - Target Carry out a house sparrow nesting box scheme by 2007.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
Produce guidance notes for land managers’ RSPB inc. schools on retaining and increasing IWG potential natural nest sites for house 2005 NCT PAN sparrows. To include guidance on pesticide GL reduction and alternatives. AA
Encourage local residents to provide appropriate food sources in feeders and set 2005 NCT GR up park feeding stations.
Design a nest box scheme to run across the RSPB borough and to involve local schools and CEA 2006 NCT other educational centres to promote the idea ILEA of ‘Sparrow Champions’. GR
RSPB Set up network of ‘Sparrow Champions’ 2006 NCT IWG within the borough to undertake sparrow GR monitoring
Objective 2 To promote a greater awareness of house sparrows and their decline locally and nationally.
Target Produce public information about the house sparrow for Islington by 2005.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners
Conduct a number of awareness raising events, activities and workshops highlighting RSPB what residents can do to help the house Ongoing NCT IWG sparrow – to include working with schools. GR
RSPB 2005 NCT To disseminate existing information and IWG
- 70 - resources on the House Sparrow and how GR residents can help. Inc information on the LBI website.
Encourage the public to report sightings of RSPB house sparrows as part of the London-wide 2005 NCT IWG campaign and the ‘Sparrow Champions’ GR programme.
RSPB Promote and undertake an Islington-wide LWT house sparrow survey as a follow up to the FCF 2006 NCT survey undertaken in 2002 via schools, SCG community centres, local press and other GR outlets. IWG
Objective 3 Monitor existing house sparrow populations within Islington.
Target Maintain a database compatible with the LWT system for recording and monitoring in Islington by 2006.
Actions Target Other Lead Date Partners FCF Undertake regular surveys to establish the SCG 2005 current distribution of house sparrows NCT CCG Ongoing within the borough GR IWG FCF Increase the numbers of volunteers locally SCG able to carry out surveys through training 2005 NCT CCG and support IGR IWG FCF SCG Ensure that the nest box scheme includes 2006 NCT CCG monitoring GR IWG FCF Compile annual report and disseminate SCG 2006 NCT survey results CCG GR
- 71 - IWG
Links with other Habitat and Species Action Plans
Habitats Species Private Gardens Hedgehog Parks and Open Spaces Stag Beetle School Grounds Bats
Links with National and Regional Policies
Islington Unitary Development Plan London Borough of Islington Supplementary Planning Guidance on Sustainable Building Construction London Borough of Islington Sustainable Planting Policy London Borough of Islington Grounds Maintenance Contract London Borough of Islington Tree Policy Local Nature Reserve site Management Plans London Biodiversity Action Plan, Vol 2: House Sparrow Action Plan PPG 9 (Planning Policy Guidance: Nature Conservation, 1994)
Key References
1. House Sparrow Information Sheet. British Trust for Ornithology 2003. 2. Population status of birds in the UK - Birds of conservation concern: 2002- 2007: Red list species - high conservation concern. Joint Nature Conservation Committee
Abbreviations
BTO British Trust for Ornithology CCG Culpepper Community Garden CEA Cambridge Education Authority CIC City and Islington College DEFRA Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs FCF Freightliners City Farm GL Glendales Grounds Management GCI Groundwork Camden and Islington GLA Greater London Authority HAP Habitat Action Plan AA Islington Allotment Association IWG Islington Wildlife Group LBI London Borough of Islington PPP Planning, Policy and Performance LWT London Wildlife Trust DLO Direct Labour Organisation
- 72 - GR Islington Greenspace Rangers SU Islington Greenspace Sustainability Team NCT Islington Nature Conservation Team JNCC Join Nature Conservation Committee PAN Pesticides Action Network RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds SCG Sunnyside Community Garden SAP Species Action Plan
- 73 - 2. Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)
1. Aims
To monitor existing populations of hedgehogs in Islington
To raise awareness and increase knowledge of hedgehogs and their needs
To maintain and enhance current populations of hedgehogs in Islington
2. Introduction
The hedgehog is one of Britain’s most instantly recognisable mammals and its strange appearance has inspired stories and myths over time. It is one of our earliest mammals, its ancestors roaming the earth before mammoths and sabre toothed tigers.
Hedgehogs are nocturnal and regularly travel up to two miles in a night, foraging for food. They are insectivorous, feeding mostly on beetles, worms, caterpillars and molluscs. Their penchant for slugs has earned them the name ‘gardener’s friend’.
Hedgehogs start mating in May and have their first litter of 4-5 spineless young (known as hoglets) in June. Late litters may be produced in September, but these young have a low chance of surviving the winter. Hibernation is usually from November to March, with winter nests built from dry leaves.
