Biodiversity and Planning in Contents

Section 1 1 About this guidance...... 3 Protecting and enhancing Oxfordshire’s biodiversity...... 3 How to use this guidance...... 3 1 Biodiversity in the planning process...... 4 1 Information requirements...... 5

Section 2 2a Internationally and nationally designated sites...... 6 2b Legally protected species...... 8

Section 3 3 Local sites and priority habitats and species...... 11 3a Local Sites...... 12 3b Ancient Woodland...... 14 3c Priority Habitats...... 16 3d Priority Species...... 18 3e Other areas of importance to biodiversity...... 20

Section 4 4a Oxfordshire Wildlife and Landscape Study...... 22 4b Conservation Target Areas...... 24 4c Green Infrastructure...... 26 4d Biodiversity within developments...... 28

Sections 5, 6, 7 5 Key legislation and policy...... 29 6 Contacts...... 30 7 Glossary...... 31

Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Oxfordshire © Nick Turner

2 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC 1 About this guidance

Protecting and enhancing Oxfordshire’s biodiversity How to use this guidance Oxfordshire supports a diversity of wildlife habitats and species, ranging from the chalk grasslands and beechwoods in the Chilterns, through pockets of rare fen, to This guidance has been arranged the scarce flood meadows along the Thames. However, less than 10,000 hectares (ha) to align with national Planning of Oxfordshire retains any special value for wildlife; around 4% of the total land area. Policy Statement 9 on biodiversity Oxfordshire is also home to around 80 protected species and more than 200 species and geological conservation and recognised as being a priority for conservation. is similarly divided into sections dealing with various biodiversity The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT), Oxfordshire County Council and the features which should be protected Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre (TVERC) have worked in partnership to and enhanced through the planning produce this guidance document, to help those involved in planning in Oxfordshire system. In general Sections 2 and 3 ensure that development within the county protects and enhances this valuable local outline those features which should biodiversity. be protected, and Section 4 outlines opportunities to deliver biodiversity Some of the important sites and species in Oxfordshire are protected by legislation, enhancements. others by planning policy. National and regional planning policy identifies the need to protect existing biodiversity and deliver enhancements to achieve a net gain A page of information gives an in biodiversity. Here we bring together legislation and planning policy, alongside overview of each feature and locally information on the biodiversity of Oxfordshire, to help identify when and where specific information. The column biodiversity will need to be protected by the planning system, as well as how to identify on the right hand side of the page opportunities to deliver biodiversity enhancements in the most effective way. provides a summary of relevant legislation or planning policy. Boxes on ‘Further Information’ provide sources of more detailed information and guidance. In the bottom right hand corner you will find ‘Key Organisations’ who you might wish to contact in relation to a particular issue. For each biodiversity feature, a map identifies the distribution of that feature in Oxfordshire. It should be noted that these maps (produced by TVERC) are intended to provide a strategic overview and only show the situation at time of publication. More detailed and updated site- specific information is available directly from TVERC or, for those working in local authorities, much of this information will be available on

Otter © Helen Walsh GIS layers within your authority. To reduce environmental impact, a limited number of hard copies of this document are available. An online version is provided on the Oxfordshire County Council website (www.oxfordshire.gov. uk), which will be kept up-to- date with changes in legislation and policy. The online version provides links to the documents and websites mentioned in the ‘Further information’ boxes; key legislation is outlined in Section 5. Appendix I and Appendix II are also on the Oxfordshire County Council website. Key contacts are Amethyst deceiver © Terry Meadow pipit © Mike provided in Section 6. Longley/seeing.org.uk Taylor/seeing.org.uk

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 3 1 Biodiversity in the planning process

This flow diagram illustrates the importance of taking biodiversity into consideration at all stages of the planning application process, highlighting the key features to take into account.

Development proposal

► Discussion with local authority and other relevant organisations (e.g. Natural England, Environment Agency and local organisations) regarding biodiversity issues, including the need for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) ► Desktop survey from TVERC to identify presence of designated sites, protected species and priority habitats and species ► Follow Natural England standing advice to determine survey requirements for protected species

Biodiversity survey and report including EIA or HRA if needed

Revise as necessary Revise as necessary

Identify locationally appropriate biodiversity gains Identify impacts and mitigation measures

Application for planning permission

Consider Section 4 of this guidance, Consider Sections 2 and 3 of this including: guidance, including: Oxfordshire Wildlife and Landscape Designated sites, Biodiversity Action Study Plan habitats and species, protected Conservation Target Areas species and ancient woodland Green Infrastructure Biodiversity in developments Local authority considers validity of surveys and determines application in light of planning policy and legislation Consultation with Natural England, Environment Agency and local Application approvedorganisations

Application refused

Refusal due to insufficient biodiversity survey, Conditions or obligations are attached as appropriate to unacceptable biodiversity impact or insufficient ensure biodiversity protection and enhancement biodiversity enhancement

4 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC 1 Information requirements

The importance of up-to-date information Planning policy Planning Policy Statement 9 requires that development plan policies and planning Planning Policy Statement 9, first key decisions are based upon up-to-date information about the environmental principle: characteristics of their areas, including the relevant biodiversity resources of the area (see right). ‘Development plan policies and planning decisions should be based upon up-to- In submitting a planning application, the standard planning application form requires date information about the environmental that applicants identify any protected or priority species, designated sites, important characteristics of their areas. These habitats, or other biodiversity features on, or adjacent to, the application site. This characteristics should include the relevant guidance document gives an overview of these features in Oxfordshire; more detailed biodiversity and geological resources site level information is available from TVERC. of the area. In reviewing environmental characteristics local authorities should Where it is likely that a proposal will impact on any of these features, up-to-date assess the potential to sustain and biodiversity information will need to be provided with a planning application. The type enhance those resources.’ of assessment needed will vary from a biodiversity survey and report to Environmental Impact Assessment and Appropriate Assessment if a European Site is involved.

It is not within the scope of this guidance to explain how or when to undertake such assessments, there is other national and regional guidance available on this — see the ‘Further Information’ box opposite. It is important to bear in mind that the survey work Little owl © Helen Walsh needed to inform such assessments will be seasonally restricted.

Discussion of biodiversity survey needs at pre-application stage can help reduce the likelihood of delays resulting from requirements for survey being identified at a late stage.

