Management Plan 2011 - 2016

ELVETHAM HEATH LOCAL NATURE RESERVE & OPEN SPACES

1 MANAGEMENT PLAN 2011 - 2016

Site Name – Elvetham Heath LNR & Open Spaces

Location – Fleet, North Hampshire

Head of Service – Carl Westby

Departmental Manager – Adam Green

Site Ranger – Duke Banfield

Plan prepared by – Timothy Ackroyd

Plan updated by – Duke Banfield

Plan edited by – Steven Lyons

Date of draft – April 2011

Date of final copy – January 2012

Review date – Annual Long term review 2015

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION & SITE INFORMATION 1. Management Aims ...... 5 2. Location ...... 5 3. Land Tenure ...... 6 4. Site Information ...... 7 5. Legal Obligations ...... 7 6. Health and Safety Summary ...... 8 7. Site Map ...... 8 8. Site Infrastructure ...... 9 9. Map of Site Infrastructure ...... 10 10. Environmental Information ...... 10

SECTION 2 - MANAGEMENT & SITE FEATURES 1. Introduction to Management Objectives ...... 12 2. Management Objectives ...... 12 3. Description of Site Features:- ...... 14 Feature 1: Heathland and Wet Heath/Mire ...... 15 Feature 2: Native Wet Woodland ...... 20 Feature 3: Wooded/Scrub Perimeter Buffer .. .. 25 Feature 4: Historic Ditch and Bank System ...... 29 Feature 5: Open Spaces ...... 33 Feature 6: The Local Community ...... 39 Feature 7: Access ...... 43 Feature 8: Interpretation ...... 49

SECTION 3 - ACTION PLAN 1. Introduction ...... 52 2. Action Plan ...... 53 3. Work Plan Maps: Turf Scrapes ...... 57 Bracken Control ...... 58 Rhododendron & Goats Rue Control .. 59 Fire Control with use of Fire Breaks .. 60 Emergency Access .. 61

SECTION 4 – SUSTAINABILITY AND MARKETING 1. A welcoming place ...... 62 2. Sustainability ...... 62 2.1 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) ...... 62 2.2 Carbon Footprint ...... 62 2.3 Partnership Working ...... 63 3. Marketing strategy ...... 64 3.1 Current Marketing Activity ...... 64 3.2 Strategy ...... 65

3.3 Corporate volunteers ...... 65 3.4 Special interest group volunteers ...... 66 3.5 Elvetham Heath profile ...... 66 3.6 Market research programme ...... 66 3.7 Booking system ...... 67 3.8 Resources ...... 67 3.9 Control ...... 67

SECTION 5 - BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 69

SECTION 6 - APPENDICES Appendix 1: Species Lists ...... 70 Rare and Notable Habitats and Plants .. .. 70 Rare and Notable Invertebrates ...... 71 Appendix 2: Summary of Questionnaire Results ...... 73 Appendix 3: Financial Summary ...... 74

LIST OF MAPS Map 1 – Site map Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve ...... 8 Map 2 – Site infrastructure ...... 10 Map 3 – Extent of heathland and wet heath/mire community ...... 15 Map 4 – Extent of native wet woodland ...... 20 Map 5 – Extent of wooded/scrub perimeter buffer ...... 25 Map 6 – Extent of historic ditch and bank system ...... 29 Map 7 – Extent of open spaces ...... 33 Map 8 – Turf scrapes ...... 57 Map 9 – Bracken control ...... 58 Map 10 – Rhododendron and Goats Rue control ...... 59 Map 11 – Fire control with use of fire breaks ...... 60 Map 12 – Emergency Access ...... 61

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION & SITE INFORMATION

The Management Plan for Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve and Open Spaces draws on the expertise, knowledge, advice, recording and experience of many people involved in its management and conservation since it was leased to Hart District Council in 2002. Among those whose work and support has contributed to the production of the Plan are those employed by Hart District Council over the years as Wardens and Rangers.

1. MANAGEMENT AIMS

The management proposals put forward in this plan are predominantly aimed at maintaining and where possible increasing local biological diversity and enhancing users enjoyment and experience of the site. Particular focus should be given to habitats of local importance and those which are included in the Biodiversity Actions Plans for Hampshire, Hart District Council‟s Biodiversity Action Plan and within Hart District Council‟s Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) agreement with Natural England pertaining to this site. The HLS agreement commenced in February 2009 and is a ten-year legal agreement (please refer to HLS agreement in Hart District Council files).

In July 2010 Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve and adjoining open spaces were given a prestigious Green Flag Award. This award is judged annually and we will be required to meet and where appropriate improve standards set out by the Green Flag judges to maintain our Green Flag award.

The nature reserve has a full time, permanent Countryside Ranger and the support of Hart District Council‟s Countryside Services, which includes three other permanent and one seasonal Countryside Rangers. The Countryside Service is part of the Leisure and Environmental Promotion department within the Council. The Grounds & Countryside Manager is the line manager for the Countryside Rangers.

Maintenance of the open spaces is managed via a partnership agreement with Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council to supply a grounds maintenance service to Hart District Council via its in-house service. The Grounds and Countryside Manager will oversee this partnership agreement with the head of Technical Services.

2. LOCATION The site is a nature reserve created as a part of the Elvetham Heath development in north Fleet, north-east Hampshire. The northern boundary of the site borders the M3 motorway.

Grid Reference SU 805558 (centre of the nature reserve).

Site Name Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve & Open Spaces

The nature reserve is Open Spaces Designated a Local Nature Reserve No designations Site Status (LNR) and Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)

Date Notified LNR 2003

District Hart

County Hampshire

Local Planning Hart District Council. Authority

The Nature Reserve covers 19.5 hectares. The adjoining Total Area Open Spaces covers 6 hectares.

There is no legal right of way on the site. But the site is Legal Right of Access registered as open access under the Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000. Common Rights There are no common rights on the site.

To be confirmed with Hart District Councils Legal Byelaws Services at the time of writing.

3. LAND TENURE

The site was part of the Elvetham Estate until early 1998 and is now owned by Elvetham Heath Developments. It is leased to Hart District Council on a 999-year lease, which commenced on 3rd October 2002. This site is managed as part of a Section 106 agreement, the payment pursuant to clause 4.2.4 and 4.2.5 was £416,098.73. For further information relating to the Section 106 agreement please refer to the Deed of Variation dated 30th April 1997, this document is held at Hart District Council, Civic Offices, Harlington Way, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 4AE.

At the time of writing the 20 year S106 agreement, 11 years remain and the agreement expires in 2022. A limited budget for structural repairs to the site will also expire with this agreement.

4. SITE INFORMATION

Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve and Open spaces are a relatively new creation and make up part of an extensive landscape design for the housing estate known as Elvetham Heath Developments. Existing on the former plantations and heathlands of Railroad Heath the development provided a high quality landscape design that can be found throughout the estate. The nature reserve and open spaces together make up 26 Ha of natural green space.

The site is an integral part of the Elvetham Heath community and is used regularly by local people and visitors. One of the key focal points of this landscape is the central area of formal and informal open spaces centring on the Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve. The site entrance leads to a formal pond picnic area to a wild natural landscape of lowland heathland and mires. This informal landscape is encapsulated with many formal areas including quiet seated areas around ponds, a tranquil picnic green and a formal play area. These are all interconnected with foot and cycle paths that run throughout the development and further afield to the neighbouring communities of Fleet Town and Ancells Farm.

The nature reserve is a designated Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and is approximately 19.5 hectares in size with habitats ranging from heathland and mire, wet woodlands and open wet areas with aquatic vegetation. Conservation grazing is carried out during the spring, summer and autumn and has been successfully implemented using a local grazier‟s rare breed cattle for the last nine summers, with local people fully supporting the use of livestock to maintain the heathland areas.

Access in and around the site is first-class with gates and pathways being fully accessible to full and reduced mobility site users. There are gravel pathways and raised boardwalks over wet areas. Kissing gates allow access into the nature reserve, which are suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bicycles. Local people use the site a great deal, and many residents have a strong sense of ownership for their nature reserve.

Environmental education associated with the reserve includes walks, talks, promotional events and further education projects. News and information is regularly published in the local newsletter and articles in the press about the site have been frequent.

5. LEGAL OBLIGATIONS

Successful management and the safeguarding of the site will be dependant upon compliance with the following list of both legal and non-legal obligations: The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000 Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 Occupiers Liability Act 1957 Hart District Council Local Plan 1996

6. HEALTH AND SAFETY SUMMARY

All work done on Elvetham Heath is in line with our Corporate Health and Safety Policy and our departmental Health and Safety document. Specific risk assessments have been completed for all site activities/works and a task risk assessment is done before any volunteer days. Hazard trees are surveyed annually in line with our corporate Tree Safety Policy and all site structures are surveyed annually for safety issues and any damage or repairs are completed appropriately.

7. MAP 1- Site map Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve

All map templates within this plan are Copyright - DAB Graphics

7. SITE INFRASTRUCTURE

The developer, Elvetham Heath Developments, was responsible for setting up the infrastructure of the reserve and Hart District Council is now responsible for the ongoing management of the site.

There are gravel pathways and raised boardwalks over wet areas. Kissing gates allow access into the reserve, which are suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bicycles. Treated timber post and rail fencing is around the reserve boundary and a 10.5m by 9.5m livestock corral and 3.4m by 10.6m holding pen is located within the reserve for the loading and unloading of livestock. A 2.5m high chain link fence runs along the M3 / nature reserve boundary.

Dip wells have been installed at key points in the nature reserve. These dip wells were initially installed to monitor the effects of the ongoing building works on water levels within the reserve. Some of these dip wells have been damaged and one has been removed due to vandalism.

Interpretation is provided in the form of oak „Welcome Boards‟ positioned at three key entrance points to the site. Three interpretation panels comprising of steel frames, artwork panels and notice boards are positioned at entrance / exit points to the nature reserve, as well as three additional notice boards.

Contained within the site is a Thames Water pipeline and pumping station of 20m by 20m contained within a 2m high security palisade steel fence. An ecoturf (porous paving) roadway runs from the site boundary to the pumping station and access must be maintained to the pumping station, although vehicular access is infrequent.

Adjacent to the playing field there is a play area. It comprises of a safety surface wet pour surrounded by a wooden fence, with 2 access gates. Structures include 1 Metal multi-play unit (GT Rocket station), 2 Rocket Ship Springs, 1 Space rotator, 2 No Cradle seat Swings, 1 Bin, 2 Seats and 2 Signs on both entrance gates.

Within the nature reserve are two strategic overhead electricity supplies on pylons and poles. These consist of an 11kV and a 33kV overhead line.

8. MAP 2 – Site Infrastructure

9. ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

1. LANDSCAPE

Elvetham Heath lies within the Thames Basin and occupies land which rises from a little over 60m above sea level in the eastern part of the development to around 85m above sea level in the west. The reserve lies towards the eastern part of the site and is on the Bracklesham Beds where the ground is quite wet. The surrounding land use is residential and commercial development, although there are other wildlife habitats in the district including heathland, woodland, forestry plantation and wetlands.