3. Current Status
The Hedgehog is widespread in Britain; possibly a quarter of the world population occurs in the UK. They can survive well in towns and cities in parks, railway land, cemeteries and gardens. However, it is thought that the range and numbers of hedgehogs in Britain has declined by up to 24% in the last 25 years. In London, hedgehogs are still common in the suburbs but their presence is greatly reduced in more urban areas and they are absent from Central London.
The London Wildlife Trust’s Biological Recording Project of 2004 records the presence of hedgehogs in Islington. However, there is little information regarding the size and distribution of the hedgehog population.
- 74 - 4. Factors Threatening the Species
4.1 Loss of habitat
While death by motor vehicles is probably one of the commonest threats we think of, it is not a primary threat to populations. Winter starvation accounts for the majority of hedgehog deaths, with three quarters dying before they are one year old. Loss of habitat leading to a decrease in invertebrates is a contributing factor, especially in urban areas, and areas in the countryside where agriculture is intensive.
4.2 Pesticides
The use of pesticides in gardens, allotments and parks particularly affects hedgehogs. Slug pellets are commonly used; the hedgehogs feed on the poisoned slugs, making them ill and ultimately leading to death.
4.3 Gardening practices
The removal of leaf litter and tendency towards fences rather than hedges means hibernation sites are harder to find. Additionally, hibernating hedgehogs can be burnt in bonfires or swept up accidentally. Mowing and strimming of long grass without first checking, can also cause injury. Ponds with steep sides can lead to hedgehogs drowning.
4.4 Litter
Litter poses another threat: hedgehogs have a strong sense of smell and are curious creatures, leading them to become trapped in empty tins and yoghurt cartons.
4.5 Pets
Dogs can be responsible for injuring hedgehogs
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Hedgehogs are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) Schedule 6. They are also protected under the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996. The Wildlife Crime Unit deals with offences in London and can prosecute instances of cruelty.
- 75 - 5.2 National Action
The Hedgehog Preservation Society and the Mammal Society do much to raise awareness, promote record collation, and produce publications to educate the public.
5.3 Local Action
As part of Wild Week and the launch of Islington’s Biodiversity Action Plan, a hedgehog awareness event has taken place at Islington Ecology Centre. An example of a hedgehog hibernation box is planned as part of the demonstration Wildlife Garden at the Islington Ecology Centre.
6. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To monitor existing populations of hedgehogs in Islington
Target To carry out a survey of the hedgehog population in Islington every 5 years
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To include hedgehogs as a species to be NCT monitored in the basic public survey identified 2005 AA’s IG in the Gardens and Allotments HAP.
2010 & NCT To repeat survey every 5 years to monitor AA’s onwards IG changes
Objective 2 To raise awareness and increase knowledge of hedgehogs and their needs.
Target To engage the public in targeted events concerning the care of hedgehogs
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners IG To include information on hedgehogs in the MS 2005 NCT wildlife gardening pack BHPS LWT
- 76 - To hold 2 public events raising awareness of MS needs and care of hedgehogs in the borough 2006 NCT BHPS LWT
Objective 3 To maintain and enhance current populations of hedgehogs in Islington.
Target To place at least 3 hibernation boxes in the borough
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To promote hedgehog boxes and natural nesting sites in the literature and activities of 2007 NCT Islington Wildlife Group, and place a hibernation box at each nature reserve in the borough.
Links with relevant Habitat Action Plans
Habitats Gardens and Allotments Parks and Open Spaces
Abbreviations
NCT Nature Conservation Team IG Islington Gardeners AA’s Allotment Associations MS Mammal Society BHPS British Hedgehog Preservation Society LWT London Wildlife Trust
Advice
London Wildlife Trust Tel: 020 7261 0447 www.wildlondon.org.uk
London Mammal Group 67a Ridgeway Avenue East Barnet Herts EN4 8TL Tel/Fax: 020 8440 6314
- 77 - British Hedgehog Preservation Society Hedgehog House, Dhustone Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 3PL Tel: 01584 890801
- 78 - 3. Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus)
1. Aims
To promote awareness and knowledge of stag beetles in the borough of Islington.
To maintain and enhance the nationally significant populations of stag beetle within Islington.
To increase monitoring of current populations to assist with London-wide research.
2. Introduction
The stag beetle is Britain’s largest ground-living beetle, reaching 8cm in length. Unfortunately, this fascinating creature is a globally threatened species and not to be confused with the lesser stag beetle (Dorcus parallelopipedus), which is much more common.
