Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor Derbyshire
Ecological Walk-over Survey
A report to:
Paul Gaughan Building Consultants Limited Rosscarbery House 4 Coronation Street Ilkeston Derbyshire DE7 5QH
By:
EMEC Ecology The Old Ragged School Brook Street Nottingham NG1 1EA
Tel: 0115 964 4828 Fax: 0115 964 4829 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.emec-ecology.co.uk
March 2013 Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire Ecological Walk-over Survey
CONTENTS Chapter Page No.
Executive Summary 3 1. Introduction 5 2. Site Description 5 3. Methodology 6 3.1 Desk Study 6 3.2 Ecological Survey 6 3.3 Ecological Evaluation Criteria 7 3.4 Mitigation Measures 7 4. Results 8 4.1 Desk Study 8 4.2 Ecological Walk-over Survey 10 5. Evaluation 16 5.1 Designated Nature Conservation Sites 16 5.2 Habitats 16 5.3 Protected/notable Species 17 5.4 Summary of Main Potential Ecological Issues 18 6. Mitigation, Compensation & Further Survey Recommendations 19 6.1 Mitigation Recommendations 19 6.2 Compensation Recommendations 20 6.3 Further Survey Recommendations 20 References 22 Appendix 1: Figures 23 Figure 1: Site Location Plan 23 Figure 2: Survey Area, Survey Features and Target Notes 24 Appendix 2: Protected Species Legislation 25 Appendix 3: Botanical Species List 27 Appendix 4: Desk Study Data 28
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Proposed Works The proposed works involve the residential development of an area of land off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire (centred on grid reference SK 433 472). Up to date plans for the site are not yet available. However, it is currently expected that the development will not affect the area of wet woodland at the north-west of the site, adjacent to Bailey Brook. It is envisaged that this area will be managed as a wildlife area.
Method of Study EMEC Ecology’s brief was to identify potential ecological issues associated with the proposed work and make recommendations for general mitigation, compensation and further surveys, as appropriate. To meet the requirements of the brief, a desk study and an ecological walk-over survey of the site were carried out. The desk study involved consulting various organisations to provide previous species records and information on designated sites of nature conservation importance from the site and vicinity.
Results The area of secondary broadleaved wet woodland (namely, Bailey Brook Marsh) immediately bordering the north of the survey area is designated as a Local Wildlife Site (LWS). Bailey Brook Extension, an area of lowland swamp is listed as a potential LWS (pLWS) and is situated on the north side of Bailey Brook, 10m north of the survey area at its closest point. Neither of these sites are expected to be affected by the proposals. Bailey Brook which runs along the northern boundary of the site was considered to have the potential to support water vole and indeed a number of recent records exist for the watercourse. The banks were also considered to have the potential to support nesting kingfisher. The mature ash tree within the farmyard was noted to have features with the potential to support roosting bats. The trees, scrub, hedgerows and farm buildings within the survey area provide bird nesting habitat. Habitats such as the hedgerows and the wet woodland were considered to provide potential terrestrial habitat for amphibians including the specially protected great crested newt.
Conclusions The main potential impact of the proposed works is considered to be disturbance to Bailey Brook, loss of grassland habitat, hedgerows and mature broadleaved trees, as well as potential disturbance to bats, water vole, great crested newt and nesting birds.
Recommendations
Mitigation Please refer to Sections 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3 of the report for more detailed recommendations. Vegetation removal should be kept to a minimum and carried out outside of the bird breeding season which runs from March to September inclusive. All trees and hedgerows should be retained where possible. Environment Agency Guidelines for working within the vicinity of a watercourse (eg Pollution Prevention Guidance Note 5 ‘Construction within and adjacent to watercourses’) should be adhered to for works within the vicinity of Baileys Brook and the additional watercourse to the west. As badgers in the locality may use the survey area to forage, good working practices should be adhered to.
Compensation A landscaping scheme should be considered for the development which could include open grassland areas and native shrub borders. The landscaping scheme should also include planting of trees and retention of hedgerows where possible.
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The management of grassland areas within the landscaping scheme could include areas that are less intensively managed to ensure that there is no loss of sheltering habitat for faunal species.
Management of the woodland (Bailey Brook Marsh LWS) should aim to encourage a diverse range of structure and native species. Coppicing and/or pollarding of willow trees should be considered. Standing or fallen dead wood should be left in place wherever possible. In order to restrict access and hence protect the ground flora, the area should be fenced and footpaths created. To further enhance the woodland, supplementary habitat should be offered including bird, bat and insect nest boxes. A long-term management plan should be produced for the woodland.
Further Survey As two ponds and an area of wetland lie within close vicinity of the survey area (approximately 25m away, immediately to the north of Bailey Brook; and 370m to the east, respectively) and as the survey area comprises habitats suitable for sheltering and foraging great crested newt, it is recommended that habitat assessments for great crested newt are carried out of these waterbodies. If it does become necessary to remove the mature ash in the farmyard, then an inspection of the features identified for any evidence of bats will be required prior to removal. As the proposed development is likely to affect the banks of the two water courses bordering the site, then further survey for water vole will be required. As the banks of Bailey Brook are considered suitable for nesting kingfisher, a thorough search for nest holes should be carried out. If it is necessary to carry out any vegetation removal or demolition of the farm buildings during the bird nesting season then a nesting bird survey must be carried out by a qualified ecologist immediately prior to removal.
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 This report has been prepared by EMEC Ecology for Paul Gaughan Building Consultants. It provides the details of a desk study and an ecological walk-over survey of an area of land off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire, which is proposed for residential development.
1.2 The area of land where the works are proposed is centred on grid reference SK 433 472 on the northern outskirts of the town of Heanor. The location of the site is shown on Figure 1 in Appendix 1.
1.3 Up to date plans for the proposals are not yet available. However, it is currently expected that the development will not affect the area of wet woodland at the north-west of the site, adjacent to Bailey Brook. It is envisaged that this area will be managed as a wildlife area.
1.4 EMEC Ecology’s brief was to identify potential ecological issues associated with the works and make recommendations for general mitigation, compensation and further surveys, as appropriate.