All ecological reports should include the following: a) What biodiversity is present b) How biodiversity impacts can be avoided c) If it is not possible to avoid impacts, how they can be mitigated d) If there is no way of mitigating impacts, compensation measures should be identified e) The report should demonstrate how the application can result in an overall enhancement in biodiversity

Avoidance, mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures must be clearly Further information stated to enable report recommendations to be conditioned and enforced. ► Construction Industry Research and Information Association — Guidance on Optimal Timing for Nature Reserve, Oxfordshire Carrying Out Specialist Ecological © Jim Asher Surveys and Mitigation

► Ecological Impact Assessment Guidelines (IEEM)

► Habitats Regulations Guidance Notes: 1. Appropriate Assessment 2. Review of Existing Planning Permissions and Consents 3. Determination of Likely Significant Effect 4. Alone or In Combination

► Natural England Standing Advice for Ancient Woodland

► Natural England Standing Advice on Protected Species

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 5 2a Internationally and nationally designated sites

Internationally designated sites: Special Areas of Legislation Conservation (SAC) Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) EC Habitats Directive Oxfordshire has seven sites designated at this level which fall partly or entirely within the Special Protection Areas (SPAs) county; they are shown in orange on Map 1. The law is very strict with regard to these EC Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/ sites; development proposals which will adversely affect these sites are not permitted*. EEC on the conservation of wild birds)

If a development is proposed that could possibly impact on a SAC, the applicant In the UK these are implemented through will need to submit an assessment of potential impacts and their significance with UK law by the Conservation (Natural their planning application; this information is used by the local authority to make an Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 and Wildlife ‘Appropriate Assessment’ of the implications for the SAC. & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

Impacts that will need to be considered include direct impacts, for example habitat loss Planning policy through land take, and indirect impacts such as changes to water quality or quantity, air pollution or increased recreational pressure. Because these sites are strictly protected by law, no further protection is required through PPS9. Indirect impacts could result from development proposals some distance from a SAC; impacts on internationally designated sites in other counties should also be considered. Policy NRM5 of the South East Plan These might include Special Protection Areas (SPAs), designated for their importance identifies that that if an appropriate for birds (there are no SPAs in Oxfordshire). assessment is unable to conclude that there will be no adverse impact on a * In exceptional circumstances a proposal that would impact negatively on a SAC may be permitted but only European site the plan or project will not where there are no alternative solutions and the proposal is necessary for imperative reasons of overriding public interest. Where this is the case, compensatory measures will be necessary. be approved irrespective of conformity with other policies in the South East Plan. It goes on to state: Oxfordshire’s Special Areas of Conservation ‘In the event that a local planning authority ► Meadows: Lowland hay meadows including the larger of only two known concludes that it cannot distribute an sites in the UK for creeping marshwort allocation accordingly, or otherwise avoid ► : Largest surviving example of alkaline fen in central England or adequately mitigate any adverse effect, ► Little Wittenham: One of the best studied great crested newt sites in the UK it should make provision up to the level closest to its original allocation for which it ► Aston Rowant: One of the best remaining examples in the UK of lowland juniper can be concluded that it can be distributed scrub on chalk without adversely affecting the integrity of ► Chilterns Beechwoods: Extensive tract of beech forest in the centre of the UK any European sites.’ range of this habitat ► Hackpen Hill: Significant population of early gentian SACs are identified on proposals maps within ► Wood: Yew woodland and chalk grassland supporting one of only three Local Development Frameworks, and may be UK populations of monkey orchid accompanied by some explanatory text.

Nationally designated sites: Sites of Special Scientific Legislation Interest (SSSI) Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) SSSIs are a series of sites from across the UK, which provide a representative sample of the country’s best habitats. There are 102 SSSIs in Oxfordshire, covering a total of Planning policy 4,012 ha. SSSIs are designated for either their biological or geological interest; they Planning Policy Statement 9 para 7, 8: are shown in green on Map 1. Oxfordshire’s SACs are also designated as SSSIs — the features for which the different types of site have been designated may differ. ‘those features of SSSIs not covered by an international designation, should be given a high SSSIs are given a high level of protection through both the planning and legal system. degree of protection under the planning system’ Normally development which would adversely affect a SSSI is not acceptable. Only in special cases, where the importance of a development outweighs the impact on South East Plan (NRM5): the SSSI, would an adverse affect be permitted. In such cases, planning conditions or ‘avoid damage to nationally important obligations would be used to mitigate the impact. Sites of Special Scientific Interest’ There is not a requirement for the ‘Appropriate Assessment’ process for SSSIs, but for developments likely to impact on a SSSI an Environmental Impact Assessment will Key organisations probably be necessary. Environment Agency Local authorities Natural England

6 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 1

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 7 2b Legally protected species

Protected species occur throughout the county Legislation The distribution of current records is provided on Map 2. A full list of protected species EC Habitats Directive, transposed into UK occurring in Oxfordshire, and the level of protection they receive, can be found in law by Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Appendix I available on the Oxfordshire County Council website. Regulations 1994 Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) The species receiving the strictest protection are generally referred to as ‘European Protection of Badgers Act 1992 Protected Species’ since they are protected under European Directives (see right). The European Protected Species you are most likely to come across in relation to Planning policy development in Oxfordshire are great crested newt and bats. Other Oxfordshire species Planning Policy Statement 9 and the South include otter, dormouse, and natterjack toad. These species are protected against East Plan do not cover protected species killing, injury, disturbance in their place of shelter, taking and selling. specifically since they are protected by law. Examples of activities that could breach the legislation include: in-filling or earthworks near to a great crested newt pond, felling of trees or demolition of buildings used by bats, clearance of woodland or hedgerows supporting dormice, or work on water course banks near to an otter holt. Badgers Species can receive varying levels of protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA); Oxfordshire species receiving protection under this act include water vole, Badgers are a fairly common species, common lizard, grass snake, slow worm and roman snail; all these species are protected and are, therefore, quite likely to against killing and injury, sale and advertisement for sale. It is also illegal to take a be encountered on a potential roman snail or freshwater crayfish. Water voles receive full protection under this Act, development site. Whilst not a additionally making it illegal to obstruct access to, or destroy a water vole burrow, or to rare species, badgers receive legal disturb a water vole in its burrow. The WCA makes it illegal to pick, uproot or destroy protection due to persecution and certain rare plants, of which there are records of 18 species in Oxfordshire. animal welfare issues.

Development will need to avoid impacts on protected species, and where this is not Badgers are protected under the possible, mitigation or compensation will be necessary. If there is a possibility that Protection of Badgers Act 1992 a development proposal will impact on a protected species, surveys will need to be against killing, injury or taking. submitted with a planning application to determine the impacts. Please note: surveys Badger setts are also protected to determine the presence of protected species need to be provided upfront with against damage, destruction or a planning application and should not be made a condition of planning permission obstruction and it is illegal to disturb since the local authority will need this information to inform their decision (see a badger in its sett. Circular 06/05, page 9). If planning permission is granted, a development licence, or conservation licence, from Natural England may be required. A badger survey and report will be needed if a development is likely to impact on a badger sett, and appropriate mitigation will need to Birds be put in place if impacts cannot be avoided. All bird nests, eggs and young are protected under the Wildlife and Badgers © Countryside Act. Therefore, removal of Terry Longley/ seeing.org.uk any bird nesting habitat such as trees or scrub (or buildings in the case of birds such as barn owls, swifts, swallows, house martins and house sparrows) should only take place outside of the bird breeding season.