The Stag Beetle is protected from trade under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
Stag beetles may be found in old broad-leaved woodlands, in parks and occasionally in private gardens. Requiring dead wood to complete their life cycle, the larval stage of this insect lives in the decaying timber of deciduous trees, often in the roots and stumps. They have even been found in rotting fence posts. It takes up to seven years for them to mature into adult beetles.
The most obvious feature of the stag beetle is its “antlers”, found on the male and resembling the antlers on a stag deer. The insect also has a range of vernacular names, such as billywitches, oak-ox, thunder-beetle and horse pincher and there are ancient associations with storms and magical powers. This led to the beetles being feared and revered.
Adults emerge from mid-May until late July. Males appear earlier and seem to be more active as they search for females to mate. They can often be seen flying on warm summer evenings before dusk. As adults they are short lived and generally die after mating. On occasion some adults will survive longer and over-winter in such places as compost heaps.
London is significant for the stag beetle population it supports – over 3000 (c30%) of the 1998 national records were from the capital.
- 79 - 3. Current Status
The stag beetle has been recorded from most of London but the key boroughs tend to be south and west London, with these sightings being nationally significant. It is rarely found in central London through lack of appropriate habitats, and is surprisingly uncommon in the north-west and parts of north-east London. We have had several sightings along the Parkland Walk Local Nature Reserve in Islington, although none since the mid 90’s.
4. Specific Factors Affecting Species
Loss of habitat through re-development, agriculture and plantation forestry. Lack of awareness of the beetles presence on sites. Tidying-up of parks, woodlands and gardens, through the removal of dead wood (by stump grinding, uprooting, burning, or chipping). Unintentional crushing on pavements and roads – the beetles appear to be attracted to the warm surfaces that these provide. High predation pressure on the adults from cat, fox, crow and magpie especially in urban areas. Perceptions as a ‘creepy-crawly’ or potential pest leading to persecution or intentional destruction.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
The stag beetle is listed on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981, as amended) but only to prevent trade. A major threat to stag beetles, especially in Europe, has been from private collectors and the legislation aims to stop the species from being collected for sale at entomological fairs. It is also listed on Appendix 111 of the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, 1979 and Appendix 2 of the Habitats Directive. The latter requires the UK to designate Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) specifically to protect the stag beetle. Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park are candidate SAC’s.
5.2 National Action
UK BAP Action Plan for Stag Beetle Tranche 1, p147. Conservation projects to enhance areas for nature conservation, which benefit stag beetles. Schemes to improve habitat management to benefit stag beetles. PPG 9 (Planning Policy Guidance: Nature Conservation, 1994).
- 80 - 5.3 Local Action
The retention of dead wood at various sites across the borough, in particular the creation of ‘loggeries’ and stag beetle breeding boxes within our Local Nature Reserves and parks. Continuing to monitor for this species across the borough.
6. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To establish a viable population of stag beetles in Islington.
Target To increase the number of viable habitats for this insect.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Establish links with the London Stag Beetle Working Group to facilitate implementation, 2005 NCT promotion and monitoring.
Identify 10 key sites in the borough to install 2005 NCT GR loggeries.
Implement guidelines for habitat management 2005 NCT to encourage stag beetle.
GR Pilot a number of loggery monitoring schemes. 2007 NCT FoG GL
Send advice note to all within Greenspace & park contractors. 2005 NCT
To undertake an initial survey of key site GR 2008 NCT areas. FoG
- 81 - Objective 2 To raise the awareness of the stag beetle and it’s needs to the general public within the borough.
Target To run a campaign to promote stag beetles in Islington by 2008.
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Publicise information about stag beetles and create a link to the LWT, PTES survey forms 2006 NCT GR on the LBI website.
Publicise current policy and legislation concerning stag beetles to all appropriate 2006 NCT sectors and Council officers within Islington.
Encourage the public to report sightings of 2005 NCT GR stag beetles to the Islington’s NCT, and to the LWT & PTES
Advice
English Nature 020 7831 6922 The Peoples Trust for Endangered Species 020 7498 4533 The London Wildlife Trust 020 7261 0447
Key References
DETR (1995) Stag Beetle Action Plan. London, HMSO. London Wildlife Trust (2000). Stag Beetle: an advice note on its conservation in London. PTES (2000) Stag Beetle Friendly Gardening.PTES.
Abbreviations
GR Islington Greenspace Rangers NCT Nature Conservation Team FoG Friends of Groups GL Glendale Grounds Management
- 82 - 4. Bats
1. Aims
To increase the number of bats found in the London Borough of Islington.
To increase the awareness and appreciation of bats.
