NETHERHOUSE FARM: PROPOSED 18 HOLE GOLF COURSE

SEWARDSTONE ESSEX

______

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Version 1 January 2009 Compiled by Richard Swann

Weller Designs Golf Course Architects Bishops Mead House, Bishops Mead, West St. Farnham Surrey GU9 7DU tel/fax: 01252 712127 Email: [email protected] Web Site:www.wellerdesigns.co.uk E I G C A EUROPEAN INSTITUTE OF GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 4 1.1 Project Proposal ...... 4 1.2 Site and Applicant ...... 4 1.3 Requirement and Scope for EIA ...... 4 1.4 Report Content and Structure ...... 4 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 8 2.1 Project Deliverables ...... 8 2.2 Purpose and Rationale ...... 8 2.3 Construction Inputs ...... 9 2.4 Construction Processes ...... 11 2.5 Construction Outputs ...... 11 2.6 Operational Inputs ...... 11 2.7 Operational Processes ...... 12 2.8 Operational Outputs ...... 12 3 PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT ...... 16 3.1 Planning Policy ...... 16 3.2 Site-Specific Planning Policies ...... 16 3.3 Planning Policies Specific to Golf ...... 16 3.4 Policies Relating to Ecology ...... 16 3.5 Policies Relating to Landscape and Landscaping ...... 16 3.6 Policies Relating to New Buildings ...... 17 3.7 Policies Relating to Drainage ...... 17 4 DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES ...... 18 4.1 Alternative Sites for Proposed Development ...... 18 4.2 Alternatives to Elements of Proposed Development ...... 18 5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSESSED ...... 19 5.1 Scoping Guidance ...... 19 5.2 Structure of Assessment ...... 19 6 BASELINE SITE DESCRIPTION ...... 20 6.1 Population ...... 20 6.2 Man-Made Features ...... 20 6.3 Archaeological Features ...... 20 6.4 Transport ...... 20 6.5 Noise ...... 22 6.6 Flora ...... 22 6.7 Fauna ...... 26 6.8 Geology and Soils ...... 29 6.9 Landform ...... 29 6.10 Land Use ...... 30 6.11 Water ...... 30 7 BASELINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT ...... 31 7.1 Methodology ...... 31 7.2 Landscape Character Assessment ...... 32 7.3 Landscape Characteristic Receptors ...... 32 7.4 Landscape Elements Receptors ...... 32 7.5 Visual Receptors ...... 33 7.6 Landscape and Visual Contribution ...... 34 8 BASELINE ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... 36 8.1 Archaeological Evidence ...... 36 8.2 Designations ...... 36 8.3 Site Evaluation ...... 36 9 BASELINE ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... 37

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 2 of 88

9.1 Methodology ...... 37 9.2 Designated Sites ...... 37 9.3 Evaluation of Designated Sites ...... 39 9.4 Protected Species ...... 40 9.5 Evaluation of Habitats ...... 41 9.6 Fauna ...... 44 10 BASELINE HYDROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... 47 10.1 Flood Hazard for Existing Site ...... 47 10.2 Probability of Flooding ...... 47 11 BASELINE TRANSPORT ASSESSMENT ...... 48 11.1 Traffic Volumes ...... 48 12 EFFECTS ON HUMAN BEINGS, BUILDINGS AND MAN-MADE FEATURES ...... 49 12.1 Change in Population and Consequential Environmental Effects ...... 49 12.2 Visual Effects on Surrounding Area and Landscape ...... 49 12.3 Summary of Key Visual Impacts and Potential Mitigation ...... 51 12.4 Public Safety ...... 52 12.5 Levels and Effects of Noise and Emissions ...... 53 12.6 Construction Effects on Local Roads and Transport ...... 53 12.7 Operational Effects on Local Roads and Transport ...... 55 12.8 Effects on Human Artefacts ...... 57 13 EFFECTS ON FLORA, FAUNA AND GEOLOGY ...... 58 13.1 Methodology ...... 58 13.2 Sources of Potential Impact ...... 59 13.3 Construction Impact on Designated Sites ...... 59 13.4 Construction Impact on Flora ...... 61 13.5 Construction Impact on Fauna ...... 62 13.6 Operational Impact ...... 66 13.7 Mitigation for Construction Phase Impacts ...... 67 13.8 Mitigation for Operational Phase Impacts ...... 69 13.9 Residual Effects ...... 70 14 EFFECTS ON LAND ...... 72 14.1 Topographical Changes ...... 72 14.2 Other Physical Impacts ...... 72 14.3 Land Use ...... 72 14.4 Green Belt Policy ...... 72 15 EFFECTS ON WATER ...... 73 15.1 Flood Risk ...... 73 15.2 Water Quality ...... 73 16 EFFECTS ON AIR and CLIMATE ...... 74 16.1 Chemical Emissions ...... 74 16.2 Particulate Matter ...... 74 16.3 Odour ...... 74 17 OTHER INDIRECT AND SECONDARY EFFECTS ...... 75 17.1 Traffic ...... 75 17.2 Resource Usage ...... 75 17.3 Associated Developments ...... 75

