PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL

FOR

BARNFIELD COTTAGE, STONE STREET ROAD, IVY HATCH

Date of report 27th November 2020 Amendment 9th December 2020 Date of survey 18th November 2020 Author Jenny Passmore Reviewer Christian Gunn Client name Mr and Mrs McElroy Corylus reference 20144

CORYLUS ECOLOGY ______

CORYLUS ECOLOGY Unit A3 Speldhurst Business Park, Langton Road, Speldhurst, Tunbridge Wells, . TN3 0NR Telephone: 01892 861868 E-mail: [email protected] Director: H G Wrigley (née Lucking) BSc. MIEEM Corylus Ecology Ltd Registered in England No 5005553 Registered Office: Henwood House, Henwood, Ashford Kent TN24 8DH VAT Reg No. 862 2486 14

CORYLUS ECOLOGY ______

SUMMARY

 The proposals involve converting the riding arena into a single dwelling with associated landscaping.  A bat and barn owl building survey has been undertaken and there was no evidence or potential for bat roosts noted. No further surveys are considered necessary.  The building is suitable for barn owl however there was no evidence of use.  No rare or invasive plant species have been recorded.  Species typical of acid grassland have been recorded but the assemblage is not indicative of lowland acid grassland, which is a priority habitat community.  Tree (T1) has been identified with ‘Low’ bat roost potential. No evidence of bat presence was noted on endoscope inspection. Advice has been provided if this tree requires pruning or felling.  The Site supports ‘Low’ quality habitat for foraging and commuting bats and the impacts are low, so further activity surveys are not required.  Advice has been provided to prevent the ground conditions becoming suitable for reptiles and to avoid the disturbance of the spoil piles during winter (1st November to 1st March).  There is a poor local network of ponds and further surveys for GCN are not recommended.  There is no habitat for dormice on Site however they are known to be in the local environment so the planting proposals provide habitat for this species.  There was no evidence of badger however past evidence of foraging has been recorded and the ecological enhancement strategy ensures foraging habitat remains for this species.  The Site is suitable for hedgehogs and recommendations have been provided to ensure this species can continue to move through the landscape. The spoil piles should not be disturbed in winter. Native planting and log piles will constitute a long-term enhancement for this species.  Rabbits are present on site and measures to prevent unnecessary harm or cruelty to this species during ground works have been recommended.  Recommendations have been provided to avoid disturbance of breeding birds in the building and the vegetation during the breeding season 1st March to 1st August.  A detailed ecological enhancement strategy has been outlined including generous native planting and provision of habitat for invertebrates and birds.

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CORYLUS ECOLOGY ______

CONTENTS

Page Number

1.0 Introduction 1 2.0 Methodology 2 3.0 Results 4 4.0 Evaluation 9 5.0 Ecological Enhancement Strategy 14 6.0 Conclusions 17

References

Figures Figure 1 - Phase I Habitat Plan Figure 2 - Annotated Photographs Figure 3 – Ecological Enhancement Plan

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1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Corylus Ecology undertook a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal of land at Barnfield Cottage in Ivy Hatch, Kent hereinafter referred to as the Site. The Site is approximately 0.6ha in size and includes a covered riding arena, an outdoor sand school and scattered trees and areas of grassland in the surrounding land. The Site also includes the existing access drive and adjacent land. The proposals involve the conversion of the existing riding arena into a single dwelling with associated landscaping.

1.2 The PEA was undertaken by Corylus Ecology on 18th November 2020. This updates a previous PEA undertaken by Corylus Ecology in 2017 (Corylus Ecology, 2018).The survey includes a Phase I Habitat Survey, which provides information relating to the habitats within the Site, and a Protected Species Assessment, which identifies potential for protected species and informs the need for further protected species surveys. The Protected Species Assessment includes a Bat Building Survey, which aims to identify any evidence of and potential for roosting bats during daylight hours.

1.3 The objectives of the survey were as follows:  Classify and map the habitats within the Site according to those within the Phase I manual;  Determine the potential for protected species to occur within the Site, including an assessment of the buildings for potential to support bats;  Identify key ecological constraints to allow early avoidance or minimisation of ecological effects through appropriate design;  Suggest appropriate further protected surveys where necessary; and  Suggest measures to maintain and enhance biodiversity.

1.4 Previous surveys have been undertaken at the Site and the findings of the current survey are discussed in relation to these. The previous surveys were undertaken on the following dates:  16th March 2017  15th January 2016  31st October 2014  10th December 2013

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2.0 METHODOLOGY 2.1 Preliminary Desk Study 2.1.1 A preliminary search within 3km of the Site was undertaken for designated areas, priority habitats, and European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licences using the Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) interactive mapping service (Defra, 2020). Records from the local biological records centre were not sought due to the relatively small scale of the Site and proposals.