1.5 To meet the requirements of the brief, a desk study and an ecological walk-over survey of the site was carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist.
2. SITE DESCRIPTION
2.1 Photographs of the site are provided in within the text. The site comprises cattle grazed grassland fields separated and bordered by hedgerows and stock fences. There are a large number of fruit trees within the central section of the site as well some scattered scrub.
2.2 Bailey Brook runs along the northern boundary of the landholding and a further small stream runs along the western border.
2.3 To the north and east of the site lies grassland and woodland which have been created on an area formerly used for opencast mining. To the south and west residential and industrial areas occur.
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3. METHODOLOGY
3.1 Desk Study
This involved consultation to obtain any existing records of protected and/or notable species and designated nature conservation sites e.g. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) from the site to a distance of approximately 2km (this will be referred to as the ‘study area’). The following organisations were contacted:
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (Magic web site for statutory nature conservation sites). National Biodiversity Network (nbn web site for protected species distribution).
3.2 Ecological Survey
3.2.1 Ecological Walk-over Survey An ecological walk-over survey of the site was conducted and notes were made on the Phase-1 habitat types present (JNCC 2010) and their suitability for protected species. Target notes were used to record any habitats or features of particular interest and any sightings, signs or evidence of protected or notable faunal species or any potential habitat for such species, as detailed below:
The suitability of habitats for badgers (Meles meles) was recorded and any evidence of badgers including setts, dung pits, badger paths, hairs, bedding, footprints and scratching trees was noted.
Trees with features suitable for roosting bats were noted, such as hollows, cracks and cavities within trunks and branches (e.g. old woodpecker holes), crevices behind loose bark and ivy growth.
The suitability of habitats was assessed for amphibians (including great crested newt Triturus cristatus) and reptiles.
The suitability of habitats was assessed for water vole (Arvicola amphibius) and native white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes).
The suitability of habitats was assessed for nesting birds.
3.2.3 Survey Details EMEC Ecology carried out the above surveys on 8th March 2013.
3.2.4 Survey Limitations Surveying in early March is not an ideal time to carry out a habitat survey as it is outside of the plant growing season (i.e. April-September inclusive) when plants may not be readily apparent and many faunal species are less active/dormant. However, vegetative growth including seed heads are generally still visible and can be identified by an experienced surveyor and used to make reliable judgements about the quality and composition of habitats.
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Only a brief assessment of the site was made and no systematic surveys to establish the presence/absence of protected species were undertaken. As such, a lack of evidence of a protected species does not necessarily indicate an absence of the species. It should be noted that a single visit to a site at any time of year is likely to miss a proportion of the plant species present.
3.3 Ecological Evaluation Criteria
Ecological evaluation was undertaken using a combination of evaluation criteria for both habitats and species although the general framework follows that provided by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM 2006). Key categories are as follows: International value (internationally designated sites or sites supporting populations of internationally important species);
National value (nationally designated sites (e.g. SSSI) or sites supporting viable populations of nationally important species);
Regional value (sites exceeding county-level designations but not meeting SSSI criteria or supporting viable populations of species on the regional Biodiversity Action Plan, BAP);
County value (county sites (e.g. Local Wildlife Site) and other sites which meet the published ecological selection criteria for county designation, a viable area of habitat identified on the county BAP);
District value (sites/features that are scarce within the District and appreciably enrich the District’s habitat resource);
Parish value (areas of habitat considered to appreciably enrich the habitat resource within the context of a parish or neighbourhood);
Sub-parish value (common, low grade habitats).
Additional criteria employed were from the following: Schedules and Annexes of UK and European wildlife legislation (e.g. Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended);
International conventions on wildlife (e.g. Bern Convention, Bonn convention);
Habitats and Species of Principal Biological Importance listed on Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006);
UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP 2007);
County Biodiversity Action Plan (Lowland Derbyshire Biodiversity Partnership 2011);
Taxa-specific conservation lists (e.g. RSPB Lists of species of conservation concern, RSPB 2009).
3.4 Mitigation Measures
Wherever possible, mitigation measures have been proposed for adverse ecological effects.
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4. RESULTS
4.1 Desk Study1
4.1.1 Designated Nature Conservation Sites a) Statutory Sites There are no statutory nature conservation sites (i.e. SSSI) within the study area. b) Non-statutory Sites The area of secondary broadleaved wet woodland (namely, Bailey Brook Marsh) immediately bordering the north of the survey area is designated as a Local Wildlife Site (LWS). LWSs are a non-statutory designation used to identify high quality sites at a County level. It does not consign any legal restrictions; however, it is a material consideration in the planning process. There is one further non-statutory site within 1km of the survey area, Red River Local Nature Reserve (LNR), which is situated 750m west.
In addition, there is one potential LWS (pLWS) within the study area; these are sites that have been identified as having conservation interest, but where that interest has not been fully assessed against the LWS selection guidance. Bailey Brook Extension, an area of lowland swamp is situated on the north side of Bailey Brook, 10m north of the survey area at its closest point.
4.1.2 Protected/notable Floral Species Those records closest to the survey area are detailed in Table 4.1 below.
Table 4.1: Notable Floral Species within the Study Area
Species Details Location and Approximate Distance Legislation / From the Survey Area Conservation Status Floral Species Grass vetchling Record from SK 439 473; approximately 500m south- Locally rare (Lathyrus 2000 east. (DRDB) plant nissolia) species Large-flowered Record from Record is for SK 44 66; at least 550m to Nationally hemp nettle 1998 the north-west of the survey area. threatened (DRDB) (Galeopsis plant species speciosa)
4.1.3 Protected/notable Faunal Species There is one previous bat roost record from within or immediately adjacent to the survey area and numerous records of water vole from Bailey Brook which borders the survey area to the north. In addition, there are records of great crested newt, badger, bats and water vole from within the study area (see Table 4.2 below). Protected species legislation details are provided in Appendix 2.
There are also two notable records of dingy skipper (Erynnis tages) from an area of grassland adjacent to the survey area; these are detailed in Table 4.3 below.