2. PHYSICAL

The site is extremely wet, particularly in the winter months and areas of open water remain even in the driest months of the summer. The nature reserve is the final destinations of the housing developments sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS). The site manager can not control this in-flow of water.

For information on the physical environment including soil type, hydrology, drainage and water quality please refer to previous management plan (Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve Management Plan, November 1999). This information has been omitted from this management plan to maintain a concise format and due to the irrelevance of this information now that the development has taken place.

3. CLIMATE

The annual mean temperature for North East Hampshire is around 10 C, or slightly above this where urban heating effects are a factor. The mean daily maximum temperature in July is about 21.5 C. The 25-year average is of 91 days per year when the afternoon maximum exceeds 20 C. The mean daily temperature in January is about 4 C, but the mean minimum for the month is 1.2 C. The average number of nights with air frost per year is 53, but ground frosts may double this total and occur in every month except July. The air frost- free period is late May until late September.

SECTION 2 – MANAGEMENT & SITE FEATURES -

1. INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

Each feature contains characteristics that management tasks focus on to enhance and maintain. Several principle characteristics can be shared among the 9 features. The following objectives are broken down into further categories.

2. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

In order to enhance and maintain the features of the site, 11 objectives have been identified:-

1. To enhance and maintain the heathland to benefit wildlife:- i. To maintain and where possible actively increase the open areas of heathland and to enhance the structural diversity of the heathland vegetation. ii. To create new wet scrapes and temporary pools to enhance wet boggy areas and to increase open water habitats. iii. To link up areas of heathland and wet heath/mire to form a joined up habitat

2. To enhance and maintain the structural diversity of the woodland areas to benefit wildlife:- i. Optimise deadwood content in the woodland areas; retain standing dead wood where H & S policy allows. ii. Encourage regeneration of young native tree saplings and encourage an increase in the diversity of ground flora and associated fauna through gap/glade creation. iii. Create additional habitats for woodland birds and mammals, such as the installation of bat and bird boxes and repair of existing nest boxes.

3. To enhance and maintain a native wooded/scrub perimeter strip and visual screen between the nature reserve, M3 motorway and the surrounding development:- i. Encourage regeneration of young native tree saplings ii. Coppicing and pollarding of native deciduous trees, which promotes a bushier denser tree canopy.

4. To restore, and thereafter maintain, the historic parish boundary as a prominent ditch and bank system:- i. To take considerable care when carrying out management prescriptions within the vicinity of historic parish boundary to prevent damage to historic parish boundary or prominent ditch and bank system ii. Re-instate/re-profiling of banks or ditches where damage/natural processes has occurred, preferably with a mechanical digger. iii. Report any suspected incidences of pollution immediately to the Environment Agency.

5. To control and where practicable eradicate non-native and invasive plant species:- i. Where practicable cut and stump treat with pesticides non-native trees and shrubs, notably Rhododendron. ii. Where practicable eradicate and control bracken growth outside woodland areas with pesticide spraying or mechanical means.

6. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour:- i. Where possible provide on-site interpretation, to facilitate communication, education and information, which can help to reduce illegal activities. ii. Log and report any illegal incidents to appropriate bodies. Maintain strong links between the Countryside Service and the local Police, Fire & Rescue Service, the Community Safety Team and individuals within the community. iii. Remove any fly-tipping to avoid invasive species taking hold, and to avoid encouraging others to fly-tip. iv. Repair any breakages as a result of vandalism where possible, or remove from the site any hazards resulting from vandalism or other activities.

7. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community:- i. Keep paths open by cutting the edges back in the summer months. ii. Maintain and repair bridges and other site structures. iii. Remove any dead, dying or dangerous trees near to paths or properties. iv. Litter pick regularly to maintain cleanliness. v. Ranger site patrol to be a minimum of once fortnightly. vi. Maintain and improve informal and formal landscaping within the surrounding open spaces of the nature reserve, therefore enhancing vistas. vii. Remove/Reduce scrub from areas that could be seen as a security issue.

8. To maintain and enhance a good relationship with the local community:- i. To contribute towards providing environmental education for local people ii. To provide volunteer and involvement opportunities for the local community, including local interest groups, and corporations iii. Help the local community attain a „sense of ownership‟ and to feel informed about the nature reserve and the surrounding green space

9. To maintain and enhance access within the nature reserve and surrounding open spaces:- i. To optimise access within the nature reserve and surrounding open spaces for visitors of all mobility levels ii. To maintain pathways, boardwalks and access points in a favourable status (to be available for use 365 days in the year) iii. To maintain access levels at the nature reserve so that the nature conservation features are not adversely affected iv. To carry out annual Health & Safety inspections of access structures

10. To provide and maintain permanent and temporary interpretation for all visitors to a high standard throughout the site.

i. To provide up to date relevant site information through the full range of media; including Hart District Councils website, blogs, forums, publications, press releases and onsite posters. ii. All interpretation should be in line with Hart District Councils policies and guidelines and must include relevant corporate logo‟s and designs

11. To manage the Nature Reserve in as sustainable way as possible:- i. To provide methods of sustainability from materials on site. ii. To provide our in-house grounds & maintenance team with woodchip to suppress weed growth in flowerbeds and shrub boarders around the development and Turner‟s pond. iii. To create habitat piles from tree‟s felled on site if viable and if requested from local schools for educational purposes. iv. To graze cattle on site to suppress Purple Moor Grass (Molinia caerulea) and invasive species such as Birch saplings, therefore providing a sustainable grazing regime.

3. DESCRIPTION OF SITE FEATURES

The site features have been chosen on the merit of biological, historical, amenity and community value. The following descriptions are a brief summary of the site features, which include some historical information. For additional habitat and biological information, please see Appendix 1. All biological information on the site is also held by Hampshire Biodiversity Records Centre.

Feature 1: Heathland and wet heath/mire Feature 2: Native wet woodland Feature 3: Wooded/scrub perimeter buffer Feature 4: Historic ditch and bank system Feature 5: Open spaces Feature 6: The local community Feature 7: Access Feature 8: Interpretation

Feature 1: Heathland and Wet Heath/Mire community

MAP 3 – Extent of heathland and wet heath/mire community

CONSERVATION STATUS AND IMPORTANCE

Lowland heathland is a priority habitat under our UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) and is recognised as being internationally important under the Habitats Directive. It is the main criteria used to give the site it‟s designation as a SINC. Restoration of heathland at this site can help to link up other local heathlands such as Fleet Pond, Yateley Common, Castle Bottom, Hazeley Heath and Bramshill, many of which also make up parts of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA). There is a legal obligation for Hart District Council to manage this feature in line with the ten-year Countryside Stewardship agreement with Natural England.

DESCRIPTION

The Heathland areas comprise of a mosaic of dry heath, wet heath and mire communities and make up just under 50% of the nature reserve (8-9 Ha). Wet heath/mire is the dominant habitat to emerge in the cleared areas of the reserve. A range of heathland communities are present, including an element of dry heath,

15 Figure 1: Grazing on the heath

species rich wet heath, mire communities and rush pasture. In the wetter areas of the heath several boggy pools retain water throughout much of the year. These areas contain several uncommon plant species including Round-leaved Sundew. On the less boggy ground there is a humid heath community of Cross-leaved Heath, Heather and several kinds of sedge. Large areas are also dominated by Purple Moor Grass.

A programme of heathland restoration has been carried out since 2000 with the aim of improving the quality of the heath by removing large stands of mature pine, reducing unwanted scrub and dominant grasses and increasing heather and other heathland species. Turf scraping of areas dominated by Molinia and scrub and the excavation of shallow pools in wet areas has been carried out annually since the autumn of 2007. This form of management has been highly successful and large patches of heather and other important heathland species have Figure 2: A heathland scrape returned. Piles of the top soil layer that was scraped off have also become good habitats for small mammals, reptiles and invertebrates, being covered by brambles and grasses etc.

Currently the general age structure of the heather is good with patches of pioneer, building and some mature heather. Plant species such as Round-leaved and Oblong-leaved Sundew, Bog Pimpernel, Heath Milkwort, Dodder and Lousewort are establishing after initial heathland restoration. Whilst occurrence of these species is still sparse, the composition of the emerging vegetation is a clear indication that the seed-bank of the site is still viable and primed for successful restoration back to a diverse habitat.

OBJECTIVES a. To enhance and maintain the heathland to benefit wildlife. b. To restore, and thereafter maintain, the historic parish boundary as a prominent ditch and bank system. c. To control and where practicable eradicate non-native and invasive plant species. d. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour. e. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community. f. To create and thereafter maintain fire breaks to prevent the spread of wildfire by isolating the fire from the remaining heath, giving valuable time for emergency services to arrive and minimise damage and harm to remaining wildlife.

VISION

The open areas of the site are a combination of heathland and wet heath/mire with banks of dry heath running along the ditches and on raised ground. Heathers dominate the open heathland, although there is scattered scrub dotted around. Isolated trees, both living and standing deadwood, provide plenty of song perches for birds through the otherwise shrubby landscape.

The heathers are of different ages ranging from new growth to old layered plants. This offers a varied structure that is of benefit to both butterflies, that prefer the shorter sward, and reptiles that move about amongst the cover of the mature stems.

In amongst the heather are grasses such as purple moor grass and cotton grass, and other wild flowers such as heath bedstraw, heath milkwort, heath speedwell and lousewort. These give colour and variety during the spring and early summer before the majority of heather is in flower.

There are areas of open water from wet ditches to large temporary pools, some are newly established with areas of wet mud and exposed peat, while others are mature with reed fringed edges and contain aquatic plants such as Bog Pondweed. These areas of open water include a series of balancing ponds through the site; collectively they provide a home to a wide range of flora and fauna, especially dragonflies and damselflies.

Periodic grazing by livestock maintains these open areas of water and bare ground and the rare sundew thrives in these disturbed patches. The impressive raft spider can also be seen here. The heathland areas remain open and contain scattered trees and scrub. Areas of bare ground and wet hollows are present and there is a lack of invasive and/or non-native plant and tree species.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Based on HLS indicators of success, these performance indicators give an indication as to the status of the feature. When the factors and attributes of the feature as listed below are found to be within the upper and lower limits, the feature is said to be in favourable conservation status.