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 3 of 88

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Proposal

1.1.1 This ES (Environmental Statement), together with a separate Non Technical Summary, is provided to accompany a planning application for the creation of a new 18-hole golf course and associated facilities on land at Netherhouse Farm, Sewardstone.

1.1.2 This constitutes an Environmental Statement as described in the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999, Part IV, Regulation 10(1).

1.2 Site and Applicant

1.2.1 The applicants are the Waltham Forest Friendly Society.

1.2.2 The Ordnance Survey grid reference of the centre of the site is TQ 387975.

1.2.3 The total site area is 63 hectares. See figures 1 to 3 below.

1.2.4 The site is predominantly surrounded by farmland with deciduous woodland bounding the site to the east and south. The A112, Sewardstone Road, lies approximately 275 metres to the west of the main site area.

1.3 Requirement and Scope for EIA

1.3.1 No formal screening or scoping request (under EIA regulations) has been made, but guidance contained in Local Government Circular 2/99 states, in paragraph A34, that “New 18 hole golf courses are likely to require EIA”.

1.3.2 The guidance goes on to state that ”The main impacts are likely to be those on the surrounding hydrology, ecosystems and landscape, as well as those from traffic generation.”

1.3.3 Assessment of potential impacts during the design phase of the project concurs with the above guidance, and it was also considered appropriate to assess the potential of the site for archaeological interest. So the five areas in which detailed studies have been undertaken are hydrology, ecology, landscape/visual, traffic and archaeology.

1.4 Report Content and Structure

1.4.1 This document has been prepared by Weller Designs Ltd, with input from specialist consults for each of the areas of impact studied.

1.4.2 The structure of the document is as follows: • A summary of the proposed development. • Consideration of the planning policy context of the proposed development. • A baseline description of the site, with reference to specialist studies carried out as part of the impact assessment process. • An assessment of the potential impact of the development on the subject areas listed in the UK EIA Regulations, with detailed studies of the topics identified in 1.3 above.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 4 of 88

Figure 1: site location.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 5 of 88

Figure 2: existing site plan (see plan 365.01 for scaled version).

Figure 3: aerial view.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 7 of 88

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Project Deliverables

2.1.1 The proposals comprise the following elements: • Eighteen ‘full length’ golf holes, with tees, greens, fairways, sand bunkers and associated shaping. • Three shorter ‘academy’ holes. • A practice putting green. • A clubhouse with administration, catering, sales and changing facilities for golfers. • Car parking provision of 69 spaces for customers and staff. • A maintenance building and compound, for storage and for the carrying out of functions required as part of the operation of the golf course. • An upgrading of an existing access point from Daws Hill, with a surfaced road to connect clubhouse, car park and maintenance area. • Three ponds and four lakes (some linked by channels) to serve as ornamental and strategic features/hazards, together with a water body to provide storage for the irrigation of the golf course, linked to a reed bed system cleaning waste ‘grey’ water from the clubhouse, maintenance area and car park surfaces. • A series of basins (soakaways) and ditches along the eastern and northern edges of the site to attenuate the flow of water in times of flood from areas of increased slope angle and ensure that there is no increased rate of run-off from the site. • Tree and shrub planting to create ecological benefit and visual interest.

2.1.2 The development proposals and construction and operational processes summarised here are described in detail in Weller Designs’ Project Description (January 2009).