1 A copy of the full desk study data is provided in Appendix 4.
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Table 4.2: Protected Faunal Species within the Study Area
Species Record and Location and Approximate Distance Legislation / Year from Survey Area Conservation Status Great Crested Newt Great crested Several Closest records are from the Red River Fully protected under newt records from LNR in Loscoe, 750m to the west. UK and European (Triturus 2001-2007 legislation. cristatus) UK and County BAP Priority Species. Mammals Badger (Meles One record Due to the sensitive nature of such Protection of Badgers meles) from 2007 records the exact grid references are not Act 1992. given. The closest record is from 950m to the north-east. Water vole Numerous SK 430 470 and SK 440 472, within Fully protected under (Arvicola records from Bailey Brook which borders the survey UK Legislation. amphibius) 2003 and a area to the north. UK Priority and single record Additional records from the River Lowland Derbyshire from 2007 Erewash; 1.7km east. BAP Species. Bats Unidentified Roost record SK 435 473; record in house on Fall Fully protected under bat from 2009 Road, adjacent to the survey area. UK and European Pipistrelle bat Roost records The closest record is from SK 434 468, legislation. (Pipistrellus spp.) from 1996- Hunt Avenue, Heanor; 350m south. 2007 Brown long- Roost record SK 435 475, Alder Lane, Alder Car; 200m eared (Plecotus from 1995 north. auritus) Reptiles Common lizard Two records SK 449 466; Amber Drive, Langley Mill; Partially protected (Lacerta vivipara) from 2007 1.5km south-east. under UK legislation. and 2009 SK 442 457; Heanor Fields; 1.7km south- UK BAP and LBAP east. Priority species. Grass snake Numerous Closest record from SK 422 473; (Natrix natrix) records from Flamstead Avenue, Loscoe; 900m north- 1996 to 2011 west.
Table 4.3: Notable Faunal Species within the Study Area
Species Details Location and Approximate Distance Legislation / From the Survey Area Conservation Status Dingy skipper Two records SK 438 471; Heanor/Loscoe tip, and area UK and County BAP (Erynnis tages) from 2009 of grassland adjacent to the survey area. species. and 2010
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4.2 Ecological Walk-over Survey
4.2.1 Habitat Types The following Phase-1 habitat types were recorded (on and immediately adjacent to the site):
Bare ground Building Hardstanding Improved grassland Running water Scattered broadleaved tree Scattered scrub Species-poor hedgerow
Habitat and target notes descriptions are provided below. Nomenclature follows that of Stace (1997). In the text species are referred to using their English names, Appendix 3 provides a list of species including their scientific names.
4.2.2 Habitat Descriptions a) Bareground Much of the farmyard area comprised of bare earth with very little vegetation, although a small area of improved grassland and scattered scrub was also present in the farmyard. b) Building A number of farm buildings occur within the farmyard area. These are generally in poor condition and comprise a series of timber framed open-fronted barns. All have asbestos/steel panel roofs and timber walls and are very open and exposed.
c) Hardstanding A small area of hardstanding occurred to the south of the site, used as a parking area.
10 Prepared by EMEC Ecology Tel: 0115 964 4828 Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire Ecological Walk-over Survey d) Improved grassland The majority of the site comprised cattle-grazed pasture. All fields showed similar characteristics, although the northern, lower-lying section of the site, close to Bailey Brook, showed wetter characteristics and a slight increase in species richness.
Species recorded in the grassland included perennial ryegrass, red fescue, Yorkshire fog, cock’s-foot, smooth meadow grass, dandelion, creeping buttercup, meadow buttercup, white clover, daisy, ribwort plantain, greater plantain. Occasional common mouse-ear, broadleaved dock, white dead-nettle, creeping thistle and common nettle were also noted. Soft rush was recorded regularly in the low-lying sections.
An access track leading from the south-west of the site, onto Fall Road, also supported species-poor grassland. Species recorded here included red fescue, Yorkshire fog, cock’s- foot, cow parsley, white dead nettle and field forget-me-not.
Improved grassland covering the majority of the survey area e) Running water Bailey Brook ran along the northern boundary of the site. In the north-west section, the brook was separated from the site boundary by an area of wet woodland comprising crack willow and occasional silver birch. At the north-east of the site, the brook immediately bordered the proposed development site.
The watercourse was up to approximately 3m wide and the water at the time of the survey was very turbid and estimated to be up to 1m deep. The banks were steep and sparsely vegetated due to recent scrub removal. Vegetation recorded on the banks included scrub such as hawthorn, and crack willow with occasional alder, goat willow and bramble, as well as cow parsley, false oat-grass and cock’s-foot. Little aquatic or marginal vegetation was noted in this section of the brook other than very occasional brooklime and soft rush.
A further stream ran along the western site boundary. This measured up to 2m wide and up to 60cm deep. The banks were bordered by scattered broadleaved trees and scrub. The water was extremely turbid and no aquatic or marginal vegetation was recorded.
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Bailey Brook
f) Scattered broadleaved tree A large number of broadleaved trees occurred on the site. Many of these were concentrated within the central northern section of the site. A variety of fruit trees were present in this area, including apple, pear and plum. All of these trees were mature, with a number showing signs of dying.
Other scattered trees recorded within the site included ash, sycamore and pedunculate oak. The majority of these were situated within the hedgerows and along the fencelines.
Mature fruit trees in the centre of the site
12 Prepared by EMEC Ecology Tel: 0115 964 4828 Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire Ecological Walk-over Survey g) Scattered scrub Scrub including hawthorn and occasional bramble was present in the site, particularly in the central section of the site, where the fruit trees occurred. A number of large, mature hawthorn bushes (up to 8m high) were present along the fence-line in this area.
Further scattered scrub was noted along the access track in the south-west. Hawthorn, bramble, laurel and immature ash were recorded. h) Species-poor hedgerow Species-poor hedgerows bordered part of the site to the east and west and further hedgerows separated fields within the site. A hedgerow also boarded the eastern side of the access track.
