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Sheldon Field

Acknowledgements

Rushcliffe Borough Council and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust would like to thank the many organisations and individuals who were involved in the development of this management plan

For further information about this site and it’s management please contact:

The Sheldon Field Management Committee

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CONTENTS:

PART 1: SITE DESCRIPTION ...... 4 1.1 Location...... 4 1.2 Map Coverage ...... 4 1.3 Size...... 4 1.4 Ownership/Tenure...... 4 1.5 Local Planning Authority ...... 4 1.6 Soil and geology ...... … 4 1.7 Aspect, topography and altitude...... 5 1.8 Statutory Designations…...... 5 1.9 Non-statutory Designations ...... 5 1.10 Access...... 5 1.11 Surrounding Land use...... 5 1.12 Summary of Resource ...... 5

PART 2: EVALUATION & OBJECTIVES...... 7 2.1 Evaluation of site features (Ratcliffe’s Criteria)...... 7 2.1.1 Size ...... 7 2.1.2 Diversity ...... 7 2.1.3 Naturalness ...... 9 2.1.4 Rarity...... 9 2.1.5 Fragility ...... 9 2.1.6 Typicalness...... 9 2.1.7 Position in an ecological/ geographical unit...... 9 2.1.8 Potential value ...... 9 2.1.9 Intrinsic appeal ...... 10 2.1.10 Recorded History...... 10 2.2 Objectives...... 12 2.3 Factors affecting Management ...... 12 2.4 Management Proposals...... 13

PART 3: MANAGEMENT DETAILS 3.1 Management Projects & Prescriptions...... 15 3.2 Five Year Work Plans...... 17 3.3 Annual Work Plans ...... 18

APPENDICES:

Appendix 1 Site Location Map Appendix 2 Compartment Map Appendix 3 Botanical List Appendix 4 Sheldon Field Invertebrate List

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PART 1 SITE DESCRIPTION

1.1 LOCATION

Sheldon Field is located off Main Street in the village of Cropwell Butler, Near Bingham, Nottinghamshire.

1.2 MAP COVERAGE

Sheldon Field can be found on Ordnance Survey Maps: At grid reference SK 686 372 (centre of site). • Land ranger (1:50,000) sheet 129 • Explorer (1:25,000) sheet 260

See Appendix 1 for map of location.

1.3 SIZE

The site is 4.4 hectares (10.7 acres) in size.

1.4 OWNERSHIP/TENURE

The site is solely owned by National Playing Fields Association and run as a Charitable Trust by The Sheldon Field Management Committee made up from locally elected representatives of the villages of Cropwell Butler and Tithby.

1.5 LOCAL PLANNING AUTHORITY

The whole site is within the boundary of Rushcliffe Borough Council planning authority.

1.6 SOIL AND GEOLOGY

The entire site is underlain by a veneer of superficial deposits. These are predominantly Colluvium (also known as ‘Head’) comprising mostly silt and clay (minor sand and ‘gravel). It is derived as a ‘weathering’ product from underlying bedrock or upslope materials (Colluvium tends to accumulate in valleys and on slopes by a combination of weathering and gravity). The southern boundary of the area is underlain by a strip of alluvial deposits (associated with a small stream). These alluvial materials can vary noticeable with depth, but in this area are likely to comprise mostly silt and clay, with lenses of organic and/or gravelly (siltstone fragments) material.

The Superficial deposits are underlain by a bedrock mudstone and dolomitic siltstone of the Edwalton Member. This rock is of Triassic age and forms part of the Mercia Mudstone Group. The Bedrock (and superficial deposits that are derived from it by weathering) give rise to a distinctive red-brown silty soil. Where the dolomitic siltstone is more prevalent, the soil can take on a grey-green or grey-brown hue and is notably rich in siltstone fragments.

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he underlying rocks were formed in the Triassic period between 248 and 205 million years ago. The Triassic period was characterised by heat, vast deserts and warm seas. The bedrock in this area is termed Edwalton Member Mudstone. This consists of mudstone and siltstone which is red-brown and greenish grey, with beds of indurated, variably dolomitic siltstone and very fine-grained sandstone which is common in the lower half whereas finely disseminated gypsum is common in upper half (Lawley, R. (2012)).

1.7 ASPECT, TOPOGRAPHY AND ALTITUDE

Sheldon Field lies around 30 metres above sea level and is a relatively flat site with a raised area near the north east corner. The northern part of the site has small undulations from historic ridge and furrow farming.

1.8 STATUTORY DESIGNATIONS

There are no statutory designations associated with Sheldon Field, although it may be possible to designate the site as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, this act allows local authorities to designate land as a LNR so long as there is at least local wildlife interest and un-restricted public access, it is desirable that the land is owned by the local authority but not essential so long as the local authority has a long term lease or formal involvement in the site.

1.9 NON-STATUTORY DESIGNATIONS

There are no non-statutory designations with Sheldon field.

1.10 ACCESS

Sheldon Field is accessible by vehicle and on foot from Main Street, Cropwell Butler. Improvements and widening of this access have previously been made. Access can also be gained on foot from two public footpaths which cross the site running North / South and West /East.

1.11 SURROUNDING LANDUSE

The land surrounding Sheldon Field is dominated by grazing paddocks and arable fields.

1.12 SUMMARY OF RESOURCE

Sheldon Field consists of habitats including grassland, hedgerow, scrub and ditches. A more detailed site description including the compartments described later in the management plan is below (See Appendix 2).

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Compartment 1

Compartment 1 contains an area of ridge & furrow grassland. This area had previously been sheep grazed, however the sheep were removed approximately three years ago as they were damaging small sapling trees. This area has not been managed since sheep were used and therefore a thatch of dead grass developed which is suppressing any wildflowers present and allowing the courser grasses and weed species to increase. This area already has a number of thistles growing throughout this compartment. Some form of annual grassland management regime will be required in this compartment.