2.1.3 Submitted plans 365.03 and 365.04 show the proposed re-contouring and landscaping respectively (reproduced below in figures 4 and 5). Plans 365.05 and 365.06 give cross- sectional views through the proposed remodelled landform. Plan 365.07 identifies features relating to the construction phase (figure 6 below).

2.2 Purpose and Rationale

2.2.1 The developer’s aim is for the proposed golf course to be a high quality ‘pay and play’ facility that provides for both the novice and the more accomplished golfer. In this respect it satisfies the need identified in the Epping Forest District Local Plan (1998 with 2006 alterations) for pay and play courses in the area (policy RST18).

2.2.2 The location is an attractive one for golf. The hillside terrain offers extensive views over Enfield and the George V Reservoir but also, through its elevation, some sense of separation and escape from the urban environment. The eastern side of the hill, backing on to wooded slopes rising up to Epping Forest, has a greater sense of seclusion.

2.2.3 Viewed from the valley below and from higher ground to the east the ridgeline / hillside location gives the site a characteristic of openness. The broadleaf woodland blocks set on the rounded higher slopes are also characteristic features. The developer is keen to preserve these elements, which add to the interest of the location for golf as well as making it visually attractive from beyond the site boundaries. Local Plan policy RST16 makes reference to the need to avoid “adverse effect upon the character and appearance of highly visible landscape”. As a result the existing woodland and standalone trees within the site will be preserved, and there is minimal proposed tree planting for a development of this size.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 8 of 88

2.2.4 The course designers have also been mindful of the requirements of Local Plan policy RST19, which advises on design, layout and landscaping of new golf facilities, and RST20, which relates to new buildings.

2.2.5 Where feasible the existing hedgerow network will be retained and the retained hedgerows will be strengthened. The minimal volume of hedgerow clearance necessary for routing the golf course will be compensated by the recreation of sizeable lengths of hedgerow that were grubbed out in the past and are now represented only by alignments of isolated trees.

2.2.6 Because of the sloping nature of the site, a degree of earthworks is required to make the playing surfaces playable and maintainable. The proposed grading works have been designed to flatten out areas for greens, tees and fairways whilst encouraging the movement of water off the playing surfaces into out-of-play areas and water bodies/courses.

2.2.7 Care has been taken not to introduce steep-sided ‘containment’ mounds between fairways which would not only prevent water from moving away from the playing surfaces but would also be incongruous with the existing site topography as well as creating visibility issues between fairways.

2.2.8 Excessive mounding is considered inappropriate on this site and therefore grading will consist of wider general lifts which will allow the formation of tiers and ridges on the fairway surfaces.

2.2.9 Bunkers will generally be fairly small, quite deep with steep grass faces and filled with a darker coloured sand to reduce the visual intrusion when the course is viewed from outside the site.

2.2.10 The course designers are Weller Designs Limited. Director Bruce Weller is a senior member of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects.

2.3 Construction Inputs

2.3.1 The golf course and buildings will be constructed by experienced, specialist contractors. Between 5 and 10 operatives are expected to be on site at any one time, working from 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, plus Saturday mornings. Appropriate heavy machinery will be employed for tasks such as excavation, soil spreading, trenching and transportation of materials.

2.3.2 The golf course shaping will be achieved out principally through the spreading of waste soils from construction sites in the region. The course design requires a volume of just under 300,000m3 of material.

2.3.3 To reduce the impact on local residents, soil importation will not take place at weekends, and will be restricted to the hours of 7.30am – 5.30pm (or daylight hours if shorter). One tipper truck carries approximately 9m3, so with a target volume of importation of 90 deliveries per day the duration of this process will be eighteen months.

2.3.4 A rigorous procedure of controls will be adhered to, to ensure that only suitable materials are delivered. Every load of inert soil arriving on-site will be visually inspected for suitability before being issued a ticket. Unsuitable material will be rejected. In the event that inappropriate materials are revealed once a load had been placed on site, the waste will be reloaded, removed from site to an appropriate local facility and the local licensing authority informed. Unacceptable material (such as steel, wood and plastics) mixed in with deliveries will be removed to containers that will be emptied at controlled tips. Records will be kept of all loads deposited at the site.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 9 of 88

2.3.5 Golf course construction deliveries will use an upgraded existing access track from the A112 (see Works Plan 365.07). A temporary contractor’s compound will be located alongside this route, close to the edge of the golf course site. Traffic involved in the clubhouse and maintenance building construction will use the upgraded Daws Hill access that will form the permanent golf club entrance.