Hedgerows were dominated by hawthorn and generally not well-managed, being spindly, gappy and reaching up to 8m high. Other species recorded within the hedgerows included elder and occasional ash, holly and dog rose. The hedgerow on the southern border also comprised crack willow, goat willow and occasional alder, many of which were semi-mature to mature.
The ground floras were comprised of bare ground, ivy, cow parsley and common nettle. e) Adjacent Habitats An area of sparse wet woodland occurred to the north of the site boundary. This was dominated by crack willow with occasional goat willow, silver birch, alder and hawthorn. Management including thinning and pruning had recently been carried out in this area.
Wet woodland to the north of the survey area
A further area of improved grassland (also grazed by cattle) occurred to the west of the surveyed area. The grassland was of a similar composition to that within the site. Several immature to mature pedunculate oak trees also occurred within this area.
These areas were not included within the survey as they are not expected to be affected by the proposed development.
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4.2.3 Target Notes The locations of target notes are shown on Figure 2 in Appendix 1.
1) Mature ash tree with features potentially suitable for bat roosting. 2) Bailey Brook identified as having the potential to support water vole.
4.2.4 Faunal Species a) Amphibians No breeding habitat for amphibians, such as ponds or standing water, was present within the survey area, although currently, due to recent heavy precipitation, a few shallow areas of standing water occur in the wet woodland to the north. In addition, two large ponds occur immediately to the north of Bailey Brook as well as a further wetland area 370m to the east. The wet woodland provided sheltering opportunities, including the timber piles which have been left in place following thinning operations and the hedgerows within and bordering the site provided shelter and foraging opportunities. b) Badger No evidence of badger sett-digging was found within or immediately adjacent to the surveyed area. The habitats on site, particularly the grassland and hedgerows provided foraging opportunity as did the adjacent wet woodland. c) Bats
Buildings The only buildings within the site were the farm buildings (described previously). All of these were considered sub-optimal for use by roosting bats, as the roofs were unlined, well-lit by natural light and exposed. The asbestos and steel panel roofs lacked suitable refuges for bats to use.
Trees The mature ash tree in the farm yard was noted to have features with bat roost potential. These included two rot holes in the main trunk at approximately 6m.
Cavities in the ash tree, considered to have potential for roosting bats
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The mature fruit trees in the centre of the site and along the central fence line were noted to have minor areas of flaking bark but these were shallow and not considered suitable for bat roosting.
The hedgerows provided foraging opportunities and commuting routes between the brook at the north of the site and the residential area to the south. d) Nesting Birds The hedgerows, scattered trees and scrub and the farm buildings provided potential for nesting birds. The steep banks of Bailey Brook were also considered to provide a suitable potential nest site for kingfisher (Alcedo atthis). e) Reptiles The site generally provided poor potential habitat for reptile species; however Bailey Brook and the additional watercourse on the western boundary provided a potential dispersal route for grass snake and the hedgerows provided limited shelter. The adjacent wet woodland provided potential foraging and sheltering habitat. f) Water Vole The banks of Baileys Brook to the north of the development site and the additional watercourse on the western boundary were considered to provide potential burrowing habitat for water vole. In addition, a network of further ditches and dykes occurred within the vicinity of the survey area, which may also provide potential habitat for this species, as well as dispersal routes. g) White-clawed Crayfish The two watercourses on the northern and western boundaries were noted to have generally muddy substrates with few potential refuges for white-clawed crayfish.
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5. EVALUATION
5.1 Designated Nature Conservation Sites
The area of secondary broadleaved wet woodland (namely, Bailey Brook Marsh) immediately bordering the north of the survey area is designated as an LWS. It is envisaged, however, that this area will not be affected by the development proposals but will be managed as a wildlife area. In addition, Bailey Brook Extension, on the north side of Bailey Brook is listed as a pLWS. As neither of these sites are to be affected by the proposed development, no further survey is recommended at this time. However, if plans change and it does become necessary to disturb the woodland area to the north, further survey will be necessary.
5.2 Habitats
The evaluation of the habitats on the site is based on the guidelines from IEEM (IEEM 2006) and is summarised in Table 5.1 below. As indicated the site comprises of habitats ranging from moderate (‘Parish’) to low (‘Sub-parish’) value (IEEM 2006). No rare or notable habitats are present on the site and no habitats are considered to be Habitats of Principal Biological Importance on Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 or Priority Habitats on the national BAP (UK BAP 2007).
Table 5.1: Summary of Ecological Evaluation of the Habitats on the Site
Habitat Reason for Valuation Parish Value Hedgerow (species- Contains a limited number of woody species and no characteristic ground flora. poor) It would not qualify as ‘important’ (using ecological criteria) under the Hedgerow Regulations (1997). However, all hedgerows are of ecological value and provide ‘ecological corridors’ along which plants and animals can disperse. They provide potential bird nesting habitat, bat foraging and commuting routes, amphibian sheltering opportunities as well as foraging for badger. Running water Bailey Brook and the additional watercourse on the western boundary provide an ecological corridor along which plants and animals can disperse. They also provide potential habitat for water vole and nesting kingfisher. Scattered broadleaved All broadleaved trees provide bird nesting habitat. The mature ash within the trees farmyard was noted to provide features with potential bat roosting opportunities. Sub-Parish Value Bareground The bareground within the farmyard provides extremely limited ecological value due to regular disturbance. Building The farm buildings were in poor condition, being open-fronted and exposed. They offered extremely limited opportunities for bats. Although no old nests were noted, they may offer potential for nesting birds. Hardstanding Man-made habitat that is unlikely to provide opportunities for protected/notable faunal species. Improved grassland The grassland is species-poor and comprises common species. It provides potential opportunity for foraging badger. Scattered scrub Botanically species-poor and limited in extent. However, provides potential bird nesting habitat.
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5.3 Protected/notable Species2
5.3.1 Floral Species None of the species recorded during the survey are specifically protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended) or considered rare nationally or locally (e.g. Preston et al. 2002). Also, none are listed as Priority Species on the national BAP (UK BAP 2007) or county BAP (Lowland Derbyshire Biodiversity Partnership 2011).
