Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester

Peel Investments (North) Ltd

ECOLOGICAL SURVEY OF LAND AT BEESLEY GREEN, SALFORD, GREATER MANCHESTER

DRAFT V1

SEPTEMBER 2013

ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

DOCUMENT CONTROL

TITLE: Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester

VERSION: Draft V1

DATE: September 2013

ISSUED BY: Brian Hedley

AUTHORS: Brian Hedley, Emily Cook, Pete Morrell, Jackie Nicholson and Andy Jukes

CHECKED BY: Andrew Malkinson

APPROVED BY: Vanessa Tindale

ISSUED TO: Peel Investments (North) Ltd Peel Dome The Trafford Centre Manchester M17 8PL

This report has been prepared by ESL with all reasonable skill, care and diligence, within the terms of the contract with the Client. The report is confidential to the Client. ESL accepts no responsibility of whatever nature to third parties to whom this report may be made known. No part of this document may be reproduced without the prior written approval of ESL.

CONTENTS

Page

1 INTRODUCTION 1

2 INITIAL SCOPING STUDY 1

2.1 Desk-based Study 1 2.2 Walkover Survey 3 2.3 Summary of Walkover and Recommendations for Further Survey 4

3 HABITATS, PLANT COMMUNITIES AND SPECIES 6

3.1 Survey Methods 6 3.2 Results 6 3.3 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 9 3.4 Recommendations 9

4 AMPHIBIANS 10

4.1 Waterbody Descriptions 10 4.2 Survey Methods 11 4.3 Results 12 4.4 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 12 4.5 Recommendations 12

5 BATS 12

5.1 Survey Methods 12 5.2 Results 13 5.3 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 15 5.4 Recommendations 15

6 WATER VOLE AND OTTER 16

6.1 Survey Methods 16 6.2 Results 16 6.3 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 16 6.4 Recommendations 16

7 BREEDING BIRDS 17

7.1 Survey Methods 17 7.2 Results 17 7.3 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 17 7.4 Recommendations 18

8 INVERTEBRATES 18

8.1 Survey Methods 18 8.2 Results 20 8.3 Discussion and Assessment of Biodiversity Importance 21 8.4 Recommendations 21

9 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS 21

10 REFERENCES 21

CONTENTS cont…

Page

CHARTS

5.1 A Comparison of Bat Activity per Species Between the 2 Sample Points on 9 August 2012 5.2 A Comparison of Bat Activity per Species Between the 2 Transect Routes on 29 May 2012

TABLES

4.1 Dates and Weather Conditions of Great Crested Newt Surveys 5.1 Dates, Times and Weather Conditions of Bat Surveys 5.2 First and Last Pass Times Recorded for each Species at each Static Sample Point 5.3 Times of Passes Per Species in Relation to Sunset, Dawn and Sunrise Times 7.1 Dates, Times and Weather Conditions Of Breeding Bird Surveys 7.2 Total Counts for Each Species on Each Breeding Bird Survey Visit 8.1 Invertebrate Species Recorded on 15 June 2012 8.2 ISIS Results

FIGURES

1 Site Location Map 2 Updated Habitat Map 3 Locations of Waterbodies, Overnight Bat Detectors and Bat Transect Route

APPENDICES

1 Species Recorded in the Survey Area 2 Summary of Legal Status for Relevant Species 3 Criteria for Defining Invertebrate Sites of Significance

ECOLOGICAL SURVEY OF LAND AT BEESLEY GREEN, SALFORD, GREATER MANCHESTER

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd has been commissioned by Peel Investments (North) Ltd to carry out an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of at land at Beesley Green, Salford. The aim of the survey is to identify possible ecological constraints to future development of the site and appropriate mitigation measures required in this context. The site location is shown on Figure 1. This report has been prepared to support an outline application for the site’s development for residential use.

1.2 The report describes the methods used and provides the findings of the survey together with recommended mitigation where appropriate to ensure the site’s development does not have an unacceptable adverse impact on the site’s ecological value and its function as a wildlife corridor. This report covers both the initial scoping study and also the more detailed surveys recommended as a result of this study.

1.3 For plant species recorded on the site and for bird, mammal and invertebrate species recorded both on the site and in the wider area, English names are used throughout the text with a full species list including scientific names given in Appendix 1. Both English and scientific names of higher plants are given according to Stace (2010) and by Watson (1981) for higher plants and bryophytes respectively A habitat map is given as Figure 2.

2 INITIAL SCOPING STUDY

2.1 DESK-BASED STUDY

Sources consulted

2.1.1 The Natural England and JNCC websites were consulted to obtain information pertaining to any internationally protected sites and for citations of any Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or National Nature Reserves (NNR) within 5km of the site. Information was also sought on any Local Nature Reserves (LNR) within a 2km radius of the site. Greater Manchester Ecology Unit (GMEU) was asked to provide locations of any Sites of Biological Importance (SBIs) within 2km and details of any protected species records. The National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway website was also consulted for any relevant protected species records.

1 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

Results

2.1.2 The nearest site of international importance is Manchester Mosses Special Area of Conservation (SAC) which is about 5.75km southwest of the site and is designated for its raised bog habitats. There are no NNRs and one SSSI within 5km of the site, that being Ashclough SSSI, just under 5km northeast of the site and designated for geological features. It is very unlikely that development of this site would have an adverse effect on the SAC or the SSSI.

2.1.3 The GMEU provided locations and a brief summary of nine SBIs situated within 2km of the site, as follows: • Alder Forest Marsh SBI. Willow carr woodland. • Bittern Pits Wood SBI. Secondary woodland on peat. • Botany Bay Wood SBI. A very large plantation with a heronry. It is also a potential SSSI. • Brickfield Wood SBI. Wet carr woodland with ponds. Great crested newts Triturus cristatus are known here. • How Clough SBI. Broadleaved woodland alongside a stream. • Middle Wood SBI. Mature plantation, a lake and grassland areas. • Springside Reservoirs SBI. Two reservoirs with swamp, willow carr and grassland habitats. • Walkden Reservoir SBI. Small reservoir with wetland plant and bird interest. • Worsley Wood SBI. Variety of woodlands/plantations, a reservoir and ponds. This is the closest SBI to the site bordering it to the south and west. This site is also an LNR. Locations for all of these sites are given in Appendix 2.

2.1.4 The GMEU provided a large number of protected species records within 2km of the site (see Appendix 2). Many of these records are fairly recent due to ecological surveys in the general area for a proposed pipeline. Five records for great crested newt were provided, the nearest location being about 440m to the east of the site.

2.1.5 Seventeen records for bats were provided, all north or west of the site, the nearest being about 600m to the west. Eleven of these records were for common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, three were for soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus and three were for noctule Nyctalus noctula.

2.1.6 Two water vole Arvicola amphibius records were provided, with the nearest being about 850m to the west at a lagoon. One brown hare record was provided for a site about 1.9km to the south. Three badger records were given for the 2km search area all involving disused setts, the nearest being about 1km to the southeast.

2 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

2.1.7 Records for nine S41 bird Species of Principal Importance as defined by the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 provided by the GMEU included lapwing Vanellus vanellus, willow tit Poecile montanus, house sparrow Passer domesticus, linnet Carduelis cannabina and reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus. Most of the nine species listed could potentially breed on site.

2.1.8 The NBN Gateway website provided many records for the general area (some at 10km grid square level and therefore could be from more open country to the south) including great crested newts, several bats, badgers, water voles, adder Vipera berus, common lizard Zootoca vivipara and slow worm Anguis fragilis. Potentially breeding Schedule 1 bird species listed were kingfisher, barn owl Tyto alba and little ringed plover Charadrius dubius. None of these species have suitable nesting habitats present on site although kingfishers could breed alongside Kempnough Brook in the adjacent Worsley Wood.