2.3.6 The finished grass surfaces will be seeded, with different mixes for tees, greens, fairways, semi-roughs, in-play roughs and out-of-play wildflower meadow areas. Some trees and shrubs will be planted. Road and car park surfaces will be finished with tarmac, and self-binding gravel will be used for pathways in the vicinity of the clubhouse.

2.3.7 Temporary fencing will be employed to protect trees and hedgerows, to protect footpath users where routes run close to works or the haulage track and to define temporary alterations to public footpath routes.

2.3.8 Herbicides will be used in the clearance of vegetation, and fertilisers and pesticides employed as necessary during the growing-in of the golf course.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 10 of 88

2.4 Construction Processes

2.4.1 Works will commence in the southernmost field and progress in a roughly anti-clockwise direction on a field by field basis, finishing in the field nearest the construction access.

2.4.2 Works in each zone will commence with clearance of vegetation (using chemical herbicides) and topsoil stripping, followed by bulk shaping using imported soils and in places localised cut and fill. Drainage and irrigation will be installed then final shaping and topsoil replacement will take place. Seeding and planting will be done at the earliest opportunity (as dictated by season and weather conditions) after the completion of shaping.

2.4.3 The overall duration of development from commencement to completion and opening is expected to be two and a half years. The golf course construction will take in the order of eighteen months, followed by a year of during which the new grasses and plants will be allowed to develop, being managed as necessary to ensure good growth. The clubhouse area building works will take place whilst the golf course is growing in.

2.5 Construction Outputs

2.5.1 The importation and construction processes will generate a certain degree of noise and have the potential, depending on weather conditions, to create dust and mud. To minimise the likelihood of inconvenience to nearby residents and users of roads and rights of way, a scheme of control will be implemented. This will include the use of a wheel-spinner, regular sweeping and washing of hard road surfaces (including use of a road sweeping vehicle on the public highway), and the damping down of the haulage track and of dust-emitting materials in dry weather. Appropriate on-site speed limits will be enforced.

2.5.2 Neighbouring property-holders will be consulted when works are to take place in proximity to their houses. Measures such as the use of temporary screening and restrictions in the hours of operation can be agreed as necessary.

2.5.3 Stockpiles of materials will be located with sensitivity to residential properties and public rights of way.

2.5.4 Standard precautions will also be taken to avert the risk of spillages, repair any damage and remove waste materials from the site.

2.6 Operational Inputs

2.6.1 Estimates by traffic consultants Entran Ltd, using the Trip Rate Information Computer System (TRICS 2008b), suggest a typical weekday traffic generation of 92 cars arriving and departing (i.e. 184 vehicular movements), and a weekend figure of 178 visits (356 movements). These figures will be reduced in winter time.

2.6.2 Water is required principally for irrigation purposes. It is envisaged that up to 30,000m3 of water could be needed in a dry summer although this would be reduced in times of limited supply by only watering greens and tees.

2.6.3 Fertilisers and pesticides will be required periodically.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 11 of 88

2.7 Operational Processes

2.7.1 It is projected that 30,000 rounds of golf will be played annually.

2.7.2 Standard golf course maintenance practices will be carried out on golfing surfaces, with greens receiving the most treatment and roughs the least. Maintenance processes include mowing, pruning, watering, repair to damaged surfaces, aerification, fertilisation and pest control.

2.7.3 The owners will enter into a detailed future management regime for the existing and proposed landscape features, aiming to maximise the ecological value of the site. Measures in this landscape management plan will include woodland and hedgerow management and the designation of rough grassland buffer zones and out-of-play areas, to be managed with only occasional intervention principally for ecological benefit.

2.8 Operational Outputs

2.8.1 Grass clippings will be let fly on fairways and in rough areas. Other vegetation from maintenance processes will be composted, mulched, or stacked in wooded areas for ecology.

2.8.2 The types of chemicals used in fertilisers and pesticides will break down in the soil, with minimal leaching.

2.8.3 Drainage features are built into the course design to receive run-off water and channel it into planned locations (e.g. new water features).