2.2 Bat Building Survey 2.2.1 The building was subject to an external and internal survey on 18th November 2020. The survey was undertaken by Jenny Passmore (licence number 2016-23195-CLS-CLS) of Corylus Ecology.

2.2.2 The external survey of the buildings included an assessment of areas for potential for bats and a search for evidence such as droppings and staining immediately below potential roost areas, at the base of the buildings and on window sills. The interior of the buildings was surveyed for evidence of bats including droppings, staining and bats themselves. Bat droppings were searched for on the top of beams (where they are less likely to have been disturbed/damaged) as well as on the ground below. A high powered Clulite torch was used in the search. An endoscope with halogen light, which can fit into cavities only 9.5mm wide, was used to look for signs of bats in any accessible cavities. Buildings are placed into one of the four categories of bat roost potential: High, Moderate, Low and Negligible (Collins, 2016).

2.2.3 The building was also searched for evidence of barn owl Tyto alba such as urea splashing, pellets, feathers, suitable nest sites, prey remains and individuals birds themselves. The building was assessed for any external features that may allow barn owls to enter the building.

2.3 Phase I Survey 2.3.1 The habitats present on the Site were mapped in accordance with the ‘Handbook for Phase I Habitat Survey’ (JNCC, 2003). Habitat areas and features of topographical and/or ecological interest were described in the form of target notes (TN). These were later used to create botanical species lists by target note area and also to create a colour coded Phase I Habitat map, which is presented as Figure 1. All nomenclature follows Stace (2019).

2.3.2 The Phase I Habitat Survey also includes the mapping of invasive botanical species listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as well as those classed as rare or declining. However, some species are seasonally constrained, and therefore may not be visible on a single visit. Previous surveys have all been undertaken during the autumn and winter months, October to March (2013 to 2017). It is recognised that a greater range of species would be detected during a spring or summer survey however it is considered that the collaboration of information from several surveys has helped to accurately

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determine the habitats present. It is noted that the presence of densely vegetated habitats may restrict access and invasive species may not be recorded.

2.4 Protected Species Assessment 2.4.1 The survey included an assessment of the potential for the Site to support protected species. This type of survey aims to assess the potential for protected species to occur due to the habitats present and does not include any species-specific survey methods designed to demonstrate whether the Site is in fact used by such species. The exception is badgers Meles meles as field signs associated with this species can be searched for, including latrines, holes, pushes, paths and hairs.

Bat Tree and Habitat Assessment 2.4.2 As part of the protected species assessment, a ground level investigation of all suitable trees was carried out to identify bat potential. Bats may use any crack or hole (such as woodpecker holes), splits or flaking bark and ivy (JNCC, 2004). In addition, the on-site habitats were assessed for their suitability to support foraging and commuting bats.

2.4.3 Trees, buildings and habitats were placed into one of four categories; High, Moderate, Low or Negligible (Collins, 2016):

Table 1: Bat Habitat Assessment Criteria

Negligible Habitat/structure with negligible features likely to be used by roosting, foraging or commuting bats. Low A habitat/structure that could be used by small numbers of roosting or commuting bats, such as a gappy hedgerow or unvegetated stream, but isolated - i.e. not very well connected to the surrounding landscape by other habitat.

Moderate Continuous habitat connected to the wider landscape that could be used by bats for commuting and foraging, such as lines of trees and scrub or linked back gardens.

A structure with one or more potential roost sites that could be used by bats, but are unlikely to support a roost of high conservations status. High Continuous, high quality habitat that is well connected to the wider landscape that is likely to be used regularly by commuting bats, such as river valleys, hedgerows, lines of trees and woodland edge.

A structure with one or more potential roost sites that are suitable for a large number of bats on a regular basis and for a longer period of time.

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3.0 RESULTS 3.1 Preliminary Desk Study Statutory Designations 3.1.1 The closest designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is Oldbury and Seal Chart SSSI which is located 55m to the north of the Site beyond Stone Street Road. The land between the Site and the SSSI consists of a managed cobnut orchard. To the north of the orchard there is Stone Street Road which borders the SSSI. This is an area of ancient and acidic sessile oak Quercus petraea woodland which is a habitat more typical of northern and western Britain. There are also relict areas of heathland and secondary woodland. The SSSI supports an outstanding assemblage of lower plants including fungi, moss and liverworts as well as a range of invertebrates. The Site is within the Impact Risk Zone of this SSSI.

3.1.2 One Tree Hill and Bitchet Common SSSI is located 690m to the west. It is 76ha of woodland on Lower Greensand soils which supports a variety of invertebrates and plant species including green hellebore Helleborus viridis which is scarce in Kent.

3.1.3 Park SSSI is located 2.5km to the west and consists of 384ha of acidic grassland, parkland, woodland and includes several ponds. The dead wood and ancient woodland invertebrate fauna as well as the fungal assemblage, is particularly rich.