Some birds, listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act receive an extra level of protection which means that they cannot be disturbed during the breeding season; those likely to be found in Oxfordshire include red Key organisations kite, kingfisher, barn owl, peregrine, Environment Agency hobby, harriers, little ringed plover, and Local authorities Cetti’s warbler. A full list can be found in Natural England Appendix I online. Red kite © Andy Fairbairn RSPB

8 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 2

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 9 2b Legally protected species

Where are protected species likely to occur? As Map 2 demonstrates, there are many records for protected species across the county.

The map opposite is an example of information produced by TVERC to aid local authorities in determining the likely occurrence of protected species in relation to planning issues, it shows the locations where bats, great crested newts and water voles have been recorded around Abingdon. Buffers have been applied around these records to give an indication of where there is a high likelihood of this species occurring.

Local authorities can use this information to help work out when protected species survey information needs to be provided to help determine a planning application.

More information on how to determine when a protected species survey is required has been produced by Natural England in a Standing Advice Note for South East England.

It is important to bear in mind that protected species surveys can usually only be undertaken at certain times of year. For example, surveys of ponds for great crested newts must be undertaken between mid-March and mid-June when newts return to ponds to breed.

Further information

► Badgers and Development (Natural England)

► Bat Mitigation Guidelines (Natural England)

► Circular 06/05: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation — Statutory Obligations and Their Impact Within the Planning System

► Dormouse Conservation Handbook (Natural England)

► Great Crested Newts Mitigation Guidelines (Natural England)

► Natural England Standing Advice on Protected Species

► Water vole guide for planners and developers (BBOWT)

Water vole © Terry ► Water voles — the law in practice (Natural England) Longley/seeing.org.uk

10 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC 3 Local sites and priority habitats and species

Lowland meadow, Oxfordshire © Andy Fairbairn

Protection through the planning system The following biodiversity features do not receive legal protection, but are protected through the planning system:

► Local Wildlife Sites

► Ancient Woodland

► Priority Habitats

► Priority Species

Normally, development which would adversely affect these features is not acceptable. Only in special cases, where the importance of a development outweighs the impact on the feature, would an adverse affect be permitted. In such cases, planning conditions or obligations would be used to mitigate the impact.

Where a development has the potential to impact on a local site, or a priority habitat or species, a biodiversity survey and report will be required; in some circumstances an Environmental Impact Assessment may be needed.

The following pages give information on these features as they occur in Oxfordshire.

Woodland, Oxfordshire © Nigel Phillips

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 11 3a Local Sites

Valuable sites for Oxfordshire’s local wildlife Legislation Local Sites are sites of substantive nature conservation value or geological interest. In Local Sites are non-statutory sites: no Oxfordshire, Local Sites consist of Local Wildlife Sites (LWS, formerly known as County additional legislation applies Wildlife Sites) and Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS). In Oxford City, Sites of Planning policy Local Interest for Nature Conservation (SLINCs) and wildlife corridors also fall under this category. In total, there are 362 Local Wildlife Sites in the county, these are shown on Planning Policy Statement 9, para 9: Map 3. ‘Sites of regional and local biodiversity All Local Sites which meet the necessary criteria are designated; this differs significantly and geological interest, which include from the process of identifying SSSIs, as the latter are a representative sample of sites. Regionally Important Geological Sites, Thus, Local Sites can be equal in quality to SSSIs. Local Sites do not have statutory Local Nature Reserves and Local Sites, have status, but do receive protection through the planning system (see right). a fundamental role to play in meeting overall national biodiversity targets; The identification of LWSs is an ongoing process including monitoring and review contributing to the quality of life and which is undertaken by the Local Sites Partnership (see below). Lists of LWSs by district the well-being of the community; and in are available in Appendix II on the Oxfordshire County Council website, but as the supporting research and education. number of LWSs in any one district is always changing with new site selections and de-designations, TVERC should be contacted for the most up-to-date information. Criteria-based policies should be established in local development Before formal selection, proposed Local Wildlife Sites are identified for survey; if documents against which proposals for a development is likely to affect a proposed Local Wildlife Site ecological surveys any development on, or affecting, such will be necessary. Ideally the site should be visited by the Wildlife Sites Survey sites will be judged. These policies should Officer, and survey information presented to the Local Wildlife Sites Selection Panel be distinguished from those applied to before a planning application that is likely to affect a proposed Local Wildlife Site nationally important sites.’ is considered. In any case, a biodiversity survey and report will be necessary to establish any likely impacts. South East Plan (NRM5):

‘ensure that damage to county wildlife sites and locally important wildlife and Local Wildlife Site, Oxfordshire © BBOWT geological sites is avoided.’ Oxfordshire’s Local Sites Partnership

Local Sites are selected at a county level and the process is overseen by a Local Sites Partnership. The Oxfordshire Wildlife Sites Project is jointly run by BBOWT and TVERC, with support from Oxfordshire’s local authorities. Natural Further information England and the Country Land and Business Association are ► Local Sites, Guidance on their also partners. Identification, Selection and Management (DEFRA) In addition to identifying Local Wildlife Sites, the Project ► NI 197 — Improved Biodiversity — also offers land management proportion of Local Sites where advice to the site owners. active conservation management is being achieved The performance of local authorities for biodiversity is measured by assessing the number of Local Sites in positive conservation Key organisations management; this is known as Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust National Indicator 197 and it is reported on by Oxfordshire Local authorities County Council. Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre

12 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 3

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 13 3b Ancient Woodland

Trees and woodlands Legislation Ancient woods are those that are known to have had continuous tree cover since at Town and Country Planning Act 1990: Tree least 1600 AD. They are found throughout Oxfordshire, although there are particular Preservation Orders concentrations in the Chilterns in , in Planning policy and the edge of the Bernwood area in the east of Oxfordshire. Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory maps ancient woods over 2 ha in size. There are 7,059 ha Planning Policy Statement 9, para 10: of these woodlands mapped in Oxfordshire — these are identified on Map 4. ‘Ancient woodland is a valuable Ancient and veteran trees are old trees, they may be associated with woodlands, wood biodiversity resource both for its pasture and parkland, traditional orchard Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) habitats or may diversity of species and for its longevity stand alone, for example, old trees are often found on old parish boundaries. Ancient as woodland. Once lost it cannot be trees are often in the third and final stage of their life and are old relative to other recreated. Local planning authorities trees of the same species. Veteran trees on the other hand are usually in the second should identify any areas of ancient or mature stage of their life and contain important wildlife features such as holes, woodland in their areas that do not have deadwood and wounds. statutory protection (e.g. as a SSSI). They should not grant planning permission Ancient woodlands, and ancient and veteran trees, are likely to have biodiversity for any development that would result in interest, as well as cultural and historical significance. Ancient woodlands, and ancient its loss or deterioration unless the need and veteran trees, may be protected by tree preservation orders, but they are also for, and benefits of, the development in protected by planning policy (see right). that location outweigh the loss of the When assessing the potential impact of a development on trees and woodlands, woodland habitat. Aged or ‘veteran’ trees potential impacts on tree roots, as well as the above ground features, must be taken found outside ancient woodland are into account as issues such as compaction or alterations to drainage could have also particularly valuable for biodiversity significant impacts on trees. and their loss should be avoided. Planning authorities should encourage the conservation of such trees as part of

Beech woodland at Warburg Nature development proposals.’ Reserve, Oxfordshire © Nigel Phillips South East Plan (NRM7):

‘In the development and implementation of local development documents and other strategies, local authorities and other bodies will support the implementation of the Regional Forestry and Woodland Framework, ensuring the value and character of the region’s woodland are protected and enhanced.’