2.1.9 The site falls within English Nature’s Natural Area 26 ‘The Urban Mersey Basin’ which is characterised by large urban areas interspersed with both large and small semi-natural and regenerating habitats (woodland, wetland, grassland and wasteland). Watercourses of various sizes are fairly common.

2.2 WALKOVER SURVEY

2.2.1 A walkover survey of the site and adjacent areas was carried out by an experienced ecologist on 5 October 2011. A risk assessment was undertaken and a method statement prepared in order to evaluate any specific risks and implement safe-working procedures, and the following surveys were completed.

Habitats, Plant Communities and Plant Species

2.2.2 All habitats and plant communities in the survey area were mapped and characterised by identifying the dominant and typical species. Hedgerows in this area were assessed against the criteria for importance set out in the Hedgerow Regulations (1997). Notes were also made on the adjacent land, where views and access allowed.

Amphibians and Reptiles

2.2.3 One waterbody is shown on OS maps on site and a further nine are shown within 500m of the site, the nearest being about 300m to the northwest. A search was made for any recent or smaller waterbodies, not shown on the OS maps, either on site or visible on adjacent land. Any waterbodies found were assessed for potential to support breeding amphibian populations, in particular great crested newts.

3 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

2.2.4 All habitats were assessed for their potential for use by reptiles, looking particularly for more open vegetation that would provide suitable areas for basking, close to areas of more dense vegetation which would provide protection from predators. Additionally, a ‘direct observation survey’ (HGBI, 1998), was undertaken which involves walking slowly and quietly through such habitats watching and listening for animals. Animals were also looked for by turning over potential refuges such as logs.

Mammals

2.2.5 Most trees were visually inspected from the ground and scanned for features considered to have potential to support roosting bats. Such features commonly include disused woodpecker holes, cracks and splits in boughs, delaminating bark and ivy clad limbs (English Nature, 2004). The strip of broadleaved woodland within the eastern part of the site was assessed as a whole due to the density of trees. There were no buildings on site.

2.2.6 The waterbody on site was assessed for potential use by water voles and otters. A search of the whole site was made for signs of use by badgers. Such signs include setts, dung pits, pathways, paw prints, hairs and feeding signs such as snuffle holes and scratched logs.

Birds

2.2.7 All birds seen and heard on and immediately adjacent to the site were recorded. An assessment was made of the habitats on site for their potential to support breeding birds listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981 and as amended).

Invertebrates

2.2.8 All readily identifiable invertebrate species using the site were recorded. Notes were made on particular habitats thought to be good for invertebrates.

2.3 SUMMARY OF WALKOVER AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURTHER SURVEY

2.3.1 This large, irregular shaped site situated just west of the M60 motorway is enclosed by woodland on three sides and at the time of the survey was well used by the public although no public footpaths are present. The site comprises a large central fishing lake surrounded by rough grassland with frequent scrub and young trees. Some of the grassland is marshy in nature. There is a broadleaved woodland strip within the site boundary to the east. The only hedgerows on site are along the northern boundary and are trimmed ornamental garden hedges. Further plant and habitat species recording was recommended during the spring/summer and the results of this survey are given in section 3 below.

2.3.2 Adjacent habitats comprise broadleaved woodland (Worsley Wood SBI and LNR) to the west and south with arable land beyond. To the southeast is more of Worsley Wood SBI with the 4 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

M60 motorway beyond. To the northeast is a wooded dismantled railway with housing beyond and to the north is a tennis court, amenity grassland (a cricket pitch) with associated sports facilities and further houses.

2.3.3 No reptiles or amphibians were recorded on site during the walkover survey. There is a large fishing lake in the centre of the site which has limited potential for breeding great crested newts due to the presence of large fish. There are no other waterbodies on site. Kempnough Brook flows to the west and south of the site but is considered unlikely to support breeding great crested newts due its moderate flow. There are a further nine waterbodies shown on OS maps within 500m of the site but none have good habitat connectivity with the site. The fishing pond and one pond 370m to the south west which was considered to have sufficient connectivity were recommended for further surveys, and details of this are given in section 4 below.

2.3.4 Some of the habitats on site were assessed as potentially suitable for reptiles such as the lake area and the woodland edges in the northeast. However, the site is isolated reducing suitability and no reptiles were recorded during the survey. No further survey work for reptiles was therefore recommended.

2.3.5 The strip of woodland in the east of the site was assessed as having some potential to support roosting bats and further surveys were recommended, though there were no trees on site with suitable features for roosting bats. The whole site has the potential to act as a foraging/movement corridor, especially the fishing lake and woodland edge areas and a bat activity survey was therefore recommended. Details of the roost and activity surveys are given in section 5 below.

2.3.6 No signs of badger activity were noted on site or immediately adjacent land. The site does have some potential for use by badgers and the desk study did produce three local records (albeit all disused setts). No specific badger surveys are recommended but general surveillance for any badger signs during the course of other fieldwork on site is recommended.

2.3.7 The fishing lake has some potential for use by water voles and Kempnough Brook was assessed as having some potential for use by water voles and otters. Further water vole and otter surveys were recommended and details of these are given in section 6 below.

2.3.8 Twenty eight common and widespread species of bird were recorded on site during the surveys with twelve additional species noted in immediately adjacent habitats (see Appendix 1). One is a Schedule 1 species (kingfisher) and one is a UK BAP Priority Species (dunnock). Virtually all of the habitats on site are suitable for nesting birds, especially woodland and scrub habitats. There is no suitable nesting habitat for any of the Schedule 1 species likely to occur

5 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

in this area. However, kingfishers may nest in the adjacent Kempnough Brook area because a possible old nest hole was found and a kingfisher was heard flying along the brook during this survey. Further breeding bird surveys were recommended and the details of these are given in section 7 below.

2.3.9 Alder leaf beetle and silver y moth were recorded on site during the walkover survey. The beetle was previously considered a rare species but is now is spreading through the northwest (Steve Atkins, pers comm.). The habitats present are likely to support a wide range of common and widespread species with the possibility of more noteworthy species, particularly in the wooded and marshy areas and further surveys were therefore recommended, and details of this are given in section 8 below

3 HABITATS, PLANT COMMUNITIES AND SPECIES

3.1 SURVEY METHODS

3.1.1 As the initial Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the site was undertaken in October 2011, outside the key period for botanical surveys, additional habitat notes and species lists were made during a subsequent visit to the site on 4 July 2012 to supplement the existing information, and to determine whether any species or assemblages of ecological importance occur on the site.

3.2 RESULTS

3.2.1 The range of habitats present within the site comprises rough grassland, broad-leaved woodland and open water (fishing lake). Since the October survey cattle had been introduced to graze the site and some of the pasture had been treated with herbicide.

Rough/semi-improved Grassland 3.2.2 The majority of the site comprises rough/semi-improved grassland (Photograph 1) with frequent scrub and young trees present, particularly to the margins and near the fishing lake, comprising grey willow, goat willow, ash, alder and bramble with occasional raspberry, cherry laurel, sycamore, horse-chestnut, field maple, dogwood, guelder-rose. There are two stands of Japanese knotweed in the northwest corner of the site (one stand approximately 1m x 2m and the other 12m x 4m in size). Particularly dense stands of young alders, willows and ash trees are present in the west of the site where they form a curving line. The grassland is relatively species-rich, especially where more marshy in nature (Photograph 2).

