20604-02 R2 Rev2

Technical Report

Ecological Assessment

Land to the south of Brandon Road, Watton, Norfolk

Tesni Properties Ltd

February 2015

Contents

1 Introduction 1 1.1 Terms of Reference 1 1.1.1 Objectives of the Study 1 1.2 Site Description 1 2 Legislation and planning policy 2 2.1 National Planning Policy 2 2.2 UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework 3 2.3 Legislation 3 3 Desk Study 5 3.1 Data Collection 5 3.2 Statutory Designated Sites 5 3.3 Non-statutory Designated Sites 6 3.4 European Protected Species 7 3.5 UK Protected Species 7 3.6 Other Species of Conservation Concern 7 3.7 Avian Species 9 3.7.1 Stone Curlew Data 10 4 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 12 4.1 Survey Methodology 12 4.1.1 Limitations 12 4.2 Survey Results 12 4.2.1 Habitats Recorded Within the Site 13 4.2.2 Habitats Recorded Within the Wider Survey Area 14 4.2.3 Flora 16 5 Conclusions 17 5.1 General Ecology 17 5.2 Potential for Protected Species 17 5.2.1 Great Crested Newts 17 5.2.2 Potential for Bats 18 5.3 Proposed Mitigation and Enhancement Measures 20 5.3.1 Great crested newts 20 5.3.2 Bats 20

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5.3.3 Habitats 21 5.3.4 Birds 22 6 References 23 Appendix A. Designated Sites within 2km of Proposed Site 24 Appendix B. Phase 1 Habitat Survey Target Notes 31

Tables Table 1 County Wildlife Sites located within 2km of the proposed Watton Site 6 Table 2 Species of Conservation Interest recorded within 2km of the proposed Watton Site (source – NBIS) 8 Table 3 Avian Species of Conservation Interest recorded within a 2km Radius of the proposed Watton Site (Source – NBIS) 9 Table 4: Breckland SPA Description (Source: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-2016- theme=default ) 26 Table 5: NBIS descriptions of County Wildlife Sites within 2km of Watton Site 27 Table 6: Phase 1 Habitat Survey Habitat Target Notes 31 Table 7: Hedgerow Target Notes 33 Table 8 Phase 1 Habitat Survey Species List 34

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Ecological Assessment

Document Prepared For Tesni Properties Ltd Linden House Mold Business Park Wrexham Road Mold, CH7 1XP

Document Prepared By Document Approved By Dr Jon Huckle Andrew Nyul Technical Director Senior Ecologist [email protected] [email protected]

Version Date Reason 20604-02 R2 Rev1 February 2015 Initial draft for client review 20604-02 R2 Rev2 February 2015 Final report

Copyright © 2015 Atmos Consulting Ltd

Rosebery House, Moray House, Durham Dales Linden House Keystone 9 Haymarket 16-18 Bank Street, Centre, Mold Business Park Innovation Centre Terrace, Inverness, Castle Gardens, Wrexham Road Croxton Road Edinburgh, IV1 1QY Stanhope, Mold, Thetford EH12 5EZ County Durham, CH7 1XP Norfolk DL13 2FJ IP24 1JD

Ecological Assessment

1 Introduction 1.1 Terms of Reference Atmos Consulting Ltd was commissioned by Tesni Properties Ltd to undertake an extended Phase 1 habitat survey of land to the south of Brandon Road in Watton, Norfolk (hereafter referred to as the “Site”) to inform a proposal for residential housing development. This Ecological Assessment report describes the ecological baseline information on the habitats present at the Site, gathered during a preliminary site visit in June 2014 and a more detailed Extended Phase 1 habitat survey undertaken in October 2014. The extended Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken over a wider “Survey Area” than the proposed planning application site boundary to include a buffer of up to 250m, where access was possible, in order to inform the need for further protected species surveys.

1.1.1 Objectives of the Study This report details the following:  A desk study to review pre-existing ecological records for the Site and the surrounding area;  An extended Phase 1 survey to provide baseline information of the habitats present within the Survey Area and the potential presence of protected species and/or species of nature conservation concern; and  Recommendations for the implications of the ecological baseline for a residential planning application; and  Recommendations of ecological enhancements for the Site.

1.2 Site Description The proposed Site comprises a total of three fields centred on National Grid Reference TF 9088 0045, and covers an area of approximately 8.32 ha. All three fields have been more or less unmanaged for agricultural use for a number of years, and it is understood that the fields form part of the ‘set aside’ contribution for the larger landholding to the south as part of a whole farm agri-environment package. The fields are located adjacent to previously developed areas of Watton. To the north of the Site, a residential development is located between the Site and Brandon Road, comprising housing built in approximately 2000. To the west of the site, there is an area of open amenity green space associated with the Bridle Road housing development. To the east are a number of school fields and a small area of green space. To the southeast of the site (and south of the eastern most field, Field 3), lies a residential development associated with Jubilee Road. The three fields are bounded by relatively intact hedgerows, many supporting mature broadleaved trees, and are relatively small compared to the larger arable fields located to the south of the Site; the westernmost field (Field 1) measures approximately 2.33 ha, the central field (Field 2) measures approximately 3.8 ha and the easternmost field (Field 3) measures approximately 2.19 ha.

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2 Legislation and planning policy 2.1 National Planning Policy The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (DCLG, 2012) was published by the government in March 2012 and provided guidance for local authorities, focusing on helping to produce planning policies that are clear and easy to understand. The NPPF replaced existing planning policy guidance, including that relating to biodiversity, Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9): Biological and Geological Conservation. However, the Government Circular 06/05: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation - Statutory Obligations and their impact within the Planning System (ODPM, 2006), which accompanied PPS9, remains valid at the time of writing. Section 11 of the NPPF specifies the requirements for conserving and enhancing the natural environment, much of which reaffirms the protection previously afforded by PPS9 to designated sites, priority habitats and species and ancient woodland. The NPPF places a greater emphasis on ecological networks and states that the planning system should provide net gains in biodiversity where possible. Paragraph 118 provides the following advice in relation to the consideration of biodiversity in the determination of planning applications:

“When determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying the following principles:  if significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused;  proposed development on land within or outside a Site of Special Scientific Interest likely to have an adverse effect on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (either individually or in combination with other developments) should not normally be permitted. Where an adverse effect on the site’s notified special interest features is likely, an exception should only be made where the benefits of the development, at this site, clearly outweigh both the impacts that it is likely to have on the features of the site that make it of special scientific interest and any broader impacts on the national network of Sites of Special Scientific Interest;  development proposals where the primary objective is to conserve or enhance biodiversity should be permitted;  opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged;  planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss; and  the following wildlife sites should be given the same protection as European sites: o potential Special Protection Areas and possible Special Areas of Conservation; o listed or proposed Ramsar sites; and o sites identified, or required, as compensatory measures for adverse effects on European sites, potential Special Protection Areas, possible Special Areas of Conservation, and listed or proposed Ramsar sites.”

While the implementation of the NPPF at the local level is yet to be fully determined, the guidance in relation to biodiversity provided by Circular 06/05 remains valid and is supplemented by the Planning Practice Guidance (UK Government, 2014). Nature

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conservation legislation relating to protected species is unchanged and is outlined below.

2.2 UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework The ‘UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework’ (JNCC & DEFRA, 2012), published in July 2012, sets out a framework of priorities for UK-level work for the Convention on Biological Diversity, to which the UK is a signatory. Covering the period 2011-2020, this framework replaces the original UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP, 2004) system and now the work is focussed on the separate countries (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales). The overall aim remains to protect a number of rare species and habitats, and reverse the declines of more widespread but declining species and habitats, and so currently many of the species and habitats in the UK BAP still form the basis of the biodiversity work carried out in the devolved countries. In addition to the species in the UK BAP, BAPs have been devolved to local levels (LBAPs). Under the NERC Act, the English government and public bodies, including planning authorities, have a duty to have due regard to the purpose of conserving biodiversity, so it remains good practice for BAP and LBAP species and habitats to be taken into consideration in the planning of a development scheme. Many UK and local BAP species are also listed on the NERC S.41 list of “species of principal importance” (SPIs).

2.3 Legislation All public authorities have a requirement to pay due regard to the conservation and enhancement of habitats and species through Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC), which states, “Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity”. To this end, Section 41 of the NERC Act provides for the establishment of a list of habitat and species that are considered to be of “principal importance for the conservation of biological diversity in England”. This list can be viewed on the DEFRA website at www.defra.gov.uk. National legislation for the special protection of selected species is provided in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA). Under Section 1(1) and 1(2), all British bird species, their nests and eggs (excluding some pest and game species) are protected from intentional killing, injury or damage. Under Sections 1(4) and 1(5), special penalties are applied to bird species included in Schedule 1 of the Act and protection is extended for these species to disturbance to birds whilst building, in or near a nest and disturbance to dependant young. Schedule 5 provides special protection to selected animal species other than birds, through Section 9(4) of the Act, against damage to “any structure or place which any [wild animal included in the schedule] uses for shelter and protection” and against disturbance whilst in such places. Section 14 of the WCA prohibits the release of non-native species into the wild, including plants and animal species that are potentially invasive. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992, as amended, provides protection to badgers and their setts and is primarily concerned with animal welfare and makes it an offence to kill or harm a badger or to interfere with a sett.