Further information Biodiversity of ancient woodlands and veteran trees ► Natural England Standing Advice Ancient woodlands are likely to have greater biodiversity interest than more for Ancient Woodland recently planted woodlands; some ancient woodlands will also be Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitats. Many woodland plants with limited dispersal abilities are associated with ancient woodlands — some of these are used to help identify the presence of an ancient woodland and are known as ancient woodland indicators. In addition to ground flora interest, ancient woodlands are likely to Key organisations support protected species, such as bats and dormice, as well as woodland birds and butterflies. Chilterns Woodland Project Local authorities It has been estimated that Britain supports 80% of Europe’s veteran trees, veteran Natural England trees are particularly important for the invertebrate communities they support, as Oxfordshire Woodland Project well as providing good roosting habitat for bats and nesting sites for birds. Old trees Woodland Trust are also likely to support a rich variety of lichens and mosses. Wychwood Project

14 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 4

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 15 3c Priority Habitats

Habitats of principle importance The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) describes the UK’s biological resources and sets out a plan for their protection. This is the UK’s response to the Convention of Biological Diversity to which the UK signed up in 1992, committing to halt the decline of biodiversity by 2010.

A local BAP has also been produced for Oxfordshire, identifying priorities at a county level, and some districts, such as Cherwell, have identified district priorities in their own BAP.

The distribution of known UK BAP priority habitats in Oxfordshire is identified on Map 5. These habitats do not receive statutory protection, but are protected by planning policy (see right). They will be found both within and outside designated sites, and may occur in areas outside of those identified on Map 5. BAP habitats correspond to those identified under Section 41 of the NERC Act as habitats of principle importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England and are, therefore, protected by planning policy (see below).

UK BAP Habitats in Oxfordshire Legislation Grasslands Natural Environment and Rural ► Lowland Meadow: a key habitat, important for flowers, invertebrates and ground- Communities Act 2006, Section 41 lists nesting birds. Sensitive to changes in hydrology, nutrients and management. habitats of principle importance for the ► Lowland Calcareous Grassland: a key habitat, associated with areas of chalk and conservation of biodiversity in England limestone geology such as in the Chilterns and Cotswolds. Flower-rich, important (this replaces the list under Section 74 of for invertebrates (particularly butterflies). Sensitive to nutrient changes. the CRoW Act 2000) ► Lowland Dry Acid Grassland: associated with sandy soils like those on the Mid-vale Ridge. Important for rare plants and invertebrates. Sensitive to nutrient changes. Planning policy

Woodlands Planning Policy Statement 9, para 10: ► Lowland Wood Pasture and Parkland: important for veteran trees, invertebrates ‘Through policies in plans, local authorities and bats. Found mainly on old estates. should also conserve other important ► Lowland Beech and Yew Woodland: a key habitat, mainly in the Chilterns. natural habitat types that have been ► Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland: can have rich ground flora. Also identified in the Countryside and Rights of important for bats, woodland birds and butterflies, occasionally support dormice. Way Act 2000 Section 74 list, as being of ► Wet Woodland: restricted distribution, likely to be adjacent to waterbodies or principal importance for the conservation part of a mosaic of wetland habitats. May support otter or rare invertebrates. of biodiversity in England and identify ► Traditional Orchards: restricted distribution, dependent on traditional opportunities to enhance and add to them.’ management methods. Important for bats, invertebrates, mosses, lichens. South East Plan: Wetlands ► Coastal and Floodplain Grazing Marsh: a key habitat associated with river ‘Biodiversity protection and enhancement floodplains. Sometimes flower-rich, important for wading birds. Particularly in the region will be achieved by: sensitive to changes in hydrology and nutrients. conserving and enhancing the diversity ► Fens: a key habitat, particularly in the Cothill area. Important for rare invertebrates and distribution of habitats and species, and plants, water vole and otter. Sensitive to changes in hydrology and nutrients. as designated sites only represent the best ► Eutrophic Standing Waters: likely to be found in old gravel pits and reservoirs, examples of their kind’. often important for waterbirds. ► Ponds: may be rich in plants and invertebrates. Likely to be breeding sites for amphibians. Sensitive to changes in hydrology and nutrient status. ► Reedbeds: restricted distribution. Important for birds, may support water voles or Further information rare plants. Sensitive to changes in hydrology. ► Ponds — A Priority Habitat: best Rivers: provide important wildlife corridors. Likely to support water vole, otter, ► practice guidance for development and a variety of invertebrates. Chalk streams in Chilterns are a local specialty. control planning officers (Pond Other Conservation) ► Hedgerows: an important linking habitat used by foraging birds and bats, dormice ► www.ukbap.org.uk and a range of invertebrates. (Subject to the Hedgerow Regulations 1997). ► Open mosaic habitats: on previously developed land; examples include former quarries and ash lagoons — important for birds, invertebrates and specialist plants. ► Arable Field Margins: strips around field edges managed to provide benefits for Key organisations wildlife — can provide important food sources for birds and invertebrates. ► Lowland Heathland: of restricted distribution, important for reptiles and Oxfordshire Nature Conservation invertebrates. Forum

16 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 5

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 17 3d Priority Species

Species of principle importance Legislation In addition to listing priority habitats (see Section 3c) the UK BAP also identifies species Natural Environment and Rural of priority for conservation in the UK. There are 1,149 BAP species; locations where BAP Communities Act 2006, Section 41 lists species have been recorded in Oxfordshire are identified on Map 6. BAP species are species of principle importance for the likely to be found both within and outside of designated sites, many BAP species will be conservation of biodiversity in England associated with BAP habitats, but not exclusively so. (this replaces the list under Section 74 of the CRoW Act 2000) BAP species include rare and declining species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, plants, mosses, lichens and liverworts. Planning policy