2.8.4 Wastewater from cleaning machinery will go through a “Waste2Water” system and be recycled back to the cleaning unit. Residue from interceptors will be dealt with by a licensed waste contractor.

2.8.5 Foul water from the buildings will be diverted to a below-ground waste treatment plant adjacent to the maintenance building where it will be treated and then discharged into the nearby reed bed.

2.8.6 All European Union CE regulations will be adhered to with regard to maintenance equipment.

2.8.7 The only lighting in the site will be around the clubhouse, maintenance and parking areas. This will be positioned and angled to minimise intrusion on neighbouring properties.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 12 of 88

Figure 4: Grading Plan (not to scale – see plan 365.03 for scaled version)

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 13 of 88

Figure 5: Landscaping Plan (not to scale – see plan 365.04 for scaled version)

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 14 of 88

Figure 6: Works Plan (not to scale – see plan 365.07 for scaled version)

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 15 of 88

3 PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT

3.1 Planning Policy

3.1.1 National planning policy guidance and Regional planning policies are reflected in the Epping Forest District Local Plan (1998, with alterations adopted July 2006), the relevant policies from which are listed below.

3.1.2 The assessment sections of this Environmental Statement make reference to these policies as appropriate.

3.2 Site-Specific Planning Policies

3.2.1 The Application Site falls within designated Metropolitan Green Belt. Policy GB2A identifies what are in principle appropriate forms of development in the Green Belt.

3.2.2 The two broadleaf woodland blocks within the site are designated as ‘Other County Wildlife Sites’. These are subject to policy NC2.

3.3 Planning Policies Specific to Golf

3.3.1 There are a number of policies in the Epping Forest District Plan relating specifically to golf course developments.

3.3.2 RST16 is concerned with the location of golf facilities.

3.3.3 RST17 relates to golf course developments in areas of “derelict or despoiled land”.

3.3.4 RST18 relates to the local need for “pay and play” and “simple” golf courses.

3.3.5 RST19 is concerned with the design, layout and landscaping of new golf courses.

3.3.6 RST20 concerns new buildings associated with golf courses.

3.4 Policies Relating to Ecology

3.4.1 In addition to policy NC2, referred to above, policy NC3 requires alternative habitat to be provided in compensation for any adverse impact on a County Wildlife Site.

3.4.2 Policy NC4 required development proposals to make adequate provision for the protection, enhancement and suitable management of established habitats of local significance for wildlife.

3.4.3 Policy NC5 encourages owners and occupiers of land to participate in schemes which promote the aims of Nature Conservation.

3.5 Policies Relating to Landscape and Landscaping

3.5.1 Policy LL2 requires consideration of the character and appearance of the rural landscape and also refers to the appropriate management of the site to enhance its contribution to the landscape.

3.5.2 Policy LL7 encourages the planting of trees and woodland “where it will lead to significant amenity benefit”, the protection of existing trees and woodland that have amenity value and the appropriate care and management of trees and woodland.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 16 of 88

3.5.3 Policy LL10 requires adequate provision for the retention of trees and other natural features, and man-made features of “historical, archaeological or landscape significance”.

3.5.4 Policy LL11 required adequate provision for landscaping, taking account of the setting, the intended use of the development, and the need for long-term development of the landscape.

3.6 Policies Relating to New Buildings

3.6.1 Policy DBE1 reiterates the specific policy relating to golf course buildings, requiring that the design of new buildings should respect the setting (in terms of scale, proportion, siting, massing, height, orientation, roof-line and detailing) and be sympathetic in colour and texture to the vernacular. DBE4 concerns building in the Green Belt and mentions respect for the wider setting and respect for local building character in “plan form and detailing”.

3.6.2 DBE2 states that there should be no detrimental effect on the amenity or function of neighbouring properties.

3.6.3 DBE9 concerns loss of amenity and makes reference to visual impact, overlooking, loss of light, noise smell or other disturbance.

3.7 Policies Relating to Drainage

3.7.1 Policy UB3 concerns the use of sustainable drainage systems to attenuate surface water run-off.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 17 of 88

4 DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES

4.1 Alternative Sites for Proposed Development

4.1.1 For a scheme of this nature and scale the consideration of alternative locations, except on other land controlled by the same Applicant, is not applicable. The Applicant is seeking to make appropriate and profitable use of land in his control.