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A number of animals, known as European protected species (EPS), are provided full protection through inclusion in Schedule 2 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, as amended. The Regulations provide protection against deliberate disturbance to those animals wherever they are present, and provides tests against which the permission for a development that may have an effect on a Schedule 2 protected species must be assessed before permission can be given. In addition to species protection, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and Habitats Regulations also set out requirements/procedures for the notification, designation and protection of a range of statutory site designations in order to preserve important nature conservation resources.

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3 Desk Study 3.1 Data Collection A data collection exercise was undertaken in October 2014, in order to establish whether there were pre-existing records of designated nature conservation sites or plant and animal species/assemblages of nature conservation significance for the proposed development Site and its surroundings. Review of existing biological records can be of assistance in establishing the extent to which species that could represent a material consideration in planning terms are likely to be present in suitable habitats locally. The Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service (NBIS) was contacted to provide the data they held within a 2 km distance of the Site boundary. Information on statutory sites was obtained from the UK Government internet site MAGIC (http://www.magic.gov.uk/ ). A search was also conducted for protected species records within the TF90 10km Grid Square in which the potential development lies on the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway website (https://data.nbn.org.uk/ ).

3.2 Statutory Designated Sites Review of the UK Government internet site MAGIC, along with data received from the NBIS confirmed that the Site does not benefit from any statutory nature conservation designation, however three statutory designated sites are present within a 2 km radius of the Site. The results of the NBIS 2 km search indicating both statutory and non- statutory designated sites are presented in Figure 1. The citations for all designated sites are included at Appendix A.

Wayland Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) The nearest statutory designated site is the Wayland Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which covers an area of approximately 31.8 ha and is located between approximately 1.2 km and 2 km to the south east of the Site. The SSSI is one of the largest ancient woodlands in South Norfolk, containing entirely semi-natural stands and is still managed under a traditional coppicing system by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. The structure is coppice with standards on wet calcareous boulder clay and a rare stand- type, bird cherry–alder wood is present. The diverse flora is typical of ancient woodland.

Breckland Special Protection Area (SPA) The Breckland Special Protection Area (SPA) is located approximately 1.4 km to the south west of the Site at its closest point, and extends in a more or less south-westerly direction covering much of the Breckland area. The Breckland SPA covers a total area of 39,280 ha, of which approximately 18,058 ha comprises the Breckland Forest SSSI. The SPA qualifies under the EU Birds Directive 2009/147/EC by supporting populations of European importance of the following species listed on Annex I of the Directive during the breeding season:  Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus, 415 pairs representing up to 12.2% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count at 1998);

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 Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus, 142 pairs representing up to 74.7% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count as at 1998); and  Woodlark Lullula arborea, 430 pairs representing up to 28.7% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count as at 1997).

Breckland Farmland SSSI The Breckland Farmland SSSI, which covers an area of approximately 13,335 ha, is located approximately 1.4 km to the south west of the Site at its closest point and is contiguous with the area designated as part of the Breckland SPA noted above. The SSSI is characterised by its climate and soils. Breckland's climate is semi-continental, being the driest region of the British Isles and subject to great extremes of temperature. The soils are complex, but typically are very sandy, free-draining mixes of chalk, sand, silt, clay and flints. This site is notified for its internationally important population of stone curlew.

3.3 Non-statutory Designated Sites Review of the UK government internet site www.magic.gov.uk and data received from the NBIS confirmed that the Site does not benefit from any form of non-statutory nature conservation designation. County Wildlife Sites (CWS) are recognised by national planning policy as having a fundamental role to play in meeting overall national biodiversity targets. CWS are not protected by legislation but their importance is recognised by local authorities when considering planning applications. Under current planning policy there is a presumption against granting permission for development that would have an adverse impact on a CWS. Data received from the NBIS confirmed the presence of nine CWSs within a 2 km radius of the Site. A summary of each CWS located within a 2 km radius of the Site is provided in Table 1 below; full details as provided by the NBIS are provided in Appendix A. Table 1 County Wildlife Sites located within 2km of the proposed Watton Site

Site Location Description

CWS 975 - Land east of Watton Approximately 150 m to the west An area of mixed woodland on Fen of the Site sandy soils surrounded by deep ditches and to the west, south and east by arable land. CWS 845 - New Plantation Approximately 600 m to the An area of broad-leaved semi- south of the Site. natural coppice woodland. CWS 905 - Land south of River Approximately 910 m to the west This site is a small area of Wissey of the Site. interesting wet woodland dominated by a mixture of ash and alder Alnus glutinosa. CWS 731 - Merton Common Approximately 950 m to the This site is comprised of basic, south west of the Site. dry and damp unimproved and marshy grassland and woodland and scrub. CWS 907 - The Grove Approximately 950 m to the This site comprises semi- north west of the Site. improved neutral marshy grassland with impeded drainage. CWS 844 - Milestone Grove Approximately 1.2 km to the A small area of mature coppice

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south east of the Site. woodland. CWS 977 - Saham Mere Approximately 1.3 km to the A large mesotrophic lake north west of the Site. surrounded by a mixture of woodland and common reed Phragmites australis fringe. CWS 979 - Land east of Saham Approximately 1.65 km to the This site is composed of semi- Toney north east of the Site. natural woodland adjoining a series of meadows with an old river line or main drain running through them. The woodland is largely overgrown with dense scrubby vegetation and understory restricting light availability to the ground flora. CWS 840 - The Squares Approximately 1.9 km to the “The Squares” is an area of south of the Site. broad-leaved plantation. The wood is an old parkland type woodland, which is visually attractive.

3.4 European Protected Species Particular attention was paid during the desk-based study to establishing whether any European protected species were likely to be present at the Watton site. The biological data received from the NBIS confirmed records of otter Lutra lutra from surveys undertaken between 2009 and 2013 from the Swaffham road bridge over the River Wissey, at grid reference TF90410110, approximately 600 m to the north of the Site. The data also confirmed records for the bat species barbastelle Barbastella barbastellus, brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus, common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Leisler’s bat Nyctalus leisleri, Nathusius’ pipistrelle Pipistrellus nathusii, Natterer’s bat Myotis nattereri, noctule Nyctalus noctula, serotine Eptesicus serotinus and soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus within a 2 km radius of the Site. Historical records were also provided for great crested newt Triturus cristatus (1988), associated with Saham Toney, approximately 1.3 km to the north west of the site. No records for European protected species were recorded from the proposed Site itself.

3.5 UK Protected Species Further to the European protected species listed above, there are records of the UK protected species Eurasian badger Meles meles, European water vole Arvicola amphibius and grass snake Natrix natrix and the plant species bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta within a 2 km radius of the Site.

3.6 Other Species of Conservation Concern The NBIS also provided records for a number of other notable species within a 2 km radius of the Site. Those species listed as either Species of Principal Importance in

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England1 (SPI) or those which have a Species Action Plan under the Norfolk Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) are summarized in Table 2 below. Table 2 Species of Conservation Interest recorded within 2km of the proposed Watton Site (source – NBIS) Species Group Species SPI LBAP Fauna Amphibian Common toad Bufo bufo  Terrestrial mammal Brown hare Lepus europaeus   Terrestrial mammal Harvest mouse Micromys minutus  Terrestrial mammal West European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus  Insect – butterfly White-letter hairstreak Satyrium w-album  Insect - moth August thorn Ennomos quercinaria  Insect - moth Autumnal rustic Eugnorisma glareosa  Insect - moth Basil-thyme case-bearer Coleophora tricolor  Insect - moth Beaded chestnut Agrochola lychnidis Insect - moth Blood-vein Timandra comae  Insect - moth Brindled beauty Lycia hirtaria  Insect - moth Broom moth Melanchra pisi  Insect - moth Brown-spot pinion Agrochola litura  Insect - moth Buff ermine Spilosoma luteum  Insect - moth Centre-barred sallow Atethmia centrago  Insect - moth Chalk carpet Scotopteryx bipunctaria  Insect - moth Cinnabar Tyria jacobaeae  Insect - moth Dark-barred twin-spot carpet Xanthorhoe ferrugata  Insect - moth Dark brocade Blepharita adusta  Insect - moth Dot moth Melanchra persicariae  Insect - moth Double dart Graphiphora augur  Insect - moth Dusky lemon sallow Xanthia gilvago  Insect - moth Dusky thorn Ennomos fuscantaria  Insect - moth Ear moth Amphipoea oculea  Insect - moth Feathered gothic Tholera decimalis  Insect - moth Four spotted Tyta luctuosa  Insect - moth Goat moth Cossus cossus  Insect - moth Green-brindled crescent Allophyes oxyacanthae  Insect - moth Greenweed flat-body Agonopterix atomella  Insect - moth Grey dagger Acronicta psi  Insect - moth Hedge rustic Tholera cespitis  Insect - moth Howarth’s minor Celaena haworthii  Insect - moth Knot grass Acronicta rumicis  Insect - moth Large wainscot Rhizedra lutosa  Insect – moth Laticed heath Chiasmia clathrata  Insect – moth Lunar yellow underwing Noctua orbona  Insect – moth Minor shoulder-knot Brachylomia viminalis  Insect – moth Mottled rustic Caradrina morpheus  Insect – moth Mouse moth Amphipyra tragopoginis  Insect - moth Mullein wave Scopula marginepunctata  Insect - moth Oak hook-tip Watsonalla binaria  Insect - moth Oak lutestring Cymatophorima diluta  Insect - moth Oblique carpet Orthonama vittata  Insect - moth Powdered quaker Orthosia gracilis  Insect - moth Rosy minor Mesoligia literosa 

1 Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act requires the Secretary of State to publish a list of species which are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England.

