Holyhead Breakwater Country Park Management Plan 2015-2020
1 HolyheadHolyhead Breakwater Breakwater Country CountryPark Management Park Management Plan 201 Plan5-2020 2009 - 2013
Contents
Executive summary
Mission statement/Objectives.
1.Description
2. Amenity
3. Buildings
4. Water bodies
5. Quarry areas
6.Rocky Coast - Heathland and coastline
7.Scrub areas
8.Grazed areas
9. Education/Sensory trail
10 Education resources
11. Volunteers
12.Partners
ACTION PLAN
Appendices 1.Maps
2.Promotion
3.Orienteering
4.Events
5.Designations
6.Images
7.Interpretation
8.Surveys
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Executive Summary
Owned and managed by the Isle of Anglesey County Council (IoACC), the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park is a popular 43 hectare site with a variety of landscapes. It is located on the north west of Holy Island, on the west of Anglesey and is partly within the Isle of Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) The Management Plan’s aim is to continue to improve and enhance visitors enjoyment and understanding whilst maintaining and improving the biodiversity of the site. Holyhead Breakwater Country Park receives over 120’000 visitors every year. The lake is a popular coarse fishing venue and the coastline is part of the Holyhead Mountain Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), as well as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protected Area (SPA). The information centre and brickshed gallery are important educational and visitor resource and two establishments provide refreshments. The Management Plan sets out it’s principle management objectives and provides a detailed work programme of site management.
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Mission Statement
“The primary purpose of establishing a country park in this area involves balancing the conservation of the wildlife, landscape and industrial heritage of the area with both the creation of opportunities for informal recreation and the needs of the local community.” Holyhead Breakwater Country Park - Future Management Report submitted to Holyhead Mountain Joint Management Committee, 8th February 1999
“To provide opportunities for the public enjoyment of both the Country Park and the wider countryside.”
“To divert pressure for countryside orientated activities away from the sensitive parts of Holyhead Mountain whilst at the same time providing a gateway from which the public can explore the wider countryside beyond.”
“To provide a range and diversity of opportunities for informal recreational use of the Country Park by both local persons and visitors to the island.” Objectives from the Breakwater Country Park Management Plan 1990
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Objectives The County Council’s aim is:
TO PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE INTERESTS OF THE ISLAND, ITS CITIZENS AND COMMUNITIES
Outcomes: To achieve this aim, we want to create an Anglesey:
• Which has a thriving and prosperous rural economy 1.1 We will be at the forefront of energy R&D and production of low carbon and renewable energy for the benefit of current and future generations 1.2 We will support and encourage entrepreneurship, business and employment growth. 1.3 We will be one of the most visited tourist destinations in Wales • Where people achieve their full potential 2.1 Our children and young people’s needs and aspirations are met 2.2 We will be better educated and more skilled to meet the needs of the labour market 2.3 We will value and promote equal opportunities for all. 2.4 We will take pride in our language and culture and promote our cultural heritage • Where people are healthy and safe 3.1 We will safeguard and improve the “life chances” of vulnerable children and adults ion our society. 3.2 We will live our lives safe crime, disorder and danger. 3.3 We will ensure that the housing needs of the island are met. 3.4 we will live longer and healthier lives • Where people enjoy, protect and enhance their built and natural environment for future generations 4.1 We will work with partners to provide the necessary infrastructure capacity to meet the needs of our citizens, businesses and communities. 4.2 We will promote, protect and make sustainable use of our unique built heritage and natural environment. 4.3 We will ensure clean and environmentally sustainable communities • where people are proud of their Council 5.1 We will listen to our citizens and deliver on our promises. 5.2 We will work in partnership to improve the outcomes for our citizens. 5.3 We will value our staff and treat our citizens and environment with respect. 5.4 We will be ambitious and outward looking
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Transformation plan
The County Council’s Transformation Plan sets out the way we hope to improve the authority over the next three years. Our vision for Anglesey is that by 2016: “we will be a professional and well-run Council, innovative and outward-looking in our approach, committed to developing people and partnerships in order to deliver efficient and effective services of good quality, that are highly valued by our citizens.” This means that by 2016 the Isle of Anglesey Council will have:
increased the pride in Anglesey, of its elected members, management, staff, services and amenities
respect within the local government family in Wales, locally, regionally and nationally
elected members, managers and staff who make a difference and grow in capability as a result
an understanding of and be proactively managing the performance of our services, targeting improvement actions where and when this is needed
areas of innovation, good practice and service excellence that other organisations seek to benchmark themselves against
productive, transparent and trusting relationships with our partners
satisfied our auditors in terms of leadership, governance and organisation
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1.Description
The Holyhead Breakwater Country Park is a 49 hectare former industrial site dominated by rugged cliffs formed by quarrying 7 million tons of rock. This rock was used as the base for the Holyhead breakwater. Much of the quarry floor has been colonized by heather and gorse. The Park’s centrepiece is the man made lake created prior to the park being open to the public in 1990. The Park has areas of pasture and the coastal strip is a good example of lowland heath. The Park is dominated by the almost vertical quarry faces which rise approximately 50 metres above the quarry floor.