3.1.4 SSSI is located 2.1km to the east and consists of 14ha of alder woodland with a rich botanical assemblage.

Priority Habitats 3.1.5 Within a 3km radius of the Site, broadleaved woodland is the dominant priority habitat. The closest broadleaved woodland is Raspit Hill which is also ancient woodland and part of the Oldbury and Seal Chart SSSI. Traditional orchard and woodpasture and parkland habitats are also well represented within 3km. The closest traditional orchard is 180m south of the Site. The nearest area of woodpasture and parkland habitat is 1km to the south-east of the Site.

EPSM Licences and Species Records 3.1.6 Two European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) bat licences have been granted within a 3km radius of the Site. The nearest licence was 800m west of the Site for a resting place for common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus bats, active between 2011-2012 and the second licence was also granted in 2011 for a non-breeding common pipistrelle roost for a location 2.6km to the north-west. There is one GCN record for a location 2.6km to the south.

3.2 Bat Building Survey

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3.2.1 Building B1 is a large horse riding arena which is constructed of corrugated asbestos cement sheeting, with intermittent plastic skylights in the roof. There are missing panels along the top of the building, meaning access is possible for birds and bats. Internally there is a panel of vertical wooden timbers angled towards the wall which creates a kickboard. At the north-eastern corner of the building is a viewing gallery and judge’s box. The main building is draughty and with high levels of daylight through skylights and there are no visible features for bats to roost. The judge’s box does not have any access for bats and no evidence was found. The building has ‘Negligible’ potential for bats (Collins, 2016). There was a bird’s nest noted above the wooden judge’s box, likely feral pigeon Columba livia domestica and further bird’s nests noted on the metal beam work of the building.

3.3 Phase I Survey Site Description 3.3.1 The Site is located 600m west of the centre of Ivy Hatch village, some 5km east of . The local landscape is rural with low density housing and a relatively high coverage of woodland, fields and orchards. The habitats present are shown within Figure 1 with further details provided by way of specific Target Notes, denoted by the letters TN and trees denoted by the letter T.

Scattered Trees 3.3.2 To the north and west of the riding arena is a line of mature goat willow trees Salix caprea (TN2) on a steep bank, approximately 4m high. The majority of the mature willow have failed and there is a line of tree stumps where they have been subsequently felled. At the eastern end is a western red cedar Thuja plicata with earthstar fungi Geastrum triplex at the base.

3.3.3 There was minimal ground flora as the majority of the bank was covered in leaf litter during the most recent November survey. However previous surveys in early spring (March 2017) found the following species associated with shaded and disturbed habitats; dog’s mercury Mercurialis perennis, Lords-and-Ladies Arum maculatum, common hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, dandelion Taraxacum officinalis agg. sp, and wood avens Geum urbanum. During previous surveys in early mid-winter (October, December and January) the following species were also recorded: bramble Rubus fruticosus agg., male fern Dryopteris filix-mas, herb-Robert Geranium robertianum, common ivy Hedera helix, cleavers Galium aparine, ground ivy Glechoma hederacea, common nettle Urtica dioica, creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, broad buckler-fern Dryopteris dilatata, elder, broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius and great mullein Verbascum thapsus.

3.3.4 At the eastern end of the Site is a line of mature western red cedar (TN1). Mature Scots pine Pinus sylvestris, silver birch Betula pendula, elder and sycamore Acer psuedoplatanus are also present and the ground flora is sparse but includes bramble, male fern and self-heal Prunella vulgaris. Previous surveys

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(October- March) recorded common nettle, Lords-and-Ladies, broad-leaved dock, common vetch Vicia sativa, foxglove Digitalis purpurea, creeping buttercup, rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, cleavers, ground ivy, bramble, herb-Robert, and feverfew Tanacetum parthenium.

3.3.5 TN7 is an area of scattered trees in the south of the Site. Species include horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum, silver birch, Leyland cypress Leylandii x cupressus and beech Fraxinus excelsior. The ground flora includes Yorkshire fog, common nettle, cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata and spear thistle. Previous surveys recorded a wider range of species including red campion Silene dioica, broad-leaved dock, Lords-and-Ladies, ivy, black horehound, herb-Robert, mugwort Artemesia vulgaris, hogweed and cleavers was also noted. As per recommendations in the previous reports, the ground flora has been well maintained and was cut low (<50mm) at the time of survey (cut between March to October outside of the active reptile season). There are a number of tree stumps along the bank and one active rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus hole.

Dense Scrub 3.3.6 An area of bramble and willow scrub TN9 has developed around a fallen willow tree in the north-west of the Site with cock’s foot and lesser burdock Arctium minus also present.

Semi-improved Grassland 3.3.7 To the south of the arena building is an area of semi-improved grassland (TN6) which has a large leaf pile (S2) approximately 8m by 4m. Grassland species present include Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus, creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera, creeping buttercup, broad-leaved dock, common nettle and wood avens. In previous surveys the following species were also noted: rough hawkbit Leontodon hispidus, smooth hawksbeard Crepis capillaris, common nettle, common chickweed Stellaria media and black horehound Ballota nigra.