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Species Group Species SPI LBAP Insect - moth Rost rustic Hydraecia micacea  Insect - moth Rustic Hoplodrina blanda  Insect - moth Sallow Xanthia icteritia  Insect - moth September thorn Ennomos erosaria  Insect - moth Shaded broad-bar Scotopteryx chenopodiata  Insect - moth Shoulder-striped wainscot Mythimna comma  Insect - moth Small emerald Hemistola chrysoprasaria  Insect - moth Small phoenix Ecliptopera silaceata  Insect - moth Small square-spot Diarsia rubi  Insect - moth Sprawler Asteroscopus sphinx  Insect - moth Streak Chesias legatella  Insect - moth White ermine Spilosoma lubricipeda  Insect - hymenopteran Brown-banded carder bee Bombus humilis  Insect - hymenopteran Red-tailed carder bee Bombus ruderarius  Bony fish (Actinopterygii) European eel Anguilla anguilla  Bony fish (Actinopterygii) Spined loach Cobitis taenia  Flora Flowering plant Grape-hyacinth Muscari neglectum  Flowering plant Red hemp-nettle Galeopsis angustifolia   Flowering plant Shepherd’s-needle Scandix pecten-veneris   Flowering plant Tubular water-dropwort Oenanthe fistulosa  Lichen Lecanora quercicola 

3.7 Avian Species The NBIS also provided records for avian species within a 2 km radius of the Site. Those species protected by either European (Annex 12) and/or UK legislation (Schedule 13), or SPIs, Red List4 species and LBAP species are summarized in Table 3 below. Table 3 Avian Species of Conservation Interest recorded within a 2km Radius of the proposed Watton Site (Source – NBIS)

Legislative Protection and/or Conservation Status

Species

Annex I Annex 1 Schedule SPI ListRed LBAP Common kingfisher Alcedo atthis   Honey buzzard Pernis apivorus   Osprey Pandion haliaetus   Red kite Milvus milvus   Stone curlew Burhinus oedicnemus     Tundra swan Cygnus columbianus   Whooper swan Cygnus cygnus   Golden plover Pluvialis apricaria  Goshawk Accipiter gentilis 

2 i.e. species listed in Annex I of the EC Birds Directive.

3 i.e. species listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended.

4 i.e. Globally threatened; historical population decline in UK during 1800–1995; severe (at least 50%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years; or severe (at least 50%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years.

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Legislative Protection and/or Conservation Status

Species

Annex I Annex 1 Schedule SPI ListRed LBAP Little egret  White stork Ciconia ciconia  Barn owl Tyto alba    Black redstart Phoenicurus ochruros  Brambling Fringilla montifringilla  Cetti’s warbler Cettia cetti  Common crossbill Loxia curvirostra  Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla  Golden oriole Oriolus oriolus   Hobby Falco subbuteo  Hoopoe Upupa epops  Wryneck Jynx torquilla   Redwing Turdus iliacus    Fieldfare Turdus pilaris   Common cuckoo Cuculus canorus   European turtle dove Streptopelia turtur    Grey partridge Perdix perdix    Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes   House sparrow Passer domesticus   Lesser redpoll Carduelis cabaret   Lesser spotted woodpecker Picoides minor  Linnet Carduelis cannabina   Marsh tit Poecile palustris  Reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus   Ring ouzel Turdus torquatus   Skylark Alauda arvensis   Song thrush Turdus philomelos    Spotted flycatcher Muscicapa striata    Tree sparrow Passer montanus    Willow tit Poecile montanus  Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella   Yellow wagtail Motacilla flava subsp. flavissima  

3.7.1 Stone Curlew Data Due to the sensitive nature of stone curlew data, records of breeding stone curlew are held by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and only provided on a restricted basis to applicants with bona fide reasons. In the Breckland area, which is recognised as one of the main strongholds for the species in the country, the locations of nests and the breeding success of stone curlew have been recorded as part of the Stone Curlew Recover Project, led by the RSPB. A request was made for all records of stone curlew relevant to the proposed Site from 1988 onwards, and data were provided for a 2 km buffer centred on the approximate centre of the Site (grid Ref: TF 90877 00453). RSPB advice was that a 2km search radius was adequate as built development does not significantly affect stone curlews beyond a distance of 2 km (T.Cowan, RSPB, pers. comm.). The data indicated that the only record within 1 km of the Site was from a location to the north of Brandon Road, dating from 1990 and in an area that now supports industrial development. A total of three other records from between 1988 and 2014 were from within 1.5 km of the Site, with 2 breeding records confirmed, one in 2002 and

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one in 2007; the nearest location was approximately 1.05 km from the nearest hedgerow forming the boundary of the Site. The third record within 1.5km of the Site consisted of observations of non-breeding birds made in 2007. The potential effects on stone curlews are considered in a separate report that includes a Habitat Regulations Assessment of the proposed scheme in relation to the Breckland SPA.

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4 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 4.1 Survey Methodology An extended Phase 1 habitat survey, based on the approach described in the Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment (IEA, 1995), was undertaken on the 9th October 2014. Phase 1 habitat survey is a standardised method of recording habitat types and characteristic vegetation, as set out in the Handbook for Phase I Habitat Survey – a technique for Environmental Audit (JNCC, 2010). This survey method is extended through the additional recording of specific features indicating the presence, or likely presence, of protected species or other species of nature conservation significance. Habitats are mapped (Figure 2) and 'target notes' are made to describe characteristic habitats, features of ecological interest, or any other features which require ecologically sensitive design or mitigation (Appendix B). Whilst not a full protected species or botanical survey, the extended Phase I method enables a suitably experienced ecologist to obtain sufficient understanding of the ecology of a site that it is possible either:  to confirm the conservation significance of the site and assess the potential for impacts on habitats/species likely to represent a material consideration in planning terms; or  to ascertain that further surveys of some aspect(s) of the site's ecology will be required before such confirmation can be made.

4.1.1 Limitations The survey was undertaken by an experienced surveyor (Dr Jon Huckle has over 20 years professional experience of undertaking Phase 1 habitat and other ecological surveys), in good weather conditions and at a time of year that whilst considered sub- optimal in terms of vegetation survey, was sufficient to accurately map the habitats present within the Survey Area, although certain early flowering species, particularly early season spring woodland species, are likely to have been missed during the survey. However, while acknowledging that this is a minor limitation, given that the footprint of the scheme is largely restricted to agricultural habitats, specifically un-managed agricultural fields, more detailed vegetation surveys have not been considered necessary.

4.2 Survey Results The findings of the extended Phase I habitat survey are presented in Figure 2 and target notes of features of ecological interest taken during the surveys detailed in Appendix B, together with descriptions of each hedgerow located within or adjacent to the Site. Within the following sections habitats recorded within the Site boundary are discussed first, followed by a description of the habitats within the wider Survey Area, in order to provide context and inform on the potential of the habitats present to support protected species.

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Ecological Assessment

4.2.1 Habitats Recorded Within the Site

Neutral grassland - poor semi-improved Poor semi-improved neutral grassland formed the dominant habitat type within the Site, being the characteristic habitat present in each of the three fields totalling approximately 8.3 ha. All three fields supported vegetation characteristic of abandoned agricultural fields that have not been managed for several years. Grass species formed a sward with variable abundance of tall herbaceous species such as rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, creeping thistle Cirsium arvense and ragwort Senecio jacobaea. In all fields, an indication of the lack of recent management was the presence of naturally regenerating scrub species, notably hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, blackthorn Prunus spinosa and dog rose Rosa canina, as well as saplings of naturally seeded broad- leaved trees including ash Fraxinus excelsior, oak Quercus species and goat willow Salix caprea. All three fields showed evidence of a high level of recreational use with footpaths indicating the use by dog walkers and also as a short cut between the adjacent built up areas. Details of the species composition of each field are provided in the target note descriptions in Appendix B.1. The habitats were unremarkable and typical of relatively nutrient rich abandoned fields that were presumably managed in the past. During a site visit in June, which is an optimal period to evaluate the flowering plant assemblage in such sites, the only flowering species of note were a few individuals of southern marsh orchid Dactylorhiza praetermissa and a single flower spike of common spotted orchid Dactylorhiza fuchsii, all recorded in the central field, Field 2. It is understood that the fields form a set-aside component of the agri-environment package for a larger whole farm agreement including the arable farmland to the south of the Site. The fields are of relatively low value in the context of their botanical assemblage. However, it is recognised that the absence of management has enabled the development of a mosaic of grassland and taller herbaceous vegetation to develop, along with the natural regeneration of scrub and tree species. This mosaic of habitats is likely to provide some interest in the context of the Site in terms of conservation value, particularly for species groups such as birds and invertebrates.

Hedgerows Hedgerows formed the dominant boundary features around the Site, predominantly species-poor hedgerows which were recorded at target notes H2, H3, H5, H6, H7 and H8, with native species-rich hedgerows recorded at target notes H1 and H4. Although many of the hedgerows were defined as species-poor, many of the field boundaries were characterised by a relatively mature structure, indicative of an absence of recent management. In many locations, the hedgerow species comprised relatively mature hawthorn (H5) or blackthorn, with locally dominant bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and dog rose present rambling over the hedgerow. Most hedgerows supported mature and semi-mature trees, with hedges H1, H2, H3, H4 and H6 supporting sections characterised as ‘hedge and trees’ under the Phase 1 classification. Several mature trees were recorded which are considered to provide

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potential bat roost habitats in the form of rot holes, cracked and broken limbs, flaking bark and damaged sections. The hedgerows are described in detail in Appendix B.2. The field boundaries are considered to represent the habitat features present on the Site with the most ecological interest. The hedgerows represent relatively wide habitat features that provide good ecological connectivity within the Ste and linking the adjacent areas; the hedgerow (H2 and H4) along the southern boundary of Fields 1 and 2, along with the connecting hedgerows extending northward from it (H1 and H3) provide a hedgerow network of ecological value that is likely to provide habitats for animal species.