6 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

Photograph 1 Rough grassland in NW of site Photograph 2 Marshy grassland in W of site

3.2.3 Typical dominant species of the grassland are meadow foxtail, common couch, Yorkshire-fog, timothy, common ragwort, cock’s-foot, creeping buttercup, soft-rush, common bent and false oat-grass. Less frequent species include red clover, common vetch, oval sedge, hairy sedge, glaucous sedge, jointed rush, meadow buttercup, meadow barley, marsh thistle, common sorrel and common fleabane. To the margins of the grassland where adjacent to woodland, species such as Indian balsam, giant fescue, bracken, rosebay willowherb, cow parsley and wood horsetail are present.

3.2.4 Where marshy in nature the grassland has soft-rush, southern marsh-orchid (small colony found just west of fishing lake), toad rush, marsh cudweed and marsh foxtail.

3.2.5 Several plants of corn spurrey were found in a trampled area next to the gate into the pasture.

Broadleaved woodland 3.2.6 A strip of mature broadleaved woodland is present on a steep slope in the east of the site (Photograph 3) and is contiguous with woodland along an adjacent dismantled railway (Roe Green Loop Line footpath). The woodland comprises sycamore, beech, pedunculate oak, silver birch, downy birch, elder, spindle and holly over a patchy ground flora including broad buckler-fern, creeping soft-grass, various mosses, bramble, ivy, lady-fern, swan’s-neck thyme- moss and remote sedge. Indian balsam was also occasionally present along the woodland edge in the south of the site.

3.2.7 A much smaller area of woodland is present in the far northwest corner of the site. This comprises sycamore and ash over raspberry, common nettle, creeping buttercup, Yorkshire- fog, common ragwort and cleavers. A further small area of woodland is present next to the fishing lake and is described below.

7 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

Photograph 3 Woodland strip in E of site Photograph 4 Fishing Lake looking NW

Fishing Lake 3.2.8 A large fishing lake is present in the centre of the site (Photograph 4) which has frequent trees and scrub present around its banks including several ornamental species. The most frequent species are silver birch, ash, alder, hawthorn, goat willow, crack-willow and elder. There is a small area of woodland on the western side of the lake which comprises aspen, ash and crack-willow over bramble and bracken.

3.2.9 The lake would seem to be at least a 1m deep and generally has steep banks about 0.5m high. The ground flora of the banks is dominated by creeping bent, creeping thistle, perennial rye-grass, timothy and creeping buttercup with occasional broad buckler-fern and common bent. Species in the margins of the lake are frequent and locally dense and include reed sweet-grass, soft-rush, great willowherb, floating sweet-grass, yellow iris and sweet-flag. Aquatics include frequent broad-leaved pondweed and occasional white water-lily and yellow water-lily. A few marshy areas to the side of the lake support dense reed sweet-grass.

Adjacent Woodland 3.2.10 The Worsley Woods SBI and LNR to the west and south of the site is situated in the valley of the meandering Kempnough Brook. The woodland is very narrow in the north but much wider with steep slopes in the central area. Wet woodland is present immediately adjacent to the brook and the woodland gradually becomes drier up the valley slopes. The wet woodland areas are dominated by alder with crack-willow, goat willow, sycamore, elder and occasional Japanese knotweed over a ground dominated by various ferns and bryophytes with wood avens, Indian balsam, pink purslane Claytonia sibirica, lesser celandine Ficaria verna , remote sedge, bramble, common nettle, pendulous sedge and ramsons Allium ursinum. The drier slopes comprise pedunculate oak, beech, ash, sycamore, holly, hawthorn, rhododendron, elm, horse-chestnut, field maple, yew Taxus baccata and spindle Euonymus europaeus. The ground flora here is locally sparse and generally dominated by various ferns, bryophytes, bluebell, bramble, ivy, wood avens, rough meadow-grass and red campion with primrose Primula vulgaris, wood millet Milium effusum, giant fescue, foxglove Digitalis purpurea, common dog violet Viola riviniana and cow parsley. 8 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

3.2.11 The woodland along the dismantled railway to the east of the site is dominated by pedunculate oak, silver birch, sycamore, ash, elder, beech and holly with occasional turkey oak Quercus cerris and yew. The ground flora is dominated by bramble, broad buckler-fern, various bryophytes, wood avens, common nettle and creeping soft-grass with occasional ivy Hedera helix, broad-leaved willowherb Epilobium montanum, common bent, remote sedge and soft rush.

3.3 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

3.3.1 Overall, the site supports a fairly wide variety of habitats including woodland, open water, marshy and rough/semi-improved grassland and therefore supports a wide variety of plant species. Generally, the wetter/marshier habitats are of higher importance for biodiversity relative to the surrounding countryside which is partly urbanised.

3.3.2 Although no detailed NVC (National Vegetation Classification) survey involving the use of quadrats was undertaken on the grassland, from the species recorded the plant community is most closely related to MG10 (Holcus lanatus – Juncus effusus rush-pasture) as classified by Rodwell (1992). This is a fairly common grassland community, particularly frequent in the north and west of Britain. However, this grassland type, together with the pond, are listed as BAP (Biodiversity Action Plan) habitats for the Greater Manchester area and therefore of moderate biodiversity importance. The marshy grassland however does not have a sufficient number of the specified grassland species present to meet the criteria for the selection as an SBI (GMEU, 2008).

3.3.3 With the exception of corn spurrey, no nationally rare, nationally scarce or Red Data plant species, defined by Wigginton (1999), Stewart, Pearman and Preston (1994) and Cheffings et al (2005) respectively and no local or UK BAP Priority Species of plant were recorded from the site. Corn spurrey is listed as vulnerable on the Vascular Plant Red Data List for Great Britain (Cheffings et al, 2005) due to the population size being fewer than 10,000 individuals and showing a continuing decline.

3.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

3.4.1 As much of the marshy grassland habitat as possible should be retained within the development, together with the pond (and surrounding trees and scrub) and the woodland strip in the east. Loss of local level BAP grassland is likely to require mitigation in the form of creation of similar habitats nearby or management of unmanaged sites nearby.

9 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

3.4.2 Tree planting and grassland creation should be designed to create wildlife corridors The stands of Japanese knotweed on site should be treated in advance of any development. Indian balsam should also be treated.

4 AMPHIBIANS

4.1 WATERBODY DESCRIPTIONS

4.1.1 The initial site walkover identified one pond within the application boundary and a second present within 500m of the site boundary. The locations of both ponds are shown in Figure 3.

Waterbody 1 4.1.2 This is a large irregular shaped fishing lake (see Photograph 4) approximately 150m in length situated within the central area of the application site. The only shallow margins are in the south east corner with the rest of the lake being deep from the bank edges. The lake is regularly fished by an angling club and is well stocked with fish. There are many fishing platforms around the lake and the substrate is predominantly hard/gravel. Reed sweet-grass and soft- and hard rush are present where the margins are shallow, and yellow water-lily is present in the central areas. Semi-mature and mature trees and scrub on the banks include silver birch, hawthorn, pedunculate oak, willow and alder.

Waterbody 2 4.1.3 This is a pond situated within woodland approximately 370m south west of the site and is directly to the rear of a residential property on Crossfield Drive. It is approximately 16m in diameter and is heavily shaded by surrounding mature trees (see Photograph 5). It has shallow margins that quickly slope off to a depth exceeding 1m and the substrate is covered with a deep layer of decaying leaf litter. Soft-rush and overhanging bramble are present around the margins with emergent vegetation comprising reed sweet-grass. The only aquatic vegetation present is a blanket of common duckweed.

Photograph 5 Woodland pond looking west

10 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

4.2 SURVEY METHODS

4.2.1 A quantitative measure of the ponds suitability for great crested newts was made using the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) endorsed by Natural England (NE) (Oldham et al, 2000). Ten variables are evaluated that take into account the aquatic habitat, the surrounding terrestrial habitat and local pond density to formulate a score that reflects overall habitat quality.