Inclusion on the list of BAP species does not imply legal protection although some BAP Planning Policy Statement 9, para 16: species are also protected under law (see Section 2b). The BAP species list has informed the ‘Other species have been identified identification, under Section 41 of the NERC Act, of species of principle importance for the as requiring conservation action as conservation of biodiversity in England, which are protected by planning policy (see right). species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England. Local authorities should take measures BAP Species in Oxfordshire to protect the habitats of these species from further decline through policies A full list of BAP species occurring in Oxfordshire can be found in Appendix II online; in local development documents. examples of BAP species that could be protected or enhanced through the planning Planning authorities should ensure that system in Oxfordshire include: these species are protected from the ► Brown hairstreak butterfly: a small species, not easily seen as it spends much adverse effects of development, where of its time in the tree canopy, or hidden in hedgerows. This species is rare in the UK; appropriate, by using planning conditions its distribution is restricted to localities in southern Britain and mid-west Ireland. or obligations. Planning authorities The brown hairstreak has undergone severe declines due to hedgerow removal and should refuse permission where harm to annual flailing, which removes their eggs. the species or their habitats would result unless the need for, and benefits of, the An area in the north-east of Oxfordshire and over the border into development clearly outweigh that harm.’ is a hotspot for this species, which lays its eggs in the blackthorn hedges found here. Planning applications should avoid the removal or fragmentation of hedgerows where brown hairstreak occur, and existing and new hedgerows should be incorporated into the design of developments and managed to maintain and enhance brown hairstreak populations. ► Farmland birds, including skylark, linnet, yellowhammer, reed-bunting, curlew, tree sparrow, grey partridge, bullfinch, starling, song thrush and turtle dove, have shown dramatic declines within the last 30 years. All individual birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however, opportunities should be taken to maintain and enhance the populations of these farmland birds wherever possible. Development could impact on these species by direct loss of habitat, but also Key organisations through increased recreational disturbance, especially associated with residential Amphibian and Reptile Group developments. Ground-nesting birds, Ashmolean Natural History Society such as skylark, can be protected by restricting access to areas they use during Rare Plants Group the breeding season. Species such as tree Bat Conservation Trust sparrow can benefit from the provision of Butterfly Conservation suitable nest sites. Chilterns Conservation Board Cotswolds Conservation Board Wet grasslands along river valleys such as Environment Agency the Cherwell, Windrush and Ray provide Local authorities important remnant habitat for curlew Mammal Society and other wetland birds such as snipe, North Wessex Downs AONB lapwing and redshank. Development Oxfordshire Nature Conservation should avoid habitat fragmentation and impacts on the hydrology of these Forum areas. Opportunities should be taken to Royal Society for the Protection of improve and extend suitable habitat; this Birds may be combined with areas needed to Water Vole Recovery Project, c/o BBOWT provide flood protection. Yellowhammer © Sherie New/ seeing.org.uk

18 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 6

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 19 3e Other areas of importance to biodiversity

There are a number of areas and sites of importance to biodiversity within the county which are identified in addition to (and via other mechanisms to) the biodiversity planning policy and legislation covered by this document. These include nature reserves and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nature Reserves Legislation The term ‘nature reserve’ is used to describe a range of different types of site important National Nature Reserves are designated for wildlife and people. Some of these nature reserves have a statutory designation under the Wildlife and Countryside Act in their own right; in other cases, the term ‘nature reserve’ does not in itself imply any (Section 35) and the National Parks and special protection. However, most of these sites will receive another form of designation Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (SAC, SSSI, LWS) and most, if not all, support protected species or priority habitats or Local Nature Reserves are designated species. See Map 7 for the range of nature reserves found in Oxfordshire. under the National Parks and Access to the National Nature Reserves (NNRs) protect sensitive biodiversity or geological features, Countryside Act 1949 provide sites for ecological research and offer opportunities for people to experience the natural environment. NNRs are a statutory designation made by Natural England. Planning policy Oxfordshire has four NNRs: Policies described in Sections 2 and 3 ► Aston Rowant is also a SAC and SSSI and is owned and managed by Natural England should be applied according to the wildlife ► is also a SSSI and is owned by Natural England and managed by BBOWT interest and any statutory designation ► Cothill Fen is also a SAC and SSSI, it is owned by Natural England and managed by that applies to the nature reserve, and the National Trust and BBOWT biodiversity enhancements should be ► Wychwood is also a SSSI and is in private ownership sought in line with PPS9 and the South Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are important for people and wildlife; they have features East Plan, as described in Section 4. of local biodiversity or geological interest and offer opportunities for learning. LNRs are a statutory designation made by local authorities. There are 11 LNRs in Oxfordshire. Road Verge Nature Reserves have been identified by Oxfordshire County Council; there are 28 across the county which are species-rich and characteristic of the area. Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) Nature Reserves: BBOWT manages 31 Further information nature reserves within Oxfordshire to protect important biodiversity, and to provide opportunities for people to enjoy local wildlife. Many BBOWT nature reserves have SAC, ► Chilterns AONB Management Plan SSSI or LWS status. ► Cotswolds AONB Management Plan Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), Otmoor: The RSPB owns and manages this nature reserve in the east of Oxfordshire. ► Cotswolds Conservation Board Position Statement on Biodiversity Northmoor Trust Reserves: The Northmoor Trust owns and manages Little Wittenham and Planning in the Cotswolds AONB Clumps which includes a SAC and SSSI. They also manage Mowbray Fields (a Local Nature Reserve), Thrupp Lake and Clifton Hampden Meadow. ► North Wessex Downs AONB Banbury Ornithological Society (BOS) Reserves: BOS owns or leases five nature Management Plan reserves in the north of the county; many of these have LWS status. Woodland Trust Woods: There are 20 woods owned and managed by the Woodland Trust in Oxfordshire, some have SSSI or LWS status, and most are ancient woodland. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) Legislation AONBs are landscapes designated for the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty (including conservation of flora, fauna and geological and AONBs are designated under the physiographical features) of an area. There are three AONBs which fall partly within Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 Oxfordshire: the Chilterns, the Cotswolds and the North Wessex Downs. and the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 AONBs support a large number of designated nature conservation sites and priority habitats. A significant proportion of Oxfordshire’s Conservation Target Areas are within Planning policy AONBs, as are many of the most biodiverse landscape areas (see Sections 4a and 4b). Policies described in Sections 2 and 3 All three AONBs have AONB Management Plans which are statutory plans and include should be applied according to the wildlife reference to the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity as a component of interest and any statutory designation natural beauty. The Chilterns and Cotswolds AONB management plans have been that applies to land within an AONB, and endorsed by Oxfordshire County Council as supplementary guidance for planning biodiversity enhancements should be purposes. The management plan for the North Wessex Downs AONB has been adopted sought in line with PPS9 and the South by all constituent authorities. East Plan, as described in Section 4.