Attribute Target No reduction in total area of heathland and wet heath/mire from current condition Area or extent Increase total area to not more than 75% of the site To link up areas of heathland and wet heath/mire Not more than 5% bare ground Bare ground Not less than 1% bare ground Ericaceous plants – between 70 – 90% cover Vegetation composition/ There should be a wide range of age classes of dwarf shrubs structure present. This should include between 10% and 15% cover of pioneer stage / between 10% and 30% cover of degenerate

stage and no more than 10% cover of dead dwarf shrubs Grass tussocks should be allowed to persist without allowing a build up of deep thatch Cover of Common Gorse should be between 2% and 10%. Grasses (graminoids) and other flowering plants – between 20 – 50% cover Native scrub species – between 5 – 15% cover At least 2 desirable wildflower species such as sundew and bog pimpernel should be occasional. Cover of bryophytes and lichens should be at least 10%. Indicators of local Open pools and boggy areas to be maintained, created and distinctiveness allowed to develop

Factor Target No over grazing (destruction of heather plants, heavy poaching etc) - upper limit eight livestock units Grazing Not under grazed (unacceptable scrub encroachment, dominance by Molinia etc) – lower limit four livestock units Rhododendron & other non native invasive plants - no flowering plants Indicators of Bracken – not more than 5% cover negative change Scrub & Pine encroachment – no visible dominance by any species Fire breaks to be maintained around high risk areas Fire control Fire access markers to be erected around site for emergency services No unacceptable damaging encroachment by people and dogs Access/public into sensitive areas – levels undetermined. Record to pressure determine future limits/action No signs of obvious pollution Water levels and quality Ecology of site not to be adversely affected – levels undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action No obvious signs of adverse soil enrichment – levels Soil enrichment undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action Zero tolerance on fly tipping

MANAGEMENT

Management Notes on Management Tasks Time and Resources Options Continue with the grazing strategy to reduce Grazing Purple Moor Grass and scrub. A stocking Spring – Autumn rate of about 4 cows is appropriate. Areas dominated by Purple Moor Grass can 2 days/yr Turf cutting be scraped to sandy soil layer to expose the Sept – March & scraping existing heather seed bank; this will encourage the growth of new heather and Contractors

other heathland species. Any tree removal should be followed up by scraping to restore the heathland. Mowing old patches of heather will encourage the growth of new heather to maintain age 1 day / yr structure diversity. A mower can also be Sept – March Mowing used to suppress birch saplings.

This is carried out using either a tractor and a Rangers cut and collect mower or a brush cutter. Cut material is removed from the heath. Birch/Alder/Willow scrub should be controlled. Gorse should also be controlled to maintain age structural diversity. Invasive and undesirable plants should also be 2 – 3 days / yr, controlled, including bracken which is present Sept – March Scrub in patches and should be prevented from control encroaching on the heath. Contractor / Rangers / Large trees can be cut with chainsaws and/or Volunteers clearing saws. Any smaller trees and scrub can be cut or dug up using hand tools. Cut material is removed from the heath. Stumps from cut trees can be treated with 1 day spraying / yr, approved herbicides to prevent re-growth. April - Sept Chemical This is generally done in winter. Invasive treatment plant species and bracken can be sprayed Stump treating As and with an approved herbicide. This is carried When Required out during the growing season. Rangers / Contractors

An action plan for management tasks follows in Section 3

MONITORING

Status assessments Botanical surveying every 5 years Invertebrate surveying every 5 years Fixed point photography Dip-well water level monitoring

These surveys help assess the success of previous habitat management and give an indication of recommended future management programmes.

Feature 2 – Native Wet Woodland

MAP 4 – Extent of native wet woodland

CONSERVATION STATUS AND IMPORTANCE

The Wet Woodland at Elvetham Heath is one of the main criteria used to give the site it‟s designation as a SINC. Wet woodland is a BAP priority habitat due to the levels of decline it has undergone. It supports a large number of bird species throughout the year as well as other animal groups. Willow has a large number of invertebrates associated with it and the ground flora in wet woodlands is very diverse, and often includes rare or notable species. Standing deadwood and deadwood Figure 3: Pollarding

20 on the ground also means a very diverse fungi population often exists.

DESCRIPTION

The management of the retained native wet woodlands (both the alder and willow/birch carrs) will improve the wildlife diversity. Management for diversity will mean that the structure of these woodlands will gradually convert from a monoculture, uniform woodland to a more natural dynamic system where there will be a combination of high canopy, understory and ground layers. This varied structure will in turn provide shelter and food to support populations of birds and mammals as well as invertebrates and fungi. The alder carr area has evidence of a historic coppicing regime and when in the wood itself there is a feeling of a natural monoculture. Mature coppice stools are evident in large number, especially along the M3 motorway boundary. Willow carr Figure 4: Glade creation 2010 is potentially an extremely valuable habitat for invertebrates, supporting a greater number of species than oak. Species diversity can be optimised by having all the different stages of growth of the trees. The two willow/birch wet woodlands are very dynamic and have good natural regeneration potential.

OBJECTIVES

1. To enhance and maintain the structural diversity of the woodland areas to benefit wildlife. 2. To restore, and thereafter maintain, the historic parish boundary as a prominent ditch and bank system 3. To control and where practicable eradicate non-native and invasive plant species. 4. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour. 5. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community, such as increasing visibility and removing hazard trees.

VISION

The wet woodland has a wild and natural feel to it. Native broad-leaved species that enjoy the wet conditions, such as willows, birch and alders dominate the woodland. Some areas of ground remain periodically water-logged, with areas of boggy or saturated substrate; these can be seasonal or permanent.

Alder, willow and birch can be seen in different age ranges and sizes (including coppice stools) within the woods, with the occasional rowan, aspen and oak amongst them. The old

21 mature coppice stools exhibit healthy re-growth and the younger stools provide variety in the canopy layers. The woodland is a dynamic habitat with temporary open areas, which are maintained as far as possible by natural processes. Young seedlings and saplings will develop in the open glades and there will be a patchwork of vegetation communities. Deadwood, standing, hung up and on the floor is plentiful, so a variety of deadwood dependant species such as fungi, mosses and invertebrates will flourish.

Soft grasses and woodland flowers such as wood sorrel and primroses can be found on the woodland floor along with honeysuckle and nettles, making the open glades ideal for butterflies. There are large tussocks of grasses, and mosses forming large hummocks across the woodland floor, amongst which numerous froglets can be seen hopping about during spring and early summer as they spread out from their spawning sites.

This is an excellent place to see birds such as the green woodpecker, the greater-spotted woodpecker and the shy tree creeper. At dusk and throughout the evening bats can be seen using the woodland as they emerge from their roosts to forage and commute to nearby feeding grounds. Plant and tree species associated with dry conditions are lacking as are non-native plant and tree species. Species such as rhododendron are not tolerated and any plants that persist will be targeted in management projects and volunteer activities.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target Area or extent Two distinct wet woodland areas to be retained A diverse age and height structure to the woodland Tree Species alder / willow / birch should be present at irregular spacing‟s, with an overall canopy cover of between 50 - 90% Structure and Under storey / scrub present - between 10 - 30% of area natural Not less than 10% of the woodland should be open (a mixture of processes permanent and temporary gaps) High levels of deadwood. Standing wherever possible but safely „hung up‟ or on the ground where Health and Safety dictates Transitions between stages over time occur Seedlings, saplings and young trees show signs of growing through Regeneration to maintain canopy density into the future potential Natural regeneration from trees on site, not from plantings No obvious signs of over grazing of regenerating trees Vegetation Native species are dominant. Willow, alder and birch to dominate composition No flowering plants of non-native species (trees and shrubs) Absence of Rhododendron

High levels of fungi present Quality Bat species using woodland to roost indicators Further distinct and desirable elements currently undetermined. Surveys and monitoring required to determine future limits/action

Factor Target No over grazing (destruction of understory, prevention of tree Grazing regeneration, heavy poaching etc) Indicators of Rhododendron and other non native invasive plants - no flowering negative plants change No increase in conifer plantation species in woodland Fire Zero tolerance (uncontrolled) No unacceptable damaging encroachment by people and dogs into Access/public sensitive areas – levels undetermined. Record to determine future pressure limits/action No signs of obvious pollution Water levels and quality Ecology of site not to be adversely affected – levels undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action No obvious signs of adverse soil enrichment – levels Soil undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action enrichment Zero tolerance on fly tipping

MANAGEMENT

Management Time and Notes on Management Tasks Options Resources Little formal management is needed in woodlands generally. The woodland largely looks after itself as natural succession takes Non-intervention All year place. Therefore diversity in the tree age structure and canopy cover should be maintained naturally. Coppicing, pollarding, creation of glades and re-coppicing of mature Alder coppice stools Coppicing/Pollard 1 – 2 days, (edge M3 boundary) using mechanical and ing Sept – March hand tools should be carried out in specific Tree & Scrub Contractor / areas of native wet woodland. This action Clearance Rangers / Volunteers would hopefully enhance the structural diversity of the woodland for wildlife.

On health and safety grounds, any dead, dying or dangerous trees near to high target areas, such as private property, roads and well used footpaths should be removed or As and When made safe in line with Hart District Contractor / Tree Safety Council‟s Tree Policy. An annual site Rangers inspection is undertaken to establish potential dangers. All designated main footpaths surrounding this section should be kept open and clear of hazards. Invasive plant species should be controlled. All year, As and Undesirable This would include Rhododendron and When species control Cherry Laurel. Rangers / Volunteers Invasive plant species can be sprayed with herbicide. This is carried out during the Spraying Chemical growing season. Any stumps of invasive April - Sept treatment species or felled trees cut down during the Stump treating As winter season should be treated directly and When Required after cutting.

An action plan for management tasks follows in Section 3 Monitoring Status assessments Botanical surveying Invertebrate surveying Fixed point photography Dip-well water level monitoring

Feature 3 – Wooded/Scrub Perimeter Buffer

MAP 5 – Extent of wooded/scrub perimeter buffer

DESCRIPTION

The development, and thereafter maintenance, of a wooded/scrub buffer around the perimeter of the reserve is of importance in the context of the local residents and the development. Residents and site users place a great deal of importance on this screening and as a result it will be retained and improved, and treated as a feature in its own right in order to define management projects to establish and develop this perimeter strip to a suitable state. However, management away from a tall canopy of pine with rhododendron understory to a mixed deciduous canopy layer should be encouraged. Management techniques should be used to achieve this and native species encouraged to provide a visual screen from, and for, houses and roads.

There is also a desire to have a combination of open heathland areas and woodlands to provide a variety of habitats for site users to enjoy. The development of a wooded/scrub buffer has also been identified as being of importance due to the high density development around the nature reserve. Visual and audio screening is a key reason why trees and scrub should be retained around the outside of the reserve.

OBJECTIVES

1. To enhance and maintain a native wooded/scrub perimeter strip and visual screen between the nature reserve, M3 motorway and the surrounding development. 2. To restore, and thereafter maintain, the historic parish boundary as a prominent ditch and bank system 3. To control and where practicable eradicate non-native and invasive plant species. 4. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour. 5. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community.