4.2.2 The ponds were surveyed for the presence of great crested newts on four occasions between mid-March and mid-June 2012, using a combination of standard methods (English Nature, 2001) as described below. Torchlight survey could not be undertaken at the fishing lake due to constantly high turbidity levels or at the woodland pond due to the consistent cover of duckweed. The weather conditions recorded on each survey visit are shown in Table 4.1.

Bottle-trapping

4.2.3 Each bottle-trap is constructed from a 2 litre plastic bottle, the top quarter of which has been cut off and inserted upside down into the remainder. The bottles are partially filled with water and set inverted, held at an angle of 45o with an air bubble always present. When set they form a funnel through which a newt can readily swim, but once inside it is more difficult for the animal to find the exit.

4.2.4 Bottle-traps were placed in the margins at a density of 1 trap per 2m of accessible shoreline. Each was anchored using a garden cane. Locations of all traps were mapped on each visit and the times of setting and removal were recorded; all traps were set between 20.45 and 21.45hrs, and removed between 08.00 and 09.00hrs.

Egg Search

4.2.5 Due to the paucity of suitable vegetation, six egg-laying strips were placed in the margins around the pond. These comprise black plastic strips approximately 15-20mm wide and 500mm long, bound to garden canes in bunches of 5-10 with plastic-covered wire. The canes were sunk into the substratum so that the strips were floating freely below the surface; experience shows that these strips are very readily accepted and used by great crested newts. These strips were also examined on each survey and were all removed on the last visit.

Netting

4.2.6 Evening pond-netting was carried out using a long-handled dip-net of 2-4mm mesh that was swept vigorously through the water at regular intervals over the perimeter of the waterbody, for a period of 15 minutes per 50m of accessible shoreline. All animals caught were examined and identified, aged and sexed, under low-power torchlight without being removed from the net. They were returned to the pond as quickly as possible after capture. 11 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

4.3 RESULTS

4.3.1 The fishing pond attained a HSI score of 0.43 which carries a Natural England classification of‘poor’. The woodland pond off site attained a score of 0.71 which is classified as ‘good’.

4.3.2 No great crested newt adults, larvae or eggs were recorded in either waterbody on any visit. A peak count of four adult smooth newts was recorded on the third visit to the fishing pond with common toad (a UK BAP species) and common frog tadpoles recorded on all visits. A peak count of one common frog and two adult smooth newts was recorded on the first and third visits respectively at the off site woodland pond.

4.4 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

4.4.1 The fishing lake is well stocked with large fish which accounts for its turbidity and the lack of aquatic egg laying vegetation and aquatic invertebrates. Despite the terrestrial habitats on site being marshy grazing pasture and woodland, as only small numbers of even the most common species of amphibians were recorded in both the waterbodies surveyed and the known population of great crested newts in Wardley Wood is separated from the site by the M60, the site is considered to be of low biodiversity importance for this group.

4.5 RECOMMENDATIONS

4.5.1 The survey results demonstrate that it is reasonably unlikely that great crested newts are using the application site and therefore there are no specific protection or mitigation measures recommended for this species. Ponds are priority habitats in the Greater Manchester LBAP and common toad is a UK BAP species. Retention of the pond is therefore recommended.

5 BATS

5.1 SURVEY METHODS

5.1.1 Within the application area there are no buildings present and no individual trees that have potential to support roosting bats. However the woodland strip in the east of the site, which will be retained in the development, and the surrounding woodland have potential so a survey to establish the use of the site for foraging by bats was undertaken.

5.1.2 An evening transect survey of the site was undertaken by two ecologists on 29 May 2012 in suitable weather conditions and the route taken is illustrated on Figure 3. The survey was undertaken at a slow/steady pace with a 10 minute stop at six separate recording stations located at key intervals along the transect route, namely the woodland edges and lake area.

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All bat activity was recorded using Anabat SD-1 detectors and the time, location and direction of all observations were also recorded following standard survey techniques (BCT, 2012).

5.1.3 On 9 August 2012, a time of the year when bats are most active, two Anabat SD-1 automated bat detectors were placed overnight in two locations on the site (see Figure 3). One was placed within a line of scrub close to the woodland edge, considered to provide optimal foraging opportunities, and the other placed in a suboptimal area to provide comparative data. The Anabats were programmed to switch on 20 minutes before sunset and left to run all night, switching off 20 minutes after sunrise.

5.1.4 All sound files recorded by the Anabats during the surveys were later analysed on computers using AnaLook software for species confirmation.

5.2 RESULTS

5.2.1 Times and weather conditions on each survey visit are given in Table 5.1. Four bat species/groups were recorded, namely: • common pipistrelle (local BAP species) (P pip) • soprano pipistrelle (UK and local BAP species) (P pyg) • noctule (UK and local BAP species) (N noct) • Myotis species (local BAP species at least)

5.2.2 The number of bat passes recorded per species overnight over the rough grassland in the north-east of the site (AB7) and over the dense scrub within the rough grassland in the southwest of the site (AB6) are given in Chart 5.1. In total only 23 passes were recorded on the loggers with overnight activity levels in both habitats limited to a few common pipistrelle and soprano pipistrelle passes and occasional noctule passes.

5.2.3 During the two transects on 29 May the most frequently encountered species were common pipistrelles, with the peak number of passes at 46, recorded between 23:00 and 23:10 hrs at the northern end of the fishing lake. The two transects followed the woodland edge habitats of the site and included the fishing lake in the centre and recorded passes by common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and Myotis species (see Chart 5.2).

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10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 Number of bat passes 1 0 P.pip P.pyg N.noct AB6 4 2 3 AB7 9 4 1 Species

Chart 5.1. A comparison of bat activity per species between the 2 sample points on 9 August 2012.

20 Number of bat passes

0 P.pip P.pyg Myotis AB1 63 8 0 AB2 52 15 2 Species

Chart 5.2. A comparison of bat activity per species between the 2 transect routes on 29 May 2012.

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5.3 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

5.3.1 Common pipistrelles were recorded foraging along the woodland edge habitats and over the fishing lake and this species was most frequently represented in the datasets. Common pipistrelles are great generalists and are well adapted to exploiting a range of very common insect groups in a range of habitat types especially linear and edge habitat types such as those which occur around the site boundaries. The first pass recorded for common pipistrelle on the overnight loggers was at 22:36hrs over the scrub and rough grassland in the southwest of the site, 1 hour 45 minutes after sunset. The last pass at 05:10hrs, 9 minutes after dawn, was recorded over the rough grassland in the north-west of the site. The time of the last pass suggests that animals are roosting close to the site (probably in nearby houses) and are travelling a short distance in order to forage over the site (see Tables 5.2 and 5.3).

5.3.2 Soprano pipistrelles are a UK BAP Priority Species and their habitat preferences overlap with those of common pipistrelle with a bias towards areas of water and woodland with the peak number of passes recorded over the fishing lake during the transect survey. The first passes recorded for soprano pipistrelle on the overnight loggers were at 21:42hrs, 51 minutes after sunset, over the scrub and rough grassland towards the south-west of the site with the last pass recorded at 05:05hrs, four minutes after dawn, over the rough grassland in the north-east (see Tables 5.2 and 5.3). This suggests that this species may also be roosting close to the site and using the edge habitats for commuting and foraging purposes.

5.3.3 Internal linear habitat connectivity is limited on the site with few acoustic markers for echolocation and providing limited foraging. The most productive areas are likely to be around the boundaries with the woodland edge habitats providing good connectivity and probably the best foraging alongside the fishing lake, with relatively little use made of the open rough grassland areas. The results from the transect surveys support this although the sample size is too small to show this clearly.