3.3.8 The brick driveway leading to the arena building is flanked by short mown grassland (TN8) and occasional mature trees. The grass is dominated by moss with frequent self-heal, sheep’s sorrel Rumex acetosella, parsley piert Aphanes arvensis and field wood-rush Luzula campestris. Other species include red fescue Festuca rubra, cut-leaved cranesbill Geranium dissectum, yarrow Achillea millefolium, common field speedwell Veronica persica, creeping bent Agrostis capillaris, field forget-me-not Myosotis arvensis, and ground ivy. Rarely occurring species include Yorkshire fog, cat’s ear Hypochaeris radicata and autumn hawkbit Scorzoneroides autumnalis. Spring flowering plants including planted daffodils Narcisuss sp. and snowdrops Galanthus sp. were noted on previous surveys. The mature trees include Scot’s pine, blue Atlas cedar Cedrus atlantica, hazel Corylus avellana and silver birch.

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3.3.9 An open air sand school ménage (TN4) forms a large proportion of the northern part of Site and has become colonised with moss, which is the dominant species. There is a low-growing sward including frequent sheep’s sorrel, sheep’s fescue Festuca ovina, common ragwort and autumn hawkbit as well as occasional birch saplings, common cudweed Filago vulgaris, cat’s ear, Yorkshire-fog, creeping buttercup, field wood-rush and creeping thistle.

Tall Ruderal 3.3.10 TN3 is an area of ruderal vegetation that is regularly managed and is becoming dominated by grasses, particularly when compared to previous surveys. The height of the vegetation remains low due to regular management and is an average height of some 50mm. Key species include Yorkshire-fog, wood avens and ground ivy. Also frequently occurring are common bent Agrostis capillaris, creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, broad-leaved dock, barren strawberry Potentilla sterilis, rough meadow-grass Poa trivialis, germander speedwell Veronica chaemdrys, dandelion Taraxacum officinalis agg., lesser burdock Arctium minus and sweet violet Viola odorata. There are occasional goat willow trees and root plates of fallen trees where patches of bare ground and ruderal species such as common nettle are more common. On previous surveys a rabbit Oyctolagus cuniculus burrow was noted under one of the root plates however there was no clear evidence of rabbits in this area on this survey. The following species were also noted during previous surveys: common nettle, dog’s mercury, Lords-and-Ladies, lesser celandine Ficaria verna, soft rush Juncus effusus, spear thistle, black horehound, hogweed, rosebay willowherb, common ragwort Senecio jacobaea, autumn hawksbit, smooth sow-thistle Sonchus oleraceus, rough hawkbit, bristly ox- tongue Helminthotheca echioides, cock’s foot and herb-Robert.

Spoil piles 3.3.11 The following spoil piles were noted around the Site:  S1 is a substantial brash pile approximately 4m by 4m and 2m high, formed from cut material from a fallen tree.  S2 is a large leaf pile overflowing a fenced compost area

Boundary features 3.3.12 There is a timber palisade fence (TN5) on the western boundary, adjacent to a small, stone bridleway. There are coppiced hazel trees at regular intervals along the fence. The coppiced trees are regularly managed, with large bases and new shoots reaching a height of 2m.

3.4 Protected Species Assessment Bats - Trees 3.4.1 The majority of trees on Site are not a suitable size or age to support features for roosting bats. However a feature was noted on one tree: T1, a goat willow (OS grid reference TQ 58114 54525). This has a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 60cm and the tree splits into three leaders. There is a long split on the

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eastern face of two of the leaders; these are shallow, could be fully viewed and no evidence of bats was seen. Woodpecker holes in the heartwood of this split were noted at 2m and 3m. The hole at 2m was inspected with an endoscope and was found to extend for 10cm. No evidence of roosting bats was recorded but the tree has ‘Low’ potential for roosting bats (Collins, 2016).

Bat Habitat 3.4.2 The Site provides opportunities for foraging and commuting bats. There are mature trees which would support invertebrate prey items and the Site is relatively sheltered. There are outdoor sensor lights and the building has powerful halogen lights, but is understood that these are rarely used so artificial light levels are generally low. However the majority of the Site is comprised of the building and short vegetation so overall the Site is considered to provide ‘Low’ quality habitat for bats under the BCT guidelines (Collins, 2016).

Reptiles 3.4.3 The ruderal habitat TN3 and TN7 has been regularly maintained and there are no areas of dense vegetation for refuge or shelter however the substantial spoil piles of S1 and S2 are suitable habitat for refuge and hibernation. The habitats to the south and west of the Site appear suitable for reptiles, consisting of pasture fields with hedgerows.

Amphibians 3.4.4 The terrestrial habitat is suitable for great crested newt Tritus cristatus. However the density of ponds in the landscape is considered to be too low to offer the potential for great crested newts to be present on the Site, with the nearest pond located some 320m to the east. There is one other pond within 500m of the Site, located 475m to the west of the Site.