Compartment 2

This compartment contains the rough grassland edges around the site including boundary hedgerows, ditches & planted standard trees.

Rough grassland edges

There are areas near the eastern edge of the site where Blackthorn scrub is spreading into the site and where cherry saplings have suckered. The rough grassland edges are important habitat for small mammals, birds and although there are now large areas of creeping thistle that are beginning to dominate particularly on the eastern side of the site.

Hedgerows

Stretches of hedgerow on both the eastern and western boundaries have been previously planted with species that include Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Holly, Field Maple, Apple, Hazel and Dogwood.

Ditch

The ditch along the southern boundary of the site is a village drain. Previous works to widen it and increase flood capacity has taken place in this area. Removal of large willows has also taken place. The ditch contains emergent vegetation and a number of small willows.

Planted Standard Trees

Over the last 10 years a number of standard trees have been planted within this compartment. Species include Oak, Ash, Cherry, Alder and cricket bat Willow among others. As a number of trees have been planted on the site in the last 10 years it is recommended that no further trees are planted other than direct replacements.

Compartment 3

This banked area was created after work to the ditch in the south of the site. The site was seeded with a wildflower meadow mix. This compartment is botanically very rich ( see Appendix 3) and will also require an annual grassland management regime.

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Compartment 4

This is an area within compartment 1 which has been planted with a community orchard.

Compartment 5

This compartment contains amenity sports pitches which include a cricket pitch and two football pitches. This area will not be covered further within this management plan.

PART 2 EVALUATION & OBJECTIVES

2.1 Evaluation of site features (Ratcliffe’s criteria)

Site evaluation is carried out through a long established and widely accepted method of determining the nature conservation value of a site. This method is known as the ‘Ratcliffe Criteria’ (Ratcliffe, 1977). The Ratcliffe Criteria provides a standardised and objective way of assessing the value of a site using the attributes of Size, Naturalness, Representativeness, Rarity, Diversity, Position, History, Fragility, Potential, Value and Intrinsic Appeal.

2.1.1 Size

The site is approximately 4.4 hectares (10.7 acres) in size. This is a reasonable area of land to be managed for conservation and the proposed amendments of management will increase biodiversity.

2.1.2 Diversity

The reserve contains four main habitats:

 grassland  scrub  hedgerow  ditch

The site does support a good mosaic of habitat types. However, some of the habitats will decrease in species and structural diversity if unmanaged. The diversity of each habitat will be increased as follows.

Grassland

The existing grassland area in Compartment 1 is in danger of losing its botanical diversity due to lack of management. A grassland management regime is required in both compartment 1 & 3. For compartment 3 this should involve cutting this area in September and the removal of the arisings i.e. cut grass. This will reduce the amount of nutrient in the soils, which favours less robust meadow species of flower and grass and allows them to compete with the more robust species. (See Appendix 3 for a present species list). Compartment 3 is a large enough area for a hay cut to be taken. This should be done ideally in September however this could be done earlier if a local farmer wants the hay crop but no early than mid July. Provided it could be fenced off Page 7 of 24

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correctly Compartment 1 would be ideal for grazing sheep. Sheep could be used to graze over the winter September to March. This would allow wildflowers present to flower and set seed through the spring and summer. Obviously any ragwort would need to be removed before grazing are allowed to graze as this is poisonous to them. Through the above management the grasslands will attract and support increased numbers of insects such as butterflies, , bees and hoverflies, which in turn will attract other species such as birds and bats to feed upon them. The grassland in compartment 1 could be enhanced further by using ‘green hay’ from compartment 3. This would involve cutting compartment 3 in early July or when the majority of plants have set seed but are not dropping seed, and then immediately spreading the cut material over compartment 1 so that wildflower seeds are introduced to this area. Compartment 1 should have a very short cut or be grazed and then it will need scarifying prior to the green hay application.

Scrub

Scrub on the site is contained along some of the outer edges in compartment 2 and mainly consists of hawthorn (), bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) blackthorn (prunus spinosa) and cherry saplings (Prunus sp) that have suckered from a cherry tree. Scrub habitat is a highly valuable wildlife resource, however some of the scrub is overly mature and is a similar size and shape. This not only shortens the life of the scrub but also limits the type and number of species that can be supported by it. To increase the diversity of the scrub it is intended to implement a programme of occasional coppicing over the lifetime of this plan i.e. 5 years, but it is also recommended that areas remaining uncoppiced at the end of that time should be scheduled for coppicing during the subsequent five-year plan. Coppicing entails cutting a shrub down to its base to allow it to regenerate. This will result in shrubs sizes ranging from newly coppiced through to 5 years growth and mature plants that have yet to be cut. This variety or diversity of heights will allow the scrub areas to support a wider variety of species of bird, mammal and and will be more attractive for visitors. Coppicing the shrubs will also renew and enhance their ability to produce flowers and fruit for the benefit of wildlife and visitors.

Hedgerows

There is a variety of hedgerow ages around the edges of the site ranging from mature hedgerows on the northern edge of the site to recently planted hedging whips on stretched of the western edge of the site. Some laying has already taken place along the south western boundary and more laying along the south eastern boundary will be required during the time of this plan. This will increase the natural lifespan of hedge plants and stimulates the growth of new shoots to create a thicker hedgerow that will further benefit wildlife.

Ditch

The ditch along the southern boundary of the site is a village drain. The ditch contains open water, emergent vegetation and a number of small willows. This provides habitat for fish together with invertebrates such a dragonfly nymphs, water boatman and other insects. The intention is to keep the ditch clear from being choked up with emergent and overhanging vegetation which will also maintain a higher diversity of species.