4.2 Alternatives to Elements of Proposed Development

4.2.1 Whilst specific details could be amended, general routing options are very limited in the space available. The positioning of the clubhouse dictates the locations of the 1st and 18th holes, and also the relative locations of holes 9 and 10 (which for commercial purposes also need to be located close to the clubhouse, to permit both the 1st and 10th holes being used as start points). The clubhouse position has been chosen for its proximity to an access point that avoids the need for a long entrance road across land that does not form part of the golf course site (as would be the case were the access to be from the A112). A clubhouse position on the western side of the hill, nearer to Sewardstone, would be overlooked by more properties than is the case with the proposed location.

4.2.2 The use of imported soils is an effective way of creating the level of shaping required to form an interesting golf course that will attract a good level of custom and be able to accommodate that volume of play without suffering damage as a result of drainage issues. Constructing the course using localised cut and fill instead of imported soils would be a much more costly exercise, compromising the financial viability of the project. Reducing the extent of earthworks would make effective drainage more difficult to achieve and would result in a less interesting and less playable golf course.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 18 of 88

5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSESSED

5.1 Scoping Guidance

5.1.1 This Environmental Statement is structured so as to address all the potential categories of effect listed in the UK EIA Regulations, but the principle focus is on the five areas identified from Government planning guidance (Circular 02/99) and from study of the Epping Forest District Local Plan as being the most likely to be affected by a development of this nature. These are: • Ecological impact • Surface water run-off and flood risk • Landscape and visual impact • Traffic impact • Archaeological impact.

5.2 Structure of Assessment

5.2.1 The Application Site is described, with more detailed baseline assessment of the areas of concern highlighted in the Scoping Guidance section above.

5.2.2 The impact of the proposals is assessed for each of the subject areas listed in the EIA Regulations (Environmental Impact Assessment – Guide to Procedures: appendix 5 section 3), with more detailed analysis for each subject area identified within the Scoping Opinion as requiring particular attention.

5.2.3 Appendices are attached containing consultants’ reports for the subject areas addressed in detail.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 19 of 88

6 BASELINE SITE DESCRIPTION

6.1 Population

6.1.1 The site is not occupied and there are no buildings within the Application Site. Eight residential properties sit adjacent or very close to the site boundary, and the village of Sewardstone runs parallel to the western edge of the site with most houses being over 280m away.

6.2 Man-Made Features

6.2.1 There are no man-made features on the golf course site other than 3-phase power lines crossing the northern part of the site and running through the southern and eastern sections close to the boundary.

6.2.2 The A112 runs through Sewardstone to the west of the site.

6.2.3 There are a number of commercial premises close to the site: Beechside Nursery is adjacent to the north-eastern corner and Chapelfield Nursery adjoins a short section of the central eastern boundary.

6.3 Archaeological Features

6.3.1 A check of the Essex Historic Environment Record indicates no known archaeological features within the site (see appendix A archaeological assessment for more details).

6.4 Transport

6.4.1 There are no public roads within the site, and only short sections of minor road adjacent to the site boundary: Daws Hill to the south and Mott Street to the north (both separated by belts of woodland).

6.4.2 A full description of the road network in the area is contained in appendix B: a Transport Statement produced by Entran Ltd. This summary focuses on Daws Hill, which is to be the operational route of entry to the proposed development, and the A112 Sewardstone Road, from which construction traffic will enter the site.

6.4.3 There is a gated access to the site from Daws Hill, opposite Parsons Croft, which will form the permanent golf club access. Daws Hill is an unclassified semi-rural road linking Sewardstone Road (A112) to Rangers Road (A1069), generally around 6.0m wide with verges or banks on both sides and edge of carriageway markings. Between the site access and Sewardstone Road, Daws hill has no central white lines, but at the site access and thereafter to the south it does have central carriageway markings.

6.4.4 At the apex of the bend where the existing (and proposed) site access exists Daws hill is 5.5m wide; to the south the road is 4.9m wide. Immediately to the west of the site access Daws Hill narrows to 4.5m for a length of 30m after which it widens again to 5.5m. Within the narrow length of road the carriageway is adequate for two cars to pass comfortably or for a car to pass a lorry at a slower speed. Two lorries could not pass. For this reason a traffic regulation order has been imposed on this length of road imposing a width restriction of 7’6” (2.29m) except for access. A mandatory regulation sign to this effect is located at the junction of Daws Hill and Sewardstone Road.