General information
1.1 Site: Holyhead Breakwater Country Park Status: Country Park, partly within the Isle of Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). A section of the coastline is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protected Area (SPA), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Regionally Important Geodiversity Site (RIGS). Situation: North Ynys Cybi, to the West of Holyhead. County: Anglesey Site manager: Isle of Anglesey County Council Contact details: The Countryside and AONB Service 01407 760530, 01248 752139
1.2 Location Grid reference 833227 The Breakwater Country Park is situated 2.5 kilometres from the centre of Holyhead on the Northern coast of Holy Island. It is flanked by the urban area of Holyhead to the East and by Mynydd Twr/ Holyhead Mountain to the South and West.
1.3 Owner Isle of Anglesey County Council
1.4 Date of acquisition After 1978, the then Anglesey Borough Council began to acquire parts of the site with the intention of developing a small country park near Holyhead. The site was the subject of a Welsh Development Agency Derelict Land Grant in 1987 which formed the structure of the Country Park much as it is today.
1.5 Access One public footpath crosses through land within the ownership of the County Council, this being the recently opened Anglesey Coastal Path (officially opened
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2006) which is now part of the All Wales Coast Path (officially opened May 2012). Many permissive paths criss cross the site In 2005 a 500 m long 1.5 m wide wheelchair friendly path was created around Llyn Llwynog. 200 metre cycle path opened in January 2012 from the Park to the minor road linking to Llaingoch 1.6 Management Infrastructure The site is managed by the Isle of Anglesey County Council's Countryside and AONB Service. An on site warden is on site on a day to day basis with assistance by seasonal wardens in the summer.
1.7 Map coverage O.S 1.2500 sheets 2283 2383 See appendix 1 maps
1.8 Photographic coverage 1.10 000 colour June - CCW/GEONEX Aerial photographs 1:10 000 B&W (YMCC) - 1975 Construction stage coverage held by County Council Planning & Environment GIS (Geographical Information Systems) IoACC 2002
1.9 Environmental information
Physical
Climate Anglesey generally has cool summers and mild winters. The site is predominantly exposed to the sea and Northerly winds, but relatively sheltered from the South West. In the winter months some of the quarry faces only receive direct sunlight during the mornings.
Hydrology A spring feeds Llyn y Graig which then feeds into Llyn Llwynog. The stream from the outflow to Llyn Llwynog then makes its way to the sea
Geology The site is notable for its exposure of pre Cambrian strata, including good exposure of the Mona complex. In addition there are exposed examples of thrust faults and igneous intrusions, an area of which has been designated a RIGS (Regional Important Geological Site) by the Gwynedd RIGS group. The quarry face and the adjoining mountain area, together with part of the coastal strip comprises of Holyhead Quartzite.
Elevation From sea level to the cliff top 85 metres
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Soils The drift geology of the area consists of a bed of boulder clay. Flora The coastal strip of lowland heath is dominated by heather and typical heathland plants. The old quarry floors are a mix of gorse, heather and bracken. Northern Marsh Orchids and Bee Orchids are also found along with Cowslips. Alder was planted around Llyn Llwynog in 1990 and Monterey Pine was also planted around the garage and outbuildings. Oak, Hazel, Rowan and Alder were planted in Field 1 in April 2007 along with a mix of native tree species planted in Field 2 to create a sensory trail. See appendix 8 Surveys
Fauna
Mammals: There are many badger setts within the Country Park. A survey was completed in 2009. Foxes, Rabbits, Hares, Moles, Rats and the occasional Bat can also be found here. A survey by the Gwynedd Bat Group noted 3 Pipistrelle bats during a survey in August 2006. A Leizlers bat was found in the toilets at the Park in 2003 but died soon after. This is a native of Ireland and not Wales so it is thought it must have come over the Irish Sea on one of the ferries.
Birds: The mix of habitats is a haven for birds including the Chough feeding on the heathland, the Stonechat and the Wheatear. Oystercatchers and Cormorants are common on the coast. Mallards and Moorhens are numerous on the lake. Peregrine Falcons can be spotted swooping beneath the majestic cliffs. A great deal of migrant birds has been seen over the years. Amphibians: Anecdotal evidence of Great Crested Newts. Palmate Newts in the smaller ponds and surrounding area
Fish: Llyn Llwynog has been stocked with Carp, Ghost Carp, Roach, Rudd, Bream and Tench over the years. Eels are also common. 8000 assorted fish were added to the fish population of the lake. These were supplied by the Environment Agency in April 2012.
Invertebrates: Silver Studded Blue butterflies are a notable species found at the Country Park with 2 known colonies. Other butterflies found within the Country Park include Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Small Copper and Large White butterflies. Dragonflies and Damselflies abound around the water bodies.
Communities A National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey of the site was completed in August 2012, along with a phase 1 habitat survey.(see appendix)
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1.10 Cultural
The Breakwater Country Park has strong cultural links to present day Holyhead. It was where the rock for the base for the Breakwater was quarried. William Wild and Sons ltd produced heat resistant silica bricks here from 1890 to 1973. Many relatives of those who worked in the brickworks visit the Park.