Scattered scrub AS noted above, scattered scrub and tree saplings were present within all three fields and were considered likely to have originated from self-seeded individuals sourced from the adjacent hedgerows. Most scrub and tree saplings were relatively young, being less than 1 m in height, although occasionally individuals of up to 2-3 m were recorded. At the southern end of Field 3 for example, a stand of ash saplings were present that ranged from 1 m to 3 m in height, suggesting an absence of management for at least 2-3 years.

Mature Standard Trees A number of mature trees were present as standards along field boundaries around the Site. Mature oak were most frequently recorded as standards, although other species including ash, field maple Acer campestre, willow and sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus were also frequently recorded. Several mature oak trees located in hedgerows as standard trees were considered likely to support potential bat roosts, including trees in hedges H1, H3 and H7. Hedge H4 along the southern boundary of Field 2 supported a relatively high proportion of elm trees, which had been cut to provide wayleave clearance under Electricity Transmission Lines (ETL) than ran along the hedgerow.

Ditch habitat Dry ditches were recorded along hedgerows including hedges H1, H3 and H4. All ditches were dry, with leaf litter present in the base. All ditches were generally over run with scrub species form the hedgerows, had footpaths passing through them and showed occasional signs of litter and fly tipping.

4.2.2 Habitats Recorded Within the Wider Survey Area

Agricultural habitats - arable farmland Two arable fields were recorded outwith the Site to the south and south west. The fields had been recently ploughed and harrowed at the time of survey in October 2014 and were relatively large and open compared to the fields present within the Site itself. The field to the southwest of the Site was bounded to the west and south by a belt of broad-leaved plantation (see below) that has been designated as a County Wildlife Site (CWS 975 – Land east of Watton Fen).

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Broadleaved woodland – semi-natural An area of mature broadleaved semi-natural woodland County Wildlife Site (CWS 975 – Land east of Watton Fen) was recorded on the south west boundary of the Survey Area. The woodland was not surveyed in detail, but viewed from outside the canopy was dominated by tall ash, oak and Scot’s pine Pinus sylverstris, with a well-developed shrub layer including past coppiced hazel Corylus avellana, elder Sambucus nigra and dog-rose, holly Ilex aquifolium and regenerating English elm.

Broadleaved woodland – plantation A strip of mature broadleaved plantation woodland was recorded adjacent to Hedge H7 on the eastern Site boundary (TN7). The woodland canopy included sycamore, cherry and field maple, with hawthorn and blackthorn forming a 3-4 m high dense thicket layer along the hedge boundary, with rambling bramble and dog rose. Several dead elm were located within the woodland strip, presumably due to Dutch elm disease, with young regrowth present in the ground layer.

Amenity grassland An area of amenity grassland was recorded outwith the Site to the west (TN1). The sward was dominated by annual meadow grass Poa annua, with daisy Bellis perrenis, ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata and dandelion Taraxacum officinale also present. Further areas of amenity grassland were recorded to the north and east of the Survey Area, including at Target Note 5.

Hedgerows Hedgerows formed the dominant boundary features around the rest of the Survey Area, with both species-poor and native species-rich hedgerows recorded.

Aquatic habitats Ditch/running water habitats Along the northern boundary of the small area of greenspace at TN6, a small slow- flowing stream flowed in an easterly direction within a 2 m deep channel. The stream bed was approximately 0.5 m wide and the water was 5 cm deep, with earth banks vegetated with scrub and broad-leaved trees. Further dry ditches were recorded along some of the hedgerows within the wider Survey Area. The ditches were similar in character to those described within the Site boundary. Standing water habitats A single small pond (P1) was located outwith the Site boundary to the north east (TN6), surrounded by dense scrub thicket. On the western side of the pond a metal rail was present over an inlet channel to the pond which was dry at the time of survey (October 2014) but which had been observed to hold water during a previous site visit (June 2014). The pond was almost entirely obscured by scrub and was hard to survey directly, but was approximately L-shaped and 25 m x 10 m in dimension. The central area supported bulrush Typha latifolia with occasional branched bur-reed Sparganium erectum present in a few locations. The presence of shallow water during the previous

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site visit suggests a seasonal variation in water level indicative of a drainage settling pond.

Mature trees Mature trees were present as standards along field boundaries within the wider Survey Area. Mature oak were most frequently recorded as standards.

Buildings and bare ground Relatively modern residential dwellings were present out with the Site to the north, west, east and south east, with school buildings also present to the east. Areas of bare ground and road were present in the vicinity of these buildings.

Scrub Dense scrub was recorded surrounding Pond 1, outwith the Site to the north east (TN6). The scrub comprised bramble, blackthorn and common dogwood Cornus sanguinea, with planted broadleaved trees to the south of the pond, including young cherry Prunus domesticus, ash, and dog rose. Further areas of scattered scrub were recorded within the wider Survey Area.

4.2.3 Flora A total of 41 taxa of vascular plants were recorded within the Survey Area during the Phase 1 habitat survey (see Appendix B). Since the survey was carried out in October this total is likely to include most of the species present, although certain early flowering species, particularly early flowering woodland species, are likely to have been missed. However, this total is considered sufficient to provide confidence that the habitats present have been well documented. No invasive non-native species of flora were recorded.

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5 Conclusions 5.1 General Ecology The ecology of the Survey Area is consistent with the typical character of land that has been managed for agricultural farming in this part of East Anglia, being dominated by agricultural habitats delineated by hedgerows and ditches, with areas of amenity grassland and woodland present. The presence of agricultural habitats and hedgerows within the Site, with areas of scrub and woodland within the wider Survey Area provides potential habitat for breeding birds, with potential impacts on ground nesting species within the Site. Breeding bird surveys between April and July 2015 are recommended in order to assess the breeding bird assemblage present within the Site.

5.2 Potential for Protected Species

5.2.1 Great Crested Newts Although no ponds were recorded within the Site boundary, a single pond (P1) was identified within the Survey Area, approximately 30 m to the north east of the Site. Due to dense scrub preventing access to the pond at the time of survey, it was not possible to evaluate whether the pond recorded would be likely to support great crested newt, which has been recorded historically in the local area. The single pond (P1) was the only water body identified within 500 m of the Site boundary and it is considered to have a relatively low probability of supporting great crested newts due to the following reasons:  Pond P1 is a single, isolated pond with poor connectivity in terms of habitat and distance to other potential ponds in the local area;  The nearest great crested newt record is from Saham Toney, approximately 1.3 km from the site and dates from 1988;  The surrounding terrestrial habitat provides some good quality habitats including scrub and woodland, but the majority of the area supports sub-optimal habitat such as urban areas, amenity grassland (mown) and former agricultural fields within the Site. While the woodland and scrub habitat present surrounding the pond (and outside the Site boundary) is likely to represent the core terrestrial habitat for amphibians associated with Pond 1, the tussocky nature of the grassland within the Site (and in Field 3 in particular) suggests that these terrestrial habitats would provide potential terrestrial habitat for any local amphibian populations. On this basis, a precautionary approach has been adopted that assumes that great crested newts are present in the pond and this has been used to recommend appropriate mitigation measures; a survey of the pond using standard methods for amphibians (English Nature, 2001) is recommended for spring 2015. The loss of, or disturbance to, potential terrestrial habitat for great crested newt within close proximity to a potential breeding pond presents a risk of an offence under the Habitats Regulations, that would require a derogation licence. Therefore, a presence/absence survey will be required to inform the level of mitigation required to

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ensure the proposed development is compliant with statutory legislation. Best practice guidelines for undertaking presence/absence surveys for great crested newts (English Nature, 2001) require a minimum of four survey visits to be carried out between March and June with at least two of the visits in mid-April to mid-May. If presence is confirmed a population size class assessment survey (six survey visits) will need to be carried out to determine the appropriate level of mitigation required. Although it is not currently known if great crested newt is present the Risk Assessment Tool that is incorporated into the Natural England Method Statement5 for derogation licences has been used. This tool, which although not a substitute for a site-specific risk assessment informed by survey, concluded that if great crested newts were present in the pond to the north east of the Site an offence would be highly likely. Due to the potential of the habitats present within the Site to provide foraging habitat for amphibians, and the potential levels of habitat loss in the context of the local availability of other good quality habitat for great crested newts, it is considered that appropriate mitigation measures would be required to mitigate for the impacts of the development, were this species found to be present within the pond to the north east of the Site, with a derogation licence likely to be required.

5.2.2 Potential for Bats Nine species of bat have been recorded within 2 km of the Site, with data including records of roosts for pipistrelle bats from Watton itself. No evidence of bat activity was recorded during the extended Phase I habitat survey, but both foraging and potential roost habitat were identified. Within the Site, mature oak trees assessed as having potential to support roosting bats were recorded as standards within Hedgerows 1 and 3 (H1 and H3), with a mature ash on the bank of the stream to the north of the Survey Area, detailed in TN6, also assessed as having good bat roost potential. There are no buildings present within the Site, and the residential areas adjacent to the proposed development comprise relatively recent housing constructed within the last 20 to 30 years. The hedgerows that form the field boundaries of all three fields within the Site are considered to be potential foraging habitat and represent commuting routes between the urban areas of Watton and the countryside to the south of the Site.