VISION

The site retains a buffer of trees and shrubs around its perimeter which restricts views of the surrounding development and M3 motorway. This buffer consists of native species, such as birch, willow, alder, rowan, aspen, oak and gorse. Tall Scott‟s pine trees intersperse the skyline giving a sense of height and grandiose. There is a diverse age and height structure to all the plants, providing dense screening from ground level right up to the highest canopy layer. The buffer provides excellent foraging for birds, butterflies and mammals throughout the year as it provides pollen, flowers, catkins, seeds and berries along with an associated invertebrate assemblage. The dense growth means birds have an additional habitat to nest and feed as well as the areas of woodland.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target A buffer strip to extend along the reserve perimeter Area or extent predominantly where there is no woodland screening Structure and A diverse age and height structure to the strip natural Transitions between stages over time occur processes Tall trees also occur throughout the strip Seedlings, saplings and young trees show signs of growing Regeneration through to maintain the strip into the future potential Natural regeneration preferred from trees on site, not from plantings. Vegetation Native species are dominant composition

(trees and No flowering plants of non-native species (particularly shrubs) rhododendron) Quality Birds and invertebrates use the strip for feeding and nesting indicators Adequate screening from nearby development

Factor Target Fire Zero tolerance

(uncontrolled) No unacceptable damaging encroachment by people and Access/public dogs into sensitive areas – levels undetermined. Record to pressure determine future limits/action No obvious signs of adverse soil enrichment – levels Soil enrichment undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action Zero tolerance on fly tipping No signs of obvious pollution Water levels and

quality Ecology of site not to be adversely affected – levels undetermined. Record to determine future limits/action

MANAGEMENT

Management Time and Notes on Management Tasks Options Resources Little formal management is needed in managing this feature. The wooded/scrub perimeter largely looks after itself as Non- natural succession takes place and as All year intervention existing trees and shrubs mature. Therefore diversity in the tree age structure and canopy cover should be maintained naturally. Selective coppicing and pollarding of native deciduous trees will promote a As and When Coppicing & bushier, denser tree canopy. This could Sept – March Pollarding be employed to further enhance a visual Contractor /

screen between the M3 motorway and Rangers the nature reserve. On health and safety grounds, any dead, dying or dangerous trees near to high target areas, such as private property, roads and well used footpaths should be As and When Tree Safety removed or made safe in line with Hart Contractor / District Council‟s Tree Policy. All Rangers designated main footpaths surrounding this section should be kept open and clear of hazards. All year, As and Invasive plant species should be Undesirable When controlled. This would include species control Rangers / Rhododendron and Cherry Laurel. Volunteers Invasive plant species can be sprayed with Spraying April – herbicide. This is carried out during the Chemical Sept, As and When growing season. Any stumps of invasive treatment Stump treating As species or felled trees cut down in the and When Required winter season should be treated directly

after cutting.

An action plan for management tasks follows in Section 3

MONITORING Status assessments Botanical surveying Invertebrate surveying Fixed point photography Dip-well water level monitoring

Feature 4 – Historic Ditch and Bank System

MAP 6 – Extent of historic ditch and bank system

DESCRIPTION

The historic parish boundary and open water course running through the site form part of the local SUDs. The parish boundary is the only historical feature on site and therefore should be retained as a feature of interest in its own right.

This ancient parish boundary crosses through the entire development of Elvetham Heath, and a section of it is contained within the nature reserve. It can be seen in the form of a ditch and bank system and originally marked the boundary between the Hundreds of Crondall (to the east) and Odiham (to the west) and dates back to the 9th Century.

A „Hundred‟ was the term used in Saxon times for dividing the land required to support and raise 100 „men-at-arms‟. In 885, Alfred the Great, the Saxon King bequeathed the Hundred

29 of Crondall to his nephew Eltham. Eltham is believed to be the origin of the name „Elvetham‟. Therefore, the parish boundary is more than 1000 years old, and the bank was probably formed over the centuries by digging out the ditch. The stream continued to form the parish boundary until 1836 when Fleet was created from parts of the former parishes of Crondall, Elvetham and Yateley.

Although some of the bank has been damaged, much of the feature is now open and free from dominant conifer species. It is also showing signs of native regeneration from the seed-bank, so clearly restoration/recovery management is appropriate and should be continued.

OBJECTIVES Figure 5: Ditch with running water 1. To restore, and thereafter maintain, the historic parish boundary as a prominent ditch and bank system 2. To control and where practicable eradicate non-native and invasive plant species. 3. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour. 4. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community.

VISION

The section of ancient parish boundary within the nature reserve can be seen in the form of a ditch and bank system. The structural integrity of the ancient bank within the nature reserve remains intact. The historic ditch and bank of the old parish boundary is a prominent and obvious feature of interest. It has established high banks indicating the years of cultural importance when our ancestors would have repeatedly dug out the ditch to maintain the boundary between parishes.

The raised banks provide dry, sandy areas where species of dry-ground loving plants, such as bell heather can grow, and insects, such as heathland mining bees or solitary Figure 6: Parish boundary bank wasps, can use the south facing slopes for burrowing. These raised banks provide a contour in the landscape which, albeit small, is otherwise unavailable.

The streams and ditches around the site are open and free from debris, blockages and silt. Several species of aquatic flora and fauna can be found in the streams/ ditches that contain water for most of the year. Kingfishers often feed along the streams and some species of dragonflies, damselflies, crane fly and other Diptera species can be seen which are reliant on flowing water. Associated stream-side vegetation is also present in several open sunny areas. Invasive and or non-native plant and tree species are at a minimum and are to be maintained to this level.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target No loss in the extent of the surviving historic ditch and bank Extent Re-instatement of destroyed or neglected areas - levels undetermined. Research to determine future actions No further compromise to the structure of the ditch and Structural integrity bank No damaging plants allowed to establish or persist Native heathland species are present indicating historic Quality indicators seedbank

Factor Target No over grazing (serious destruction of bank, heavy poaching Grazing etc) Fire (uncontrolled) Zero tolerance

No unacceptable damaging encroachment by people and dogs Access/public into sensitive areas – levels undetermined. Record to pressure determine future limits/action

MANAGEMENT

MANAGEMENT NOTES ON MANAGEMENT TIME AND OPTIONS TASKS RESOURCES Invasive plant species should be Undesirable All year, As and When controlled. This would include species control Rangers / Volunteers Rhododendron and Cherry Laurel. Any major debris or blockages from streams and ditches should be removed. Clearance of As and when Required Checks for blockages are especially debris and important after heavy rainfall. blockages Contractors Ditches are to be dug out as and when necessary to maximise the capacity.

Ditch and banks which have been destroyed or damaged could be re- profiled using machinery, such as a mini- Ditch clearance digger. As and when Required Bank Restoration Contractors

Soil from other management projects such as heathland scrapes could be used to repair sections of bank. Severe dominance of the bank by scrub Tree & Scrub and trees will detract from the bank and As and when Required control ditch forming a prominent structural Rangers

feature so this should be prevented. On health and safety grounds, any dead, dying or dangerous trees near to high target areas, such as private property, roads and well used footpaths should be As and When Tree Safety removed or made safe in line with Hart Required District Council‟s Tree Policy. All Contractor / Rangers designated main footpaths surrounding this section should be kept open and clear of hazards.

An action plan for management tasks follows in Section 3.

MONITORING Advice from expert / knowledgeable sources. Fixed point photography. Aerial photography (when available). Mapping of historic features. Vegetation survey. Status assessment. Follow up inspection of management works. On-going informal inspection. Water quality monitoring.

Feature 5 – Open Spaces

MAP 7 – Extent of open spaces

DESCRIPTION

This formal landscape includes quiet seated areas around ponds, a tranquil picnic green and a formal play area. These are all interconnected with foot and cycle paths that run throughout the development and further afield to the neighbouring communities of Fleet Town and Ancells Farm.

The focal point of this feature is Turners Pond. This man-made pond was constructed as part of the development in Figure 7: Recreation area Turners Pond early 2000 and is lined with Butyl rubber. A

drainage channel carrying surface water from Elvetham Heath Way enters the water body via a culvert into the south- western edge of the pond. A culvert on the North-eastern pond edge takes over-flow water into the nature reserve via a metre wide natural channel.

This is primarily a wildlife pond which supports several species of dragonfly and damselfly. Common species of Figure 8: Children’s Play Area waterfowl can be found here. Fishing is not permitted on this water. The pond is surrounded by a landscape comprising of planted trees and scrub beds, and lawns. Picnic benches and other seating are situated close to the pond to facilitate enjoyment of this formal green space. Recent pond bank restoration work has been carried out to improve the amenity value of the site. A series of reed fringed ponds and ditches are located throughout the site, which form the Sustainable Urban Drainage System of the estate (SUDS). See Section 4 (Sustainability) number 2.1 for more information. The SUDS are made up of a series of ponds and ditches varying in shape, size and depth. Many of these pools contain aquatic vegetation and form transitional wetland zones between other habitat types, namely Common Reed. They support a range of invertebrates such as dragonflies, damselflies and native amphibians. These pools act as a buffer zone between the housing estate and the nature reserve. Ultimately, the provision of SUDS at Elvetham will enhance the local biodiversity whilst providing a sustainable method in managing flooding and the affects of pollution. Within the open spaces there is a play area, which was developed as part of the housing development.

OBJECTIVES

1. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour. 2. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community.

VISION

We intend to keep the open spaces maintained to a high standard, with grass cutting and shrub beds regularly visited and monitored. Picnic areas will be kept clean and tidy to encourage people to use the facilities and increase usage of the open space.

The open spaces provide a safe, clean and pleasant environment for people to enjoy their free time. With ample space for people to walk, cycle, picnic or just relax. By encouraging people to visit Elvetham Heath‟s open spaces we aim to improve their health and wellbeing.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target Extent No loss in the extent of the formalized open spaces Maintenance of Grass to be kept short throughout the growing season vegetation (trees, No weeds/invasive plant species in shrub and flower beds grass and shrub Shrubs and trees to be pruned and maintained in keeping with beds) a formalised landscape No loss in structural integrity of all play equipment and Play Area associated structures No reduction in safety inspections Landscaping free of litter and fly-tipping Grass mown tightly and free of invasive weeds Flower and shrub beds free of weeds and disease, plants showing vitality Footpaths free of damage and clear of vegetation SUDS – drainage unimpeded and free of established trees Quality indicators Ditches clear and drainage unimpeded Pond - free of pollutants, absence of fish, duck house free of damage and intact, banks intact with 70% marginal vegetation present Picnic and other benches free of damage Play Area – free of damage and safe for children to play on

Factor Target Weather Sympathetic management in adverse weather conditions Conditions No unacceptable damaging encroachment by people and dogs into sensitive areas – levels undetermined. Record to Access/public determine future limits/action pressure Litter not allowed to accumulate