20 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 7

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 21 4a Oxfordshire Wildlife and Landscape Study

The Oxfordshire Wildlife and Landscape Biomap in a higher bioband. For example, many Study (OWLS) was a three-year study jointly landscape description units in the Chilterns sponsored by Oxfordshire County Council, A biodiversity appraisal of the Landscape score highly because they support many English Nature, the Countryside Agency Description Units was undertaken, based habitats including UK BAP habitats such as and the Northmoor Trust. Its main aim was on existing knowledge of designated sites calcareous and acid grassland, beech-yew to investigate the landscape character and and priority habitats. Each Landscape woodland and species-rich hedgerows. biodiversity resource of the county and use Description Unit was given a ‘bioscore’, By contrast, landscape description units the results of the survey to help safeguard, dependent on the number, type, size, which are largely dominated by intensive maintain and enhance this resource. extent, and proximity of each habitat and arable farming tend to have a more limited its conservation status. The Landscape range of habitats and few, if any, priority Landscape Types Description Units were then grouped habitats. This map was the precursor according to their bioscore into six to the development of Oxfordshire’s Map 8a opposite shows the 24 ‘Landscape ‘biobands’; these are shown on Map 8b, the Conservation Target Areas (see Section 4b). Types’ found throughout Oxfordshire, ‘Biomap’. each Landscape Type is made up of The Biomap can be interpreted as a basic individual Landscape Description Units Using OWLS to inform biodiversity measure of the number and type of which have similar geology, topography, enhancement measures landuse and settlements. Each Landscape habitats recorded within each Landscape Type is characterised by recognisable Description Unit. Landscape Description For each Landscape Type a detailed and distinctive patterns in the landscape Units with a large number of habitats, description of its landscape character created by the way the natural and human including priority habitats, automatically and associated habitats has been influences on the landscape interact. score more highly, and therefore end up produced, with strategic guidelines to help safeguard, maintain and hopefully enhance this resource. This information can be used to help Oxfordshire’s Landscape Types decide how development might be able to contribute towards the ► Alluvial lowlands landscape character and biodiversity ► Chalk downland and slopes of different parts of the county through delivery of biodiversity Clay vale ► enhancements. ► Estate farmlands ► Farmland hills The results of the OWLS are on the Oxfordshire County Council website, Farmland plateau ► with detailed descriptions of the ► Farmland slopes and valley sides biodiversity of each Landscape Type ► Lowland village farmlands and guidelines for its protection and ► Pasture hills enhancement. ► River meadowlands ► Rolling clayland ► Rolling farmland ► Rolling village pastures ► Settled ancient pastures ► Terrace farmland ► Upstanding village farmlands ► Vale farmland ► Wooded downlands ► Wooded estate lands ► Wooded estate slopes and valley sides ► Wooded farmland ► Wooded hills ► Wooded pasture valleys and slopes Key organisations ► Wooded plateau Bluebell Wood, Oxfordshire © Jim Asher Oxfordshire County Council

22 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 8a

Map 8b

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 23 4b Conservation Target Areas

Important areas for wildlife conservation Planning policy Conservation Target Areas (CTAs) identify the most important areas for wildlife Planning Policy Statement 9, para’s 5 and conservation in Oxfordshire, where targeted conservation action will have the greatest 12: benefit. The main aim within CTAs is to restore biodiversity at a landscape-scale through ‘Local development frameworks should... the maintenance, restoration and creation of BAP priority habitats. CTAs are identified identify any areas or sites for the on Map 9, they are equivalent to the Biodiveristy Opportunity Areas that have been restoration or creation of new priority mapped across the South East in the South East England Biodiversity Strategy (in the habitats which contribute to regional future, the terminology relating to these areas is likely to change to reflect regional terms). targets, and support this restoration or Conservation Target Areas are a relatively new concept and the planning policy creation through appropriate policies.’ approach is still in development. There is a requirement under PPS9 for the ‘Networks of natural habitats provide identification of areas of opportunity for biodiversity improvement in Local a valuable resource. They can link sites Development Frameworks (see right), and CTAs provide an important basis for this. of biodiversity importance and provide Until the policy approach has been developed further in Local Development Frameworks, routes or stepping stones for the it is suggested that development that would prevent the achievement of the aims of a migration, dispersal and genetic exchange CTA is avoided. In many cases this involves protecting the designated and priority habitats of species in the wider environment. and species in the CTA (see Sections 2 and 3), but consideration should also be given to Local authorities should aim to maintain whether development will affect habitat connectivity, either positively or negatively. networks by avoiding or repairing the fragmentation and isolation of natural As with all development, proposals within or adjacent to a CTA will be expected to habitats through policies in plans. Such deliver biodiversity enhancements, but within a CTA such enhancements will be most networks should be protected from effective when they are tailored to meet the aims of a CTA. The scale of enhancements development and, where possible, should be proportional to the size of the development. Examples of measures that strengthened by or integrated within it.’ might be involved include: South East Plan (NRM5): ► restoration or maintenance of habitats through suitable management secured by planning obligations; ‘Local authorities and other bodies shall ► habitat creation to link fragmented habitats; avoid a net loss of biodiversity, and ► funding towards conservation initiatives in the CTA, secured by planning actively pursue opportunities to achieve conditions and obligations; a net gain across the region. Identifying ► and provision of capital items needed to secure biodiversity enhancements areas of opportunity for biodiversity (such as fencing to allow grazing). improvement and setting biodiversity targets… Opportunities for biodiversity Where a development has the potential to impact, either positively or negatively, improvement, including connection on the known biodiversity interest of a CTA, a biodiversity survey and report will be of sites, large-scale habitat restoration, required, to identify both constraints and opportunities. In some circumstances an enhancement and re-creation in the areas Environmental Impact Assessment may be needed. of strategic opportunity for biodiversity improvement should be pursued’.

Delivering biodiversity gains in Oxfordshire’s Conservation Target Areas

The CTAs were mapped by TVERC in consultation with local authorities and conservation organisations in Oxfordshire. They were identified by taking into account existing concentrations of BAP habitat and important areas for priority species. The potential for habitat restoration was also considered and took into account geology, topography and hydrology. Archeological interest and public access were also taken into consideration. A statement has been produced for each CTA identifying the features of biodiversity Key organisations importance and targets for maintenance, restoration and creation of habitats. Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust The CTAs provide a focus for coordinated biodiversity action in the county, including: Environment Agency ► Biodiversity project work by a range of organisations Local authorities ► Delivery of agri-environment schemes Natural England ► Provision of biodiversity enhancements through the planning system Oxfordshire County Council Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Delivery of CTA aims is coordinated by the Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum Forum (ONCF), who also co-ordinate working groups for CTAs. Details of organisations Thames Valley Environmental leading these working groups are available from ONCF. Records Centre

24 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 9

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 25 4c Green Infrastructure

Networks of green spaces Planning policy Green Infrastructure consists of the green areas in both urban and rural settings. It Planning Policy Statement 9, para 12: fulfills a variety of functions including provision for biodiversity, alongside delivery of ‘Networks of natural habitats provide recreational and cultural objectives. Green Infrastructure can include nature reserves, a valuable resource. They can link sites designated sites, recreational grounds, parks and open spaces, public rights of way, of biodiversity importance and provide canals, allotments, cemeteries and many other green areas. routes or stepping stones for the Green Infrastructure should provide a network of interconnected habitats to enable migration, dispersal and genetic exchange dispersal of species across the wider environment. Open spaces within developments of species in the wider environment. should be linked to biodiversity in the wider countryside, including on designated sites, Local authorities should aim to maintain BAP habitats and CTAs. Green Infrastructure should also be planned to provide ecosystem networks by avoiding or repairing the services such as flood protection, microclimate control and filtration of air pollutants. fragmentation and isolation of natural habitats through policies in plans networks New developments should be designed to maintain existing Green Infrastructure. should be protected from development, In delivering biodiversity enhancements, measures should be taken to contribute to and, where possible, strengthened by or the Green Infrastructure network to maintain existing habitats and to reduce habitat integrated within it. This may be done as fragmentation. Production of a Green Infrastructure master-plan should be considered part of a wider strategy for the protection for large scale developments. Development should aim to provide enough accessible and extension of open space and access natural greenspace relative to the scale of the development to achieve the Accessible routes such as canals and rivers, including Natural Greenspace Standard (see below) and meet relevant aims of the Rights of those within urban areas.’ Way Improvement Plan. Some planning authorities have developed their own local standards for the provision of natural/semi-natural greenspace. South East Plan (CC8, NRM5):