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2.1.3 Naturalness

The site is predominantly man-made and has been enhanced by footpaths and amenity sports pitches for the use of the local community. Some aspects of the site however, particularly the ridge and furrow meadow area to the north of the site reflect the influence that agriculture has had on the surrounding area. The grassland areas are now classed as improved and semi-improved habitats, in addition to the amenity sports areas there are some scattered tree planting which gives the area a ‘park’ feel, however the diverse mowing regimes implemented on the site allow other areas to have a more natural appearance. A small area of species rich grassland (compartment 3) was created when the ditch was widened.

2.1.4 Rarity

The only habitat that could be assessed as rare on site is the species rich grassland area in compartment 3. Species rich grassland habitat is especially important in Nottinghamshire as over 97% of this particular habitat has disappeared since the 1930s. This habitat is included as lowland neutral grassland in the Nottinghamshire Local Biodiversity Action Plan. An initial survey to identify floral species has been carried out for this management plan although it should not be considered a comprehensive list of the vegetative species on site. Further surveys and ongoing monitoring are recommended within this plan.

2.1.5 Fragility

The predominant threat to the sites resource at present is a lack of management. Lack of management will result in substantial encroachment of scrub, bramble, rank grassland and even secondary woodland, which can reduce biodiversity but would not however destroy the site.

2.1.6 Typicalness

The site is typical of improved / semi-improved grassland which would traditionally have been in agricultural usage, for hay and / or grazing. Therefore the sites present use, as provision for formal / informal recreation and natural open green-space is not typical.

2.1.7 Position in an ecological/geographical unit

The site is an important conservation and local community resource in its own right. The site forms part of a larger wildlife corridor of hedgerows and wooded areas stretching north and east. Amending the management of the site slightly will increase its diversity and also the number of species it is able to support. This will enhance the sites position in the wider ecological unit.

2.1.8 Potential value

With appropriate management, Sheldon Field has great further potential value as a recreational, nature conservation and educational resource.

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The site has great recreational and educational value which could be enhanced through the provision of interpretation material identifying habitats, species and individual plants of interest, in addition to the management practices used throughout the site. Engaging local communities in addressing issues relating to this site and the local area should promote a culture of involvement and ownership in the site and increased interest and knowledge about the local natural environment promoting heightened awareness of damaging and inappropriate behaviour. Local community involvement in the site will allow the opportunity to train local people in practical management of the site and faunal and floral surveying techniques.

The site has potential as an educational resource and links should be fostered with schools, colleges and local community groups to promote the sites potential for formal and informal education. The reserve could be used as an outside classroom by students to learn about a range of topics from art, history and geology as well as environmental topics.

The site is also an ideal area to provide life long education in the form of training for local volunteers in practical conservation work, guided walks, open days, and participation in survey events.

Further ecological potential could be realised through positive management of the habitats contained within this site. An increase in the biodiversity in the site has the potential to increase the biodiversity in the wider landscape.

2.1.9 Intrinsic appeal

The sites intrinsic appeal lies in its resource to the local community as a valuable recreational resource as well as providing the opportunity to experience nature. It is very much a gateway to the surrounding countryside.

The area provides a valuable local recreational green space that local people can enjoy without the need for transport provision to reach it. It is large enough to ensure that short walks can be taken through the site and the floral and structural diversity provides recreational and wildlife interest. With further enhancement, wildlife watching will be a worthwhile activity.

2.1.10 Recorded history

The playing field was named “The Sheldon Field” after the original family name of the farm holding. Mrs Sheldon always wished the field to become a sports field for village use. Cricket was played on this field in the mid-20th century with the last game being played in 1964. A football team-Butler United – was started in 1995 and the land was rented from the farmer. The playing field was acquired by the National Playing Fields Association, with a donation from Cropwell Butler Parish Council, from the family farm trust when it retired from the farming industry, in 1999.

The present constitution of the Sheldon Field has the following Aims and Objectives:-

AIM:- In the interests of social welfare, to improve the conditions of life for the inhabitants of Cropwell Butler and Tithby, without distinction of political, religious or other opinions by the provision and maintenance of a playing field. Page 10 of 24

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OBJECTIVES: - A. To secure the sustainable development and future management of The Sheldon Field for the purposes of sport and recreation for the benefit of the local community. B. To conserve, improve and manage existing wildlife diversity through the development of new habitats wherever possible.

Sheldon Field Management Committee (2012)

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2.2 Objectives

• Ensure that Sheldon Field is a safe environment for recreational uses

• Improve appearance and encourage public understanding and awareness of issues relating to the site

• Maintain and enhance the habitat types and species present

• Combine habitat enhancement and management with education, recreation and access provision

• Conserve and interpret any archaeological and historical elements on the site

• Monitor effects of management on the wildlife on the site

2.3 Factors Influencing Management

• Safety - the entire site is accessible at all times, therefore in the interest of public safety, all possible measures should be taken to ensure public safety whilst work is being carried out, including closing paths

• Community involvement - local community and interest groups should be involved in and consulted upon the practical and strategic management of the site at every possible opportunity.

• Funding - for the management identified cannot be guaranteed for the full term of the plan. It may therefore be necessary for some tasks to be rolled over into subsequent years, to be completed when funding becomes available or for grant funding to be raised for specific projects. It may also be necessary for the organisations proposed to undertake the work to change, depending on current partnership arrangements.

• Legal obligations - work likely to cause disturbance to breeding birds i.e. felling and scrub clearance cannot be undertaken during the bird-breeding season (March to September). Therefore all felling and scrub clearance must be undertaken during the autumn and winter as it is an offence to disturb any wild bird (with the exception of pest species) while it is tending a nest containing eggs or chicks, until the chicks have successfully fledged. To do so would be a criminal offence under The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.