5.3.4 Both overnight loggers recorded occasional noctule passes on the 9 August. These results are typical of animals commuting over the site and are not associated with it. Noctules are also a UK BAP Priority Species and are typically open habitat species with high amplitude calls rendering them detectable from more than 100m away.

5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

5.4.1 The fishing lake provides valuable foraging opportunities for bats. Whilst the level of use recorded during this study is relatively low, the fishing lake is considered to be worthy of retention for these reasons.

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5.4.2 Hedgerows or lines of trees join the wider landscape up and in doing so provide sheltered connectivity between roost sites as well as important foraging areas. Whilst the level of use recorded during this study is relatively low, the planting of additional hedgerows or tree belts to join the site to the wider landscape is likely to be beneficial.

5.4.3 As nocturnal mammals, most species of bats are adversely affected by high levels of artificial lighting and so light levels adjacent to landscape features such as hedgerows should be kept to a minimum and lighting should be focussed downwards to prevent unnecessary light spill.

6 WATER VOLE AND OTTER

6.1 SURVEY METHODS

6.1.1 The fishing pond was surveyed for any signs of activity by water vole on each of the four morning visits to the pond to remove bottle traps during the great crested newt surveys. Signs searched for include burrows, droppings and feeding remains (Strachan and Moorhouse, 2006). Similarly, the adjacent Kempnough Brook in Worsley Wood was also surveyed for signs of water voles (and otters Lutra lutra) during the course of bird surveys.

6.2 RESULTS

6.2.1 No signs of past or present activity by water vole were recorded on site and no signs of water vole or otter were recorded along Kempnough Brook adjacent to the site.

6.3 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

6.3.1 Although some parts of the lake’s bank has potential to support water vole, being sloped steeply enough to facilitate their burrows, the majority of the bank is on much lower ground and burrowing opportunities are very limited. Furthermore, there is restricted aquatic and marginal vegetation for feeding purposes and there is little habitat connectivity to enable colonisation from other populations. As a consequence, the site is considered to be of very low biodiversity importance for this species.

6.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

6.4.1 There is no requirement for protection or mitigation measures for water voles or otter.

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7 BREEDING BIRDS

7.1 SURVEY METHODS

7.1.1 Six visits were made to the application site and adjacent land to record and map all birds seen or heard, using Common Bird Census (CBC) species codes and activity symbols (Marchant, 1983). All surveys were carried out between 06.45 and 10.10hrs. Survey dates, weather conditions and start and finish times are shown in Table 7.1. Survey route and direction walked were also recorded on the fieldwork maps to aid analysis plus any disturbance sources.

7.1.2 In addition to the six mapping surveys, birds seen or heard during the course of other surveys on site between April and August 2012 are also included on the species list in Appendix 1. Targeted birds are nocturnal and crepuscular species which may be present during the evening surveys for bats and great crested newts.

7.2 RESULTS

7.2.1 In total, 26 bird species were recorded using the application site during the six breeding bird survey visits including five UK BAP Priority Species: lapwing, dunnock, song thrush, starling and house sparrow (www.ukbap.org.uk/NewPriorityList.aspx). For the first three of these species there is suitable nesting habitat within the application site. Numbers of each species recorded on each visit are given in Table 7.2.

7.2.2 During all breeding season site visits (April to August 2012), 40 bird species were recorded using the application site together with immediately adjacent habitats (see Appendix 1). Of these species, 15 were possibly or probably breeding within the application site and these species are indicated in Appendix 1. No nocturnal or crepuscular species (such as owls) were noted during evening fieldwork visits.

7.2.3 No Schedule 1 bird species were noted during any of the 2012 site visits as using the site. Kingfisher was heard on the Kempnough Brook during the intial survey. Disturbance sources noted during the bird surveys included the surveyor and occasional dog walkers.

7.3 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

7.3.1 All the species recorded are common and widespread birds in northwest England and are those which would be expected to be found in the habitats available on site and adjacent land. The assemblage present using the site is likely to be of low biodiversity importance.

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7.3.2 With regard to Schedule 1 species, there is very limited habitat for any to breed on the site with the exception of hobby Falco subbuteo in the trees surrounding the fishing pond. There is certainly potential for use of the site by barn owls Tyto alba hunting over the grassland and possibly kingfishers Alcedo athis visiting the fishing lake.

7.3.3 The most important habitats for breeding birds within the application site are the fishing pond area, the woodland strip in the east and any areas of marginal scrub. The open grassland areas were not attractive to breeding species and were mainly used for feeding. The adjacent Worlsey Wood area held a good assemblage of woodland species such nuthatch, treecreeper, blackcap and great spotted woodpecker. Dipper and grey wagtail, both classic species of fast- flowing streams, were also noted along Kempnough Brook, adjacent to the site.

7.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

7.4.1 All vegetation clearance should be completed outside the breeding bird period (which is generally taken to run from March to August inclusive). If this is not possible, then all vegetation, including grassland, should be checked for the presence of nests before any clearance is carried out. Any active nests found should be fenced off and avoided until the young have fledged.

7.4.2 Key bird nesting sites such as the central fishing pond and the woodland strip in the east should be retained within the development layout.

8 INVERTEBRATES

8.1 SURVEY METHODS

8.1.1 An assessment of the invertebrate interest of the site was carried out on 25 June 2012, in overcast to sunny weather, ambient temperature 15-16°C. The aim of the survey was to identify species of conservation concern and assemblages of potential importance in order to assess the overall quality of the site and identify the key features of interest.

Sweep netting

8.1.2 Two methods of capture were employed to maximise the collection of targeted material, as follows: • Sweep samples: swathes of flowering plants, tall grass, nettle beds, scrub and hedgerows are swept for invertebrates hiding amongst the plants. Material is then sorted within the net bag and key groups and species are collected for later examination. • Spot sampling: this is the preferred method of collection for the larger, more conspicuous insects such as bees and wasps. It is used on flowering herbs, such as common bird’s- 18 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus and yellow composites such as dandelion, and helps to supplement the sweep samples.

8.1.3 No pond sampling was undertaken due to angling activity on the pool at the time of survey. However, a visual inspection was undertaken including an assessment of the pool profile. All captured invertebrates are held for later identification, except for easily identifiable species, which were identified in the field and released. All representative material from the contract including nationally significant species are held within A. Jukes’s private reference collection.

Target taxa

8.1.4 Several groups of insects were targeted for recording, based on Natural England guidance (Drake et al, 2007) and adapted to fit the site’s features. The groups selected are positive indicators of habitat quality and can inform a surveyor about a site’s potential and quality as an invertebrate resource. The key groups sampled and used for assessment were: • aculeate hymenoptera (bees and wasps) • lepidoptera (butterflies and day-flying moths) • syrphidae (hoverflies) • The “larger brachycera” (robberflies, horseflies, soldierflies and allies) • Other small incidental diptera “acalypterate” families

Use of ISIS

8.1.5 ISIS is a computer application developed by Natural England which identifies assemblages of importance from species lists input into the computer program (Lott et al, 2007). This is particularly useful for identifying key areas of interest and importance and monitoring site changes as management alters habitat structure and species composition. The program provides two levels of assemblage types, as follows: • BAT (Broad Assemblage Type) – These are widespread habitat types and associated species. Their classification reflects environmental factors such as hydrology and disturbance cycles. • SAT (Specific Assemblage Type) – these are characterised by steno topic species (those that can only withstand a narrow range of environmental conditions). They have intrinsic conservation value and therefore only found on sites with value. SATs are more tightly defined than BATs and sit within a parent BAT. More than one SAT can sit within a parent SAT such as: BAT: F11 – unshaded early successional mosaic SAT: F111 – bare sand and chalk F112 – open short sward F113 – exposed sea cliff

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8.2 RESULTS

Site Assessment

8.2.1 The site comprises rough/semi-improved pasture, scrub/wood fringe, small stands of scrub within the pasture and standing water, including an angling pool. The pasture is comprised largely of lush vegetation with marshy areas locally. The scrub and woodland fringe incorporate elements of structure that enhances the site providing numerous niches for invertebrates of scrub edge such as danceflies and hoverflies.