6.4.5 To the south of the site Daws Hill becomes known as Bury Road. At its western end Daws Hill serves a number of residential properties; Bury Road also serves a small residential area and both roads have single houses dotted along their length; however,

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 20 of 88

Bury Road also serves both West Essex private golf course and Royal Epping Forest public golf course.

6.4.6 Daws Lane has a junction with Sewardstone Road (A112) some 700m west of the site access. There are several gated access points from the A112, one of which crosses a field before reaching the site and one which passes through the Netherhouse Farm complex of buildings. The former is to serve as a construction access.

6.4.7 The A112 runs from north to south generally between Waltham abbey and Chingford. Some 3km north of the site Sewardstone Road forms a 4-arm roundabout junction with Meridian way/Dowding Way (A121). Sewardstone Road continues north from the roundabout, over the M25 into Waltham Abbey. Meridian Way heads west, under the M25 towards Waltham Cross and Hertfordshire. Dowding Way heads east for 4km to J26 of the M25.

6.4.8 Approximately 6km south of the development site Sewardstone Road forms a 4-arm signal controlled junction with Leas Valley Road/Kings Head Hill (A110). Sewardstone Road continues south through Chingford towards Walthamstow. Lea Valley Road heads west, between King George’s reservoir and William Girling reservoir towards Ponders end and Enfield. Kings Head Hill heads east into Chingford.

6.4.9 North of Sewardstone the A112 has the character of a rural distributor road. It is an average of 7.5m wide, kerbed and well lit but has fields and hedges on both sides. However, in Sewardstone itself Sewardstone Road has a very different character and clearly appears to drivers as a village high street. This point is emphasised by a series of junctions with residential access roads as well as a significant number of residential properties taking direct vehicular access from Sewardstone Road. The land behind the residential properties is agricultural and there are many field accesses and farm access roads along this stretch of the A112.

6.4.10 Within the village Sewardstone Road varies between 6.8 and 7.3m wide with adequate footways. The village benefits from a 30mph speed limit and a series of street lighting. There are no waiting restrictions on Sewardstone Road in the vicinity of the redevelopment site.

6.4.11 To the south of the site Sewardstone Road has a different character again as Sewardstone village is quite linear in nature and ‘thins out’ to the south. The result is a semi-rural road with residential and commercial properties variously on both sides but interspersed with areas of open ground and fields.

6.4.12 Public footpaths in the vicinity offer the possibility of access to the site by foot. The ‘London Loop’ route 18 from Enfield to Chingford passes directly to the south of the site via Godwin Close. 4.2. By using the London Loop footpath the club house is between 13 and 15 minutes walk from Sewardstone village. Furthermore, additional residential areas to the north of the A110 Kings Head Hill are within 20 minutes walking distance via Bury Road or Sewardstone Road.

6.4.13 Lee Valley Park and Waltham Abbey fall within a 10 minute cycling distance of the site. Waltham Cross can be reached within 15 minutes and Chingford within 20 minutes.

6.4.14 Existing bus stops are located on Sewardstone Road, just north of the junction with Daws Hill approximately 750m (8 minutes walk) from the site. The stops are simple flag stops with timetable information but without shelters. Sewardstone Road is served by the Arriva Shires & Essex number 505 bus route. This route runs between Chingford railway and bus station and Harlow town centre bus station; it also stops at Waltham Abbey, Nazeing, Bumbles Green, Staple Tye and Mark Hall North. Services run hourly throughout the day in both directions.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 21 of 88

6.5 Noise

6.5.1 The A112, approximately 270m to the west of the site boundary, generates a reasonable level of traffic noise but there is little noise intrusion on the eastern side of Barn Hill.

6.5.2 No measurements of noise levels have been carried out.

6.6 Flora

6.6.1 This description of the vegetation of the site and its surroundings has been taken from studies carried out by Ecology Consultancy Ltd. Their full Ecological Impact Assessment is contained in appendix C.