• Protected species – if there are any mature trees identified for felling which are likely to provide roosting opportunities for bats they should be surveyed by a licensed bat worker prior to felling. All species of British bat plus their roosting sites are protected by The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, the CROW Act 2000 and the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994.

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• Management - annual or bi-annual meetings regarding the implementation of the management plan for the site are required to identify work programme and schedule of works. Meetings should involve the Sheldon Field Management Committee, contractors and anyone else likely to carry out work on site.

• Only native species characteristic of the area should be introduced to the site where appropriate, and any further advice can be obtained from Notts Wildlife Trust.

2.4 Management proposals

2.4.1 Install interpretation boards as funding becomes available to inform and educate regarding the ecology of the site and how the management will improve its biodiversity.

2.4.2 Carry out litter picking events if this becomes a problem.

2.4.3 Mow the meadow area in compartment 3 with an annual cut in September and remove the arisings (cuttings). This will reduce the amount of nutrient in the soils supporting the grassed areas, which favours less robust meadow species of flower and grass and allows them to compete with the more robust species.

2.4.4 Investigate the possibility of grazing sheep on the ridge & furrow meadow in Compartment 1. Fencing off the area to prevent sheep accessing Compartment 4 would be required to prevent damage to the orchard trees. If sheep grazing is not an option then mow this area with an annual cut in September and remove the arisings (cuttings).

2.4.5 Take ‘Green Hay’ from the meadow area in Compartment 3 and spread over Compartment 1 to enhance botanical diversity.

2.4.6 An annual mow / brush-cut of the area around the orchard trees in Compartment 4 would be required to promote growth of the trees.

2.4.7 Sheldon Field Management Committee members to continue to regularly mow paths around the site to enable assess by pedestrians.

2.4.8 To prevent encroachment of scrub within the rough grassland edges of Compartment 2 this area should be topped every 2/3 years at the end of September.

2.4.9 There are some large areas of creeping thistle in Compartment 2, particularly on the eastern side of the site which need to be controlled. Sections should be topped in June and possibly again in September to knock back the thistle. This will help to reduce the seed dispersal over the meadow in Compartment 1.

2.4.10 Implement a programme of coppicing scrub in small sections in Compartment 2 over the lifetime of this plan. This will result in shrub sizes ranging from newly coppiced through to 5 years growth and mature plants that have yet to be cut. This variety or diversity of heights will allow the scrub areas to support a wider variety of species of bird, mammal and insect and will be more attractive for visitors.

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2.4.11 Removal of the blackthorn that has encroached from the eastern hedge line boundary in Compartment 2. This should be achieved by coppicing to ground level and then the stumps should be treated with a suitable herbicide to prevent re-growth.

2.4.12 Removal of the cherry tree suckers from around the cherry tree on the eastern boundary of Compartment 2 should be achieved by coppicing at ground level.

2.4.13 Consider laying sections of the hedgerow along the eastern boundary of the site. This will increase the natural lifespan of hedge plants and stimulates the growth of new shoots to create a thicker hedgerow that will further benefit wildlife.

2.4.14 Occasional thinning of emergent vegetation within the ditch on the southern boundary will keep it clear from being choked up and will provide more open water habitat.

2.4.15 Periodic coppicing the small willows on the ditch side will prevent the ditch from being overshadowed.

2.4.16 Consider plug planting spring flowering plants such as cowslips, native bluebell, snowdrops, and native daffodil along the path in Compartment 2 either opposite Compartment 3 or within Compartment 4.

2.4.17 Consider creating a pond in depression areas on the eastern side of Compartment 2. This will increase habitat and species diversity for the site.

2.4.18 Erect bat and bird boxes around the site as appropriate.

2.4.19 Carry out biological monitoring to collect baseline data to allow ongoing monitoring of the effects of management proposals on the habitats and species on site.

.

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PART 3 MANAGEMENT DETAILS

3.1 Management Projects and Prescriptions

Ref. No. Project Title Prescription

• As funding becomes available, interpretation panels should be Installation of 3.1.1 installed to highlighting the habitats on site and wildlife that may Interpretation panels be seen.

• Community led litter picks should be carried out biannually or 3.1.2 Carry out litter picks more frequently if there is the need.

• Grass in compartment 1 should be cut once a year, in September. • Cut and remove grass The arising (cut grass) should be collected / raked and removed off meadows to remove nutrients. The arisings could be used as ‘green 3.1.3 on the meadow areas in Compartment 3 hay’ (see 3.1.6), but this will require cutting with a mower suitable for making hay. Alternatively the grass can be disposed of in small piles under nearby shrubs unless this becomes a fire hazard in which case it should be removed from site. • Contact local shepherds to investigate sheep grazing during the period September to March. Investigate the • Removal of Ragwort by hand pulling would be required before possibility of sheep sheep grazing as this is poisonous to animals. 3.1.4 grazing in the ridge & • Suitable fencing would be required to prevent access to the orchard furrow meadow in trees in Compartment 4. Compartment 1 • If grazing is not possible then investigate a farmer cutting and removing grass to make hay annually.

• Prepare compartment 1 by cutting very close to the ground or grazing similarly. • Scarify the area to be enhanced with rakes or a farmer/contractor Spread green hay over 3.1.5 with a chain harrow. Compartment 1 • As soon as hay is cut from Compartment 3, transfer hay to compartment 1 and sparingly spread over area scarified in order to spread wildflower seed and increase botanical diversity. Cut the grass around 3.1.6 the orchard trees in • Mow or brush-cut around the orchard trees to promote growth. Compartment 4 Regularly mow paths • Continue to regularly mow paths around the site to maintain easy 3.1.7 in Compartment 2 access and promote a ‘managed’ feel.