Dormice 3.4.5 It is noted that the adjacent habitats to the north of the Site including sweet chestnut Castanea sativa and hazel coppice woodlands appear suitable for dormice Muscardinus avellanarius and the wider landscape is suitable for dormice. However, there is no suitable habitat for dormice within the Site boundary. There are native trees present however they are isolated without sufficient aerial connections.

Badgers 3.4.6 There was no badger evidence noted and no sett within the Site or within 40m of the Site.

Hedgehog 3.4.7 The habitats are suitable for hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus foraging and shelter.

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Rabbit 3.4.8 Two rabbit burrows were noted, one in TN4 and one in TN7.

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4.0 EVALUATION 4.1 Summary of Proposals & Designations 4.1.1 The proposals are for the conversion of the existing riding arena into a single dwelling with associated landscaping. Hedgerow and tree planting are proposed, particularly along the western part of the Site to create an ecological habitat corridor. Vehicular access would be retained along the existing brick driveway.

4.1.2 The Site is within the IRZ of Oldbury and Seal Chart and One Tree Hill and Bitchet Common. However the criteria for assessment in this IRZ does not apply to residential developments and therefore the SSSIs would not be impacted by the proposed development.

4.2 Bat Building Survey Bats 4.2.1 There is no potential for day roosting bats and no further surveys required.

Birds including Barn owl 4.2.2 The building has potential and evidence of breeding birds on the beams. Regarding barn owl Tyto alba, the building B1 has suitable ledges and access for nesting. However there was no evidence of use from this species.

4.2.3 All wild birds receive protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and this includes disturbance while breeding. The breeding bird season is generally taken as 1st March to 1st September and if site clearance work is expected to be undertaken within this timeframe then it is recommended that suitable areas are checked by a suitably experienced ecologist for active nests before the work commences. Should breeding birds be identified it will be necessary to postpone works until a time when the chicks have fledged and left the nest. Recommendations for bird boxes are provided in section 5.0.

4.3 Phase 1 Habitat Survey 4.3.1 There were no rare or nationally scarce plant species identified and the Site supports a relatively limited diversity of plants and habitats. The species are representative of disturbed habitats, shaded habitats and acidic sandy grassland.

4.3.2 The outside sand school TN4 and grassland TN8 of the driveway were found to support species of acid or sandy soil including sheep’s fescue and sheep’s sorrel. TN4 has become more colonised by moss and is occasional managed. TN8 is regularly managed. Therefore the assemblage does not include the range of species generally associated with unimproved acid grassland, which is a priority habitat.

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Recommendations have been provided in chapter 5.0 to retain and enhance the flora which would thrive on this substrate.

4.4 Protected Species Assessment Bats - trees 4.4.1 A single tree (T1) has been identified with ‘Low’ bat roost potential. No field evidence of bats was found during the endoscope investigation however the low level of potential remains. No further surveys are recommended however if removal or pruning of this tree is required, it is recommended that there is an endoscope inspection prior to any proposed tree work and the tree is taken down with a ‘soft felling’ approach, whereby the tree is section felled and features of interest are gently lowered to the ground so that it can be inspected for bats by an experienced ecologist.

Bat Habitat 4.4.2 The Site supports ‘Low’ quality habitat for foraging and commuting bats (Collins, 2016) and no further activity surveys are recommended as the Site is small and predicted impacts on habitats are low. For example, mature trees are being retained and there is scope to include generous native planting within the scheme, see section 5.0. Sensitive lighting will be used in the development.

Reptiles 4.4.3 The grassland habitats are not currently suitable for reptiles as the vegetation is regularly managed and it is recommended that the vegetation on Site continues to be managed frequently up until work commences to prevent the habitats becoming more suitable over time and colonised by reptiles which may be present in adjacent offsite habitats. If this habitat management is not carried out, a reptile presence/likely absence survey during March-October is likely to be needed to understand whether a population is present on the Site, to understand the impacts of the scheme and inform an appropriate reptile mitigation strategy.

4.4.4 There are two large brash and leaf piles which have been recently created from fallen trees and site maintenance. Due to their relative isolation form good reptile habitat, being surrounded by short mown, well managed grass, and their recent creation, it is unlikely that reptiles would be present. However precautions should be followed as it does provide a refuge for wildlife in winter. Recommendations include leaving the brash and leaf piles in place until March-October to avoid disturbance to any sheltering animals over winter (including amphibians and small mammals) and dismantling the brash pile by hand.

4.4.5 During construction works, materials should be stored on hardstanding or pallets and the Site should be kept tidy, including the removal of refuse and waste materials at the earliest opportunity to avoid attracting reptiles and amphibians from the surrounding areas.