Archaeological/past land use Previously part of the Stanley estate. No archaeological sites have been identified within the boundary of the Park, though Celtic and Roman remains have been found close by on Holyhead Mountain. The site was the source of the stone required to build the base of the Holyhead Breakwater, which lasted from 1845 to 1873. Due to its former use as a quarry and brickworks associated features can be found in the Country Park - The chimney stack, kiln complex, crusher building, reservoirs and magazines (for gunpowder storage).The larger magazine is the only listed building on the site (grade 2 listed) Of unique interest is the wide gauge railway track which linked the quarry site to the breakwater. Between 1973 and 1978 the site was derelict and the then Anglesey Borough Council began to acquire parts of the site with the intention of developing a small Country Park near Holyhead. The site was the subject of a Welsh Development Agency Derelict Land Grant in 1987 which formed the structure of much of the Park as it is today. A resident warden was appointed in1990.
Present land use Grazing 2 parcels of land are used for grazing for 9 months of the year (April 1st to December 31st).The Rocky Coast and a section of unimproved grassland is now being grazed from September 1st until April 30th as part of a heathland management project. The area is grazed by Carneddau and Section A ponies. From May 1st until August 31 the ponies are kept in a section of unimproved grassland. 2 ponies graze the field close to the lookout intermittently throughout the year. The field was fenced off in March 2011.
Present conservation interest A section of the coastline is designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) a Special Protected Area (SPA) and a Regionally Important Geodiversity Site (RIGS) See appendix 1 maps
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Landscape The site represents a unique, relatively sheltered, man made landscape surrounded by rugged mountain and coastal exposures. There are examples of: Traditional small pasture grazing system divided by dry stone walls. Maritime heathland leading down to exposed rocky coastline Quarries Elevated, rocky heathland abutting steep cliffs (quarry face)
Public interest/Community relations A vehicle counter was installed on the approach road to the Country Park in late 2003, with a pedestrian counter being installed on the coastline in March 2012. A counter for pedestrians and one for cycles were installed in July 2012 on the new cycle track close to the Llaingoch entrance. Following a correlation exercise it can be estimated that a vehicle has an average of 2.49 passengers. Following this exercise it can be seen that upward of 120’000 visitors visit the Country Park every year with figures generally on the increase every year. Many of the Park’s visitors arrive on foot and are not counted. A visitor monitoring device was installed in late 2006 (now removed) on the Coastal Path on the Rocky Coast. Figures from January 2007 to the end of June show that 13000 visitors were counted in that period. The Coastal path team have a counter installed on a kissing gate on the Coastal path which leads to the field on way to the lookout. Dog walkers, birdwatchers, fishermen, model boaters, abseilers and those who seek the quiet enjoyment of the countryside are the main user groups of the Park. It is also a gateway to Mynydd Twr/Holyhead Mountain (Gogarth Bay is popular with climbers though there are climbing restrictions during the nesting season.) As previously mentioned the Anglesey Coastal Path (which officially starts in Holyhead) runs along the coastline within the Country Park and exits at the North Western end of the site. A new section of path then hugs the cliff tops along to North and South Stack (completed 2005) In 2010 the Park was awarded the Green Flag award for quality green spaces in UK. Awarded again in 2011 and 2012.
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Green Flag Award
Below are the criteria for achieving Green Flag status ( From Keep Britain Tidy website)
Eight key criteria
1. A welcoming place When approaching or entering the park/green space, the overall impression for any member of the community - regardless of the purpose of their visit - should be positive and inviting. There should be: • Good and safe access • Good signage to and in the park/green space • Equal access for all members of the community
2. Healthy, safe and secure The park/green space must be a healthy, safe and secure place for all members of the community to use. Any issues that have come to light must be addressed in the management plan and implemented on the ground. New issues that arise must be addressed promptly and appropriately. • Equipment and facilities must be safe to use • It must be a secure place for all members of the community to use or traverse • Dog fouling must be adequately addressed • Health and safety policies should be in place, in practice and regularly reviewed • Toilets, drinking water, first aid, public telephones and emergency equipment where relevant (e.g. life belts by water) should be available in or near the park/green space, and be clearly signposted.
3. Clean and well maintained For aesthetic as well as health and safety reasons, issues of cleanliness and maintenance must be adequately addressed, in particular: • Litter and other waste management • The maintenance of grounds, buildings, equipment and other features • A policy on litter, vandalism and maintenance should be in place, in practice and regularly reviewed.