Top rough grassland • To prevent encroachment of scrub in Compartment 2 this area 3.1.8 areas in Compartment should be topped every 2 to 3 years. 2 every 2 to 3 years

• Some of the large patches on the eastern side of Compartment 2 should be topped in June before it flowers. Control of creeping • The above process should be repeated in September in order to 3.1.9 thistle in patches knock the thistles back. within Compartment 2 • This will reduce thistle seed dispersal onto the meadow in Compartment 1.

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• Implement scrub coppicing regime with 1/10th of scrub being coppiced each year in Compartment 2. This should be done by removing scrub with a horizontal cut as close to the ground as Implement a possible. 3.1.10 programme of • Litter pick as far into scrub as possible once shrubs have been coppicing scrub coppiced. • Brash from coppicing could be piled to create habitat piles in corners of the site or burnt.

Removal of blackthorn • Stems should be coppiced at ground level and then the stumps 3.1.11 encroaching from the should be treated with a suitable herbicide by a suitably qualified hedge line in person.to prevent re-growth Compartment 2 Removal of cherry 3.1.12 tree suckers in • Stems should be coppiced at ground level Compartment 2

• Lay hedgerow along the eastern boundary within the term of this Lay Hedgerow on management plan by 1/5th every year. This will increase the 3.1.13 Eastern boundary natural lifespan of hedge plants and stimulates the growth of new shoots to create a thicker hedgerow that will further benefit wildlife

• Removal of 25% of emergent vegetation. Thinning of emergent 3.1.14 • This will keep the ditch from choking up and maintain open water vegetation in ditch habitat. Coppice small • Coppice stems to ground level. 3.1.15 willows on the ditch • side This will prevent the ditch from being too shaded. • Plug plant spring bulbs such as cowslips, native bluebell, snowdrops, and native daffodil. Consider plug 3.1.16 • planting Ideal locations would be along the path in Compartment 2 either opposite Compartment 3 or within Compartment 4.

• Create a pond in depression areas on the eastern side of Consider creating a 3.1.17 Compartment 2. pond • This would increase species and habitat diversity for the site.

Erect bat and bird • Boxes to be installed around the site as appropriate. 3.1.18 boxes around the site

as appropriate • Carry out botanical surveys in spring / summer 2012 to collect baseline data. Undertake biological • Carry out and butterfly surveys in 2012 to collect baseline 3.1.19 surveys data. • Repeat surveys in year 5 of the plan to assess the impact of the plan on biodiversity and to inform the next management plan

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3.2 Five Year Work Plan

Reference Y e a r s Prescription Number 1 2 3 4 5

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

3.1.1 Install interpretation panels 2 2

3.1.2 Carry out litter picks 1 1 1 1 1

3.1.3 Mow meadow in compartment 3 1 1 1 1 1 Investigate the possibility of sheep 3.1.4 1 1 grazing in compartment 1 Use ‘green hay’ to enhance 3.1.5 1 1 meadow in compartment 1 Mow/brush-cut around orchard 3.1.6 trees in compartment 4 1 1 1 1 1

Continue to mow path around the 3.1.7 1 1 1 1 1 site Top rough grassland areas in 3.1.8 1 1 compartment 2 Control large areas of creeping 3.1.9 1 1 thistle Implement a programme of 3.1.10 1 1 1 1 1 coppicing scrub Remove encroaching blackthorn 3.1.11 1 1 1 in compartment 2 Remove cherry suckers in 3.1.12 1 1 compartment 2 3.1.13 Laying hedgerows 1 1 Thin emergent vegetation within 3.1.14 1 1 ditch Coppice small willows on ditch 3.1.15 2 2 side 3.1.16 Plug plant spring flowering bulbs 1 1 3.1.17 Create a pond on site 2

3.1.18 Erect bat and bird boxes 2 2

3.1.19 Carry out biological monitoring 1

Priority - 1 is high, 3 is low

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3.3 Annual Work Plan Year 1 – 2013 Season Ref Priority Who (contractor, Rushcliffe Compartment / Prescription Detail (Sp/Su/ No. (1-3) BC, volunteer group) Au/Wi) Sp /Su 3.1.1 2 • Install interpretation panels Au/Wi Sheldon Field Management Committee

Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.2 1 • Carry out litter picks Au/Wi Committee

3.1.3 1 • Mow meadow in compartment 3 Su / Contractor Au • Investigate the possibility of sheep Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.4 1 grazing in compartment 1 Au/Wi Committee • Use ‘green hay’ to enhance meadow in Sheldon Field Management 3.1.5 1 Su compartment 1 Committee

Sheldon Field Management 3.1.6 1 • Mow/brush-cut around orchard trees in Su/Au Committee / Contractor compartment 4 Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 1 • Continue to mow path around the site 3.1.7 Au/Wi Committee • Top rough grassland areas in 3.1.8 1 Su/Au Contractor compartment 2

3.1.9 1 • Control large areas of creeping thistle Sp /Su Contractor • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.10 1 Implement a programme of coppicing Wi scrub Committee • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.11 1 Remove encroaching blackthorn in Au/Wi compartment 2 Committee • Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.12 1 Remove cherry suckers in compartment 2 Au/Wi Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.14 1 • Thin emergent vegetation within ditch Au/Wi Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.15 1 • Wi Coppice small willows on ditch side Committee Sp / Sheldon Field Management 3.1.16 1 • Plug plant spring flowering bulbs Aut Committee / Local Schools

Management Detail (see part 3.1) - for details regarding implementation of prescriptions detailed above.