MANAGEMENT

Management Time and Notes on Management Tasks Options Resources *Selected tasks are based on 3 man team and work over a one year period. Grounds maintenance is managed via a partnership agreement with Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council to supply a grounds maintenance service to Hart District Council via its in-house service. The Grounds and Countryside Manager will oversee this partnership agreement. Management is reactive as and when Fish removal / As and problems arise. When Recent work has involved the installation of a Contractor timber framed duck house, removing Bank and lining repair introduced fish species and repairing the / As and when pond lining and erosion of pond edges. Contractor Marginal plant plugs covered with goose Duck House clean out Pond protection fencing was installed on the pond / Every Autumn Maintenance edge in early 2009 to stabilise the pond bank Rangers edges. This fencing has now been removed as Duck House repair, the bank side is now stable. replacement / As and In freezing conditions, if the pond is partially When or completely frozen over, appropriate Rangers Health & Safety warning signs should be Site patrols Ice/snow displayed in the interests of public safety. In – installation H & S these conditions the pond should be signs / As and When monitored on a regular basis. Rangers The individual ponds or swales need periodic clearing out of scrub and debris to facilitate drainage and to prevent the establishment of woodland. This will typically be done every three to five years. Scrub is removed with brush cutters and hand tools and all cut Scrub Clearance stumps are treated. 3 days every 3-5 yrs *SUDS/ It may be necessary to remove silt if a Contractor Balancing particular pond impedes drainage from the Ponds housing estate. This would need to be done Litter Pick / As and with a mechanical digger. When The balancing pond maintenance will be carried out by Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council‟s in-house service and specialist contractors. Thames Water Plc has overall responsibility for the SUDs. *Grass All grass areas, including play grounds, are cut 8 cuts (96hrs) Cutting & once every four weeks during the growing annually Strimming season. Grass cut with ride on mowers and

trimmers, with all arisings left on site to break down naturally so as not to remove nutrients. All arising will be blown off paths and back onto grass areas. Strimming around trees, posts, buildings, fences and other furniture to take place with grass cutting. Footpaths are sprayed with glyphosate twice Spray with herbicide a year to keep weeds at bay, the condition of *Paths twice yearly (6hrs) the path is monitored at this time and any Contractor repairs required will be carried out. To be weeded as and when weeds appear and between March and October. Flowering plants to be pruned and deadheaded as 2 cuts plus weeding *Flower and required. Replanted as required. Mulched (144 hrs) Shrub Beds using recycled materials. Shrubs to be Contractor trimmed twice a year either end of the bird nesting season. Ditches are regularly inspected and any major Ditch Inspections 0.5 blockages removed. Major clearance work is days / yr *Ditches and carried out every two years. Checks for Ditch Clearance 1 day Culverts blockages are especially important after / yr heavy rainfall. Contractor Litter picking & Bins / Open spaced litter picked and all bins Once Weekly Litter emptied weekly by the Waste and Street Waste and Street Picking Cleaning contractor. Cleaning contractor Bins Nature reserve litter picked by site ranger a Litter Picking minimum of once a week. Rangers once weekly Play equipment ROSPA checked weekly by qualified staff with more detailed check 6 monthly by specialist from the Districts Inspection Insurance Provider. Repairs to / replacement Play Area Once Weekly of worn or damaged equipment carried out 52 hrs annually as required. Leaves and other debris cleared on a weekly basis. Bark or sand topped up as required. Paths and fence checked regularly. Close links with HDC dog warden re: dog fouling and anti social behaviour. Dog litter As and When Dog Warden signs at all main access points. All issues HDC Dog Warden / relating to dogs should contact the Rangers Environmental Health Department. Structural and other site inspections. Repairs Site Inspections / and replacements as & when required & Once Fortnightly Site highlighted in annual inspections. These Structural Inspection / Structures include bins, seating, bridges, boardwalks, 1 Day Yr fencing, rails, signs and footpaths. Rangers

On health and safety grounds, any dead, dying or dangerous trees near to high target areas, such as private property, roads and well used As and When footpaths should be removed or made safe in Tree Safety Required line with Hart District Council‟s Tree Policy. Contractor / Rangers All designated main footpaths surrounding this section should be kept open and clear of hazards.

An action plan for management tasks follows in Section 3.

MONITORING Monitoring will be carried out by the Grounds and Countryside Manager over the course of any one year and will be reactive and proactive.

Feature 6 – The Local Community

The nature reserve is an important part of the Elvetham Heath community and the relationship with the local community, at present, is a good one. At this stage of the reserves‟ short history there is already a lot of use of the site by people from the surrounding housing of Elvetham Heath and also the wider area of Fleet itself.

Predominantly this is local people taking exercise, with or without their dogs, young parents out with children during the working day, families and friends visiting during the weekend and local workers, from areas such as the Ancells Business Park, using the reserve during lunch breaks either for a walk or as a thoroughfare to the local supermarket.

The system of guided walks carried out at the nature reserve has also been popular with local interest groups such as church and community groups and with local residents. Higher education projects and dissertations have been carried out, possibly due to the site being new, accessible and contained within the new development.

The Countryside Service relies on local volunteers to accomplish a large proportion of its practical work. The efforts of all our volunteer work parties are very much appreciated and we hope to continue our links with them in the coming years. This service also gives people the opportunity to work in the Figure 9: Local scout group volunteering countryside and experience nature conservation in practice. Corporate events are carried out on a regular basis throughout the year. Group sizes vary from 5 to 30 people.

Links have been forged with the Elvetham 100th scout group; activities include removing pine saplings and erecting fencing to protect rare heathland plants. We hope to continue working with these and other local interest groups over the coming years. The Countryside Service has a system of volunteers at Elvetham whose specific role is to monitor the livestock and report any injury, illness, or incident that may adversely affect the grazing animals on the reserve. They also check the infrastructure of the site and report any antisocial behaviour seen. These volunteers are known as „lookers‟, they report any significant findings to us via a specially designed blog, by email or by telephone. Everyone is welcome to become a „Looker‟ and training is provided by the Countryside Service for new recruits.

Other volunteering includes individual volunteers on work placements including people with learning difficulties. Some individuals come to us on a regular basis and have contributed to work at Elvetham Heath and other sites over a number of years. Volunteers perform a wide variety of tasks at the nature reserve ranging from scrub clearance, litter picking and fence building to checking the livestock during the summer months.

Urban nature reserves and conservation sites surrounded by houses often suffer from problems with vandalism, arson and anti-social behaviour. Arson and vandalism have occurred at the reserve to varying degrees and for different periods of time. These periods of trouble often coincide with school holidays and periods of good weather as people are more likely to be out and about with time to access the site.

Arson is an extremely important issue and the risk from uncontrolled fires at the nature reserve is potentially very serious. Not only are uncontrolled fires potentially very damaging to the nature conservation features of the site but it also has repercussions for the welfare of site users, livestock and the surrounding houses. Between 2005 and 2010 several large fires have occurred on the open heathland, these fires caused some damage to vegetation and were highly likely to have been started deliberately. From evidence gathered since the incidents, it seems likely that the most serious fire, which did the most damage, spread from a small fire that was lit by young children. The other incidents are believed to be cases of older youths playing with lighter fuel and aerosols and deliberately setting fires. All incidents of fire have required Figure 10: Dragonfly walk the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service to attend, which has resource implications for them.

Vandalism of site infrastructure such as gates, locks, latches, water monitoring stations, water supply, posters, interpretation panels, trees and culverts has also occurred with more frequency as the site has become more heavily used and more homes have become occupied near the reserve. As a result of these problems of vandalism, arson and anti-social behaviour by local young people, the Ranger has attended meetings between local Police Officers and Sergeants, local Fire & Rescue Officers, the Anti-social Behaviour Officer and Wardens and other community people such as the Reverend and Neighbourhood Watch Chairman. Many individuals who attended this meeting have also had follow up site visits to see the areas that are being affected. Keys to site padlocks have been provided to the Fire Service to ensure access is as easy as possible in the event of future fires on site. Engaging with key community groups such as these is very important for the nature reserve as it can help to ease these inevitable site pressures that come about from having a nature reserve located so close to high density populations and means any antisocial behaviour and issues can be addressed in a positive manner.

OBJECTIVES

To maintain and enhance good relationships with the local communities.

VISION

As a Local Nature Reserve the site is, by definition, there for the people of Elvetham Heath. Local children, students and adults alike feel a sense of ownership to the reserve and take pride in keeping an extra eye on the site and understanding what is going on there.

Local community groups (such as Brownies and Scouts) use it as a wildlife resource. Activities such as pond dipping, nature games and wildlife drawings cross from the site visit itself to classroom follow-up work. The Ranger provides opportunities and assists with groups when required and actively encourages groups to use the reserve to maximise the resources available to local schools and community groups.

Local residents have the opportunity to discuss site management with Countryside staff through contact made via guided walks, displays, open days, volunteer days, email bulletins and telephone calls. Support for the management of the site is good as a result and issues such as littering, fly tipping and illegal motorcycling are not a problem.

Information is provided to site users and local residents through permanent on-site interpretation, temporary signs posted to inform of current or planned works, directories, press releases, forums, websites, blogs and guided walks. Use of the local community centre and any local community newsletters and websites is optimised to reach a wider audience.

The site Ranger is a familiar face at the reserve and around Elvetham Heath. Local residents are happy to approach them to discuss ideas and any problems. Details of how to contact the Ranger and Countryside Service are readily available and well known to local residents. The site is also used by people who are not involved with the reserve, such as those using the paths as a thoroughfare at lunchtime and people simply exercising their dogs.

These people are not excluded, nor feel a sense of elitism by the Ranger or those who play a more active role in the reserve or local community.

Work done during volunteer days is part of the reserves planned management and every effort is made for the volunteers to understand the implications of the work being carried out.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target Environmental To provide guided walks throughout the summer months and education any additional talks and presentations agreed with local interest groups At least 35% of individuals who attend education visits with Hart Countryside Service to be catered for at Elvetham Heath Volunteer and Encourage and organise volunteering events with local interest involvement groups, such as volunteer sessions with local scout groups opportunities Encourage community involvement through Lookers scheme to monitor cattle during the summer months Sense of When questioned, regular site users confirm a sense of

41 ownership ownership and fondness for the site and its wildlife When questioned, regular site users demonstrate knowledge of the reserves wildlife, past or planned management and its rationale

MANAGEMENT

Management Notes on Management Tasks Time and Resources Options Organise / carry out a minimum of two guided walks onsite as part of HDC‟s Preparation time depends Countryside Service guided walks on event (approx 0.5 Environmental programme. days per event) (Each Education Organise / carry out one to two walk lasts 1.5-2 hrs) additional educational As and When Required walks/talks/presentations to organisations Rangers / Specialist on request. Provide / facilitate volunteering opportunities as and when they arise for As and when Required schools, local interest groups, regular Volunteering (when resources allow) volunteers & corporate groups. As and when Required Recruit / maintain close links with lookers and provide training for new lookers. As and when Required Encourage / cultivate a sense of (pre & post management/ Sense of ownership for the site through up to date event/ activity What to Ownership / information: websites, blogs, forums, see posters 2-3 annually, Community publications, press releases, and onsite incident information posters. appeals, guided walks once yearly etc) Liaise / communicate with emergency service, community groups and local A Safe residents regarding antisocial behaviour, Site visit with local PCSO Community including arson. minimum twice yearly as Report serious incidents to police and and when incidents occur minor incidents to 101 reports.