5.3.2 Faunal Species a) Amphibians No potential breeding habitat for great crested newt is present within the survey area. However, two ponds occur immediately to the north of Bailey Brook, on an area of former colliery spoil (Bailey Brook Extension pLWS) and a further wetland area is present approximately 370m to the east of the site boundary. In addition, records of great crested newt exist for 750m to the east (Red River Nature Reserve). The wet woodland to the north of the survey area, as well as the hedgerows within the site are considered to provide sheltering opportunities. It is therefore recommended that habitat assessments of the ponds immediately to the north of Bailey Brook as well as the wetland 370m to the east are carried out prior to any works going ahead (further details are provided in Section 6.1.2).
If common amphibian species such as common toad (Bufo bufo) or common frog (Rana temporaria) are found during works, they should be carefully moved to adjacent habitat away from the construction zone. b) Badger Although no evidence of badger was found within the survey area, the wet woodland to the north as well as the hedgerows may provide potential foraging habitat for badgers. Although considered unlikely due to a lack of records within close vicinity, it is possible that badgers in the locality may use the survey area to forage and therefore, good working practices should be adhered to (see Section 6.1.2). c) Bats The farm buildings were considered to be unsuitable for bat use due to their open- fronted exposed nature and lack of suitable refuges.
The mature ash tree in the farmyard (Target Note 1) was noted to have features with the potential to support roosting bats. In addition, the hedgerows within and bordering the site provided commuting routes and the habitats surrounding the site, particularly the running water and the hedgerows and woodland bordering the brooks provided potential foraging habitat for bats. If it is considered necessary to remove the ash tree (Target Note 1), then a further survey will be necessary in order to fully investigate the potential of the features identified for bats.
No other mature trees, such as the oak trees adjacent to the western site boundary are expected to be affected by the proposed development.
2 Protected species legislation is provided in Appendix 2.
17 Prepared by EMEC Ecology Tel: 0115 964 4828 Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire Ecological Walk-over Survey d) Nesting Birds The vertical, sparsely vegetated banks of Bailey Brook are considered suitable for nesting kingfisher, a Schedule 1 species. Birds listed under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 (as amended) are afforded additional protection, which makes it an offence to disturb a bird while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird. It is therefore considered necessary that a thorough search for nest holes along the banks is carried out prior to works going ahead (see Section 6.3.1 for details).
In addition, a variety of farmland, garden and predatory bird species are likely to breed on the site. As the site provides nesting habitat for birds, any tree or shrub removal required would be constrained by the bird breeding season, which runs from March to September inclusive (see Section 6.1.2).
Although the barns were not currently noted to support old bird nests, the buildings are considered to provide limited nesting potential and should therefore also be removed outside of the breeding season. e) Reptiles The site generally provides poor potential habitat and due to the nature and extent of the works, i.e. generally limited to improved grassland, and as the closest record for a reptile is 900m away, their presence on site is considered unlikely. No further survey work or mitigation is recommended. f) Water Vole The banks of Bailey Brook to the north of the development site and the additional watercourse on the western boundary are considered to provide potential burrowing habitat for water vole. A network of further ditches and dykes occur within the vicinity of which may also provide potential habitat for this species, as well as dispersal routes. Indeed, a number of records of the species exist for Bailey Brook.
Although no up to date plans are currently available for the proposed development, it is likely that the banks of Bailey Brook and the watercourse to the west will be affected. If a number of houses are to be built in the vicinity of the ditch then potential disturbance to water vole (if currently present) is likely, due to increased activity in the area from residents of the new development and potentially their pets, i.e. cats. It is therefore recommended that a water vole survey of the two watercourses is carried out prior to works commencing. g) White-clawed Crayfish The two water courses were noted to comprise muddy clay substrates, with few potentially suitable refuges for white-clawed crayfish. No records of the species exist for the area. It is therefore not considered necessary to carry out further survey for white- clawed crayfish at this time.
5.4 Summary of Main Potential Ecological Issues
The main potential impact of the proposed works is considered to be disturbance to Bailey Brook, loss of grassland habitat, hedgerows and mature broadleaved trees, as well as potential disturbance to bats, water vole and nesting birds.
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6. MITIGATION, COMPENSATION & FURTHER SURVEY RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 Mitigation Recommendations
6.1.1 Habitats
i. Vegetation clearance (including grassland, hedgerows, trees and scrub) should be kept to a minimum. This could include areas of grassland being incorporated into a landscaping scheme in the new development.
ii. All trees and hedgerows should be retained where possible and incorporated into a landscaping scheme (see Section 6.2).
iii. Environment Agency guidelines for working within the vicinity of a watercourse (e.g. Pollution Prevention Guidance Note 5 ‘Construction within and adjacent to watercourses’) should be adhered to for works within the vicinity of Baileys Brook and the additional watercourse to the west.
6.1.2 Faunal Species a) Amphibians Two ponds as well as an area of wetland lie within close vicinity of the survey area (approximately 25m away, immediately to the north of Bailey Brook; and 370m to the east, respectively). As the survey area comprises habitats suitable for sheltering and foraging great crested newt, it is recommended that habitat assessments for great crested newt are carried out of the waterbodies. b) Badgers Best practice includes capping off at night any pipes over 200mm diameter, to prevent badgers of other animals entering; and placing ramps or scaffold boards or leaving sloping ends in any trenches to ensure animals that fall in can escape. b) Nesting Birds As the banks of Bailey Brook are considered to provide potential for nesting kingfisher, a survey for nest holes should be carried out prior to works.
Any vegetation clearance including tree, shrub or hedgerow removal, as well as demolition of farm buildings, should be timed to avoid the bird breeding season, which runs from March to September (inclusive). This is to avoid adverse impacts to any nests present. If it is necessary to carry out the work during the breeding season, then a survey must be carried out by a qualified ecologist prior to works going ahead to ensure that no active nests will be affected. If active nests were found then work would have to be delayed until all chicks had fledged. c) Water Vole The banks of the two water courses bordering the site have been identified as having the potential to support water vole. In addition, a number of recent records of the species exist for the water course. Therefore, further survey will be necessary in order to inform mitigation with regards to water vole.