Potential for other Protected Species No evidence of either otter or water vole activity was recorded within the Survey Area, with habitat with the potential to support both species severely limited. As a result no further surveys are recommended at this stage. The lack of a network of mature species-rich hedgerows within the Survey Area, and limited presence of hazel within the Survey Areas woodland and hedges, means potential habitat for hazel dormouse is largely absent from the Site. As a result, no further surveys for hazel dormouse are recommended.

5 Template for Method Statement to support application for licence under Regulation 53(2)(e) in respect of great crested newts Triturus cristatus. Form WML-A14-2.

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No evidence of badger activity was recorded within the Survey Area, with the high levels of disturbance by dog-walkers across the Site likely making the habitats present less attractive to badgers. Nevertheless, badgers are known to be present within the area, and due to the presence of habitat with the potential to support badger setts around the perimeter of the Site and within 30m of the Site boundary, an updated pre- development survey for badger is likely to be required to reflect the dynamic nature of badgers and their sett digging activities. Due to the prevalence of tussocky grassland, habitat with the potential to support reptile species was present within the Site, with the network of hedgerows, ditches and the pond within the wider Survey Area providing further potential habitat. The fields within the Site boundary could potentially provide habitat for common lizard and slow worm, with grass snake, which has been recorded within 2 km of the Site boundary, potentially present in the vicinity of the pond. However, the Site supports limited potential reptile breeding or hibernation sites, which are likely to be of key importance for local reptile populations. As a result of the limited habitat availability and the lack of likely direct habitat loss of potential key reptile habitat, specific detailed reptile surveys are not recommended at present. Reasonable Avoidance Measures as part of a wider mitigation package would be recommended to ensure that any development proceeds without resulting in harm to individuals of any reptile species.

Recommendation for Further Work Recommendations for further work potentially required are detailed below:  Pond habitat assessment and great crested newt HSI recommended in March 2015, with presence/absence and/or population size class surveys undertaken in March – June 2015;  Breeding bird survey recommended between April and July 2015;  The scope of bat surveys required will be recommended once details of the outline planning application are finalised; surveys of trees may be required. A precautionary approach can be used to inform the outline planning application to identify those habitats or features which are likely to be used by bats and identify measures that avoid adverse effects on these features, such as retaining mature trees and hedgerows, sensitive external lighting schemes and identifying enhancement measures that will benefit local bat populations. However bat surveys may be required to ensure that such measures are proportionate and appropriate; and  Incidental observations for other protected species, including badgers, will be made while on Site for other surveys. A preliminary ecological assessment of the impacts of the proposed development will be developed once details of the outline planning application are finalised. The ecological assessment will enable a preliminary assessment of appropriate mitigation measures that will be required to ensure that the proposed development complies with local and national planning policies relating to ecology and biodiversity. Nevertheless, for the species identified above, it is recommended that additional surveys will be required to inform the planning determination process; this is likely to be at the outline planning stage, but may be deferred to the reserved matters stage at the discretion of the Breckland Council.

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5.3 Proposed Mitigation and Enhancement Measures A precautionary approach to the design of the proposed development has been adopted which acknowledges the potential presence of protected species that may be present within the Site. It is considered that this approach provides a robust mechanism for considering the constraints associated with protected species at the outline planning stage, while also recommending appropriate mitigation and enhancement measures that are applicable to the Site as a whole to demonstrate compliance with the NPPF. Additional mitigation measures that are incorporated into the design of the proposed development that specifically relate to stone curlews are considered in a separate report and not discussed here.

5.3.1 Great crested newts Although no surveys have been undertaken to confirm the likely presence or absence of great crested newts in pond P1, the proximity of the pond to the proposed Site means that if present an offence would be likely due to the destruction of potential terrestrial habitat and the potential harm to individuals present. However, the proposed development is not considered likely to result in direct impacts on the pond itself, which is located a sufficient distance away from the Site to prevent it being affected during the construction phase. Adopting the precautionary principle, and assuming that pond P1 is a GCN breeding pond, the design of the proposed development has incorporated the creation of a pond in the north east of the Site surrounded by an area of scrub and grassland habitat, as shown on the final indicative masterplan included in the planning submission (Figure Ref. P14-127-01-02-001B). The aim of this aquatic and terrestrial habitat is to provide additional core terrestrial habitat suitable for amphibians (including great crested newts) and to enhance the local aquatic habitat resource such that any breeding population present would be less isolated and thus more resilient to environmental pressures on the local population in the future.

5.3.2 Bats Based on the potential for bats to be present, outlined in paragraph 5.2.2 above, the design of the proposed housing development has incorporated a number of features that aim to minimise potential effects on individual bats and ensure that there would be no effect on the conservation status of local bat populations. These measures include: Mitigation of Potential Effects on Bats  Prevention of loss of potential roost habitats through the retention of all mature trees located within the Site, including those within field boundaries;  Reduction in potential effects associated with the loss of potential flight lines and commuting routes through the retention of existing hedgerows as far as practically possible;  Minimise light spill through the use of downward pointing lights throughout the proposed development.  Minimise or avoid lighting in areas sensitive to light pollution including around water bodies and adjacent to potential roost and nest locations.

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Habitat enhancements Benefiting Local Bat Populations  Planting of native hedgerow, scrub and tree species in localised areas to create enhanced potential foraging habitat within the Site;  Creation of a pond in the north east corner of the Site, providing enhanced foraging habitat adjacent to existing scrub and woodland habitat;  Residential units adjacent to hedgerows or other habitats will be fitted with integral or built-in roosting bricks to provide long-lasting opportunities for roosting bats that require minimal maintenance, as recommended in (Gunnell, 2013). Incorporation of these measures is considered to provide appropriate mitigation measures for any potential adverse effects associated with the proposed development and would also provide enhancements to biodiversity across the development site. With the successful implementation of these measures it is considered certain that there would be no likely significant effects on local bat populations.

5.3.3 Habitats The proposed Site plan, as presented on the final indicative masterplan included in the planning submission (Figure Ref. P14-127-01-02-001B), identifies the habitats that are to be retained as integral features of the proposed development (including hedgerows and mature trees), as well as the provision of habitats that will be created to enhance the biodiversity of the local area. These habitat mitigation and enhancement measures include: Mitigation of Potential Effects on Bats  Prevention of loss of habitat of nature conservation value at the local site level through the retention of hedgerows and mature trees along existing field boundaries; these form part of the network of green infrastructure to be incorporated into the proposed development. Such established features are mature and represent the features of greatest biodiversity value within the Site. Habitat enhancements Benefiting Local Biodiversity  Establishment of an enhanced habitat strip along the southern boundary of the Site (see final indicative masterplan). The existing hedgerow and mature trees present will be enhanced by a scheme of sensitive planting of hedgerow scrub and tree species of local provenance that will form a ‘habitat buffer strip’ along the whole of the southern boundary of the Site. This will vary in width from 5 to 20 m and aim to create continuous habitat of dense scrub and woodland and restrict recreational access to the farmland to the south (see stone curlew report for further details and justification). The planting is recommended to include native species of local provenance with a high proportion of dense scrub species including hawthorn and blackthorn. In addition to providing a barrier to access, this strip is likely to enhance biodiversity by creating local habitat for invertebrates, birds and mammals.  Creation of pond in north east corner of the Site. In combination with providing public open space, the habitat creation in this area of the Site will provide potential habitat for amphibian and bird species, while also providing foraging habitats for bats. Planting of scrub in patches around the pond is recommended to increase the local availability of this habitat resource within the Site.  Areas of grassland that will be retained as Public Open Space should be protected during construction and managed to ensure the integrity of the existing soil is

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maintained. This will ensure that the seedbank present in the soil is preserved and forms the basis of the grassland to be included within the open space areas. Where possible, grassland areas should include areas that comprise a mosaic of sward heights to include short, intermediate and long grass, with long grass in particular retained over winter along hedgerows and adjacent to scrub and trees.

5.3.4 Birds The hedgerows and trees provide nesting sites for a range of wild birds. The habitat creation outlined above will mitigate for the loss of small lengths of hedgerow that will be lost to allow access through existing field boundaries. To avoid impacts on breeding birds, removal of any woody vegetation should be undertaken outside of the breeding bird season (March – July inclusive). Should this not be possible then all areas identified for clearance must be checked for nests by an ecologist prior to clearance. If any nests are identified then this area should be clearly delineated and no works allowed until after chicks have fledged and the nest has been abandoned.