8.2.2 The angling pool appears to be manmade with steep sides to facilitate angling. Parts of the margin are free of vegetation and possibly dredged by the anglers to keep fish runs clear of aquatic vegetation, which is detrimental to key aquatic assemblages such as aquatic heteroptera and diving beetles. It is considered unlikely that there will be species or assemblages of importance in a pool that is stocked with coarse fish which, in high densities, affect native aquatic invertebrate faunas. There were some dragonflies and damselflies utilising the pool, but none of the species recorded are scarce. Tractor wheel ruts filled with water are the most interesting feature on the site though even this feature is only of limited value.

8.2.3 A full list of the species identified is given in Table 8.1. UK status listed in this table is derived from Recorder 3.3 (Ball, 1994). As shown, all species are considered to be either local or common; none of the species recorded at the time of survey justify inclusion in any of Red Data Book categories (Shirt, 1987).

Use of ISIS

8.2.4 The ISIS results are shown in Table 8.2. A number of Broad Assemblage Types (BATs) were highlighted by the ISIS analysis. The most significant, and surprising, is that of flowing water (W1). There is no flowing water on the site itself but Kempnough Brook is adjacent and adults of flowing water species are utilising scrub and trees bordering the site for shelter or foraging. Other BATs of note include the permanent wet mire and grassland and scrub matrix. The site is relatively damp with numerous tractor ruts that have filled with water providing suitable conditions for the permanent wet mire BAT to develop. However, it is only utilised by common species, as indicated by the lack of suitable SATs pertaining to this BAT. The grassland and scrub is largely poor with many ubiquitous species of open and shaded habitats present in the lists. The other BATs noted are less well represented and do not possess key features of significance but do go to towards increasing the overall biodiversity value of the site.

8.2.5 The only SAT highlighted by ISIS is the flower-rich resource (F002). It is represented by five species, including common hoverflies and bumblebees. This resource is however only of limited quality due to its size. There are no other incidental features thought important.

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8.3 DISCUSSION AND ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE

8.3.1 Based on the results of this survey, the species composition of the site is poor and represented by many common and local species of largely ubiquitous habitats. The assemblages that are present contain species that can utilise a range of broad habitat types such as “open grassland” or “wood edge” which are common features in the wider countryside. Using guidance provided for IEEM (Plant, 2009), this site is considered as Local (low) importance. Details of the criteria used are given in Appendix 3.

8.3.2 No specific mitigation measures for protection of key invertebrates or resources are therefore necessary.

8.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

8.4.1 Adopting general principals of habitat management to benefit invertebrates in site conservation plans should be considered. These principles include managing diverse scrub fringes, verges and hedgerows to promote the flower-rich resource, ideally within a site management plan.

9 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

9.1 The site has a variety of habitats which, though of value, are not species rich or particularly good examples of their type. With the exception of corn spurrey, which is classed as vulnerable due to a decline in numbers over the last 30 years, none of the habitats or species present are rare or protected. The habitats and species present should not pose a constraint to sensitive development of the site which takes into account the site’s wildlife corridor designation. Retention of the pond and some of its surrounding natural habitats and creation of new greenways which will include tree planting and grassland creation will ensure continuity of wildlife corridor connections in all directions.

9.2 Habitat creation to the south west of the site and enhancements to the surrounding woodlands will all contribute to biodiversity gain.

10 REFERENCES

Ball S. 1994. Recorder 3.3. Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough

Bat Conservation Trust. 2012. Bat surveys – Good practice guidelines, 2nd Edition. Bat Conservation Trust, London.

21 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

Cheffings C M & Farrell L (Eds), Dines T D, Jones R A, Leach S J, McKean D R, Pearman D A, Preston C D, Rumsey F J, Taylor I. 2005. The Vascular Plant Red Data List for Great Britain. Species Status 7:1-116. Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough.

Drake C M, Lott D A, Alexander K N A. and Webb J. 2007 NERR005. Surveying terrestrial and freshwater invertebrates for conservation evaluation. Natural England, Peterborough

English Nature. 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough.

English Nature. 2004. The Bat Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough.

GMEU, 2008. Greater Manchester Sites of Biological Importance Selection Guidelines.

Herpetofauna Groups of Britain & Ireland (HGBI). 1998. Evaluating local mitigation/translocation programmes: maintaining best practice and lawful standards. Advisory notes for Amphibian and Reptile Groups. Froglife. Halesworth. Suffolk

Lott D et al. 2007. ISIS. Invertebrate Species – habitat Information System, 2009 build. Natural England.

Marchant J H. 1983. Common Bird Census Instructions. British Trust for Ornithology, Tring

Oldham R.S., Keeble J., Swan M.J.S. & Jeffcote M. 2000. Evaluating the suitability of habitat for the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus). Herpetological Journal 10 (4), 143-155.

Plant C. 2009. Criteria for defining invertebrate sites of significance. Unpublished Guidance provided to the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.

Rodwell J S. (ed) 1992. British Plant Communities Volume 3: Grassland and Montane Communities. CUP, Cambridge.

Shirt D B. 1987. British Red Data Books: 2. Insects. Nature Conservancy Council Peterborough.

Stace C. 2010. New Flora of the British Isles. 3rd Edition, CUP, Cambridge.

Stewart A, Pearman D A and Preston C D. 1994. Scarce Plants in Britain. JNCC, Peterborough.

22 ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Investments (North) Ltd

Strachan R and Moorhouse T. 2006. Water Vole Conservation Handbook. Second Edition. Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Oxford.

Watson E V. 1981. British Mosses and Liverworts. CUP, Cambridge.

Wigginton M J. 1999. British Red Data Books. 1 Vascular Plants. 3rd edition. JNCC, Peterborough.

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TABLES

ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH

TABLE 4.1 DATES AND WEATHER CONDITIONS OF GREAT CRESTED NEWT SURVEYS

Visit Date Ambient temp Weather Conditions 1 17/04/12 12˚C Cool with occasional drizzle showers 2 24/04/12 11˚C Cool and dry following daytime rain 3 30/04/12 12˚C Still and dry following much rain 4 15/05/12 13˚C Mild and dry following prolonged rainfall

TABLE 5.1 DATES, TIMES AND WEATHER CONDITIONS OF BAT SURVEYS Ambient Survey Timings Weather Conditions temp Transect 22.20 - 23.10 17˚C Dry and warm with no wind, Static loggers 20.35 - 06.00 10-16˚C Dry and mild

TABLE 5.2 FIRST AND LAST PASS TIMES RECORDED FOR EACH SPECIES AT EACH STATIC SAMPLE POINT Logger No Species Total passes Time of first pass Time of last pass common pipistrelle 4 22:36 04:35 soprano pipistrelle 2 21:42 05:05 AB6 noctule 3 05:07 05:10 common pipistrelle 9 23:33 05:10 soprano pipistrelle 4 23:33 04:23 AB7 noctule 1 04:54 n/a