4. Sustainability Methods used in maintaining the park/green space and its facilities should be environmentally sound, relying on best practices available according to current
12 Holyhead Breakwater Country Park Management Plan 2015-2020 knowledge. Management should be aware of the range of techniques available to them, and demonstrate that informed choices have been made and are regularly reviewed. Parks/green spaces should: • Have an environmental policy or charter and management strategy in place, which is in practice and regularly reviewed • Minimise and justify pesticide use • Eliminate horticultural peat use • Recycle waste plant material • Demonstrate high horticultural and arboricultural standards • Have energy conservation, pollution reduction, waste recycling, and resource conservation measures
5. Conservation and heritage Particular attention should be paid to the conservation and appropriate management of: • Natural features, wildlife and fauna • Landscapes • Buildings and structural features • These should serve their function well without placing undue pressure on the surrounding environment
6. Community involvement The park/green space management should actively pursue the involvement of members of the community who represent as many park/green space user groups as possible. The following should be demonstrated: • Knowledge of user community and levels and patterns of use • Evidence of community involvement in management and/or developments and results achieved • Appropriate levels of provision of recreational facilities for all sectors of the community
7. Marketing • A marketing strategy should be in place, which is in practice and regularly reviewed • There should be good provision of information to users, e.g. about management strategies, activities, features, ways to get involved • The park/green space should be promoted as a community resource
8. Management • A management plan or strategy should be in place • This should clearly and adequately address all of the above criteria and any other
13 Holyhead Breakwater Country Park Management Plan 2015-2020 relevant aspects of the park/green space's management • The plan must be actively implemented and regularly reviewed • A financially sound management of the park/green space must also be demonstrated.
Educational use/facilities Primary and Secondary school groups from around the island use the Country Park as an educational facility. Orienteering course was opened in 2010 and is very popular with local schools and those from further away The North Wales Wildlife Trust has used the lake for pond dipping. A geocaching course was opened in August 2012.
Income
Anglesey Angling Association – rent and 50% of day ticket sales. North Wales Wildlife Trust café/ shop – rent and a percentage of the takings Pay and Display car parking charges – January 2012 Agoriad Cyf. New café in wardens house – rent and percentage of the turnover- Spring 2013 Model Boat club – Annual lease. Grazing – Rocky coast grazing annual rent. Annual rent also paid for two parcels of land grazed from April 1st to December 31st.
Interpretation use
i. The Information Centre.
Within the information centre there are numerous panels depicting the history and wildlife of the Country Park and the locality including information on the Countryside and AONB Service and the Anglesey Coastal Path. A fish tank is stocked throughout the year. There is an audio visual display on show and in 2004 a 3 dimensional model of Mynydd Twr/Holyhead Mountain was created. Council Officers and locals supplied the vocal commentary. Five panels in the windows for when the warden is not on site - detailing the history and nature of the Park. Information panels situated within the 'Crusher Building' charting the Industrial past of the locality. Seven small information panels, added in 2006, are dotted around the site detailing various different aspects of the Country Park - The lake, dragonflies, butterflies, Flora, Shore life, the Breakwater and the Magazines. An information leaflet was produced in 2004, reprinted in 2006. An amended leaflet has been reprinted in 2007.
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ii. External interpretation
50 mosaics were created during the autumn of 2006 by artist Tricia Jones and local schoolchildren, Brownies and visitors to the Country Park. This was as a result of the artist in residence project funded by IoACC and Cywaith Cymru/Artwork Wales. The mosaics represent the wildlife of the Country Park and can be found along many of the paths. Some can be found within the information centre with a large mosaic detailing specific species located by the entrance to the centre. Tricia Jones also created a timeline mosaic charting the history of the Park and the surrounding area which is located on the Crusher building. This was installed in April 2007.
Also installed in 2007 were sculptures by Dominic Clare and Nigel Talbot. Dominic created 3 sculptures - a Heather flower, a Dock seed and a Whelk bench. Nigel Talbot’s Croeso/Welcome sculpture used Welsh Oak and bricks salvaged from the site. He also created a large oak/rock sculpture entitled “Industry harnessing Nature” located close to the Brick shed. The first stage of an outdoor gallery was installed in the Brickshed in March 2012 featuring 13 of Charles Tunnicliffe’s measured drawings ( in partnership with Oriel Ynys Mon). The second stage opened in December 2012 Regular events take place in the Country Park from the Wildlife Weekends (started in 2005),Easter egg hunts, Porpoise watching walks and Butterfly days.
Recreation use/facilities
One cliff is used for abseiling by local outdoor pursuit groups. A procedures system was implemented in 2005. Climbing is not allowed in the Park at the moment. Risk assessment of the cliffs is needed before any decision is made on future climbing use.Talks have begun with the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) regarding use of cliffs. The Ynys Môn Angling Association leases the lake. Coarse fishing is open to members of the club as well as visitors through day ticket sales. The lake is also used by The Holyhead Breakwater Model Boat Club. They use half of the lake on Wednesdays and Sundays between 2.00 and 4.30 p.m. An orienteering course was installed in 2009 and is regularly used.
2. Amenity
2.1 compartments
1. Access Public rights of way - a section of the Anglesey Coastal Path/All Wales Coast Path (1 mile) Permissive paths (approximately 5 miles) Open access areas (Rocky coast)
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2. Recreation Benches Picnic tables Grassy areas The information centre and cafe Cliff face Country Park including paths and open access areas
3. Interpretation Information centre Information panels Leaflets Crusher building Brick shed Signage Wardens 2.2 Access management
Objectives
1. To ensure the site is safe for use through regular safety audit procedures. 2. To manage public access and enhance the footpath network where appropriate, and to consider the needs of the disabled and less abled.