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6 References Clarke, R. &. (2013). Further assessments of the relationship between buildings and stone curlew distribution. . Unpublished report by Footprint Ecology for Breckland Council. DCLG. (2012). National Planning Policy Framework. London: Department for Communities and Local Government. English Nature. (2001). Great crested newt mitigation guidelines. Peterborough: English Nature. Gunnell, K. M. (2013). Designing for Biodiversity: A technical guide for new and existing buildings. 2nd Ed. London, UK: RIBA Publishing. IEA. (1995). Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment, ISBN-10: 0419205101. Institute of Environmental Assessment. JNCC & DEFRA. (2012, July). The UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. Retrieved from http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-6189 JNCC. (2010). JNCC, (2010), Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey - a technique for environmental audit. 3rd Edition. Peterborough: Joint Nature Conservation Committee. ODPM. (2006). Circular 06/05: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation - Statutory Obligations and Their Impact Within The Planning System. London: Office of the Deputy Primeminister. Sharp, J. C. (2008). The Effect of Housing Development and Roads on the Distribution of Stone Curlews in the Brecks. . Footprint Ecology / Breckland District Council. UK Government. (2014). Planning Practice Guidance. Retrieved from http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/

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Appendix A. Designated Sites within 2km of Proposed Site

A.1. Statutory Designated Sites

Wayland Wood SSSI Citation

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Breckland Farmland SSSI

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Breckland SPA Table 4: Breckland SPA Description (Source: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-2016- theme=default ) Country England Unitary Suffolk, Norfolk Authority SPA status not yet available Latitude 52 30 54 N Longitude 00 35 39 E SPA EU code UK9009201 Area (ha) To be confirmed upon site classification Component Barnham Heath SSSI/ASSIs Barnhamcross Common Berner's Heath, Icklingham Bridgham and Brettenham Heaths Cavenham-Icklingham Heaths Cranberry Rough, Hockham Cranwich Camp Deadman's Grave, Icklingham East Wretham Heath Eriswell Low Warren Field Barn Heaths, Hilborough Foxhole Heath, Eriswell Gooderstone Warren Grimes Graves How Hill Track Lakenheath Warren Little Heath, Barnham Old Bodney Camp Rex Graham Reserve Stanford Training Area Thetford Golf Course and Marsh Thetford Heaths Wangford Warren and Carr Weather and Horn Heaths, Eriswell Weeting Heath West Stow Heath Breckland Forest Breckland Farmland

The Breckland of Norfolk and Suffolk lies in the heart of East Anglia on largely sandy soils of glacial origin. In the 19th century the area was termed a sandy waste, with small patches of arable cultivation that were soon abandoned. The continental climate, with low rainfall and free-draining soils, has led to the development of dry heath and grassland communities. Much of Breckland was planted with conifers through the 20th century, and elsewhere arable farming is the predominant land use. The remnants of dry heath and grassland that have survived these changes support heathland-breeding birds, where grazing by sheep and rabbits is sufficiently intensive to create short turf and open ground. These species have also adapted to live in forestry and arable habitats. Woodlark Lullula arborea and Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus breed in recently felled areas and open heath areas within the conifer plantations, while Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus establishes nests on open ground provided by arable cultivation in the spring.

Qualifying species This site qualifies under Article 4.1 of the Directive (79/409/EEC) by supporting populations of European importance of the following species listed on Annex I of the Directive:

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During the breeding season;  Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus, 415 pairs representing up to 12.2% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count as at 1998)  Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus, 142 pairs representing up to 74.7% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count as at 1998)  Woodlark Lullula arborea, 430 pairs representing up to 28.7% of the breeding population in Great Britain (Count as at 1997)

A.2. Non-Statutory Designated Sites Table 5: NBIS descriptions of County Wildlife Sites within 2km of Watton Site

Last CWS No. Name Description surveyed 975 Land east of An area of mixed woodland situated just south of B1108 and housing 1996 Watton Fen in western part of Watton, on sandy soils surrounded by deep ditches and to the west, south and east by arable land. Generally flat although mounds of old digging and brash in places. Currently unmanaged. No formal public access. The south of the site consists of tall ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris); moving westwards ash becomes more dominant. Throughout the wood are areas of dead trees and areas that are open. The shrub layer includes past coppiced hazel (Corylus avellana), alder (Sambucus nigra) and dog-rose, (Rosa canina), holly (Ilex aquifolium) and regenerating English elm (Ulmus procera). The ground flora is dominated by patches of bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.), elsewhere it displays some diversity including wood avens (Geum urbanum), ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea) and herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum). The north-western arm of the woodland is generally more dense woodland, with a thicker shrub layer. At southern end ash with some mature field maple (Acer campestre) dominates the canopy while ash dominates with occasional beech (Fagus sylvatica), mature oak (Quercus robur) and some multi-stemmed and areas of sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). The shrub layer is more varied including species found in the rest of the wood with additional hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and sloe (Prunus spinosa) with occasional wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare) and cherry (Prunus laurocerasus) and gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa). The ground flora is much the same as the rest of the wood. 977 Saham Mere A large mesotrophic lake surrounded by a mixture of woodland and 1984 common reed (Phragmites australis) fringe. The lake lacks aquatic vegetation except emergent common reed as a more or less continuous narrow fringe. Around the northern edge is an open area of nettle (Urtica dioica) planted with poplars (Populus spp.). Further north-west mature beech (Fagus sylvatica) with elder (Sambucus nigra) below occurs over ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea) and ground-elder (Aegopodium podagraria) and sweet violet (Viola odorata). Moving west round the lake sycamore dominates with some willow (Salix spp.) and alder (Alnus glutinosa). The shrub layer is much less developed with scattered elder and holly. The ground flora is a mixture of ivy (Hedera helix) and nettle (Urtica dioica) with abundant herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum), lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), lords-and-ladies (Arum maculatum) and red- currant (Ribes rubrum). Some wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa) and sweet violet also occur. The south has a mixture but is dominated by mature willow with alder, sycamore, ash and black poplar (Populus nigra). A dense coppice layer beneath of mainly alder with hazel and holly. Ground flora sparse near the lake and includes brooklime. Yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus), nettles and brambles becoming dense near the roadside with ivy, lords-and-ladies,

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Last CWS No. Name Description surveyed cleavers (Galium aparine), herb-Robert, grey speedwell (Veronica polita), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), lesser celandine, brambles, nettles and blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum). Ivy is also present as a climber. The east of the lake has mature beech over sycamore. (Based on the 1985 habitat survey (NWT)) 979 Land east of This site is composed of semi-natural woodland adjoining a series of 1996 Saham Toney meadows with an old river line or main drain running through them. The woodland is largely overgrown with dense scrubby vegetation and understory restricting light availability to the ground flora. It creates a boggy substrate due also to the old stream bed which along with an old fence separates the woodland from the railway embankment before veering off to the left. In the past it is likely that these fields will have been fairly heavily grazed, enriching the sandy, light substrate. This is an alder (Alnus glutinosa) carr; to the south are locally abundant multi-stemmed coppice of alder which have grown into standards. Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and white willow (Salix alba) are frequent with occasional bird cherry (Prunus padus) and locally frequent coppiced hazel (Corylus avellana). The woodland floor is damp due to the old stream bed running through it and supports locally abundant marsh-marigold (Caltha palustris) , water mint (Mentha aquatica) and also to a certain extent meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) and hemp-agrimony (Eupatoria cannabinum). Other woodland species present in local abundance include herb- Robert (Geranium robertianum), dog's mercury (Mercurialis perennis) and gipsywort (Lycopus europaeus). Past and current grazing pressures appear to have had some noticeable effect on these meadows resulting in a fairly varied but not very extensive or uncommon herbal component. Nettle (Urtica dioica) grows in local abundance in dense patches, particularly around the edges of the fields and especially in the southern meadow to the west of the drain which illustrates the enrichment. There is an abundance of false-oat grass (Arrhenatherum elatius) with frequent cock's-foot (Dactylis glomerata) and Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus). Lesser stitchwort (Stellaria graminea) occurs frequently along with locally abundant meadow vetchling (Lathyrus pratensis) and locally frequent tufted vetch (Vicia cracca). The hedge bordering most of the site is composed mainly of oak (Quercus robur) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior) occurring frequently with sloe (Prunus spinosa) and bird cherry which are locally abundant. There is also one hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) in the hedgerow separating the first meadow from the next. A dry ditch running the length of the site contains a fairly typical floral community for this type of habitat, as locally frequent fool's water- cress (Apium nodiflorum) and occasional brooklime (Veronica beccabunga). Water mint, hemp-agrimony, wild angelica (Angelica sylvestris) and black knapweed (Centaurea nigra) all occur in frequent to local abundance with occasional hard rush (Juncus inflexus) and water forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides). 731 Merton This site is comprised of basic, dry and damp unimproved and marshy 1996 Common grassland and woodland and scrub. The site is currently horse grazed. No public access although the Peddars Way runs along the track next to south-west and southern boundaries. It is used for game shooting. The majority of the site is basic unimproved grassland with some impeded drainage. False oat-grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) and cock's-foot (Dactylis glomerata) dominate. Areas of tufted hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa), giant fescue (Festuca gigantea) and false brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) occur with reed canary-grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria). Scattered grey willow (Salix