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6.2 Compensation Recommendations
6.2.1 Habitats A landscaping scheme should be considered for the development which could include open grassland areas and native shrub borders. Grassland areas could be sown with species-rich grassland seed mix of native local origin. The landscaping scheme should also include planting of trees and retention of hedgerows where possible. Inclusion of species-rich grassland, as well as trees, shrubs and hedgerows within the new development will potentially provide habitat for a variety of faunal and floral species. Ideally, the management of grassland areas within the landscaping scheme could include areas that are less intensively managed to ensure that there is no loss of sheltering habitat for faunal species. This could be carried out in areas where disturbance is likely to be less frequent such as in the site boundaries (i.e. a 2m buffer around the site perimeter) to reduce the disturbance to the habitat. These buffers should be mown once annually, ideally in September with all cuttings removed to reduce nutrient enrichment.
Such site enhancements should be viewed positively in respect to government planning policy in regard to biological and geological conservation as outlined in Chapter 11 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The NPPF states that impacts on biodiversity should be minimised and, where possible, net gains should be provided. This includes, but is not restricted to “promoting the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species populations, linked to national and local targets”.
6.2.2 Wet Woodland It is expected that the wet woodland to the north of the survey area (Bailey Brook Marsh LWS) will be managed as a wildlife area. Management of the woodland should aim to encourage a diverse range of structure and native species. Coppicing can be used as a method to increase diversity, or willows can be pollarded (pruning the upper branches, usually every two or three years) to increase the levels of light reaching the ground in denser areas. Standing or fallen dead wood should be left in place wherever possible as this provides habitat for insects, small mammals and amphibians. In order to restrict access and hence protect the ground flora, the area should be fenced and footpaths created. To further enhance the woodland, supplementary habitat should be offered including bird, bat and insect nest boxes.
A long-term management plan should be produced for the woodland.
6.3 Further Survey Recommendations
6.3.1 Amphibians The habitat assessment for great crested newts will involve surveyors undertaking an assessment of the suitability of the ponds and wetland area to support the species. The ponds and wetland are identified on the diagram overleaf. This assessment will consider habitat features, including pond size, water quality and occurrence of fish. Should any pond be considered suitable for breeding great crested newts, further survey work may be required during the spring 2013 to confirm presence or absence.
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Wetland area to be assessed Ponds to be assessed
Survey area
6.3.2 Bats If it does become necessary to remove the mature ash tree in the farmyard, then a thorough search of the features identified on the tree for any evidence of bat use should be carried out prior to the felling of the trees. This will involve using a ladder, an endoscope and a high-powered torch to assess the features. If evidence of bats is found or the potential presence of bats cannot be ruled out, then evening emergence or dawn swarming surveys, using electronic bat detectors may be required to further assess the extent of bat use. Activity surveys can only be carried out during the bat activity season (May to September inclusive).
6.3.3 Nesting Birds As the banks of Bailey Brook are considered suitable for nesting kingfisher, it is recommended that a thorough search for nest holes is carried out. This can be undertaken along with the recommended water vole survey.
If it is necessary to carry out any vegetation removal or demolition of the farm buildings during the bird nesting season (March to September inclusive) then a nesting bird survey must be carried out immediately prior to removal. This should be carried out by a qualified ecologist immediately prior to works going ahead to ensure that no active nests will be affected. If active nests are found then work would have to be delayed until all chicks had fledged.
6.3.4 Water Vole As the proposed development is likely to affect the banks of the two water courses bordering the site, then further survey for water vole. The water vole survey will record the following signs: burrows, latrines, feeding remains, runs in the vegetation, grazed ‘lawns’ and actual sightings. The ideal time to carry out the survey is during the water vole breeding season which runs from late March to October. Whilst water voles are breeding they are highly active and mark their territory with conspicuous piles of droppings, called latrines.
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REFERENCES Beebee T and Griffiths R 2000 Amphibians and Reptiles, a Natural History of the British Herpeotfauna. ISBN 000 220083 8
Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans and Gregory RD (2009): Birds of Conservation Concern 3: The Populations Status of Birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle Man. British Birds 102, pp296-341
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management 2006 Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment. IEEM.
JNCC 2010 Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: a technique for environmental audit. JNCC, Peterborough.
Lowland Derbyshire Biodiversity Partnership 2011 Lowland Derbyshire Biodiversity Action Plan 2011-2020. Available: www.derbyshirebiodiversity.org.uk
Preston, C. D., Pearman, D. A. & Dines, T. D. 2002 New Atlas of the British and Irish Flora. University Press, Oxford.
Stace, C. 1997 New Flora of the British Isles. University Press, Cambridge.
WEBSITES
MAGIC Site Check Report Available: www.magic.gov.uk
National Biodiversity Network (nbn) Available: www.nbn.org.uk
UK BAP 2007 Available: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=5705
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APPENDIX 1: FIGURES Figure 1: Site Location Plan
© Crown copyright and database rights 2012 Ordnance Survey
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Figure 2: Survey Area, Survey Features and Target Notes
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APPENDIX 2: PROTECTED SPECIES LEGISLATION
Plants All wild plants are protected against unauthorised removal or uprooting under Section 13 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended). Plants listed on Schedule 8 of the Act (e.g. triangular club rush and Deptford Pink) are afforded additional protection against picking, uprooting, destruction and sale.
Amphibians (Common Species) Common amphibian species (i.e. common frog, common toad, smooth newt and palmate newt) are afforded partial legal protection under UK legislation, i.e. Schedule 5, Section 9 (5) of the WCA 1981 (as amended) and the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000. This legislation prohibits:
Sale; Transportation; and Advertising for sale.
Badger Badger is a widespread and generally common species. However, they are legally protected under The Protection of Badgers Act 1992, which is based primarily on the need to protect badgers from baiting and deliberate harm or injury. Under this legislation it is illegal to:
Wilfully kill, injure, take, or cruelly ill-treat a badger, or attempt to do so; Possess any dead badger or any part of, or anything derived from, a dead badger; and Intentionally or recklessly interfere with a sett by disturbing badgers whilst they are occupying a sett, damaging or destroying a sett, causing a dog to enter a sett, or obstructing access to it. A badger sett is defined in the legislation as “any structure or place, which displays signs indicating current use by a badger”.