Local planning authorities should be including policies that address aspects of Green ‘Local authorities and partners will work Infrastructure within their Local Development Frameworks. For example, the Homes & together to plan, provide and manage Communities Agency has identified Oxfordshire as one of three pilot areas to produce connected and substantial networks a Local Investment Plan, which will include Green Infrastructure. An example of district of accessible multi-functional green level assessment to inform a Green Infrastructure plan is the Biodiversity Network Map space. Networks should be planned to produced by Oxford City Council (Map 10). New development will be expected to include both existing and new green contribute towards the achievement of these plans. infrastructure. They need to be planned and managed to deliver the widest range of linked environmental and social benefits including conserving and enhancing The Accessible Natural Greenspace Standard (ANGSt) biodiversity as well as landscape, Access to natural spaces is known to improve quality of life, with benefits to recreation, water management, social and health and well-being, as well as social cohesion. Natural England has developed a cultural benefits to underpin individual standard for the provision of accessible natural greenspace, known as ANGSt, the and community health and ‘well being’.’ standards required are as follows: ‘...Local authorities and other bodies shall ► An accessible natural greenspace, of at least 2 ha in size, no more than 300 avoid a net loss of biodiversity, and actively metres (5 minutes walk) from home pursue opportunities to achieve a net gain ► Local Nature Reserves at a minimum level of 1 ha per across the region. They shall require Green thousand population Further Infrastructure to be identified, developed ► At least one accessible 20 ha site within 2 km of home and implemented in conjunction with new ► At least one accessible 100 ha site within 5 km of home information development.’ ► At least one accessible 500 ha site within 10 km of home ► Natural It is recognised that some of these targets cannot be England’s Green achieved over a short time period, but they provide a long Infrastructure term goal. In Oxfordshire, access to natural greenspace Guidance currently falls short of the standard (see An Analysis of Key organisations Accessible Nature Greenspace Provision in the South East): ► South East Green Infrastructure ► 3% of households are within 300 m of a 2 ha site Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust Framework ► 36% of households are within 2 km of a 20 ha site Chilterns Conservation Board ► 41% of households are within 5 km of a 100 ha site Cotswolds Conservation Board ► An Analysis of Environment Agency ► No households are within 10 km of a 500 ha site Accessible Natural Local authorities Greenspace It is important to note that whilst access to natural greenspace Natural England is essential, there will be some areas where allowing access Provision in the South East North Wessex Downs AONB would be detrimental to sensitive biodiversity. Oxfordshire County Council

26 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC Map 10

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 27 4d Biodiversity within developments

Biodiversity is not only found in rural areas; the built environment also provides Planning policy opportunities to deliver enhancements for biodiversity. For large developments, features for biodiversity should be strategically planned to link up to Green Infrastructure and Planning Policy Statement 9, para 14: the wider environment. ‘Development proposals provide many opportunities for building-in beneficial Landscaping biodiversity or geological features as Appropriate landscaping within developments can help reduce fragmentation of habitats part of good design. When considering by allowing wildlife to live within and move through built areas to the wider countryside. proposals, local planning authorities Landscaping should aim to retain and enhance existing biodiversity features. should maximise such opportunities in and around developments, using planning Landscaped areas will be of most benefit to wildlife where native plant species are used obligations where appropriate’ as they are likely to support a wider range of native animals. Plant species originating from the local area will be even more beneficial, the OWLS (Section 4) can provide useful background information in determining the most appropriate plants to use in landscaping schemes in different parts of Oxfordshire.

Ponds can also provide an important habitat for wildlife. They should be designed with Protecting wildlife habitats within gently sloping edges to allow animals easy access in and out, and a variety of depths so developments that they are suitable for a range of different plants. Consideration should be given to the design of balancing ponds to provide wildlife habitat. Both new and existing biodiversity features within, or adjacent to, a Landscaping should, wherever possible, link up areas supporting biodiversity. For development may be sensitive to example, native hedgerows could link up open spaces, providing routes along which human impacts such as recreational species such as hedgehogs, butterflies and bats can move. A series of ponds can link disturbance and vandalism. with wetland features in the wider countryside. Buffering of biodiversity features from Street trees can add to the wildlife linkages through developed areas and, again, native areas of high human activity, such species will provide the most benefits. Gardens also contribute to habitat for wildlife as roads, residential development within a built area and their layout should be designed to create a network linking with or play areas can help to reduce open spaces and Green Infrastructure. impacts. Interpretation materials can be provided in wildlife conservation Buildings areas, where suitable. Community involvement in managing local Developments are being built to ever increasing environmental standards, and wildlife areas can help to engender biodiversity should not be forgotten here. There are very simple steps that can be taken a feeling of ownership and can help to provide nesting and roosting opportunities for species such as bats and birds within ensure the long term survival of such buildings. Nest boxes can be mounted on the outside of buildings, special bat or swift areas. bricks can be incorporated into the structure, and entire roof spaces can be designed to provide opportunities for bats to roost. A step further is to provide a green roof, which A monitoring and management can provide foraging opportunities for birds, and support a range of native plants. plan should be drawn up for green spaces to ensure long term suitable Thought should be given to the impact of lighting on wildlife, especially bats; areas of management. no or low level lighting along bat foraging routes should be considered. Roads Roads can provide a barrier to wildlife, and collisions with animals such as deer can also pose a safety threat. Mammal fencing can be used to exclude mammals from the road, and underpasses can be created for a range of species including badger, hedgehog and amphibians. Green bridges can be created in order to provide a safe crossing for both people and animals. Key organisations Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust Commission for Architecture and the Further information Built Environment Environment Agency ► Pond Creation Tool Kit (Pond Conservation) Local authorities Oxfordshire County Council ► UK Green Building Council Portal Pond Conservation Trust ► Biodiversity by Design (Town and Town and Country Planning Country Planning Association) Association Oxfordshire pond © Jim Asher

28 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC 5 Key legislation and policy