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Ecological Assessment

Last CWS No. Name Description surveyed cinerea) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) scrub occurs. Herbs include germander speedwell (Veronica chamaedrys), black knapweed (Centaurea nigra), agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria), common restharrow (Ononis repens), meadow vetchling (Lathyrus pratensis) and horsetail (Equisetum spp.). The dyke running north- south has water figwort, yellow iris, hemp-agrimony, common marsh bedstraw and common spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii). In the south, west of the dyke shallow depressions hold soft rush (Juncus effusus) and jointed rush (Juncus articulatus) and occasional pepper- saxifrage (Silaum silaus). The east has red fescue (Festuca rubra) with hard rush (Juncus inflexus), jointed rush (Juncus articulatus) and frequent cowslip (Primula veris). Nettle (Urtica dioica) and creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense) are found throughout. Within this grassland is an area of marshy grassland with blunt-flowered rush, hard rush and soft rush, common reed (Phragmites australis), reed canary-grass and water mint (Mentha aquatica). To the west a number of large shallow depressions contain tall tufted hair-grass, common meadow- rue (Thalictrum flavum), gipsywort (Lycopus europaeus) and yellow loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris). Along the eastern border hawthorn, elder (Sambucus nigra), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) scrub with ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and oak (Quercus robur) woodland over hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica), herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum) and wood avens (Geum urbanum). The southern boundary is dense to scattered blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), hawthorn, elder (Sambucus nigra), crab apple (Malus sylvestris) scrub with regenerating English elm. In the south-west is secondary oak, beech (Fagus sylvatica) woodland with coppiced hazel (Corylus avellana) with elder, hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). The ground flora is patchy bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) with wood avens, herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum) and ground- ivy (Glechoma hederacea). The extreme north is secondary ash / alder (Alnus glutinosa) woodland with coppiced hazel, regenerating ash, sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) and hawthorn. The ground flora is dominated by nettle and bramble, elsewhere some diversity including herb-Robert, wood avens, wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa) with lesser pond-sedge (Carex riparia) and yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus). Moving south densely scattered grey willow, hawthorn and alder scrub occurs with an area of grassland and common reed. 845 New An area of broad-leaved semi-natural coppice woodland. The site is 1996 Plantation currently unmanaged. No public access. The woodland has remnants of old coppice particularly in the middle area with mature past coppiced hazel (Corylus avellana); the rest of woodland is a mixture of tree species forming a canopy. There are mainly oak (Quercus robur) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior). However in the northern part of the wood are some mature crack willow (Salix fragilis), with patches of tall slender oak with occasional silver birch (Betula pendula) throughout site and near western end some scot’s pine (Pinus sylvestris) and sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). The site contains dead wood and fallen trees. The shrub layer in addition to hazel includes bird cherry (Prunus padus) regenerating ash and areas of hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) which is dense in places. The ground flora is of some diversity including wood avens (Geum urbanum), ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea), red campion (Silene dioica), red currant (Ribes rubrum) and herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum) and also includes area of tall nettle (Urtica dioica). 905 land south of This site is a small area of interesting wet woodland dominated by a 1995 River Wissey mixture of ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and alder (Alnus glutinosa). The shrub layer is dense and includes not infrequently spindle (Euonymus europaeus). The herb layer is diverse and includes several typical

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Ecological Assessment

Last CWS No. Name Description surveyed woodland species as well as locally common reed (Phragmites australis). The wood appears unmanaged. Woodland covers the entire site continuously apart from a few tiny clearings. Ash and alder dominate in a canopy of variable height, the latter often growing from coppiced stools. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) is present in a few specimens in the north of the wood and silver birch (Betula pendula) is present as a few clumps of mature trees. The shrub layer is dense and vigorous in its growth often forcing impenetrable thickets. Elder (Sambucus nigra) is most frequent inside the wood but in peripheral areas hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) forms a dense growth often with bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.). Spindle is present as a shrub within the wood and especially along the bank line between the two ditches on the west side. Four other species, English elm (Ulmus procera), holly (Ilex aquifolium), guelder-rose (Viburnum opulus) and wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare), are scarce in the wood. The herb layer is dominated by a mixture of nettle (Urtica dioica) and ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea) but woodland herb species such as herb- Robert (Geranium robertianum), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica), bugle (Ajuga reptans) and wood avens (Geum urbanum) are also present although not at great frequency. Wetter areas and the ditches are dominated by common reed and hemp-agrimony (Eupatoria cannabinum) with aquatic species such as fool’s water-cress (Apium nodiflorum) and lesser duckweed (Lemna minor). Regeneration of woody species is vigorous within the wood and there is a diverse age structure. Lying and standing dead wood is frequent. 907 The Grove This site is a semi-improved neutral marshy grassland with impeded 1984 drainage. “The Grove” fringes the south-east side of the site. Access is via a farm on the west side of the B1077 on the outskirts of Saham Toney. The majority of the site has lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), cowslips (Primula veris), silverweed (Potentilla anserina), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale agg.), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and glacuous sedge (Carex flacca). Ground-elder (Aegopodium podagraria) occurs near north west margin. To the west rushes (Juncus spp.), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans), silverweed and dandelion are abundant with some ribwort plantain and water avens (Geum rivale). Glacuous sedge is also common here. (Based on the 1985 habitat survey (NWT)) 844 Milestone A small area of mature coppice woodland. It is currently unmanaged 1996 Grove but is used for some casual game shooting. No public access. The south has oak (Quercus robur) particularly around the edges, with a dense shrub layer which is combined with clumps of bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) which is dense in places. This layer includes mature and young hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), elder (Sambucus nigra), holly (Ilex aquifolium) with areas of bird cherry (Prunus padus), regenerating ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and mature past coppiced hazel (Corylus avellana). The ground flora is dominated in places by nettle (Urtica dioica), and is absent in places, elsewhere it includes ivy (Hedera helix), ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea) and red campion (Silene dioica). The majority of the site is mature oak and ash with old coppiced hazel, bird cherry and holly, with some patches of sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). The ground flora is similar to the south but also has lords and ladies (Arum maculatum), male fern (Dryopteris filix-mas), wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa) and common dog-violet (Viola riviniana). 840 The Squares “The Squares” is an area of broad-leaved plantation situated 1984 between Merton village and Merton Hall. The wood is an old parkland type woodland, which is visually attractive. A public

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Ecological Assessment

Last CWS No. Name Description surveyed footpath runs north south through the wood. A mixture of oak (Quercus robur), silver birch (Betula pendula), sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) and beech (Fagus sylvatica). Large old trees with spreading boughs open and rather scattered. The shrub layer is sparse in the south becoming more dense in the north and is composed mainly of hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and elder (Sambucus nigra). The ground flora: bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) co-dominant with Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) with some meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium). (Based on the 1985 habitat survey (NWT))

Appendix B. Phase 1 Habitat Survey Target Notes Table 6: Phase 1 Habitat Survey Habitat Target Notes Target Location Description Note

1 TF 90616 00487 Area of amenity grassland, out with the site to the west, forming small area of recreational green space or park between the site and Bridle Road.

Mown, managed grassland, with a sward dominated by common species including annual meadow grass Poa annua, with abundant daisy Bellis perennis, ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata and dandelion Taraxacum officinalis agg. also present. To the north of the play area was a small copse of semi-mature broadleaved woodland dominated by pedunculate oak Quercus robur. To the east the grassland was bordered by a species-rich hedgerow with mature trees (H1) that extended approx. 50m northwards.

2 TF 90720 00508 Field 1. Area of species-poor semi-improved neutral grassland (approx. 2.33 ha).

The field was unmanaged at the time of survey supporting a grassland sward dominated by grass species including false oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius, cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata and Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus. Other species present included locally frequent red fescue Festuca rubra, and common bent Agrostis capillaris. Herbaceous species included abundant cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris, locally abundant rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, frequent creeping thistle Cirsium arvense and ragwort Senecio jacobaea and occasional perennial sow thistle Sonchus arvensis hogweed Heracleum sphondylium and common nettle Urtica dioica..

In the centre of the field there were two circular stands of reed canarygrass Phalaris arundinacea, one approximately 10m in diameter and the second approx.. 5m in diameter. In both stands the ground underneath was dry underfoot and did not indicate the presence of a pond in the past.

In most areas, and particularly toward the edged of the fields, naturally regenerating woody species were present including bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. dog rose Rosa canina, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, oak Quercus sp. and dog wood Cornus sanguinea.

3 TF 90884 00496 Field 2. Central field comprising species-poor semi-improved neutral grassland (approx.. 3.8 ha).

In northern section of the field, the grassland was developing a tussock nature due to lack of regular management. The sward is dominated by cocksfoot, with abundant Yorkshire fog, false oat-grass common bent. Herbaceous species were generally similar to those recorded in Field 1 (TN2 above) including abundant cow parsley, creeping thistle and ragwort, frequent red clover Trifolium pratense and broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius; with locally dominant patches of

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Ecological Assessment

Target Location Description Note rosebay willowherb. Scattered scrub and trees saplings were scattered throughout the sward with all less than 2m height and the majority 0-1m tall; including oak, hawthorn and dog rose with occasional goat willow Salix caprea individuals.

Towards the southern end of Field 2, the grassland included the same grass species with locally dominant rosebay willowherb forming more extensive stands of tall ruderal vegetation, again with scattered scrub and trees as above, but also including blackthorn Prunus spinosa.

4 TF 91024 00489 Field 3 - Eastern field comprising species-poor semi-improved neutral grassland (approx.. 2.2 ha). Unmanaged grassland with naturally regenerating woody species particularly towards south and eastern boundaries.

At the southern end of Field 3, the grassland is dominated by cocksfoot, false oat-grass, Yorkshire fog and perennial rye grass Lolium perenne, with canary reed grass forming a locally dominant stand in the south west corner. Tall ruderal species were abundant with creeping thistle, hogweed and a stand of naturally regenerating ash saplings varying between 1 and 3m in height suggesting an absence of management for at least 2-3 years.

In the northern part of Field 3, scrub and tree species were abundant scattered through the tussocky grass sward, with goat willow, bramble, dog rose hawthorn and oak all abundant. Tall ruderal species were abundant including hogweed, cow parsley, red clover, ribwort plantain and prickly sow thistle Sonchus asper.