Bats All bat species are afforded full protection under UK and European legislation, including the WCA 1981 (as amended), the CRoW Act 2000 and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). Together, this legislation makes it illegal to: Intentionally or deliberately take, kill or injure a bat; Damage, destroy or obstruct access to bat roosts; and Deliberately disturb bats. A bat roost is defined in the legislation as “any structure or place which a bat uses for shelter or protection”. Roosts are protected whether or not bats are present at the time. If a development activity is likely to result in disturbance or killing of a bat, damage to its habitat or any of the other activities listed above, then a licence will usually be required from Natural England.
Birds The bird breeding season generally lasts from early March to September for most species. All birds are protected under the WCA 1981 (as amended) and the CRoW Act 2000. This legislation makes it illegal, both intentionally and recklessly to:
Kill, injure or take any wild bird;
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Take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is being built or in use; Take or destroy the eggs of any wild bird; and Possess or control any wild bird or egg unless obtained legally. Birds listed under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 (as amended) are afforded additional protection, which makes it an offence to disturb a bird while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird.
Great crested newt Great crested newts and their habitat are afforded full protection under UK and European legislation, including the WCA 1981 (as amended), the CRoW Act 2000 and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). This makes it is an offence to kill, injure or disturb great crested newts and to destroy any place used for rest or shelter by a newt. The great crested newt is also listed on Annexes II and IV of the EC Habitats Directive and Appendix II of the Bern Convention. If a development activity is likely to result in disturbance or killing of a great crested newt, damage to its habitat etc, then a licence will usually be required from Natural England.
Reptiles There are six native species of reptiles in the UK, including slow-worm, common lizard, grass snake and adder, smooth snake and sand lizard, which are afforded varying degrees of protection under UK and European legislation.
Slow-worm, viviparous/common lizard, adder and grass snake are protected under Schedule 5, Section 9 (1 and 5) of the WCA 1981 (as amended) and the CRoW Act 2000 against deliberate or reckless killing and injuring and sale.
Water vole The water vole is fully protected under Schedule 5, Section 9 of the WCA 1981 (as amended), which makes it illegal to:
Intentionally kill, injure or take (capture) a water vole; Possess or control a live or dead water vole, or any part of a water vole; Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any structure or place which water voles use for shelter or protection or disturb water voles while they are using such a place; and Sell, offer for sale or advertise for live or dead water voles.
White-clawed crayfish White-clawed crayfish are partially protected under the WCA 1981 (as amended). This legislation makes it illegal to:
Intentionally take white-clawed crayfish Sell, barter or exchange white-clawed crayfish
They are also listed on Annex II of the EC Habitats and Species Directive and are classed as “endangered” by IUCN.
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APPENDIX 3: BOTANICAL SPECIES LIST
English Name Scientific Name Trees and Shrubs Alder Alnus glutinosa Ash Fraxinus excelsior Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Crack willow Salix fragilis Dog rose Rosa canina Elder Sambucus nigra Goat willow Salix caprea Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Holly Ilex aquifolium Laurel Prunus spp. Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Silver birch Betula pendula Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus Herbs Annual meadow grass Poa annua Broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius Brooklime Veronica beccabunga Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata Common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum Common nettle Urtica dioica Common ragwort Senecio jacobaea Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera Creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense Daisy Bellis perennis Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. False oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius Field forget-me-not Myosotis arvensis Greater plantain Plantago major Ivy Hedera helix Meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris Perennial rye-grass Lolium perenne Red fescue Festuca rubra Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata Soft rush Juncus effusus White clover Trifolium repens White dead-nettle Lamium album Wild teasel Dipsacus fullonum Yarrow Achillea millefolium Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus
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APPENDIX 4: DESK STUDY DATA
Great crested newt records
OS Grid Ref Location Date
SK44874677 Bailey Brook Industrial Estate 2000
SK42334742 Red River Nature Area, Loscoe 2001
SK423474 Red River Reserve, Loscoe 2003
SK423474 Red River LNR, Loscoe 2006
SK448467 Bailey Brook Industrial Estate, Amber Drive, Langley Mill 2007 SK423474 Red River LNR Loscoe 2007
Water vole records
OS Grid Ref Location Date
SK441470 Bailey Brook 2007
SK 4399 4723 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4401 4723 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4401 4723 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4403 4722 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4404 4721 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4405 4720 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4406 4718 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4407 4716 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4408 4716 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4411 4712 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4414 4709 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4416 4707 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4420 4703 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4426 4702 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4426 4703 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4428 4702 Bailey Brook 2003
SK 4490 4800 River Erewash 2000
SK 4300 4700 Bailey Brook Marsh 1997
SK 4400 4800 RIVER EREWASH (entire length) 1997
SK 4400 4900 RIVER EREWASH (entire length) 1997
SK 4500 4700 RIVER EREWASH (entire length) 1997
SK 4300 4700 Bailey Brook 1998
SK 4300 4700 Bailey Brook 1998
SK 4300 4700 Bailey Brook, Bailey Brook Marsh 1997
SK 4400 4800 Erewash 1997
SK 4400 4900 Erewash 1997