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Year 2 – 2014 Season Reference Priority Who (contractor, Gedling Compartment / Prescription Detail (Sp/Su/ Number (1-3) BC, volunteer group) Au/Wi) Sp /Su 3.1.1 2 • Install interpretation panels Au/Wi Sheldon Field Management Committee Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.2 1 • Carry out litter picks Au/Wi Committee

3.1.3 1 • Mow meadow in compartment 3 Su / Contractor Au • Investigate the possibility of sheep Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.4 1 grazing in compartment 1 Au/Wi Committee

• Use ‘green hay’ to enhance meadow Sheldon Field Management 3.1.5 1 Su in compartment 1 Committee

Sheldon Field Management 3.1.6 1 • Mow/brush-cut around orchard trees Su/Au Committee / Contractor in compartment 4 • Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 1 Continue to mow path around the 3.1.7 site Au/Wi Committee • Control large areas of creeping 3.1.9 1 Sp /Su Contractor thistle • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.10 1 Implement a programme of Wi coppicing scrub Committee • Remove encroaching blackthorn in Sheldon Field Management 3.1.11 1 Au/Wi compartment 2 Committee

• Remove cherry suckers in Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.12 1 compartment 2 Au/Wi Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.13 1 • Laying hedgerows Wi Committee / Contractor Sp / Sheldon Field Management 3.1.16 1 • Plug plant spring flowering bulbs Aut Committee / Local Schools Sheldon Field Management 3.1.18 2 • Wi Erect bat and bird boxes Committee

Management Detail (see part 3.1) - for details regarding implementation of prescriptions detailed above.

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Year 3 – 2015 Season Reference Priority Who (contractor, Gedling Compartment / Prescription Detail (Sp/Su/ Number (1-3) BC, volunteer group) Au/Wi) Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.2 1 • Carry out litter picks Au/Wi Committee Su / 3.1.3 1 • Mow meadow in compartment 3 Contractor Au

Sheldon Field Management 3.1.6 1 • Mow/brush-cut around orchard trees Su/Au Committee / Contractor in compartment 4 • Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 1 Continue to mow path around the 3.1.7 site Au/Wi Committee • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.10 1 Implement a programme of Wi coppicing scrub Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.17 2 • Wi Create a pond on site Committee / Contractor Sheldon Field Management 3.1.18 2 • Erect bat and bird boxes Wi Committee

Management Detail (see part 3.1) - for details regarding implementation of prescriptions detailed above.

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Sheldon Field

Year 4 – 2016 Season Reference Priority Who (contractor, Gedling Compartment / Prescription Detail (Sp/Su/ Number (1-3) BC, volunteer group) Au/Wi) Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.2 1 • Carry out litter picks Au/Wi Committee

3.1.3 1 • Mow meadow in compartment 3 Su / Contractor Au

Sheldon Field Management 3.1.6 1 • Mow/brush-cut around orchard trees Su/Au Committee / Contractor in compartment 4 • Continue to mow path around the Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 1 3.1.7 site Au/Wi Committee • Top rough grassland areas in 3.1.8 1 Su/Au Contractor compartment 2 • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.10 1 Implement a programme of Wi coppicing scrub Committee

Sheldon Field Management 1 • Laying hedgerows Wi 3.1.13 Committee / Contractor

Management Detail (see part 3.1) - for details regarding implementation of prescriptions detailed above.

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Sheldon Field

Year 5 - 2017 Season Reference Priority Who (contractor, Gedling Compartment / Prescription Detail (Sp/Su/ Number (1-3) BC, volunteer group) Au/Wi) Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 3.1.2 1 • Carry out litter picks Au/Wi Committee

3.1.3 1 • Mow meadow in compartment 3 Su / Contractor Au • Mow/brush-cut around orchard trees Sheldon Field Management 3.1.6 1 Su/Au in compartment 4 Committee / Contractor • Continue to mow path around the Sp /Su Sheldon Field Management 1 3.1.7 site Au/Wi Committee • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.10 1 Implement a programme of Wi coppicing scrub Committee • Remove encroaching blackthorn in Sheldon Field Management 3.1.11 1 Au/Wi compartment 2 Committee • Sheldon Field Management 3.1.14 1 Thin emergent vegetation within Au/Wi ditch Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.15 1 • Coppice small willows on ditch side Wi Committee Sheldon Field Management 3.1.19 1 • Carry out biological monitoring Sp/Su / NWT

Management Detail (see part 3.1) - for details regarding implementation of prescriptions detailed above.

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Sheldon Field

References

Dulwich, P. (2011-2011) Invertebrate records in Appendix 4

Lawley, R. (2012) British Geological Survey. Personal Communication

Sheldon Field Management Committee (2012)

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Appendices

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Appendix 2 : Compartment Map

2

1 4 2 Bonfire

5 2

3

2

KEY

Site Boundary Entrance 1 Compartment

Scale 1:2500 Appendix 3

Sheldon Field Botanical List

Trees and shrubs

Alder Alnus glutinosa Apple Malus domestica Ash Fraxinus excelsior Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Cherry Prunus sp. Cricket-bat willow Salix alba 'Caerulea' Field Maple Acer campestre Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Hazel Corylus avellana Holly Ilex aquifolium Horse-chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum Pedunculate Oak Willow Salix sp.