MONITORING Monitoring can be through local forums, blogs, emails, calls, incident reports, feedback from neighbourhood watch and other community meetings. Collecting information on site usage – school groups, volunteer activities, illegal site usage, and dog bins etc. Site user questionnaires – five yearly (see Appendix 2).

Feature 7 – Access

As a fairly new development, Elvetham Village enjoys a comprehensive footpath and cycle path network. These link the various target areas of Elvetham Village shops and recreational areas, Fleet Town, the Business Park at Ancells Farm and ultimately, Fleet Town Train Station and Bus Terminal. The Nature Reserve and Open Space are ideally placed so that walkers and cyclists can visit them or any of the other aforementioned areas with the minimum of interruption by roads and other built-up areas, if they so wish.

The standard of construction for the Figure 11: Cycle path various pathways is high and appropriate to the functions they perform. Gates and inclines are designed to be sympathetic to the needs of wheelchairs and buggies. A variety of visual stimulus‟s and travelling distances can be experienced. The open space surrounding the nature reserve contains a network of formalized gravel paths and a cycle track runs through the centre of the site. Within the nature reserve there are gravel pathways with raised boardwalks over the wet areas in a non-circular route. All the boardwalks are fitted with anti-slip mesh to improve the safety of these structures for the public. Self- closing kissing gates allow access into the reserve, which are suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bicycles. Each kissing gate has a rope pull for trained „helper‟ dogs for people using wheelchairs. The dogs pull a rope to open and close the gates whilst the person in a chair manoeuvres through the gate. Limited parking spaces are available in Mounts Way and Reynolds Street, with most visitors encouraged to use the comprehensive cycle paths and walkways.

Figure 12: Boardwalk southern section of Nature Current use is predominantly by local Reserve people (from both Elvetham Heath and the wider Hart area) taking exercise with or without their dogs, young parents out with children during the working day and local workers using the reserve during lunch breaks either for a walk or as a thoroughfare to the local supermarket. The site is also used during warmer months for school and community groups and guided walks, and during winter months for volunteer working days.

Although public transport is available nearby from local buses, national rail services previous questionnaires indicate that visitors do not appear to access the reserve in this way at present. There is a footbridge linking Elvetham Heath across the railway line to Elvetham Road that opened in 2005, this may increase visitors from the local rail link.

There are three main notice boards at the main entrances to the Nature Reserve (by the main pond and Elvetham Way). Each map indicates your position with „you are here‟ signs.

The access, location and layout of the reserve does not make it particularly appealing for visitors on horseback and the wet nature of the site would also detract from the ability to use off-path areas on a horse. Using the reserve for off-road motorised cycles may be an attraction for local owners of such machines, however, the damaging effects on the integrity of the pathways and the off-path areas are undesirable from both an access provision/maintenance and a nature conservation point of view, and so are discouraged.

With all forms of use of the reserve, the high water levels at the site do not make it suitable for heavy use away from the provided pathways. The mobility of the ground and the infancy of the ground flora will suffer greatly from damaging activities and therefore the most suitable access option for the site is to allow open access for quiet enjoyment and controlled activities.

This is defined by allowing use of the pathways on foot and bicycle. Off-path use is permissive only and should be kept to a minimum, particularly by bicycles. Dogs should be kept under strict control at all times, this means that a dog can be off the lead but its owner should remain in control of the dog at all times, and therefore should be able to recall the dog at any time. Any dog that can not be recalled at any time should be kept on a lead. When livestock are present on site, all dogs should be kept on a lead at least in the vicinity of the livestock.

Any trees that are deemed dead, dying or dangerous that are in high target areas will be removed as soon as is reasonably practical. In addition tree inspection surveys are carried out annually in accordance with Hart District Councils Tree Safety Policy.

OBJECTIVES

1. To create and maintain an enjoyable and safe amenity for the local community. 2. To maintain and enhance access within the nature reserve and surrounding open spaces 3. To prevent and reduce impact from misuse of the site, i.e. fly-tipping, vandalism, illegal motorbike use and other anti-social behaviour.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target No upper limit (i.e. 100% of site use is for passive, informal recreation) Site usage Minimise illegal and prohibited activities on site as far as possible (i.e. 0% of illegal activities)

Pathways, boardwalks and access points to be accessible 365 days of the year Access provision only unsatisfactory when there are Accessibility overriding reasons of Health and Safety No more than 10% of site users to encounter difficulties with accessibility Access levels Nature conservation features not adversely affected – levels compatible with undetermined. Record to determine future limits/actions the nature conservation Access levels do not hinder progress to favourable objectives conservation status

VISION

Access to the nature reserve is both easy and diverse. Links to the reserve from the surrounding area and access into the site itself allows for a variety of visitors to use the reserve in a trouble free manner. The reserve is free of litter with a minimum of dog waste. Detrimental access leading to damaging activities does not occur and so other site access is not affected by such activities. Vistas are kept open allowing site users to feel safe and secure whilst enjoying the site.

Access for quiet enjoyment and controlled activities is encouraged. Visitors do not stray from the path unduly and dogs are kept under strict control at all times. Livestock grazing, as part of the management of the nature conservation features, does not impede access for visitors to the detriment of their enjoyment of the nature reserve and in many cases enhances their enjoyment.

Access into the reserve by motorised vehicles is permitted only for the good of the reserves management projects, fire fighting and access to the pumping station and statutory easements (drainage and electricity way leave). All essential vehicle access is managed to have minimal impact on the access provisions at the reserve.

MANAGEMENT

Management Time and Notes on Management Tasks Options Resources Dog fouling and littering will adversely affect Monitoring of dog the site features, poses a threat to human fouling, littering health and spoils people‟s enjoyment of the and bins site. As and When Dog fouling and Attempts to control this can be made by Required littering maintaining and where appropriate replacing Ranger / Waste litter bins and dog mess bins and actively and Street Cleaning encouraging visitors to use them. Free dog contractor waste bags may be made available to site users. Interpretation Posters urging owners to act responsibly, As and When

leaflets or blogs, forum articles and Required information flyers about the dangers of dog Rangers mess, press releases and fining offenders can Litter picked once help to tackle this problem. The nature weekly by rangers reserve to be litter picked once a week.

Footpaths, boardwalks, bridges and kissing Maintenance & gates should be maintained to a high standard Repairs and repaired or replaced when necessary. As and When Infrastructure inspections should be carried Required out annually in accordance with HDCs Infrastructure Countryside Service Health & Safety Policy. Rangers / The site budget is limited for minor structural Contractors repairs. Funding may have to be bid for / Inspection 1 day / applied for if large projects are carried out or yr if expensive items need repair or replacement. Rangers Statutory services have the legal right to enter onto the site. Thames Water and Scottish & Southern Electric (the companies in ownership of the services at the time of writing this plan) have company padlocks on the main gates into the reserve. These companies can enter onto the site to access their services at any time if carrying out emergency work or within 24 hours, upon serving notice on the Council for planned maintenance works. In practice, written notification is not always presented and contractors may enter on site uncontrolled at any time in some Communication circumstances. Therefore steps should be with Statutory Statutory taken to contact the regional supervisor to Services Service find out when and what works may be planned As and When Easements for the nature reserve. Required Access to the overhead power lines is not Rangers provided in a permanent structured way as with the pumping station. No road or paths exist to gain access to this area which is extremely wet and inaccessible to machinery or vehicles. Where and when statutory access is required care must be taken to either maintain the lines or clear vegetation from beneath the line. Close liaison with contractors and regional supervisors is essential to minimise the impact on the reserve and the access provision for site users. The porous paving road way through the

reserve to the pumping station must be maintained so that access can be gained by the statutory services or their authorised contractors. Paths and access points to be kept open in summer months and overgrowing vegetation Path Clearance to be controlled by mowing with either Path Clearance 1-2 days / yr pedestrian mower or brush cutters. View Rangers points and vistas to be kept open to increase sense of personal security. As and When Restrictions to access should be avoided Required unless they are absolutely necessary. Access Rangers / restrictions may occur due to emergencies, Access Contractor improvement works to access and other site Restrictions As and When management works. Required Up to date interpretation should be available Rangers / to the general public. Contractor The Disability Discrimination Act (Part III - Access to Goods and Services) which came into force in 2004 gives disabled people As and when important rights of access to everyday services Legislation required that others take for granted. This means

service providers may have to consider making permanent physical adjustments to their premises, including countryside sites.

Motorised vehicles (including motorbikes) and horse riding are not permitted on the site for a number of reasons. Such activities would affect the enjoyment and safety of other site As and when users. If these activities were carried out in incidents occur areas away from the path then the damage to Site visit with local the nature conservation features of the site Illegal activities PCSO minimum would be detrimental to the status of the site. twice yearly It is for these reasons that these activities are

currently and will continue to be prohibited Rangers and discouraged. Illegal site use should be reported to the police and prevented from occurring through interpretation, liaising with emergency services and the public. In the event of an emergency such as Wildfire and accidents, an agreed access plan has been Emergency As and when created and appropriated way markers are to Access required be erected at suggested access points (see map in section 3)

MONITORING Annual tree safety assessments Annual infrastructure safety inspections Five yearly site questionnaires

Feature 8 – Interpretation

There is a variety of signage throughout the site which is used to inform and interpret information to visitors to ensure they get the most out of their visit.

The information signs include „Welcome‟ boards, these are simple boards made of oak and positioned at three key entrance points to the site to indicate that the visitor is entering the Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve and Open Spaces.

Interpretation panels are positioned at key entrance points to the nature reserve. They are of solid construction, and comprise of steel frames, glass reinforced plastic artwork panels and lockable notice boards. Figure 13: Interpretation panel with lockable These panels provide directional signs, notice board site maps, text and artwork, which enable the visitor to understand the facts of the site. Lockable notice boards inform members of the public on up and coming events, what to see this month (specific wildlife) talks and walks. Three additional notice boards are situated at minor access points to the nature reserve.

Several other forms of media are utilized, these include regular press releases to the local media; which includes local newspapers, the Fleet News and Mail and the Star Courier. In addition to local media the site ranger also contributes seasonal information about the nature reserve to the Elvetham Heath newsletter local directories and the Council‟s in house publication “Hart News”.

With the help of the site ranger the Marketing Officer designs and writes the copy for a number of publications which are distributed to local council run facilities and community buildings.

The council‟s website is used to display a range of information about the site such as its history, management plan and general site information. The website is also used to present a Rangers Blog, which is updated Figure 14: Welcome sign at St Swithins Road entrance regularly with seasonal information about the site as well as to promote community involvement, the guided walks and habitat management. The Rangers Blog information is also passed to the Press Officer for publication in the Hart Life e-zine, which is a new web based publication that‟s produced every month and the Hart News.

When opportunities arise, rangers attend exhibitions or events to promote all the countryside sites, habitat management, conservation and responsible dog ownership to the residents of the Hart District. The site rangers in conjunction with the Marketing Officer produce exhibition literature and posters.

Guided walks are carried out every year and include information on the natural history of the site. Everyone is welcome and the majority of walks are suitable for wheelchair users or members of the public with buggies.