Action points
Maintain the paths, gates, bridges, walls , fences and styles in a safe and presentable manner to ensure safe public access. Regular daily safety patrols Regular mowing, strimming and vegetation clearance. Regular dog waste runs Regular litter picks Regular life ring checks Regular checks of cliff signs and Welsh Water manholes Regular checks of Deep water signs Weekly checks of all external locks Weekly checks of all safety grills Weekly checks of all mesh on bridges Weekly check of all small bridges Monthly checks of both bridges on the approach road Maintain fences and walls in a safe manner. Annual risk assessment Annual Structures dept. check of all structures Ensure vegetation is cut back to allow free and easy access. Promote paths by means of leaflets and displays.
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Develop new waymarked trails within the Country Park designed for different abilities. Improve disabled and less abled access within the Country Park. Conduct a visitor survey re. recreation/access in the Country Park
2.3 Recreation management
Objective
1. To monitor the condition and function of all infrastructure. 2. To develop and promote new recreational pastimes/activities in the Country Park
Action Points
Maintain the benches in a safe and acceptable condition. Maintain the picnic tables in a safe and acceptable condition. Regularly mow the grassy areas used by visitors and strim under benches. Maintain fence, signs and grills into adits near cliff Weed around approach road, car park and immediate area of information centre. Ensure vegetation does not encroach on to the car park. Maintain and monitor orienteering trail Develop geocaching, and other similar activities, Look into developing cliff based activities - climbing, via ferratas in partnership with other groups/activity centres. Increase range of play equipment in the Park Conduct a visitor survey re. recreation/access in the Country Park
2.4 Interpretation management
Objective
1. To provide the required level and standard of interpretive material for all users of the park. 2. To continue to develop and improve interpretation and signage within and outside the Country Park.
Action Points
Ensure information centre is open during core hours. Ongoing development of information centre. Leaflets readily available. Create and develop new and lively interpretation within the Country Park in an innovative manner ( to include sculptures/environmental art) including new media Create new Gateway signs/sculptures for the Country Park. Maintain information panels in all buildings in an acceptable manner.
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Ensure wardens are knowledgeable and up to date with current countryside/ coastal and local issues. Develop and improve upon guided walks and talks and events for community groups, schools and visitors. Maintain and improve displays within the information centre. Develop webcam link from Brick shed tower Ensure all text is bilingual and conforms to the Councils bilingual policy Create new media for site 3. Buildings ( see appendix 1 - maps)
Objectives
To monitor the condition and function of all infrastructure/buildings of all defects/degradation requiring remedial work or professional assessment To ensure all buildings are safe through regular safety audit procedures To consider the needs of the disabled and less abled regarding access
The Buildings
The Brick shed The Crusher building The Information centre The Cafe/shop The Magazines The house and outbuildings The Toilet The Old Quarry buildings See appendix 1
3.1 The Brick shed
These are the remains of the brickworks which ceased production in 1973. William Wild and Sons ltd produced heat resistant silica bricks which were
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exported around the British Isles. The brick shed tower and the kilns remain and are secure behind strong fencing. The tower is under lock and key. The remains of an old camera can be seen on top of the tower. Plans are afoot to replace this with a webcam which will transmit images of the Country Park to the Council website and also to the information centre. The surface inside is uneven and is currently not suitable for wheelchairs
3.2 The Crusher Building
This building was used in the brick making process. It was here that rock quarried was crushed prior to moving it to the brick shed for the next stage in brick production. The crusher building is open to the public at all times and provides information on the history of the site through 7 information panels and numerous historical artifacts.
3.4 The Information Centre
The information centre is one of the focal points of the Park. As well as being the Warden’s office it hosts a plethora of interpretive material including a seawater fish tank (in partnership with the Anglesey Sea Zoo), an interactive model of Holyhead Mountain, information panels and landscape panels, maps, a small children’s play area and a 42” plasma screen television.The information centre has been used as a workshop and a venue for talks and events e.g. Mosaic workshop in the autumn of 2006 and butterfly and moth events, Easter egg hunts and wildlife fun days. A large mosaic depicting the wildlife of the Country Park can be seen on the wall by the entrance to the information centre (Tricia Jones Dec 2006). A new interactive information point linked to the Council’s Visit Anglesey website was installed in Spring 2013.
3.5 The Cafe /Shop
The cafe /shop is run by volunteers from the North Wales Wildlife Trust and is usually open from Easter until the end of October. Opening hours are from approx. 1.PM until 4.00 PM depending on how many volunteers are available.
3.6 The Magazines
Both of these buildings, called the magazines, were used to store gunpowder. The largest, which was constructed in the mid 1800’s and is the only listed building (grade 2) within the Country Park, stored the dynamite which was used in the quarry whilst the Holyhead breakwater was being constructed and later when the Brick works were in operation. The smaller building was used to store the gunpowder for the fog warning cannon at North Stack.