2. Introduction
Bats are the second most diverse group of mammals in the world with nearly one thousand species known. The greatest number of species occurs in the tropics with less found through the temperate zones. In Britain there are sixteen species found. Bats are highly adapted nocturnal animals that have evolved powered flight. Due to their nocturnal habit they have historical been an understudied group. This together with bats association with mythology and witchcraft has led to people not appreciating and even fearing bats.
3. Current Status
There are eight species of bat breeding in Greater London. The two pipistrelles are the most common and occur in all London boroughs. The status of bats in the London Borough of Islington is uncertain. The pipistrelle and noctule bats have been recorded at the nature reserve of Parkland Walk and Gillespie Park. Also there are reports of bats from the Regents Canal perhaps including the daubenton bat. In London as a whole there has been a decline in bat population since the mid -1980’s. There is no reason to assume that this decline has not also been mirrored in Islington.
4. Factors Affecting the Species
4.1 Loss of maternity roost sites in buildings and trees
Disturbance, damage or destruction to roosts can occur as a result of a lack of public awareness and understanding of bats, and ignorance of the legislation protesting bats, which often leads to the legal consultation process being ignored.
4.2 Loss of and disturbance to other roost sites
Hibernation and other seasonal roost sites can be disturbed or damaged for the same reasons as above. These sites include buildings, trees, bridges and underground roosts.
- 83 - 4.3 Loss of feeding habitats
Changes in the land use can result in the loss of insect rich feeding habitats such as wetlands, woodlands and grasslands.
4.4 Disturbance to commuting routes
Flight path to and from feeding areas and roosts may be disturbed through the loss of flight line features such as green corridors or through the introduction of new features such as artificial lighting.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
All species of bat are protected in the UK on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended and on Schedule 2 of the Conservation Regulations (1994). The latter further implements European legislation protecting bats. Bats are also protected by the Wild Mammals Act 1996.
The UK is a signatory to the Agreement on the Conservation of Bats in Europe which came in to force in 1994 set up through the Bonn Convection of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (1979). While this is not strictly a legal instrument, as a signatory the UK is obliged to abide by such agreements.
5.2 Local Action
5.2.1 Bat Wardens
The London Bat Group co-ordinates a network of licensed bat wardens, working in liaison with English Nature to safeguard bat roosts, particularly in houses.
5.2.2 Raising Awareness
The Nature Conservation team of the London Borough of Islington runs a series of guided walks looking at bats to help improve the understanding of bats.
6. Objectives, Action and Targets
Objective 1 To raise awareness among key audiences, specifically planners, managers and tree contractors of the legislation affecting bats.
- 84 - Target 100% of development proposals that may effect bats and their roosts to be consulted on with the Nature Conservation Team
Action Target Other Lead Date partners
To ensure that the conservation needs of bats are addressed in the UDP and other statutory ongoing NCT PPP plans.
To publicise current policy and legislation PPP concerning bats to all appropriate sectors and ongoing NCT LBG Council officers in Islington.
To monitor all planning applications where bat PPP roosts, foraging habitats or commuting routes ongoing NCT LBG may be affected.
Objective 2 To raise awareness and appreciation of bats amongst the general public.
Target To run five bat walks a year
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
Increase the number of bat walks carried out ongoing NCT LBG in the borough each year.
Increase the number of people who can lead ongoing NCT LBG bat walks in the borough through training.
Objective 3 To increase the knowledge of bat distribution and population change in Islington.
Target To carry out a bat survey of the borough
- 85 - Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To visit and survey selected sites in the 2005 NCT LBG borough for bats including the Regents Canal.
2005 NCT LBG To develop links with the London Bat Group.
Links with other Habitat Action Plans
Habitats Canals and Waterways Built Environment Parks and Openspaces
Abbreviations
LBG London Bat Group NCT Nature Conservation Team PPP Planning, Policy and Performance
- 86 - 5. Native Black poplar
1. Aim
To protect and enhance the existing native black poplar trees in the borough.
To raise awareness and increase knowledge of the black poplar
2. Introduction
The native black poplar (Populus nigra ssp. betulifolia) is a huge tree. It can be up to 30 metres high, with a 20 metre wide canopy, and has low sweeping branches and a pronounced lean. The leaf is triangular shaped, longer than it is wide, with blunt teeth.
The tree was a distinctive feature of lowland river valleys but for a variety of reasons it is now scarce and the remaining populations are scattered. As a result the black poplar is the most endangered native timber tree in Britain.