Legislation

Conservation (Natural Habitats, & c.) www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si1994/uksi_19942716_en_1 Regulations1994 and guidance notes Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2001 www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2000/ukpga_20000037_en_1 EC Birds Directive www.jncc.gov.uk/page-1373 EC Habitats Directive www.jncc.gov.uk/page-1374 EIA Regulations www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si1999/19990293 National Parks and Access to the www.opsi.gov.uk/RevisedStatutes/Acts/ukpga/1949/cukpga_19490097_en_4#pt3 Countryside Act 1949 Natural Environment and Rural www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ukpga_20060016_en_1 Communities Act 2006 Protection of Badgers Act 1992 www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts1992/ukpga_19920051_en_1 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 www.jncc.gov.uk/page-3614

Policy Circular 06/05: Biodiversity and Geological www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/147570.pdf Conservation — Statutory Obligations and Their Impact Within the Planning System Planning Policy Statement 9 Good Practice www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/planningbiodiversity Guide Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/pps9 and Geological Conservation South East Plan www.gos.gov.uk/gose/planning/regionalPlanning/815640/

Badger © Terry Longley/ seeing.org.uk

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 29 6 Contacts

Ashmolean Natural History Society Rare Lower Windrush Valley Project Oxfordshire Woodlands Project Plants Group Countryside Service, Fletchers House, Park Countryside Service, Oxfordshire County W: freespace.virgin.net/frances.watkins/ Street, Woodstock, Oxon Council, Fletcher’s House, anhso/ OX20 1SN Park Street, Woodstock, Oxon T: 01993 814126 OX20 1SN E: [email protected] T: 01993 814140 E: [email protected] Bat Conservation Trust Mammal Society Pond Conservation 15 Cloisters House, 8 Battersea Park Road, 3 The Carronades, New Road, c/o School of Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes London SW8 4BG Southampton SO14 0AA University, Gipsy Lane, Headington, Oxford T: 020 7501 3635 T: 02380 237874 OX3 0BP E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 01865 483294 W: www.bats.org.uk W: www.mammal.org.uk E: [email protected] W: www.pondconservation.org.uk Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust Natural England, Government Team Royal Society for the Protection of Birds 1 Armstrong Road, Littlemore, Oxford South East 46 The Green, South Bar, Banbury, OX4 4XT Block A Government Buildings, Coley Oxon OX16 9AB T: 01865 755476 Avenue, Coley Park, Reading, Berks T: 01295 253330 E: [email protected] RG1 6DT W: www.rspb.org.uk W: www.bbowt.org.uk T: 0118 9581222 E: enquiries.southeast@naturalengland. org.uk W: www.naturalengland.gov.uk Butterfly Conservation Northmoor Trust Thames Valley Environmental Records Manor Yard, East Lulworth, Wareham, Hill Farm, Little Wittenham Centre Dorset BH20 5QP Abingdon, Oxon OX14 4QZ c/o the Museum of Oxfordshire, T: 01929 400209 T: 01865 407792 Fletcher’s House, Park Street, Woodstock, E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Oxon OX20 1SN W: www.butterfly-conservation.org T: 01993 814147 E: [email protected] W: www.tverc.org Chilterns Conservation Board North Wessex Downs AONB Town and Country Planning Association The Lodge, Station Road, Chinnor, Oxon Denford Manor, Hungerford, Berks 17 Carlton House Terrace, London OX39 4HA RG17 0UN SW1Y 5AS T: 01844 355500 T: 01488 685440 T: 0207 930 8903 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.tcpa.org.uk W: www.chilternsaonb.org W: www.northwessexdowns.org.uk Commission for Architecture and the Oxfordshire Amphibian and Reptile Woodland Trust Built Environment Group Autumn Park, Dysart Road, Grantham, 1 Kemble Street, London WC2B 4AN E: [email protected] Lincs NG31 6LL T: 0207 070 6700 T: 01476 581111 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.cabe.org.uk W: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk Cotswolds AONB Oxfordshire County Council Wychwood Project Fosse Way, Northleach, Gloucs Environment & Economy, Oxfordshire Countryside Service, Fletcher’s House, Park GL54 3JH County Council, Speedwell House, Street, Woodstock, Oxon OX20 1SN T: 01451 862000 Speedwell Street, Oxford OX1 1NE T: 01993 814143 W: www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk T: 01865 815700 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.wychwoodproject.org W: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk Environment Agency Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum For contacts within your local authority Red Kite House, Howbery Park, Wallingford, Manor House, Little Wittenham, visit Oxfordshire County Council’s Oxon OX10 8BD Abingdon, Oxon OX14 4RA website: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk T: 01491 828346 T: 01865 407034 Follow links: About your council — Local E: planning-wallingford@environment- E: [email protected] government in Oxfordshire agency.gov.uk W: www.oncf.org.uk W: www.environment-agency.gov.uk

30 Published by BBOWT, Oxfordshire County Council and TVERC 7 Glossary

ANGSt Accessible Natural Greenspace Standard AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ASNW Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BBOWT , Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust BOA Biodiversity Opportunity Areas BOS Banbury Ornithological Society CABE Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment CIRIA Construction Industry Research and Information Association CRoW Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) CTA Conservation Target Area CWS County Wildlife Site — this term has now been replaced by Local Wildlife Site DEFRA Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs EA Environment Agency EcIA Ecological Impact Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPS European Protected Species (under the EC Habitats Directive) GCN Great Crested Newt GI Green Infrastructure HRA Habitat Regulations Assessment (also known as Appropriate Assessment) IEEM Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management IROPI Imperative Reasons of Over-riding Public Interest LDF Local Development Framework LNR Local Nature Reserve LS Local Site (incorporates LWS and RIGS) LWS Local Wildlife Site NE Natural England NERC Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 NI197 National Indicator 197: improved biodiversity — proportion of Local Sites where active conservation management is being achieved NNR National Nature Reserve NRM5 Policy 5 on Natural Resource Management in the South East Plan ONCF Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum OWLS Oxfordshire Wildlife and Landscape Study PPS9 Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation RIGS Regionally Important Geological Site RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds RVNR Road Verge Nature Reserve SAC Special Area of Conservation SEP South East Plan SLINC Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation (an Oxford City designation) SPA Special Protection Area SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest TCPA Town and Country Planning Association TPO Tree Preservation Order TVERC Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre WCA Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981)

Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire 31 Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) The Lodge, 1 Armstrong Road, Littlemore, Oxford OX4 4XT 01865 775476 [email protected] www.bbowt.org.uk

Oxfordshire County Council Environment & Economy, Countryside Services, Speedwell House, Speedwell Street, Oxford OX1 1NE 01865 815700 [email protected] www.oxfordshire.gov.uk

Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre (TVERC) c/o The Museum of Oxfordshire, Fletcher’s House, Park Street, Woodstock, Oxon OX20 1SN 01993 814147 [email protected] www.tverc.org

Front cover images: Barn owl © Helen Walsh, Nature Reserve © Jim Asher, Water vole and banded demoiselle © Terry Longley/seeing.org.uk. Back cover images: Stoat, snake’s-head fritillaries and kestrel © Helen Walsh. Printed on 55% recycled, FSC certified paper. Please recycle this publication or pass to a friend.