Herbaceous plants

Beaked Hawk's-beard Crepis vesicaria Bittersweet Solanum dulcamara Black Medick Medicago lupulina Broad-leaved Dock obtusifolius Bulbous Buttercup Ranunculus bulbosus Cleavers Galium aparine Common Bird's-foot- trefoil Lotus corniculatus Common Cat's-ear Hypochaeris radicata Common Chickweed Stellaria media Common Field- speedwell Veronica persica Common Knapweed Centaurea nigra Common Mallow Malva sylvestris Common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum ssp. vulgare Common Nettle Urtica dioica Common Poppy Papaver rhoeas Common Sorrel Rumex acetosa Common Toadflax Linaria vulgaris Common Vetch Vicia sativa Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Curled Dock Rumex crispus Cut-leaved Crane's-bill Geranium dissectum Daffodil Narcissus pseudonarcissus Daisy Bellis perennis Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. Field Scabious Knautia arvensis Germander Speedwell Veronica chamaedrys 1 Gipsywort Lycopus europaeus Great Mullein Verbascum thapsus Great Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum Greater Knapweed Centaurea scabiosa Ground-ivy Glechoma hederacea Hedge Mustard Sisymbrium officinale Hoary Plantain Plantago media Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Hop Trefoil Trifolium campestre Lady's Bedstraw Galium verum Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria Lesser Hawkbit Leontodon saxatilis Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris Meadow Vetchling Lathyrus pratensis Musk-mallow Malva moschata Opium Poppy Papaver somniferum Oxeye Daisy Leucanthemum vulgare Oxford Ragwort Senecio squalidus Pignut Conopodium majus Prickly Lettuce Lactuca serriola Red Campion Silene dioica Red Trifolium pratense Red Dead-nettle Lamium purpureum Rough Hawkbit Leontodon hispidus Salad Burnet Selfheal Prunella vulgaris Smooth Hawk's-beard Crepis capillaris Smooth Sow-thistle Sonchus oleraceus Spanish Bluebell Hyacinthoides hispanica Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare White Campion Silene latifolia White Clover Trifolium repens White Dead-nettle Lamium album Wild Carrot Daucus carota Yarrow Achillea millefolium Yellow-rattle Rhinanthus minor

Grasses & Sedges

Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata Common Bent Agrostis capillaris Crested Dog's-tail Cynosurus cristatus False Oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius Meadow Foxtail Alopecurus pratensis Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne Rough Meadow-grass Poa trivialis Sweet Vernal Grass Anthoxanthum odoratum

NB This is not to be considered a comprehensive list of the vegetative species at this site

2 Appendix 4

Sheldon Field Invertebrate List

Butterflies

Peacock Inachis io Small Tortoiseshell Aglais urticae Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta Large Skipper Ochlodes sylvanus Small Skipper Thymelicus sylvestris Meadow Brown Maniola jurtina Common Blue Polyommatus icarus Large White Pieris brassicae Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus

Bugs

Acanthosoma Hawthorn Shield Bug haemorrhoidale Parent Bug Elasmucha grisea Elasmostethus Birch Shield Bug interstinctus Forest Bug Pentatoma rufipes Green Shield Bug Palomena prasina Denticulate leatherbug Coriomeris denticulatus

Moths

Angle Shades Phlogophora meticulosa Autumnal Moth Epirrita autumnata Barred Red Hylaea fasciaria Barred Sallow Xanthia aurago Barred Straw Eulithis pyraliata Barred Yellow Cidaria fulvata Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis Beautiful Golden Y Autographa pulchrina Beautiful Hook Tip Laspeyria flexula Black Rustic nigra Blair's Shoulder-knot Lithophane leautieri hesperica Blood Vein Timandra comae Brick Agrochola circellaris Bright-Line Brown-Eye Lacanobia oleracea Brimstone Moth Opisthograptis luteolata Brindled Beauty Lycia hirtaria Brindled Green Dryobotodes eremita Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata

1 Broken-Barred Carpet Electrophaes corylata Brown Rustic Rusina ferruginea Brown Silver-Line Petrophora chlorosata Brown-Line Bright-Eye Mythimna conigera Brown-spot Pinion Agrochola litura Brown-veined Wainscot Archanra dissoluta Buff Arches Habrosyne pyritoides Buff Ermine Spilosoma luteum Buff Footman Eilema depressa Buff Tip Phalera bucephala Bulrush Wainscot Nonagria typhae Burnished Brass Diachrysia chrysitis Cabbage Moth Mamestra brassicae Campion Hadena rivularis Centre-barred Sallow Atethmia centrago Chestnut Conistra vaccinii Chimney Sweeper Odezia atrata Chinese Character Cilix glaucata Cinnebar Tyria jacobaeae Clay Mythimna ferrago Cloaked Minor Mesoligia furuncula Clouded Border Lomaspilis marginata Clouded Drab Orthosia incerta Clouded Silver Lomographa temerata Clouded-bordered Brindle Apamea crenata Common Carpet Epirrhoe alternata Common Emerald Hemithea aestivaria Common Footman Eilema lurideola Common Marbled Carpet Chloroclysta truncata Common Pug Eupithecia vulgata Common Quaker Orthosia cerasi Common Rustic Mesapamea secalis Common Swift Hepialus lupulinus Common Wainscot Mythimna pallens Common Wave Cabera exanthemata Common White Wave Cabera pusaria Copper Underwing Amphipyra pyramidea Coronet Craniophora ligustri Coxcombe Prominent Ptilodon capucina Cream-bordered Green Pea Earias clorana Currant Pug Eupithecia assimilata Dark Arches Apamea monoglypha Dark Chestnut Conistra ligula Dark Marbled Carpet Chloroclysta citrata Dark Swordgrass Agrotis ipsilon Dark-Barred Twin-Spot Carpet Xanthorhoe ferrugata Deep Brown Dart Aporophyla lutulenta Dingy Footman Eilema griseola Dot Moth Melanchra persicariae Double Square Spot Xestia triangulum