OBJECTIVES To provide and maintain permanent and temporary interpretation for all visitors to the site

VISION Interpretation at the site will significantly enhance the quality of visitors‟ experience, along with their awareness and understanding of the site and its features. Visitors will be aware of any site hazards and take steps to minimise that risk upon themselves.

The interpretation will be sufficient and suitable so that any damaging impacts, caused by visitors, on the nature conservation features, or other features of interest, is minimised. Visitors will also have a good understanding of management works and plans of the nature reserve, through both permanent and temporary interpretation provisions.

Visitors will be very aware that Hart Countryside Service, a part of Hart District Council, manages the site, and that there is a dedicated site Ranger that they can contact regarding anything to do with the reserve. Contact details will be readily available to site users.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Attribute Target 90% of visitors to be aware of the nature conservation features and how their activities may be damaging, such as trampling, littering, dog fouling and flytipping 95% of visitors to leave with a better understanding of the importance of the nature conservation features and other features of interest, management works and the need to protect Awareness the features (through interpretation) All visitors to be aware of site hazards and the actions that they must take to minimise risk All visitors to know that Hart Countryside Service manages the nature reserve and that there is a site Ranger they can contact regarding the reserve. Details of how to contact the Service and Ranger are clear and easy to find

MANAGEMENT

Management Time and Notes on Management Tasks Options Resources The current interpretation structures are of good quality and are structurally sound, Permanent providing they are not vandalised or As and when Required Interpretation destroyed. Steps should be taken to ensure Rangers / Contractor Panels this does not happen. Replace, maintain and repair display, welcome and notice boards when necessary. Interpretation should be up to date and As and when Required relevant to the time of year and include up management/ event/ and coming activities, events, management activity / what to see Temporary and incidents that have occurred. All suitable posters 2-3 annually, Interpretation media should be utilized, including relevant incident appeals, websites, blogs, forums, publications, press warning signs, guided releases, and onsite posters. walks

Section 3: Action Plan

1. Introduction

The Action Plan sets out management tasks by feature for the next five years. The total amount of work needed may not be finished in these five years, but at the end of this time a review of the work should be completed and the Management Plan updated. The Action Plan acts as a guide for management tasks and should be flexible if necessary. A/W- As and when required or requested

Years

Feature 1: Heathland and wet heath/mire 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Grazing √ √ √ √ √ 2-4 cows, Apr-Oct Scrub clearance A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Sep- Mar Mowing of old heather A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Small patches, Oct- Feb Heather Spreading A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Scraping √ √ √ Shallow pools & Dry scrapes, Sep- Feb Bracken control (spraying) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Apr- July Rhododendron control (spraying) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Apr- July Rhododendron control (cutting) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Sep- Mar Manage dangerous trees √ √ √ √ √ In line with Tree Safety Policy Fire break maintenance √ √ √ √ When needs arise

Feature 2: Native wet woodland 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Coppicing and pollarding √ √ Sep- Feb Dead wood provision √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Feb Glade creation √ Sep- Feb Rhododendron control (spraying) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Apr- July Rhododendron control (cutting) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Sep- Feb Nest and roost site creation √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Mar Manage dangerous trees A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W In line with Tree Safety Policy

Feature 3: Wooded/scrub perimeter buffer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Coppicing and pollarding √ Sep- Feb Rhododendron control (spraying) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Apr- July Rhododendron control (cutting) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Sep- Feb Nest and roost site creation √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Mar Manage dangerous trees A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W In line with Tree Safety Policy

Feature 4: Historic ditch and bank system 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Restoration of open bank A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Restoration of non functioning ditch A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Ditch Maintenance √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Feb Control of conifer regeneration √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Feb Rhododendron control (spraying) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Apr- July Rhododendron control (cutting) A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Sep- Feb Scrub clearance √ √ Sep- Mar Manage dangerous trees A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W In line with Tree Safety Policy

Feature 5: Open spaces 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Pond maintenance √ √ √ Repairs to lining and bank, Oct- Feb Clean out duck house √ Annually - autumn / winter, Oct- Feb Fish removal √ √ √ Netting or electro fishing, Oct- Feb SUDs - scrub clearance √ √ √ √ √ Oct- Feb Grass cutting and strimming √ √ √ √ √ Apr- Sep Path maintenance – spraying √ √ √ √ √ Apr- Sep Flower / scrub beds - cuts & weeding √ √ √ √ √ Mar- Oct Ditch and culvert – clearance √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Feb Ditch and culvert – inspections √ √ √ √ √ Sep- Feb Play Area inspections √ √ √ √ √ Site structures – inspections √ √ √ √ √ Annual inspection, Mar Site structures – repairs √ √ √ √ √ Dog warden - incidents / dog fowling √ √ √ √ √ Litter picking and bins √ √ √ √ √ Manage dangerous trees √ √ √ √ √ In line with Tree Safety Policy

Feature 6: The local community 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Guided walks √ √ √ √ √ Jun- Oct Talks and presentations √ √ √ √ √ Education groups √ √ √ √ √ Community events √ √ √ √ √ Volunteer days √ √ √ √ √ Oct- Mar Voluntary warden -cattle √ √ √ √ √ May- Oct Local volunteer positions √ √ √ √ √ Written / visual communication √ √ √ √ √ Press releases, articles, blogs On site information √ √ √ √ √ High profile within the community √ √ √ √ √ Liaise with emergency services √ √ √ √ √ Site visit with local PCSO √ √ √ √ √ 1-2 times annually Litter pick √ √ √ √ √ Site patrols √ √ √ √ √ Apr-Oct:1/wk Nov-Mar: fortnightly Maintain dog / refuse bins √ √ √ √ √

Feature 7: Access 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Inspect pathway and boardwalks √ √ √ √ √ Maintain pathways and boardwalks A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Maintain gates A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Clear paths of vegetation √ √ √ √ √ May- Sep Maintain provision dog bins √ √ √ √ √ Manage statutory service access √ √ √ √ √ Maintain vehicular access to pumping station √ √ √ √ √ Maintain access for emergency services √ √ √ √ √ Survey tree health near pathways √ √ √ √ √ In line with Tree Safety Policy Manage dangerous trees A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W In line with Tree Safety Policy Promote the site as being 'access friendly' √ √ √ √ √ To provide information to interested parties A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W

Feature 8: Interpretation 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Inspect interpretation √ √ √ √ √ Maintain permanent interpretation A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Provide temporary interpretation √ √ √ √ √ Maintain corporate approach to interpretation √ √ √ √ √ Renew permanent interpretation √

Monitoring Projects 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Additional Notes Fixed point photography √ √ √ √ √ Annual, July & Aug Vegetation survey √ Chris Hall, May- Sep Entomological survey √ Mike Edwards, May- Sep Status assessments √ √ √ √ √ Annual, Apr- Sep Follow up inspection of management work √ √ √ √ √ Advice from expert / knowledgeable sources A/W A/W A/W A/W A/W Informal inspections √ √ √ √ √ Species sightings √ √ √ √ √ Nest / roost box checks & clean out √ √ √ √ √ Sep - Nov Hazard tree surveying √ √ √ √ √ May- Aug Site user questionnaires √ May- Aug Site diary - all information √ √ √ √ √ incidents, education, volunteering Site patrolling √ √ √ √ √

2. Work Plan Maps

MAP 8 - Turf Scrapes

MAP 9 - Bracken Control

MAP 10 - Rhododendron & Goats Rue Control

MAP 11- Fire Control with use of Fire Breaks

MAP 12 - Emergency Access

SECTION 4 - SUSTAINABILITY AND MARKETING

1. A welcoming place

It is a key priority in the Hart District Council Corporate Objectives to enhance the environment by:

„ensuring a clean, green and safe environment by maintaining and enhancing a high quality, sustainable environment for the people who live in, work in, or visit the District.‟

Hart District Council is committed to helping its residents achieve a healthy body and mind by providing a variety of leisure facilities for all ages to enjoy. As part of the service we also provide for the conservation of the local environment and manage and maintain many countryside sites throughout the district. The service also provides and maintains parks and play areas around the district and works in partnership with other providers to make the best of current opportunities. Elvetham Heath is a key site in this district strategy.

2. Sustainability

2.1 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS)

SUDS are management practices and physical structures that are designed and built to attenuate surface water in a more sustainable way than conventional drainage systems. Significant developments are likely to increase the total area of impervious surfaces due to roofs, roads car parks etc. This interferes with the natural hydrological cycle and increases the drainage requirements over those that were prior to development taking place. SUDS act to manage surface water drainage and consequently help reduce flood risk areas; they can also make use of sedimentation, filtration and other natural processes in an attempt to reduce levels of pollutants being discharged into watercourses. There are different methods of control, which can be integrated, they are: Filter strips and swales Filter drains and permeable surfaces Infiltration devices Basins, ponds and wetlands

Ultimately, the provision of SUDS at Elvetham will enhance the local biodiversity whilst providing a sustainable method in managing flooding and the affects of pollution.

2.2 Carbon Footprint

The council is committed to issue on climate change and has produced a Strategy on Climate Change which is measured against National Performance Indicators;

NI185 on energy use and carbon foot print, and NI186 climate change issues

Following is an example of this practice in implementation on Elvetham Heath.

Timber from tree felling for heathland restoration is utilized by local companies, the majority of the timber has been sent to a wood burning power station. These stations save

Timber removal for horse bedding – May 2009 thousands of tonnes of co² emissions each year compared to fossil fuel burning, a positive step forward in the fight for climate change. A large proportion of timber has also been sent to a local company which chips it into bedding for horse stables. A reputably local contractor was employed to carry out the above work; this contractor routinely utilizes timber for Power Stations and as woodchip for Horticulture and animal husbandry.

2.3 Partnership Working

The opportunity for exploring partnership working is a requirement of a modern thinking and efficient service provider. Training is given by the council to give Managers the appropriate knowledge to make the best use of opportunities arising from partnership working.

Partners can arise from familiar or unusual areas; volunteers are a normal partnership area used. The cattle “Lookers” are a prime example of this. More unusual are the local internet forums which help with advertising walks and talks, but also give a more honest insight of how well we are doing around issues that are important to the local community.

A partnership is also developing between the council and the new parish of Elvetham. This will put joint responsibility on delivering resources along the estate as well as the site in delivering this management plan.

3. Marketing Strategy

3.1 Current Marketing Activity

The marketing activity for EHNR is undertaken by the Council‟s Marketing Officer in conjunction with the Grounds and Countryside manager and the site ranger.

The main marketing activities undertaken are:

Public Relations

This is managed by the Marketing Officer who deals with media enquires and distributes press releases to the local media; which includes local newspapers, The Fleet News and Mail and the Star Courier. In addition to local media the site ranger also contributes seasonal information about the Nature reserve to the Elvetham Heath newsletter, the Council‟s in house publication the Hart News which is distributed to every household in the district twice a year and the Council‟s online newsletter Hart life which is available monthly.