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Bat roost records
Species OS Grid Ref Location Date
Pipistrelle bat SK42064770 2 Egreaves Avenue, Loscoe 1994 Pipistrelle bat SK4346 76 Breach Road, Marpool 1986 Pipistrelle bat SK4346 36 Burns Street, Heanor 1986 Whiskered bat sk421477 64 Loscoe-Denby Lane, Loscoe 2005 Common pipistrelle bat SK434468 14 Hunt Avenue, Heanor 2007
Unidentified SK435473 54 Full Road 2009 Pipistrelle bat sk443466 56 Oaklands Aveue, Heanor 2006 Pipistrelle bat SK434453 80 Old Coppice Side, Marpool 2000 Brown Long-eared bat SK435475 1995 Pipistrelle bat SK419476 89 Flamstead Avenue, Loscoe 2000 Pipistrelle bat SK437469 18 Brocklands Avenue, Heanor 1996 Pipistrelle bat SK425461 10 Twyford Close, Heanor 2001 Pipistrelle bat SK4247 Factory Unit 4, 1988 Pipistrelle bat SK4346 36,Burns Street, Heanor 1988 Daubenton's bat SK450482 Aldercar Flashes, 1988 Unidentified SK4247 Loscoe 1989
Unidentified SK4548 31 Main Street, Brinsley 1984 Unidentified SK4548 145 Broad Lane, Brinsley 1985
common pipistrelle SK420477 2009
UK BAP Bird species
Species Location OS Grid Ref Date
Sturnus vulgaris Starling Bailey Brook Marsh SK43704743 1987 Carduelis cannabina Linnet Bailey Brook Marsh SK43704743 1987 Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Bailey Brook Marsh Acid Grassland SK442472 1987
Emberiza citrinella Yellowhammer Land adjacent to Adale Road, Smalley. SK420457 1999
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Land adjacent to Adale Road, Smalley. SK420457 1999
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush SK447460 2001
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush SK447464 2001
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Heanor SK443462 2002
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Heanor SK427465 2003
Parus montanus Willow Tit Bailey Brook Marsh SK440472 2003 Turdus philomelos Song Thrush SK434454 2006
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Heanor SK44144614 2007
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Langley Mill SK44734667 2007
Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Heanor SK434445 2006
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UK BAP Mammal species
Species Location OS Grid Ref Date
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Broadlinks Farm, Woodlinkin SK4349 2002 Lepus capensis Brown Hare Smalley SK415465 2004
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Shipley SK434453 2004
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Heanor SK425466 2004
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Heanor SK420466 2004
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Codnor SK434478 2005
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Loscoe SK423473 2005
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Heanor SK425456 2005
Lepus capensis Brown Hare Halmesworth Farm, Langley. SK447460 2001
UK BAP butterfly species (DWT records)
Location OS Grid Ref Date Species Erynnis tages Dingy Skipper Heanor/Loscoe Tip SK438471 2010 Erynnis tages Dingy Skipper Heanor/Loscoe Tip SK438471 2009
UK BAP reptile records
Location OS Grid Ref Date Species Natrix natrix Grass Snake Woodend Road, Heanor. SK4246 1978 Natrix natrix Grass Snake 163 Heanor Road, Smalley SK420460 1994
Natrix natrix Grass Snake Cromford Road Allotments, Langley Mill SK447480 1996
Natrix natrix Grass Snake 22 Banksburn Close, Heanor SK424462 1996 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Flamstead Avenue, Loscoe SK422475 1997 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Heanor, Holbrook Street SK443465 2001 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Ilkeston SK437456 2001
Natrix natrix Grass Snake Heanor SK447482 2004
Natrix natrix Grass Snake Langley Mill SK443479 2007
Lacerta vivipara Common Lizard Langley Mill Amber Drive Industrial Estate SK44974669 2007 Lacerta vivipara Common Lizard Heanor Fields behind Gillot Street SK44234570 2009 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Heanor Back garden, Gillot Street SK44194569 2009 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Heanor Fields behind Gillot Street SK44234570 2007 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Langley Mill Amber Drive Industrial Estate SK44954672 2007 Natrix natrix Grass Snake Erewash Meadows Reserve SK44724841 2011
Nationally Threatened (DRDB) plant species
Scientific Common Location OS Grid Ref Date
Galeopsis speciosa Large-flowered Hemp-nettle Langley Mill (monad) SK4446 1998
Potentilla argentea Hoary Cinquefoil Langley Mill Flash SK4447 1977
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Locally Scarce or Declining (DRDB) plant species
Scientific Common Location OS Grid Ref Date
Epilobium roseum Pale Willowherb Park Farm Aldercar, Wood No 1 SK439487 1977 Scirpus sylvaticus Wood Club-rush Between Loscoe and Crosshill SK424486 1978
Locally Rare (DRDB) plant species
Scientific Common Location OS Grid Ref Date
Lathyrus nissolia Grass Vetchling Heanor, former opencast workings near. SK439473 2000
Species recorded but not recognised as UK or LBAP Priority Biodiversity Species OS Grid Ref Location Date
Swift - breeding site SK433458 Stainsby Avenue, Heanor 2006
UK BAP habitats
lakes
lowland swamp and tall herb fen
semi natural grassland - see below traditional orchards
Ponds (not necessarily UK BAP habitat)
LNR
Red River
DWT Nature Reserve
Erewash Meadows
Local Wildlife Sites
Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature
AV116 12.8151 Secondary broad-leaved wet woodland
AV307 11.9388 Habitat mosaic
Ancient semi-natural woodland - mixed AV334 Hufton's Coppice 3.2275 deciduous
Amphibian population - great crested AV358 Red River LNR 1.6544 newt
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Potential Local Wildlife Sites (Potential Local Wildlife Sites are sites that have been identified as having nature conservation interest, but where that interest has not been fully assessed against the Wildlife Site Selection Guidelines.)
Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature
AV CWS Bailey Brook Extension 15.4162 Lowland Swamp
Semi natural grassland sites (regarded as Potential LWSs unless already designated as a LWS; not necessarily UK BAP habitat - may require survey)
Ref No Name Area (ha) UK/LBAP Ecological feature Semi-improved neutral AV116 Bailey Marsh 4.494 needs survey grassland Semi-improved neutral AV Grassland Hardy Barn Ridge and Furrow 2.195 needs survey grassland
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QUALITY ASSURANCE:
TITLE: Land Situated off Fall Road in Heanor, Derbyshire: Ecological Walk-over Survey
SUBMITTED TO: Paul Gaughan Building Consultants
ISSUE AND REVISION RECORD:
Contract Number: ZJ/13/3555/01
Revision Number: 1
Description: Final Report
Date: 19th March 2013
AUTHOR
Name: Zoë Jackson MSc GradIEEM Signed:
INTERNAL REVIEWER
Name: Steve Ralph MSc MIEEM Signed:
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