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Amphibians 4.4.6 The terrestrial habitat on Site has some suitability for amphibians, with refuge and hibernation areas in the log stumps and spoil piles. However the likelihood of great crested newt being present on Site is considered very low to negligible due to the poor local pond network; the closest pond to the Site is 320m to the east. No further surveys are considered necessary.

Dormice 4.4.7 Dormice are associated with mature arboreal habitats such as ancient woodland, particularly those with a history of coppice management. The surrounding landscape including hazel and sweet chestnut coppice has potential for dormice, however there is no habitat suitable for dormice within the Site. No further surveys are considered necessary.

Badgers 4.4.8 Low levels of badger field signs were noted in 2013 including one dung pit and some foraging signs. There were no recent badger signs noted in March 2017 or November 2020. Badgers appear to use the Site occasionally for foraging however there is no sett within the Site. It is considered that the proposals will have a negligible impact on the availability of badger foraging territory and the proposals for native planting will constitute a long-term enhancement for this species. There are no further badger surveys recommended.

Hedgehogs 4.4.9 Suitable habitat for hedgehogs is present and it is recommended that measures are included to maintain interest for this declining species:  Any closeboard fencing used in the proposed development will be installed with 13x13cm holes at the base to allow hedgehogs to forage in the local habitats and move across the landscape. Alternatively, gravel boards and fencing panels can be bought with inbuilt hedgehog access, e.g. Quercus fencing and Jacksons fencing. The holes in fencing should link up with grass verges and hedgerows to create ‘Hedgehog Highways’ through the development.  Four log piles will be provided at the base of vegetation and hedgerows.

4.4.10 Two rabbit burrows were identified and further burrows may become active. Any burrows which are due to be impacted by the development should be carefully excavated using hand tools to prevent any animals being buried underground. Any animals should be allowed to move away of their own accord. This is in order to prevent unnecessary harm or cruelty to the animals, as stated in the Protection of Mammals Act (1996).

Breeding Birds

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4.4.11 The trees on Site and the riding arena B1 provide suitable habitat for breeding birds. All wild birds receive protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and this includes disturbance while breeding. To avoid disturbance, works to remove any trees and buildings should avoid the key breeding season 1st March to 1st September. If the site clearance is undertaken within this timeframe then it is recommended that suitable areas are checked by an ecologist before work commences. Should breeding birds be identified, it will be necessary to postpone works until the nest is no longer in use.

4.4.12 Recommendations for the provision of replacement nesting areas are provided below.

4.5 National Planning Policy Framework 4.5.1 The proposals for the Site will need to take into account the National Planning Policy Framework (February 2019) which sets out the Government’s current planning policy in relation to conserving and enhancing the natural environment. The NPPF states that “the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by:

 Protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils;

 Recognising wider benefits of ecosystem services;

 Minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures

4.5.2 A detailed ecological enhancement strategy has been agreed with the clients and is described in section 5.0.

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5.0 ECOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY 5.1 A detailed ecological enhancement strategy has been agreed with the clients and is presented as Figure 2. The proposals have been designed to minimise impacts on ecology and to enhance the Site’s biodiversity. This will be achieved particularly along the western part of the Site through the establishment of an ecological habitat corridor that will utilise the western part of the former footprint of the building.

5.2 Increasing tree cover will ensure that the wooded characteristic of the local landscape will be incorporated into the Site and this will enhance the landscape in this location and increase the strength of the habitat connection between Ightham Mote to the south and Oldbury and Seal Chart woodland to the north. This will benefit a number of species, including birds, bats and dormice. Dormice in particular could benefit in time as there is no suitable habitat for dormice within the Site at present even though the wider landscape is suitable to support them. The landscape proposals are set out in detail below.

Trees 5.3 The cobnut trees along the north-west boundary will be retained and subject to continued management and coppicing.

5.4 Locally sourced native tree species will be used for tree and shrub planting. A selection of native tree species which reflect the local flora will be used such as:  Sweet chestnut, hazel/cobnut, sessile oak Quercus petraea, beech Fagus sylvatica, downy birch Betula pubescens, rowan Sorbus acuparia, whitebeam S. aria, aspen Populus tremula and Scots pine.  Alder Alnus glutinosa and willow Salix spp. are suitable for damper parts of the Site.

5.5 Native fruit trees will also be included as they are of ornamental and wildlife value. A selection of traditional fruit tree varieties will be planted including wild cherry Prunus avium, crab apple Malus sylvestris, plum Prunus domestica and apple Malus domestica.

Hedgerows 5.6 Triple-staggered native hedges will be planted around the proposed development and along the south- western boundary with the public bridleway. Regular pruning of newly establishing hedgerows will aid bushy growth from the base and increase the nesting opportunities for a number of bird species. At least five woody species should be included from the following:  Hazel, hornbeam, beech, spindle Euonymus europaea, guelder rose Viburnum opulus, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, blackthorn Prunus spinosa, yew Taxus baccata and holly Illex aquifolium. If a non-deciduous hedge is preferred, a greater proportion of yew and holly can be used.