Brochures and Leaflets

With the help of the site ranger the Marketing Officer designs and writes the copy for a number of publications which are distributed to local council run facilities and community buildings.

Published material includes:

Great Outdoors brochure

Guided Walks brochure

Volunteer recruitment leaflets

Paid for Advertising

The Marketing Officer copy writes and designs adverts for a variety of local media such as; newspapers, directories and parish magazines and newsletters. The adverts are used to promote volunteering and the calendar of guided walks.

Printed Material

Habitat management, site works and responsible dog ownership are promoted by on site posters which are designed and distributed by the site ranger.

E Marketing

The council‟s website is used to display a range of information about the site such as its history, management plan and general site information. The website is also used to present a Rangers Blog, which is updated regularly with seasonal information about the site as well as promote community involvement, the guided walks and habitat management. The Rangers Blog information is also passed to the Press Officer for publication in Hart life and Hart News.

Internal Communication

The Marketing Officer informs staff and councillors about any significant information about the site via the Council‟s intranet or via email.

Signs

The copy and the design of the signage throughout the site were done by the site ranger and the Marketing Officer in keeping with the corporate identity.

Exhibitions

All the rangers attend a number of exhibitions throughout the year to promote all the countryside sites, habitat management, conservation and responsible dog ownership to the residents of the Hart District. The site rangers in conjunction with the Marketing Officer produce exhibition literature and posters.

These activities will continue and run alongside the new objectives which are listed below. Increase the number of corporate volunteers Increase the number of special interest group volunteers Increase the nature reserves profile in local publications and online forums Develop a market research programme Introduce a booking system for some walks

3.2 Strategy

This strategy will focus on the Countryside departments‟ resources and the course of action which will lead to the completion of the above objectives.

3.3 Corporate volunteers

Corporate volunteering provides local companies with a clear way to demonstrate their commitment to helping the local community in which they operate. Since 2009 the EHNR ranger has organised 5 corporate volunteer days in which a total of 72 people attended.

In order to increase the number of corporate volunteer days the Marketing Officer will need to actively promote the benefits of volunteering to the business community. This will be done by copying writing and designing a Corporate Volunteer pack which will be sent to local businesses and available on the council‟s website.

To establish an address list of local businesses the Leisure and Environmental Promotion support team firstly research which companies in the district have a CSR policy, then contact them to see if they would like to take part. A newsletter will also be sent out to the local business forum to inform them of the benefits of volunteering and some contact details should they wish to do so.

So that local companies continue to volunteer on a regular basis a database will be set up to capture their details so that they can be sent a newsletter on a quarterly basis via post or email advertising the sort of work they could get involved with next season as well as information on the guided walks.

3.4 Special interest group volunteers

Like corporate volunteering, time given by special interest groups is invaluable to the HDC countryside service. Since 2009 the EHNR ranger organised three separate volunteer days with two local scout groups.

In order to increase these volunteer days a mailing list of special interest groups will be set up by the Marketing Officer which will include groups such as girl guides, scouts, local colleges, charities, nature societies, churches and any other relevant organisations. They will first be called and asked if they would like to receive a pack on volunteering at the site and how it could benefit them.

Once this has been sent out it will be followed up with a quarterly newsletter via post or email which will advertise any work that could be of interest to them in the coming season as well as the sites guided walks.

3.5 Elvetham Heath profile

By increasing the presence of the nature reserve in local publications and online forums it will give the site ranger another channel through which to promote various pieces of information about the site. These will include listings of the guided walks, information on local wildlife and site management, details of conservation projects, and handy hints about littering and responsible dog ownership.

The Marketing Officer will aim to set up a quarterly Countryside feature in some of the local directories that will take the form of a diary entry from the site ranger. The article will include a picture of the site ranger, information about the site and a variety of photographs showing any works being carried out as well as attractive scenic ones. This should help the public begin to identify with the ranger and the work they do as well as create a sense of responsible ownership and possibly encourage volunteering.

3.6 Market research programme

By developing a market research programme the Environmental Promotion team will be able to further discover what local people want or need from the site. It will also give the Marketing Officer the opportunity to measure how effective any paid for advertising has been and how the site should be marketed in the future.

The research programme will begin with the Marketing Officer developing a questionnaire with the site ranger that can be distributed to local people twice a year. This will be done in a variety of ways, one will be via a „questionnaire drop‟ to the surrounding housing development with a SAE for ease of return, through the council website and citizens panel, through face to face surveys by the site ranger and via the local directories.

A market research programme will also be developed to gather feedback from those who have volunteered or attended a guided walk. From previous experience it has been noted that it is difficult to gather information from people during the guided walks or while they are volunteering therefore the mailing list that will be created and will be used not only to inform people of new walks or volunteering opportunities but also as a way of sending out questionnaires with a SAE to gather feedback about their experience.

Please see Appendix 2 for a summary of results from the 2010 questionnaire.

3.7 Booking system

By developing a booking system for some of the more specialised countryside walks it gives the site ranger the opportunity to distribute their resources more efficiently.

It is also an opportunity to begin to develop a mailing list of individuals who are interested in guided walks so they can be targeted with information when new brochures or leaflets are published.

3.8 Resources

Men. All the above objectives will be met with the skills and expertises of the staff within the Leisure and Environmental Promotion team except for the design and print of any brochure and promotional leaflet, which will be outsourced.

Money. The service has a budget of £6,200 for marketing which will cover the cost of:

Brochure and leaflet print and design Advertising space Postage for questionnaires

3.9 Control

In order to measure the objectives that have been set out in section 3.1 the Marketing Officer will need to set up some monitoring systems. A variety of spreadsheets will be set up to record the increase in volunteer numbers the number of contacts on the new mailing lists amount of press coverage & advertising space bought results of twice yearly questionnaires

This information will then be used to review the service in order to modify and make improvements to what is being provided.

SECTION 5 - BIBLIOGRAPHY Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve Management Plan, 2006 – 2011 Fleet Pond Management Plan, 2010 – 2015 An Entomological Survey of Elvetham Heath, Mike Edwards, 2007/8 A botanical Survey of Elvetham Heath, Chris Hall, 2006 British Plant Communities. Volume 2 Mires and Heaths. J.S. Rodwell British Plant Communities. Volume 1 Woodlands and Scrub. J.S. Rodwell Lowland heathland SSSIs: guidance on conservation objective setting and condition monitoring. English Nature Research Reports No. 511 The lowland heathland management handbook. English Nature Science No 8. English Nature The Wild Flower Key. Francis Rose Heathland Harvest. Chris Howkins Heathers and Heathland. Chris Howkins Heathland. James Parry www.bbc.co.uk www.blackwater-valley.org.uk www.defra.gov.uk www.elvethamheath.co.uk www.elvethamheathforum.info www.naturalengland.org.uk www.forestry.gov.uk www.getamap.ordnancesurvey.co.uk www.google.co.uk www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk www.hart.gov.uk www.herpconstrust.org.uk www.jncc.gov.uk www.multimap.com www.nbn.org.uk www.rspb.org www.ukbap.org.uk

SECTION 6: APPENDICES

APENDIX 1: SPECIES LISTS

Rare and Notable Habitats and Plants

Habitat/Species Designation/Conservation Location Status Lowland Heathland Priority habitat under the Nature Reserve UK Habitat Action Plan (HAP) Rare and threatened habitat Purple moor grass Priority habitat under Nature Reserve and rush pastures HAP Wet woodland Priority habitat under Nature Reserve HAP Gnaphalium sylvaticum Data Red List: Endangered Nature Reserve Heath Cudweed Cuscuta epithymum Data Red List: Vulnerable Nature Reserve Dodder Filago vulgaris Data Red List: Near Nature Reserve Cudweed Threatened Sustainable Urban Drainage system (SUDs) & edge of Turners Pond Ulex minor National uncommon Nature Reserve Dwarf gorse Droseria rotundifolia Regionally uncommon Nature Reserve Round-leaved Sundew Drosera intermedia Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Long-leaved Sundew Eleocharis multicaulis Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Heath Spike rush SUDs Carex pseudocyperus Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Hop sedge Carex rostrata Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Bottle sedge Eleogiton fluitans Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Floating Club-rush SUDs Myosotis secunda Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Creeping Forget-me-not Myrica Gale Regionally scarce Nature Reserve Bog Myrtle

Rare and Notable Invertebrates

Habitat/Species Designation/Conservation Location Status Stictopleurus punctatonervosus Red Data Book (RDB) Nature Reserve Rhopalidae RDB-app. Southern Restricted

Gymnosoma rotundatum RDB 3 Nature Reserve Tachinidae Southern Restricted

Tipula marginella RDB 3 Nature Reserve Tipulidae Universal

Cryptocheilus notatus RDB 3 Nature Reserve Pompilidae Southern Restricted Gorytes laticinctus RDB 3 Nature Reserve Sphecidae Southern Restricted Hylaeus gibbus RDB 3 Nature Reserve Apidae Southern Restricted Agapanthia villosoviridescens Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Cerambycidae Larinus planus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Curculionidae Polydrusus formosus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Curculionidae Ampedus elongantulus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Elateridae

Dasytes niger Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Melyridae

Rhopalus maculates Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Rhopalidae

Omocestus rufipes Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Acrididae

Chrysis illigeri Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Chrysididae

Ectemnius dives Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Sphecidae Nysson dimidiatus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Sphecidae Nysson trimaculatus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve

Sphecidae

Melitta leporine Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Apidae Sphecodes crassus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Apidae Pelenomus waltoni Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Curculionidae Adelphocoris ticinensis Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Miridae Conocephalus discolour Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Tettigoniidae Lasioglossum pauxillum Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Apidae Rhyparochromus pini Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Lygaeidae Ectobius lapponicus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Blattellidae

Neoascia geniculata Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Syrphidae

Psacadina verbekei Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Sciomyzidae Tanyptera atrata Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Tipulidae Hylaeus signatus Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Apidae Microdon analis Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Syrphidae Xylota florum Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Syrphidae Sympetrum sanguineum Nationally Scarce Nature Reserve Odonata

APPENDIX 2

SUMMARY OF QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS

APPENDIX 3

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

2010/ 2011/ 2012/ 2013/ 2014/ 2015/ 2016/ 2017/ 2018/ 2019/ 2020/ INCOME 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 HLS - Funding £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 £2,983 Walks & Talks £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 £50 Section 106 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 £30,030 TOTAL INCOME £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063 £33063

2010/ 2011/ 2012/ 2013/ 2014/ 2015/ 2016/ 2017/ 2018/ 2019/ 2020/ EXPENDITURE 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Employment Costs £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 £37,000 Contract works £7,000 £18000 £2500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 £2,500 Dog bin emptying £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 £1560 Grazing - - - £500 £500 £500 £500 £500 £500 £500 £500

Marketing & promotions £237 £260 £286 £315 £346 £381 £419 £461 £507 £558 £613

TOTAL EXPENDITURE £45797 £56820 £41346 £41875 £41906 £41941 £41979 £42021 £42067 £42118 £42173