2 Double Striped Pug Gymnoscelis rufifasciata Drinker Euthrix potatoria Dunbar Cosmia trapezina Dusky Sallow Eremobia ochroleuca Dusky Thorn Ennomos fuscantaria Dwarf Cream Wave Idaea fuscovenosa Early Grey Xylocampa areola Early Thorn Selenia dentaria Elephant Hawkmoth Deilephila elpenor Engrailed Ectropis bistortata Eyed Hawkmoth Smerinthus ocellata Fan Foot Zanclognatha tarsipennalis Feathered Gothic Tholera decimalis Feathered Thorn Colotois pennaria Fen Wainscot Arenostola phragmitidis Figure of Eighty Tethea ocularis octogesimea Flame Carpet Xanthorhoe designata Flame Shoulder Ochropleura plecta Flounced Rustic Luperina testacea Foxglove Pug Eupithecia pulchellata Frosted Orange Gortyna flavago Garden Carpet Xanthorhoe fluctuata Garden Dart Euxoa nigricans Ghost Moth Hepialus humuli Gold Spot Chloroclysta truncata Green Brindled Crescent Allophyes oxyacanthae Green Carpet Colostygia pectinataria Green Pug Pasiphila rectangulata Grey Pug Eupithecia subfuscata Grey/Dark Dagger Acronita psi/tridens Heart and Dart Agrotis exclamationis Hebrew Character Orthosia gothica Herald Scoliopteryx libatrix Ingrailed Clay Diarsia mendica mendica Iron Prominent Notodonta dromedarius Knot Grass Acronicta rumicis Lackey Malacosoma neustria Large Emerald Geometra papilionaria Large Nutmeg Apamea anceps Large Twin-spot Carpet Xanthorhoe quadrifasiata Large Yellow Underwing Noctua pronuba Latticed Heath Chiasmia clathrata Least Black Arches Nola confusalis Least Yellow Underwing Noctua interjecta caliginosa Leopard Moth Zeuzera pyrina Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua janthe Lesser Swallow Prominent Pheosia gnoma Lesser Yellow Underwing Noctua comes Light Arches Apamea lithoxylaea Light Emerald Campaea margaritata

3 Lime Hawkmoth Mimas tiliae Lime Speck Pug Eupithecia centaureata Lunar Underwing Omphaloscelis lunosa Lychnis Hadena bicruris Magpie Abraxas grossulariata Marbled Beauty Cryphia domestica Marbled Coronet Hadena confusa Marbled Minor Oligia strigilis Merveille du Jour Dichonia aprilina Middle-Barred Minor Oligia fasciuncula Miller Acronicta leporina Mottled Beauty Alcis repandata Mottled Pug Eupithecia exiguata Mottled Rustic Caradrina morpheus Mouse Moth Amphipyra tragopoginis Muslin Moth Diaphora mendica November Moth Epirrita dilutata Nutmeg Discestra trifolii Oak Hook Tip Watsonalla binaria Oak Nycteoline Nycteola revayana Oak Tree Pug Eupithecia dodoneata Olive Ipimorpha subtusa Orange Sallow Xanthia citrago Orange Swift Hepialus sylvina Pale Mottled Willow Paradrina clavipalpis Pale Prominent Pterostoma palpina Pale Tussock Calliteara pudibunda Peach Blossom Thyatira batis Pebble Hook Tip Drepana falcataria Pebble Prominent Notodonta ziczac Peppered Moth Biston betularia Phoenix Eulithis prunata Pine Hawkmoth Hyloicus pinastri Pink Barred Sallow Xanthia togata Plain Golden Y Autographa jota Poplar Grey Acronicta megacephala Poplar Hawkmoth Laothoe populi Poplar Kitten Furcula bifida Privet Hawkmoth Sphinx ligustri Purple Thorn Selenia tetralunaria Red Chestnut Cerastis rubricosa Red Twin Spot Carpet Xanthorhoe spadicearia Red-green Carpet Chloroclysta siterata Red-line Quaker Agrochola lota Riband Wave Idaea aversata Rivulet Perizoma affinitata Rosy Minor Mesogilia literosa Rosy Rustic Hydraecia micacea Ruby Tiger Phragmatobia fuliginosa Rustic Hoplodrina blanda

4 Rustic Shoulder Knot Apamea sordens Sallow Xanthia icteritia Sallow Kitten Furcula furcula Sandy Carpet Perizoma flavofasciata Satellite Eupsilia transversa Scalloped Oak Crocallis elinguaria Scarce Footman Eilema complana Scorched Wing Plagodis dolabraria Setaceous Hebrew Character Xestia c-nigrum Shark Cucullia umbratica Shoulder Stripe Anticlea badiata Shoulder-striped Wainscot Mythimna comma Shuttle Shaped Dart Agrotis puta puta Silver Y Autographa gamma Silver-ground Carpet Xanthorhoe montanata Single Dotted Wave Idaea dimidiata Six Belted Clearwing Bembecia ichneumoniformis Six-striped Rustic Xestia sexstrigata Small Blood-vein Scopula imitaria Small Dotted Buff Photedes minima Small Dusty Wave Idaea seriata Small Fan Foot Herminea grisealis Small Fan-footed Wave Idaea biselata Small Phoenix Ecliptoptera silaceata Small Square-spot Diarsia rubi Smoky Wainscot Mythimna impura Snout Hypena proboscidalis Spectacle Abrostola tripartita Spinach Eulithis mellinata Spruce Carpet Thera britannica Square Spot Paradarisa consonaria Square Spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa Straw Dot Rivula sericealis Straw Underwing Thalpophila matura Swallow Prominent Pheosia tremula Swallow-tailed Moth Ourapteryx sambucaria Sycamore Acronicta aceris Tawny Marbled Minor Oligia latruncula The Flame Axylia putris Treble Lines Charanyca trigrammica Triple Spotted Clay Xestia ditrapezium Turnip Moth Agrotis segetum Uncertain Hoplodrina alsines V Pug Chloroclystis v-ata Vines Rustic Hoplodrina ambigua Waved Umber Menophra abruptaria White Ermine Spilosoma lubricpeda White Pinion Spotted Lomographa bimaculata White Satin Moth Leucoma salicis Willow Beauty Peribatodes rhomboidaria

5 Wormwood Pug Eupithecia absinthiata Yellow Barred Brindle Acasis viretata Yellow Shell Camptogramma bilineata Yellow Tail Euproctis similis Yellow-line Quaker Agrochola macilenta

NB Moth species list includes 2010 and 2011 records

6