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 Dog rose Rosa canina and honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum should also be planted at regular intervals to help thicken the vegetation.

Shrub and herbaceous planting 5.7 For ornamental planting it is recommended that nectar-rich plants are used, including climbing plants (e.g. single or semi-double flowered roses), native plants (e.g. ling heather Calluna sp.) and night-scented plants (e.g. flowering tobacoo Nicotiana) to attract moths. Herbaceous planting should aim to include a combination of plants that flowers through spring, summer and autumn.

Lawns 5.8 Regarding new lawns, these will be seeded with a variety of native grass and herb species. Emorsgate Seeds (http://wildseed.co.uk/home) provide a wide range of grass and flower seed mixes from wild stock. A mixture such as “EM7 – Meadow mixture for sandy soils” would be appropriate for this site.

5.9 In the more landscaped areas of the garden closest to the new building, a flowering lawn mixture will be used such as “EL1 – Flowering lawn mixture” as it incorporates wild flowers whilst responding well to regular short mowing.

Invertebrates 5.10 Features for bees can be created by securing tall logs or wooden posts (at least 2 metres long) into the ground in an upright position in sunny areas. Drilling various sized-holes, particularly on sunny south-facing sides, will attract a range of species. Smaller bees such as yellow-faced bees will use holes 2-3mm across, and larger ones such as leafcutter bees, mason bees, and wool-carder bees will use the larger holes of 8- 10mm diameter. The planting of nectar-rich plants as discussed above will help attract bees to the Site.

5.11 Log piles act as a refugia for many species. Four log piles can be constructed using timber from trees due to be felled. They should use logs with a maximum diameter of 20cm and each log pile secured with stakes to prevent collapsing and with wire to prevent removal or dismantling. They will be located close to established vegetation and hedgerows, in both sunny and shaded locations to support different species.

Birds 5.12 Bird boxes will be installed at a minimum height of 3m, facing away from the prevailing south-westerly weather and preferably in a sheltered location close to the vegetated boundaries of the Site. The following boxes are recommended:  2 x spotted flycatcher Muscicapa striata boxes such as the CedarPlus OpenFront Wooden Flycatcher Box. Spotted flycatchers are summer migrants from South Africa and are often found in woodland with open glades where they catch insects on the wing. The reduction in nesting

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opportunities is thought to be a contributory factor in their decline. The boxes would be positioned between 2 – 4m above ground level on trees with a good vantage point. They often prefer boxes surrounded by creeping plants, so where possible boxes should be sited where honeysuckle is growing or can be planted.  2 x tree creeper Certhia familiaris boxes. Tree creepers prefer to build their nest in contact with the trunks of trees. For this reason, the Schwegler 2B Tree Creeper Nest Box with Predator Protection box is open at the rear (the tree side) to encourage nesting and to allow the birds to search amongst the bark cracks for prey.  2 x general purpose boxes. For example the 1N Schwegler Deep Nest Box has predator protection and can make an effective contribution to breeding success for a range of species including tits, sparrows, redstarts, black redstarts, spotted flycatchers, pied wagtail, robins and wrens.  1 x tawny owl Strix aluco box. In areas where natural nesting sites are rare, tawny owls will use man-made boxes, which should be mounted to the underside of a branch at an angle of 45° and at a height of 3-4m.

Dormice 5.13 The native tree and hedgerow planting in the west of the Site will benefit any dormice in the long term by providing a new habitat for them within the Site through increasing aerial connections between woodland and providing new foraging resources.

Summary 5.14 The ecological enhancements to the Site including the establishment of a new ecology corridor will benefit a range of species including badger, dormice and hedgehogs, strengthening the current ecological network and habitat connection between Ightham Mote to the south and Oldbury and Seal Chart to the north. The above proposals will enhance the general landscape in this location and result in a biodiversity gain.

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6.0 CONCLUSIONS 6.1 The proposals involve the conversion of the existing riding arena into a single dwelling with associated landscaping.

6.2 A bat and barn owl building survey has been undertaken and there was no potential for bat roosts noted. No current evidence of use by bats was identified and no further surveys are considered necessary.

6.3 Regarding barn owl, the building B1 has suitable ledges and access for nesting. However there was no evidence of use from this species.

6.4 The trees and building have potential for breeding birds and an old nest was noted in B1. Advice is provided on the conduct of site clearance work if it is expected to be undertaken during the key breeding season 1st March to 1st September.

6.5 No rare or invasive plant species have been recorded. Species typical of acid grassland have been recorded but the range and extent of species present does not suggest lowland acid grassland, which is a priority habitat community.

6.6 Tree (T1) has been identified with ‘Low’ bat roost potential and advice has been provided in the instance that this tree requires pruning or felling.