TABLE 5.3 TIMES OF PASSES PER SPECIES IN RELATION TO SUNSET, DAWN AND SUNRISE TIMES Logger No Species 1st pass sunset last pass dawn last pass sunrise common pipistrelle 1 hr 45mins 26 mins 1 hr 5 mins soprano pipistrelle 51 mins + 4mins 35 mins AB6 noctule 8 hrs 16 mins + 9 mins 30mins common pipistrelle 2 hrs 42 mins + 9 mins 30 mins soprano pipistrelle 2 hrs 42 mins 38 mins 1 hr 17 mins AB7 noctule 8 hrs 3 mins n/a n/a

TABLE 7.1 DATES, TIMES AND WEATHER CONDITIONS OF BREEDING BIRD SURVEYS

Visit Date Times Weather Conditions 1 18/04/12 06.45-08.00 Overcast, 8°C, light W wind 2 02/05/12 07.00-08.20 Partly sunny, dry, 8-10°C with light NE wind 3 16/05/12 06.55-08.15 Sunny, dry, 10°C and still 4 30/05/12 07.00-08.30 Hazy sunshine, dry, 17°C with light NW wind Overcast, occ. light rain, 16-18°C with mod SW 5 27/06/12 06.50-08.00 wind 6 04/07/12 08.20-10.10 Overcast, 17-18°C with light SW wind

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TABLE 7.2 TOTAL COUNTS FOR EACH SPECIES ON EACH BREEDING BIRD SURVEY VISIT Survey Dates Species¯ 18/04/12 02/05/12 16/05/12 30/05/12 27/06/12 04/07/12 mallard 4 1 grey heron 1 moorhen 1 1 1 1 lapwing 2 woodpigeon 3 4 5 7 5 swift 4 6 swallow 3 2 grey wagtail 1 1 wren 3 3 1 4 2 4 dunnock 1 robin 6 3 2 2 blackbird 5 6 2 6 4 song thrush 1 1 1 mistle thrush 1 1 1 blackcap 1 1 long-tailed tit 3 blue tit 5 3 5 3 1 great tit 10 2 2 4 4 1 nuthatch 1 magpie 9 6 5 5 5 carrion crow 3 1 1 1 3 1 starling 2 house sparrow 1 1 chaffinch 3 goldfinch 1 1 1 7 siskin 1 ¯ Species names shown in bold are UK BAP Priority Species

TABLE 8.1 INVERTEBRATE SPECIES RECORDED ON 15 JUNE 2012

Scientific Name English Name (where available) UK Status

ORDER: Diptera True flies Family: Syrphidae Hoverflies Cheilosia albitarsis sens. str. hoverfly Common Episyrphus balteatus hoverfly Common Eristalis horticola hoverfly Common Eristalis pertinax hoverfly Common Eristalis tenax hoverfly Common Eupeodes corollae hoverfly Common Helophilus pendulus hoverfly Common Melanogaster hirtella hoverfly Common Melanostoma mellinum hoverfly Common Melanostoma scalare hoverfly Common Volucella pellucens hoverfly Common Family: Rhagionidae Snipeflies Chrysopilus cristatus Snipefly Common ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH

Scientific Name English Name (where available) UK Status Rhagio scolopaceus Snipefly Common Family: Stratiomyidae Soldierflies Beris geniculata soldierfly Common Beris morrisii soldierfly Local Beris vallata soldierfly Common Family: Tabanidae Horseflies Haematopota pluvialis Cleg Common Family: Empididae Danceflies Empis livida dancefly Common Hilara beckeri dancefly Local Hilara nigrina dancefly Local Hybos grossipes dancefly Common Ocydromia glabricula dancefly Common Family: Dolichopodidae Dolyflies Argyra leucocephala Dolyfly Common Campsicnemus curvipes Dolyfly Common Dolichopus plumipes Dolyfly Common Dolichopus popularis Dolyfly Common Dolichopus wahlbergi Dolyfly Common Family: Tipuloidea Craneflies Limonia phragmitidis cranefly Common Tipula fascipennis cranefly Common Family: Lauxanidae Small fly family Minettia longipennis a fly Common Family: Lonchopteridae Pointed-winged flies Lonchoptera bifurcata a fly Common Family: Ephydridae Shoreflies Parydra coarctata shorefly Common Family: Sciomyzidae Snail-killing flies Tetanocera elata Snail-killing fly Common Tetanocera hyalipennis Snail-killing fly Common ORDER: Hymenoptera Bees and wasps Family: Apidae Bumblebees Bombus hortorum Small Garden Bumble Bee Common Bombus pratorum Early Bumble Bee Common Bombus lapidarius Large Red Tailed Bumble Bee Common Bombus pascuorum Common Carder Bee Common Bombus terrestris Buff-tailed Bumble Bee Common ORDER: Odondata Damselflies and dragonflies Family: Libellulidae Darts and chasers Libellula depressa Broad-bodied Chaser Local Family: Coenagriidae Damselflies Enallagma cyathigerum Common Blue Damselfly Common ORDER: Lepidoptera Butterflies and moths Family: Satyridae Browns Maniola jurtina Meadow Brown Common

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TABLE 8.2 ISIS RESULTS

Percentage of SAT Related BAT SAT name No. spp. Condition national species code rarity score pool rich flower F002 5 2 resource

BAT Representation Rarity BAT species BAT name Condition IEC code (1-100) score richness W1 flowing water 20 9 permanent wet W3 18 8 mire grassland & F2 16 7 scrub matrix shaded field & F3 11 5 ground layer unshaded early F1 successional 9 4 mosaic mineral marsh & W2 7 3 open water (ISIS, 2010 version)

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Peel Holdings (Land & Property) Ltd

APPENDIX 1 Species Recorded in the Survey Area

SPECIES RECORDED IN THE SURVEY AREA

ENGLISH NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME DAFOR PLANTS alder Alnus glutinosa O annual meadow-grass Poa annua O apple Malus pumila O ash Fraxinus excelsior F aspen Populus tremula R autumn hawkbit Scorzoneroides autumnalis R beech Fagus sylvatica R blackthorn Prunus spinosa R bracken Pteridium aquilinum O bramble Rubus fruticosus F broad buckler-fern Dryopteris dilatata O broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius A broad-leaved pondweed Potamogeton natans R broad-leaved willowherb Epilobium montanum R cherry laurel Prunus laurocerasus R cleavers Galium aparine O clustered dock Rumex conglomeratus R cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata A common bent Agrostis capillaris F common duckweed Lemna minor O common couch Elytrigia repens A common fleabane Pulicaria dysenterica R common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum O common nettle Urtica dioica A common ragwort Senecio jacobaea F common sorrel Rumex acetosa O common vetch Vicia sativa O compact rush Juncus conglomeratus O corn spurrey Spergula arvensis R cotoneaster Cotoneaster sp R cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris O crack-willow Salix fragilis R creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera A creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens A creeping soft-grass Holcus mollis O creeping thistle Cirsium arvense O curled dock Rumex crispus O dandelion Taraxacum sp O dogwood Cornus sanguinea R downy birch Betula pubescens R elder Sambucus nigra R European larch Larix decidua R false oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius F field horsetail Equisetum arvense F field maple Acer campestre R floating sweet-grass Glyceria fluitans O fox-and-cubs Pilosella aurantiaca R giant fescue Schedonorus giganteus R glaucous sedge Carex flacca O goat willow Salix caprea F great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum F greater plantain Plantago major O grey willow Salix cinerea F guelder-rose Viburnum opulus R