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3.7 The House and outbuildings
Porth Namarch has been unoccupied since 1999 but was previously the abode of the Isle of Anglesey County Council Warden for the site. Up until 2004 there was interest in converting it into a youth hostel but this did not come to fruition. Geomon also were interested but that also fell through.Following a tendering process Agoriad Cyf. have been chosen to occupy the house and run a café – opening Spring 2013 Two outbuildings to the rear of the property make up the garage and a small education centre. It is proposed that these will be converted into a bunk house and will be managed by Agoriad cyf.
3.8 The Toilets
The toilets’, including a disabled toilet, is maintained by the Waste Management Section of the Isle of Anglesey County Council. A local contractor opens, closes and cleans the toilets every day.
3.9 The ruins of the old quarry buildings
The remains of the old quarry buildings can be found on the quarry floor and in the field adjacent to the entrance sign. In this field Ty Gwaith, an old office, is located. It has been fenced off for health and safety reasons.
Action Points
To relocate a video camera/webcam on the brick shed tower - to create a link with the information centre and the Council’s website. Create a wheelchair friendly path into and within the Brick shed. To liaise with the North Wales Wildlife Trust so that there is a more structured approach to opening times. To repaint both magazines - funding dependent. Annual structural surveys of all buildings Regular painting of all doors,window sills and wooden gates Continue fixed point photo monitoring of the brick shed/tower, the Crusher building, the magazines and the ruins of the old buildings. Weekly safety check in the Ganolfan Weekly check of all fire alarms Weekly check 1st aid box contents Monthly visual check of Brick shed Monthly visual check of Crusher building Monthly visual check of all sculptures Maintain fish tank throughout the year
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4. Water Bodies (see appendix 1 maps)
Objectives To safeguard the structure and enhance the conservation value of the lake. To conserve the value and habitat of the ponds and wetlands To ensure the lake is safe for recreational use through regular safety audit procedures
There are 4 standing water bodies within the Country Park (i) Llyn Llwynog (ii) The Top Lake (iii)Reservoir 1 (iv)Reservoir 2
4.1 Llyn Llwynog
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Llyn Llwynog is the centrepiece of the Breakwater Country Park and covers an area of 6200m2. It is widely used by coarse fishermen throughout the year along with members of the Holyhead Model Boat Association. By agreement, the model boaters use the western end of the lake every Wednesday and Sunday afternoons between the hours of 2.00 - 4.30. The fishermen do not use this part of the lake at these times though they can use the eastern end. Members of the Ynys Môn Angling Association (YMAA) are allowed to fish the lake along with anyone who has a valid rod license who pays for a day ticket purchased from members of YMAA or from the North Wales Widlife Trust Café or Caffi’r Parc. 2013 prices as follows - Adults - £5.00, Juniors (12 - 16) - £3.00, OAP/Concessions - £3.00, Family (2adults/2 children - £7.00).There are 20 fishing pegs (including 3 for wheelchair fishermen) around the lake with additional disabled fishing pegs installed October 2013. The lake has previously been stocked with Coarse fish namely Common Carp, Crucian Carp, Ghost Carp, Roach, Rudd, Bream and Tench. Eels are also found here. In the summer of 2003, to try and solve the problem of wintering cormorants decimating the fish stock, 15 fish refuges were located on the lake floor. YMAA also organize training sessions throughout the year.
Other birds which regularly use the lake are Herons, Coots, Moorhens and a large colony of Mallard/hybrid ducks. A small island on the southern side of the lake is a small refuge for the large number of Mallard/hybrid ducks/ Moorhens and Coots. They use the cover of the Willow and Alder that have free seeded from the trees that line approx. 60% of the lake. These trees were planted when the lake was created in 1990 and provide shelter for fishermen and walkers alike. Bullrushes are numerous around the Northern shore of the lake with pop lilies and Canadian Pondweed prolific in the summer months. The model boaters weed the western end of the lake in summer (avoiding a metre wide section close to shore to avoid damaging the fish fry stock which use this area), whilst the YMAA weed small channels adjacent to the 21 fishing pegs. Dragonflies and damselflies are common in the summer months In 2005 a 450m long wheelchair access footpath replaced the existing narrow, muddy path which previously circumnavigated the lake. The 1.5m wide path is surfaced with compacted dust. Along this path are located many benches. Most of these benches have been donated to the Country Park in memory of loved ones. The lake is supplied by water from the top lake itself supplied from a spring located close to the cliff face. The outflow to the lake is located on the North eastern corner of the lake where the water then makes its way northwards to the sea. When the lake was created in 1990 a liner was secured to the bottom of the lake to prevent leakage. Over the last few years some leakage has occurred at the outflow. A permanent solution to this problem has proved costly therefore as a temporary solution sandbags have been placed on either side of the outflow to plug up gaps and prevent further leakage.
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Four life buoys are located around the lake for health and safety reasons. These are checked twice daily by the warden(s). There are also signs around the lake warning of deep water.