5 TF 90985 00582 Amenity grassland to north of field 3, and outside the site. Mown recreational area dominated by annual meadow grass, daisy and dandelion. Occasional planted young trees were present.

6 TF 91065 00596 Small pond (P1) located to east of TN5 and surrounded by dense scrub thicket.

On western side of pond a metal rail was present over an inlet channel to the pond which was dry at the time of survey (October 2014) but had held water in June. The pond was almost entirely obscured by scrub and hard to survey directly but was approximately L-shaped and 25m x 10m in dimensions. The central area supported bulrush Typha latifolia with occasional branched bur- reed Sparganium erectum present in a few locations. On a previous site visit in June 2014, shallow water was present in the pond suggesting a seasonal variation in water level indicative of a drainage settling pond. The pond was relatively isolated but supports suitable surrounding terrestrial habitat for amphibians; while it is considered unlikely that it would support great crested newt, the potential for them being present cannot be eliminated entirely.

Surrounding the pond on all sides, dense scrub created an impenetrable barrier and comprised bramble, blackthorn and dogwood, with planted broadleaved trees to the south of the pond, including young cherry Prunus domesticus, ash Fraxinus excelsior, and dog rose.

To the north and east of the pond, amenity grassland was present with scattered broad-leaved trees of varying age and including mature field maple Acer campestre, oak and ash. Along the northern boundary of this small area of greenspace, a small slow-flowing stream flowed in an easterly direction within a 2m deep channel. The stream bed was approx.. 0.5 m wide and water was 5cm deep, with earth banks vegetated with scrub and broad-leaved trees included a mature ash that has several rot holes with potential bat roosting habitat.

To south of pond, a strip of broad-leaved woodland plantation was present with mature ash, field maple and oak trees over a ground layer comprising bramble, cherry and common nettle, forming small stand of woodland adjacent to chain link fence separating the area from school playing fields to south and east.

7 TF 91127 00466 Strip of broad-leaved woodland plantation adjacent to Hedge H7 on eastern site boundary. Canopy included sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, cherry, field maple with hawthorn and blackthorn forming a 3-4 m high dense thicket layer

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Ecological Assessment

Target Location Description Note along the hedge boundary with rambling bramble and dog rose. Several dead elm were located within the woodland strip, presumably due to Dutch elm disease, with young regrowth present in the ground layer.

8

Table 7: Hedgerow Target Notes Target Dominant Description Note Species H1 Blackthorn Mature line of hedgerow and trees located between Field 1 and amenity with oak, grassland to west of site forming a wide habitat feature along the western site willow, boundary. At north west corner of Field 1, H1 included 4 mature oak trees as bramble and individuals with dead limbs and flaking bark considered to provide low- dog rose moderate potential for bat roosting habitat. To the north of the oak trees, H1 formed a boundary with residential properties and resembled a strip of woodland with oak and she trees over a shrub layer of overgrown hawthorn, elder Sambucus nigra and blackthorn. To the south of the oak trees, H1 continued along the western site boundary, with abundant mature trees including crack willow Salix fragilis, goat willow and oak above a layer of dense bramble, dog rose overgrown over the basal hedge line of blackthorn. At the southern end of the hedgerow, two mature oak trees had moderate bat potential with dead limbs and rot holes, with other trees of low potential. H2 Blackthorn, Mature line of hedgerow and trees along southern boundary of amenity bramble and grassland (TN1) and Field 1. dog rose, with Trees scattered along hedgerow, approx. 10m tall and including crack willow, oak, willow, cherry, sycamore apple Malus domesticus, oak. At the western end, the cherry, hedgerow is more or less defunct with frequent gaps and bramble and dog rose sycamore abundant over a sparse layer of blackthorn. and apple. At eastern end, trees not present, and hedgerow is entire. H3 Blackthorn, Line of mature hedgerow and trees between Field 1 and Field 2; species-poor bramble and 3 mature trees at northern end including mature oak, 10-12m tall and 80cm dog rose, diameter at breast height, with good bat potential – rot holes, broken limbs and hawthorn and ivy cover. Hedge at northern defunct over a 2m deep dry ditch with dominant hazel; oak bramble scrub and abundant blackthorn, common nettle, dogwood, dog rose and ash. and a mature goat willow. Basal vegetation ca. 5m wide on each side of ditch merging into grassland in each field. At southern end, blackthorn is dominant in hedgerow, with occasional field maple, hazel and dogwood. Near to boundary with H2, willow is locally dominant on either side of the ditch, with abundant hazel and hawthorn forming a tall leggy hedge ca. 5-8m high, managed on eastern side within last 6 months. H4 Dog rose, Mature line of hedgerow and trees with entire hedge and more or less hawthorn, continuous line of trees, managed under electricity transmission lines running blackthorn along hedge line – cut to height of ca. 5-6 m. and bramble Species-rich and approx. 5-6m high hedgerow + trees including oak, field maple, with oak, field hazel, willow and wych elm Ulmus glabra, over an understorey layer comprising maple, hazel, dog rose, hawthorn, blackthorn and bramble. willow, ash Dry ditch present along southern edge of hedge – ca. 2m deep and 4m wide. and elm At eastern end of H4 – in SE corner of Field 2, a small group of 3 semi-mature ash were present, approx. 10m high comprising numerous trunks and of no bat roost potential. H5 Hawthorn with Mature species-poor hedge along field boundary between Field 2 and Field 3, dog rose and dominated by tall hawthorn, ca. 4-5 m tall, managed (cut) on western side to bramble create truncated hedge line on that side. Dog rose and bramble locally

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Ecological Assessment

Target Dominant Description Note Species abundant with bramble forming a dense ground layer in places. Trees absent. H6 Blackthorn, Mature line of dense hedgerow and trees along southern boundary of Field 3, elm, bramble forming boundary between field and housing development to the south. and dog rose; Mature ash and field maple in canopy layer over a hedge with mature ash and field blackthorn, elm, bramble and dog rose as dominant species and occasional maple. hazel and hawthorn. H7 Blackthorn, Mature hedgerow along eastern boundary of Field 3 and forming boundary hawthorn, between field and school ground to the east. field maple, Hedge comprised ca. 5m high dense blackthorn and hawthorn forming a thicket oak and layer of scrub along hedge line with occasional mature and semi-mature trees to sycamore. rear of hedge including field maple, oak and sycamore forming strip of plantation woodland described as TN7 above. Mature oak tree present about half way along H7 was ca. 1m in diameter, with dead ivy present around trunk. H8 Bramble, dog Short length of scrub vegetation comprising bramble and dog rose rambling rose, ash and over the line of a chain link fence, with occasional young trees – ash and field field maple. maple.

Table 8 Phase 1 Habitat Survey Species List

Common name Scientific name Flora Annual meadow grass Poa annua Apple Malus domesticus Ash Fraxinus excelsior Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Branched bur-reed Sparganium erectum Broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius Bulrush Typha latifolia Cherry Prunus domesticus Cock’s foot Dactylis glomerata Common bent Agrostis capillaris Common dogwood Cornus sanguinea Common hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Common nettle Urtica dioica Common sowthistle Sonchus oleraceus Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Crack willow Salix fragilis Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense Daisy Bellis perennis Dandelion Taraxacum officinale Dog rose Rosa canina Elder Sambucus nigra English elm Ulmus procera False oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius Field maple Acer campestre Goat willow Salix caprea

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Common name Scientific name Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Hazel Corylus avellana Ivy Hedera helix Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Perennial rye-grass Lolium perenne Prickly sowthistle Sonchus asper Ragwort Senecio jacobaea Red clover Trifolium pratense Red fescue Festuca rubra Reed canary-grass Phalaris arundinacea Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata Rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus Wych elm Ulmus glabra Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus

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Watton

m 0 A 4

A A Figure 1 50m Phase 1 Survey Results 6 5 A A A Key

A H8 Site boundary H3

H1 Survey ￿￿ Target Note D Scrub - scattered ! Broadleaved Parkland/scattered trees 2 3 Intact hedge - species-poor

1 4 H7 7 A VI VI VI VI Hedge with trees - native species-rich SI | | | | | H5 SI Hedge with trees - species-poor | | | | | Fence SI Broadleaved woodland - semi-natural Broadleaved woodland - plantation H2 Scrub - dense/continuous H6 Other tall herb and fern - ruderal I Improved grassland SI Poor semi-improved grassland Standing water A Cultivated/disturbed land - arable H4 Cultivated/disturbed land - amenity A grassland Buildings I A Track

A

0 40 80 160

Metres

Scale @ A3: ± 1:2,500

© Crown copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Ordnance survey licence number 100048146.

19/12/2014 20604/HB/001a Drawn by: AA Checked by: JM Approved by: JH 590000

Watton

A A A

A A A

A Figure 2 Phase 1 Survey Results A SI SI and Breckland SPA SI Key

Site boundary Survey

A Broadleaved woodland - semi-natural Broadleaved woodland - plantation A Scrub - dense/continuous Other tall herb and fern - ruderal I Improved grassland 40m I SI Poor semi-improved grassland Standing water A Cultivated/disturbed land - arable

40m Cultivated/disturbed land - amenity A grassland

300000 Buildings Track Breckland SPA 1500m buffer

50m

50m

050 100 200

Metres

Scale @ A3: ± 1:6,000

© Crown copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Ordnance survey licence number 100048146.

19/12/2014 20604/HB/002a Drawn by: AA Checked by: JM Approved by: JH