ENGLISH NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME DAFOR PLANTS cont.. hairy bitter-cress Cardamine hirsuta O hairy sedge Carex hirta O hawthorn Crataegus monogyna O hoary willowherb Epilobium parviflorum R hogweed Heracleum sphondylium F holly Ilex aquifolium R horse-chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum R Indian balsam Impatiens glandulifera O Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica R jointed rush Juncus articulatus O knotgrass Polygonum aviculare R lady-fern Athyrium filix-femina R lesser trefoil Trifolium dubium O male-fern Dryopteris filix-mas R marsh cudweed Gnaphalium uliginosum R marsh foxtail Alopecurus geniculatus O marsh thistle Cirsium palustre R meadow barley Hordeum secalinum O meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris F meadow foxtail Alopecurus pratensis F michaelmas-daisy Aster sp R mugwort Artemisia vulgaris R musk-mallow Malva moschata R osier Salix viminalis R oval sedge Carex leporina R pedunculate oak Quercus robur O perennial rye-grass Lolium perenne F prickly sow-thistle Sonchus asper R raspberry Rubus idaeus O red bartsia Odontites vernus O red campion Silene dioica R red clover Trifolium pratense O red fescue Festuca rubra F redshank Persicaria maculosa R reed canary-grass Phalaris arundinacea R reed sweet-grass Glyceria maxima O remote sedge Carex remota R rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium O rough meadow-grass Poa trivialis F rowan Sorbus aucuparia R sheep's sorrel Rumex acetosella R shepherd's-purse Capsella bursa-pastoris R silver birch Betula pendula R smooth meadow-grass Poa pratensis O soft-rush Juncus effusus F soft-brome Bromus hordeaceus O southern marsh-orchid Dactylorhiza praetermissa R spear thistle Cirsium vulgare R square-stalked willowherb Epilobium tetragonum R spindle Euonymus europaeus R sweet-flag Acorus calamus R sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus O timothy Phleum pratense A toad rush Juncus bufonius R white clover Trifolium repens O white water-lily Nymphaea alba R wood avens Geum urbanum O ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH Peel Holdings (Land & Property) Ltd

ENGLISH NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME DAFOR PLANTS cont.. wood horsetail Equisetum sylvaticum R yellow iris Iris pseudacorus R yellow water-lily Nuphar lutea R Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus A

MOSSES common feather-moss Kindbergia praelonga F rough-stalked feather-moss Brachythecium rutabulum A swan’s-neck thyme-moss Mnium hornum R

KEY TO DAFOR (An estimate of relative abundance at a site) D Dominant A Abundant F Frequent O Occasional R Rare

ENGLISH NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME SITE ADJACENT BIRDS mallard Anas platyrhynchos P grey heron Ardea cinerea P P sparrowhawk Accipter nisus P P moorhen Gallinule chloropus P lapwing (UK BAP) Vanellus vanellus P black-headed gull Larus ridibundus P woodpigeon Columba palumbus P P collared dove Streptopelia decaocto P swift Apus apus P P kingfisher Alcedo atthis P great spotted woodpecker Dendrocopos major P swallow Hirundo rustica P P meadow pipit Anthus pratensis P grey wagtail Motacilla cinerea P P pied wagtail Motacilla alba P dipper Cinclus cinclus P wren Troglodytes troglodytes P P dunnock (UK BAP) Prunella modularis P P robin Erithacus rubecula P P blackbird Turdus merula P P song thrush (UK BAP) Turdus philomelos P P mistle thrush Turdus viscivorus P P blackcap Sylvia atricapilla P P wood warbler (UK BAP) Phylloscopus sibilatrix P chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita P goldcrest Regulus regulus P long-tailed tit Aegithalos caudatus P P blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus P P great tit Parus major P P coal tit Parus ater P nuthatch Sitta europaea P P treecreeper Certhia familiaris P jay Garrulous glandarius P

ENGLISH NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME SITE ADJACENT BIRDS cont… magpie Pica pica P P carrion crow Corvus corone P P starling (UK BAP) Stunus vulgaris P P house sparrow (UK BAP) Passer domesticus P P chaffinch Fringilla coelebs P P goldfinch Carduelis carduelis P P siskin Carduelis spinus P P NB. Birds in red are possible/probable breeders on site, based on evidence recorded.

MAMMALS noctule (UK BAP) Nyctalus noctula P P common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus P soprano pipistrelle (UK BAP) Pipistrellus pygmaeus P myotid bat species Myotis sp. P grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis P P brown rat Rattus norvegicus P fox Vulpes vulpes P rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus P

INVERTEBRATES alder leaf beetle Agelastica alni P speckled wood Pararge aegeria P P meadow brown Maniola jurtina P cinnabar (UK BAP) Tyria jacobaeae P straw dot Rivula sericealis P silver y Autographa gamma P

DRAGONFLIES AND DAMSELFLIES common blue damselfly Enallagma cyathigerum P azure damselfly Coenagrion puella P four-spotted chaser Libellula quadrimaculata P

APPENDIX 2 Summary of Legal Status for Relevant Species

SUMMARY OF LEGAL STATUS FOR RELEVANT SPECIES

1 BIRDS

1.1 The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981 and as amended) protects all wild birds and their nests and eggs. Under this Act it is an offence to: • kill, injure or take any wild bird • take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built • take or destroy the egg of any wild bird.

1.2 Bird nesting sites are not themselves protected when not in use and the common species are not protected from disturbance whilst occupying their nest-sites. However, certain rare breeding birds, listed on Schedule 1 of the Act (e.g. barn owls Tyto alba), are also protected against disturbance whilst building a nest or on or near a nest containing eggs or young.

APPENDIX 3 Criteria for Defining Invertebrate Sites of Significance

CRITERIA FOR DEFINING INVERTEBRATE SITES OF SIGNIFICANCE

Importance Description Minimum qualifying criteria Internationally important invertebrate populations present or containing RDB 1 (Endangered) species or containing any International European important species protected under European legislation or containing (high) importance site (i.e. SAC) habitats that are threatened or rare at the European level (including, but not exclusively so, habitats listed on the EU Habitats Directive). Achieving SSSI invertebrate criteria (NCC, 1989) or containing RDB2 (Vulnerable) or containing viable National (high) UK important site populations of RDB 3 (Rare) species or containing viable importance (SSSI) populations of any species protected under UK legislation or containing habitats that are threatened or rare nationally (Great Britain).

Regional Habitat that is scarce or threatened in the region or which (medium) Site with populations has, or is reasonably expected to have, the presence of an importance of invertebrates or assemblage of invertebrates including at least ten invertebrate habitats Nationally Notable species or at least ten species listed as (for border sites, considered scarce or Regionally Notable for the English Nature region in both regions must rare or threatened in question in the Recorder database or elsewhere or a be taken into south-east England combination of these categories amounting to ten species account) in total.

County (medium) Site with populations Habitat that is scarce or threatened in the county and/or importance of invertebrates or which contains or is reasonably expected to contain an invertebrate habitats assemblage of invertebrates that includes viable (for border sites, considered scarce or populations of at least five Nationally Notable species or both counties rare or threatened in viable populations of at least five species regarded as must be taken the county in Regionally Scarce by the county records centres and/or into account) question field club. Site with populations A rather vague definition of habitats falling below county of invertebrates or significance level, but which may be of greater significance invertebrate habitats than merely Local. They include sites for which Nationally District (low) considered scarce or Notable species in the range from 1 to 4 examples are importance rare or threatened in reasonably expected but not yet necessarily recorded and the administrative where this omission is considered likely to be partly due to District under-recording. Site with populations of invertebrates or invertebrate habitats Local (low) considered scarce or Habitats or species unique or of some other significance importance rare or threatened in within the local area. the affected and neighbouring Parishes Importance within Although almost no area is completely without significance the context of the these are the areas with nothing more than expected — site only (low “background” populations of common species and the importance) occasional Nationally Local species. (Source: Plant, 2009)

ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd, 1 Otago House, Allenby Business Village, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL Ecological Survey of Land at Beesley Green, Salford, Greater Manchester SCS.PH