6.7 The Site supports ‘Low’ quality habitat for foraging and commuting bats. The proposals include generous native planting and sensitive lighting will be adopted, so there are no adverse impacts are anticipated from the proposals and further surveys are not required.

6.8 Habitat management should be continued across the Site to prevent the ground conditions becoming suitable for reptiles. Advice has been provided regarding the spoil piles present on Site and avoiding disturbing them during winter.

6.9 The likelihood of amphibians including great crested newt being present on Site is considered very low due to the poor local network of ponds and no further surveys are recommended.

6.10 There is no habitat for dormice on Site however they are known to be in the local environment so the planting recommendations provide long-term habitat for this species.

6.11 There were no field signs of badger in November 2020 or the previous survey in March 2017. The past evidence is consistent with badgers using the Site occasionally for foraging and the ecological enhancement strategy ensures foraging habitat remains for this species. No further surveys are required.

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6.12 The Site is suitable for hedgehogs and recommendations have been provided to ensure this species can continue to move through the landscape. The spoil piles should not be disturbed in winter. Native planting and log piles will constitute a long-term enhancement for this species.

6.13 Rabbits are present on site and measures to prevent unnecessary harm or cruelty to this species during ground works have been recommended.

6.14 Recommendations have been provided to avoid disturbance of breeding birds in the vegetation, during the key season 1st March to 1st August.

6.15 An ecological enhancement strategy has been outlined with respect to NPPF and has been agreed with the clients. This strategy ensures that the proposals have a net positive impact on biodiversity. A generous scheme for native planting and the provision of habitats for invertebrates and birds will be incorporated into the final design.

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REFERENCES

Battersby J (ed). 2005. UK Mammals: Species Status and Population Trends. JNCC/Tracking Mammals Partnership.

Beebee T. & Griffiths R. 2000. Amphibians and Reptiles. Harper Collins Publishers, Hammersmith, London.

Corylus Ecology. 2018. Barnfield Cottage: Extended Phase I Habitat Survey and Bat Building Survey. February 2018.

English Nature. 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. Version August. 2001. English Nature. Peterborough.

Froglife. 1999. Froglife Advice Sheet 10: reptile survey. Froglife, London.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee. 2003. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. A Technique for Environmental Audit. JNCC.

DEFRA. 2020. MAGIC Map Website. Accessed November 2020.

Natural England. 2010. Great Crested Newts and Development – Standing Advice for Local Authorities. Standing Advice for the East of England.

Neal E. & Cheeseman C.L. 1996. Badgers. T. & AD Poyset Ltd, London.

Oldham, R.S., Keeble, J., Swan, M.J.S., and Jeffcote, M. 2000. Evaluating the Suitability of Habitat for the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus). Herpetological Journal, Vol. 10, pp. 143-155.

Stace C. 2019. Field Flora of the British Isles. 4th Edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK.

20144 BARNFIELD COTTAGE ECOLOGICAL SURVEY, DECEMBER 2020 revision description date checked by

Corylus Ecology Ltd, Unit A3, Speldhurst Business Park, Went Farm, Langton Road, Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0NR Corylus Ecology is the trading name of Corylus Ecology Ltd registered in England, No 5005553, Registered Office: Henwood House, Henwood, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH

Project: Barnfield Cottages, Ivy Hatch

Title: Phase 1 Habitat Plan

status drawing no. Figure 1 scale size date drawn checked NTS A3 18.11.2020 JP HL CAD filename Figure_1.dwg

Tl New Tree Planting 01:S Key Sweet Chestnut - Castanea Sativa New Tree Planling Sessile Oak • Ouercus Petraea 0 Beech - Fagus Sylvatica New Triple Staggered Native Downy Birch - Betuta Pubescens c::> Hedgerow Alder. Alnus Glutinosa New Lawns CD Tall logs - bees @ Hibernacula log piles New Triple Staggered Native Hedgerow New Triple Staggered Native- H@dgM0W New climbing plants on trellis 20% Hazel • Corylus Avellana 10% Field Maple -Acer Campestre 25% Holly • llex Aquifolium New Lawns 20% Blackthorn • Prunus Spinosa 10% Yew - Taxus Baccata Meadow Mixture EM7 in the north 20% Hawthorn - Crataegus Monogyna Flowering Lawn Mixture EL1 in the south

with Habitat Creation Dog Rose • Rosa Canina Honeysuckle• Lonicera Periclymenum Minimum of 7 no. bird boxes as per Corylus Ecology Report for different species New hedgerows to be planted primarily of bare-rooted stock, triple staggered rows 450 c/c, 300mm between rows, grouped with two or rnore specimens of the same species. New Tree Planting Scots Pine - Pinus Sylvestris Aspen - Populus Tremula Whitebeam • Sorbus Aria

New Tree Planting Climbing Plonts on Trellis on Elevolions 15% Rowan - Serbus Acuparia 25% Whitebeam - Sorbus Aria Single and double flowere

MR AND MRS MCELROY

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