4.2 Top Lake As previously mentioned the Top Lake feeds Llyn Llwynog and is itself fed by a spring located at the base of the cliffs. In previous years Canadian Pond weed covered the lake’s surface but since 2005 the weed has disappeared. Vegetation is encroaching from the south side of the lake. This small lake is fenced off with a danger - deep water sign located on the fence. Also a lifebuoy is located here (checked twice a day). No fishing is allowed here and as a consequence it has not been stocked - though eels are present. Mallard ducks, moorhens and coots are the usual water fowl found here. During the summer months dragonflies and damselflies are prevelant. Photomonitoring is used to check the encroachment of the vegetation
4.3 Reservoir 1 Both reservoirs 1 and 2 date back to the brick making period (late 1800’s) and were used as a water source during the brick making process. Reservoir 1 dries out in the summer and levels fluctuate during Autumn, Winter and Spring. Palmate Newts and Common Toads have been seen in this pond. A survey in May 2013 failed to ascertain the presence of the Great Crested Newt. When the pool dries out in the summer it does not adversely affect the amphibians. There is encroachment of willow around the lake.
4.4 Reservoir 2 The water level in this reservoir is constant throughout the year. It is unlikely that amphibians are to be found here due to steep sides of the pond though a survey is needed to ascertain this. A wall surrounds this reservoir with a sign warning of deep water and 2 lifebuoys located here.
Action points Monitor for Phytopthera on Alder Regular check of water levels Torch surveys for Great Crested Newts Create wildlife habitats to attract amphibians/reptiles Regular invertebrate surveys Monitor the number of Cormorants each winter Regular check of lake membrane Regular fixed point photomonitoring Permanent solution to leakages at outflow Daily checks of safety equipment Be aware of and report unlawful herbicide application Visual check of retaining wall by slipway
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5. The Rocky Coast - Heathland and Coastline (see appendix 1 maps)
Objectives
To ensure the protection of the heathland on the Rocky Coast. To improve the condition of the heathland through grazing To raise awareness and understanding of this habitat To re-establish heathland in the adjacent fields
The area of coastline and heathland known as Rocky Coast has, since 2000, been part of the Glannau Ynys Cybi Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).This designation is for its European dry heath, heathland being a highly valued landscape.
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47% of Anglesey’s heathlands have been lost between1940 and 1993 - the Glannau Ynys Cybi SSSI has over 25% of the remainder. Anglesey currently supports 900 hectares of lowland heath. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) recognizes lowland heath as a priority habitat. The Rocky Coast area was added to the Glannau Ynys Cybi SSSI because of its areas of Heather (Calluna vulgaris) and Western Gorse (Ulex gallii) (See map). This area is also part of the Glannau Ynys Cybi Special Area of Conservation (SAC) due to its heathland and the Glannau Ynys Cybi Special Area of Conservation (SPA) because the area supports Chough (pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) throughout the year. The coastline has also been designated a Regionally Important Geological Site (RIGS), which stretches from the Holyhead Quartzite at the western end of the Country Park, to the Mica Schists of the New Harbour Group at its Western end close to the breakwater. The bramble patches dotted around are a good habitat for Wheatears and Stonechats and Oystercatchers and Cormorants are common on the shore. Grey Seals are seen close to shore and in 2007 and 2008 Porth Namarch was used as a pupping area. Porth Namarch was fenced off as a precaution to protect the seals and also the public - access down to the bay is hazardous (especially in autumn when it’s wet) and seals saliva can cause an illness called seal finger which can result in a bacterial infection. There is a small section of wet heath characterized by Bell Heather (Erica Cineria)
Working in partnership with Anglesey Grazing project10 ponies (5 Carneddau and 5 Section A ponies were introduced onto Rocky Coast in April 2008.They are kept in Field B between July 1st and August 31st and on Rocky Coast and the 2 fields taken out of the grazing agreement from September 1st to June 30th 2 ponies introduced to the Look out field in October 2011 to create a mosaic habitat and increase species diversity
Action points
Fixed point monitoring. 3 times a year. Bracken control in July Butterfly and moth surveys Weekly check on ponies on Rocky Coast
6. Quarry areas. See appendix 1 maps Objectives
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To ensure that the quarry floors throughout the Country Park are safe through regular safety audit procedures. To identify and safeguard fragile habitats from the effects of visitor pressure. To give priority to the identification, monitoring and conservation of protected species found within the quarry floor areas.
6.1 Area 1 - Scouts Glen This area has over the years been overrun with European gorse (ulex europaeus) with heather and bracken being sidelined. Anecdotal evidence of silver studded blue butterfly in this area.
Action points
5 year rotational cuts of gorse to encourage silver studded blue butterfly. Detailed ecological survey needed Butterfly and moth surveys Bat surveys
6.2 Area 2 - Abseiling Quarry to Top Lake
This area is characterized by scrub and heath. Sycamore, gorse and bramble are becoming widespread. There is a small area of sedge behind the house and needs to be maintained as it is the only area of its kind in the park. Cowslips are common here.