It is predominately a tree of open ground, not woodland, and will not tolerate side shade. The favoured habitat of the black poplar is wet woodlands and it is often found along riverbanks. Since 1850 virtually no native black poplars have been planted (until quite recently), particularly as they have been superseded by the faster growing hybrids. Consequently, most mature trees are old and dying, and if nothing is done we will lose them altogether.
This is why the native black poplar is included in Biodiversity Action Plans for many areas around the country. Black poplars have separate male and female trees (dioecious), and a viable population needs trees of both sexes growing fairly close to each other. Historically, female black poplar trees have been systematically removed as they produce large amounts of seed fluff in the spring. Consequently the female tree is now very rare.
3. Current Status
There are an estimated 7,000 native black poplars in Britain. Many of these are believed to be genetic clones so there are probably considerably less distinct genotypes.
The tree has strongholds in Shropshire, Cheshire, the Vale of Aylesbury and Suffolk. The vast majority of the trees have reached maturity and there has been very little planting of new trees until quite recently. Female trees are particularly rare, with an estimated 400 nationally. Suitable conditions for germination of seed are no longer present in Britain.
- 87 -
4. Specific Factors Affecting the Species
Loss of both natural river systems and unstable floodplain sediments results in an absence of suitable habitat for natural regeneration. The lack of native male trees in close proximity to native females means that there is very little opportunity for fertilisation. The presence of large numbers of hybrid trees means that seed from female trees is very likely to be hybridised, resulting in seed of doubtful provenance. As many trees are in poor condition, mortality rates are high due to natural factors such as old age, drought and windthrow, especially as trees are often large isolated specimens. Removal of fallen trees which would otherwise survive in situ or regenerate from the stump. The widely dispersed population makes site based conservation more difficult. Widely available and commercially preferable hybrids have been planted in preference to native stock for the last 150 years. Low genetic variation. Most of the individuals remaining in the country have been propagated largely as cuttings from around 600 individuals. Lack of female trees. The individuals selected for propagation were primarily male. The reason for this was merely for aesthetic purposes. The decline in the demand for timber and wood products from the native Black Poplar. The removal of hedgerows and the trees which grow in them. Loss of appropriate habitat for germination as a result of drainage, river engineering schemes and agricultural improvement. Possible damage to remaining trees through agricultural operations on adjacent land, e.g. ploughing close to the trees. Building development, for example a tree at Quorn was felled in 1990 to make way for new housing. Hybridisation with non-native poplars
Without active conservation the black poplar will soon become extinct in the country.
5. Current Action
5.1 Legal Status
Black poplars receive protection under the Countryside and Wildlife Act, 1981, as other wild plants in the UK. Tree Preservation orders and the 1967 Forestry Act may prevent the felling of trees.
- 88 - 5.2 National Action
There is a London Species Action Plan for the Black Poplar, which was produced by the London Biodiversity Partnership.
The UK Black Poplar Conservation Group (UKCG) exists to with the aim of bringing practitioners to share ideas.
5.3 Local Action
Three native black poplars have been discovered in Islington and are the only ones known about so far and the boroughs tree officers are now monitoring them.
6. Objectives, Actions and Targets
Objective 1 To protect and retain all remaining native black poplar trees -Populous nigra var. betulifolia in Islington.
Target Safeguard all existing native black poplars in Islington
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To create a register of all known black poplar trees - Populous nigra var. betulifolia in 2010 LBI UKCG Islington.
To report locations of all known Black Poplar trees -Populous nigra var. betulifolia in 2010 LBI UKCG Islington to the planning department, so that they can create tree preservation orders.
To liaise with the London Tree Officer Association with reference to any citywide or 2010 LBI UKCG nationwide black poplar tree -Populous nigra var. betulifolia database.
To investigate the possibilities of planting 2010 LBI UKCG more black poplar trees -Populous nigra var. betulifolia in suitable locations. New trees
- 89 - should be propagated from cuttings taken from local stock.
Objective 2 Raise awareness of the native black poplar in Islington
Target Provide information for landowners and general public
Action Target Other Lead Date Partners
To contact relevant landowners and inform them of the value of native black poplar trees, 2007 LBI UKCG and the reasons for their retention.
To increase public awareness of the current situation regarding black poplar trees - 2007 LBI UKCG Populous nigra var. betulifolia and the importance of retaining existing trees.
To investigate the possibility of creating a leaflet to highlight the importance of the species, techniques for conservation, 2007 LBI UKCG propagation and planting and to aid the public, tree wardens, rangers etc. in recognizing the species.
Links with relevant Habitat Action Plans
Habitats Parks and Openspaces
Abbreviations
LBI London Borough of Islington UKCG UK Black Poplar Conservation Group
- 90 -