Action points
Control of sycamore gorse removal (European not Western) Monitor sedge area Late cut of rough grassland where orchids present Butterfly and moth surveys Fixed point photo monitoring Bat surveys
6.3 Area 3 - Behind Crusher building This area is dominated by European gorse with Western gorse found sporadically. There is also a mix of trees in this area including Rowan, Alder, Willow and Monterrey pine. The Stonechat is a common bird found here. It is a good area for butterflies including the Silver Studded Blue. As a move to encourage this butterfly a 5 year rotational cutting programme has been in place since 2006. Various groups have assisted in this.
Action Points
5 year rotational cut of gorse (not western gorse)
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Monitor tree species Butterfly and moth surveys Fixed point photo monitoring Bat surveys
7. Scrub areas
Objectives To ensure that the scrub areas are safe for use through regular safety audit procedures. To give priority to the identification, monitoring and conservation of protected species found within the scrub areas. To enhance the scrub areas through small scale scrub clearance.
The main scrub areas to be found within the Country Park are as follows:- Adjacent to the approach road Near the magazines Between the Rocky Coast/heathland and the lake
7.1 Scrub adjacent to approach road
An important compartment of the Country Park as it is the first section that most visitors to the Park will see. At the moment it is dominated by Bracken and Bramble with some Blackthorn and Hawthorn. Many of the Parks visitors walk up this route and the northern side of the approach road has been cleared for pedestrians to walk safely to and from the Country Park. Approximately 250 metres of shared use path has been created. ( up to October 2013)
7.2 Scrub areas between the coast and the lake This area has quite a high conservation value as it is adjacent to the SSSI and has related heathland.
Action Points Maintain path with ride on mower/push mower during Spring and Summer. Control overhanging bracken/gorse/bramble on landward side of approach road throughout the year
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Section 8 Grazed areas Two parcels of land are rented out between April 1st and December 31st every year. The Isle of Anglesey County Councils Property Section manages all aspects of the tenancy agreements with the Countryside and AONB Service monitoring the fields during the period of tenancy.
One of the two parcels of land borders on to the Glannau Ynys Cybi SSSI and throughout and beyond the next 10 years it is envisioned that it will become part of a grazing experiment whose aim is to restore the land back to lowland maritime heath.
Action points To restore parcel 2 to maritime heath within 10 years through grazing with ponies (working with the Anglesey Grazing Project) To monitor fencing ensuring no stock can escape. Photomonitoring
9. Education Area/Sensory trail
Objectives To ensure that these areas are safe for use through regular safety audit procedures. To give priority to the identification, monitoring and conservation of protected species found within the scrub areas. To enhance and develop these areas over a period of 5 years from 2012
In 2007 these 2 fields were planted with native trees and shrubs to begin the process of creating a sensory trail and education area at the Country Park. In previous years they where grazed between 1st of April and the 31st of December until the Countryside and AONB Service withdrew the fields out of the grazing agreement. One field was planted with 20 species of native trees and shrubs including oak, crab apple, holly, beech as the first stage of creating a sensory trail through the 2 fields. 3 ponds created by staff and volunteers.
Action points.
To develop the area into a safe education area. To create/promote sensory area once trees are established. To utilize local schools/community groups in the creation and development of the above areas
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10. Education Objectives To develop a coherent education programme for schools To develop an education resource for Keystage 1 and 2
Action point To produce education resource Increase educational visits to 30 p.a Update and add educational activities Actively market educational activities Collect feedback on activities
11. Volunteer participation
Various groups have over the years participated in conservation and habitat management work at the Park these include Ysgol Llaingoch – Tree planting Ysgol Bodedern – Gorse clearance (silver studded blue management) The Probation Service – Gorse clearance Ysgol Coed Menai – Pond creation/Gorse clearance Girl Guides – Vegetation clearance AONB volunteer group – Dry stone walling/Lime mortar walling Coleg Menai – Vegetation clearance The Princes Trust – Vegetation clearance Digartref Caergybi – Tree planting
Action points
To develop the existing volunteer group into a coherent and regular programme Involve local schoolchildren in volunteer projects
12. Partners (internal and external)
Internal
Waste Management – re toilet maintenance/refuse collection
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Highways - Public Rights of Way (path up to abseiling point), Approach road (unadopted road) Anglesey Coastal path team Property Section
External RSPB – Council owned land encompassing approximately 50% of the Country Park is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. CCW – The Countryside Council for Wales part fund a high percentage of work within the Country Park. CCW also advises on management of SSSI, SAC and SPA ( and potential designation a Local Nature Reserve) North Wales Wildlife Trust – manage the Café/shop which is open from Easter until October week The Holyhead Maritime Museum – working in partnership with educational visits to Holyhead Keep Wales Tidy – Working closely with project officer re.volunteer groups Ynys Môn Angling Association Holyhead Model Boat Club Agoriad cyf. Managing the café located in the warden’s house.
Action points
To continue working with existing partners and developing new partners. To develop joint funding initiatives
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Appendix 1 Maps
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