6.6.2 A desktop study was carried out to obtain information on the wildlife interest of the site and surrounding area, followed by a Phase 1 habitat survey. See section 1.3 of Ecological Impact Assessment (appendix C) for methodology and section 1.4 for full Baseline Description.

6.6.3 Reference is made in the following paragraphs to the habitats indicated on the Habitats Plan below (figure 7).

Broadleaved Woodland

6.6.4 Four small areas of mature broadleaved woodland occur across the site. They differ in their floras so are described separately. Wild service tree Sorbus torminalis occurs along Green Lane immediately to the east of the site, but was not recorded in the woods or hedges on site.

6.6.5 Barn Hill Wood (marked LWS W110 on the Habitats Plan figure 7) is designated as a County Wildlife Site. Its formal description (from Essex Ecology Services) is as follows:

W110. Barn Hill Wood (0.5 ha) TQ 387 974 “This small copse has a canopy of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur) with some Field Maple (Acer campestre) and Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) over Elder (Sambucus nigra) and Hawthorn (Crataegus sp.). There has been some previous “coppicing” of Hawthorn. The ground flora displays a typical woodland character, including Red Campion (Silene dioica), Lesser Celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), Ramsons (Allium ursinum) and Dog’s Mercury (Mercurialis perennis).

Although not mapped by Chapman and Andre in 1777, the wood appears as a “Grove” on the 1847 Waltham Cross Tithe Map and is therefore likely to be a small fragment of ancient wood, too small to be included in the English Nature Ancient Woodland inventory. Date selected: 1996”

6.6.6 The unnamed larger woodland block to the south of Barn Hill Wood (marked LWS W111 on the Habitats Plan figure 7) is designated as a County Wildlife Site. Its formal description (from Essex Ecology Services) is as follows:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 22 of 88

W111. Wood, South of Barn Hill Wood (2.8 ha) TQ 388972 “Although not mapped by Chapman and Andre in 1777, the wood appears as “Little Frish Hills” and “Black Leys Grove” on the 1847 Waltham Cross Tithe Map and is therefore likely to be a fragment of ancient wood. The presumed original canopy of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur) has been modified in the distant past by the planting of numerous Horse Chestnuts (Aesculus hippocastanum), Common Lime (Tilia x vulgaris) and some Beech (Fagus sylvatica). The ground flora is dominated by three ancient woodland indicator species - Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), Dog’s Mercury (Mercurialis perennis) and Ramsons (Allium ursinum). Date selected 1996.”

6.6.7 Another area of woodland occurs on the northern boundary of the site, adjacent to Mott Street. The canopy species here include abundant pedunculate oak Quercus robur and ash Fraxinus excelsior, plus a few mature Scot’s pine Pinus sylvestris and a single white willow Salix alba. Wych elm Ulmus glabra is present on the ditch which runs along the southern edge of the wood. The understorey species include field maple Acer campestre, dogwood Cornus sanguinea, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, hybrid hawthorn C. x media, crab apple Malus sylvestris, wild plum Prunus domestica, blackthorn Prunus spinosa, field rose Rosa arvensis, goat willow Salix caprea and elder Sambucus nigra. Old hazel Corylus avellana coppice is present on the edges of the wood. The ground flora includes abundant bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and nettle Urtica dioica with bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta, lords-and-ladies Arum maculatum, honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum, dog’s mercury Mercurialis perennis, white bryony Bryonia dioica, red campion Silene dioica and hedge woundwort Stachys sylvestris all frequent. Of note here was the presence of stinking hellebore Helleborus foetidus, which occurred in small quantity. Though listed as an ERDL species, it is most likely that in this situation it is a garden escape.

6.6.8 A fourth area of woodland occurs towards the east of the site and runs alongside a small stream. It is composed of pedunculate oak, sessile oak Quercus petraea, sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, elder, goat willow, white poplar Populus alba and western balsam poplar Populus trichocarpa. There is also a felled crack willow Salix fragilis. The understorey comprises blackthorn, elder and bramble, whilst the ground flora includes great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum and tufted hair-grass Deschampsia cespitosa. Great horsetail Equisetum telmateia is present on the edges.

Plantation Woodland

6.6.9 There is a small area of plantation woodland of young Norway spruce Picea abies situated to the north of Barn Hill Wood. The area is of little biodiversity interest.

Poor Semi-Improved Grassland

6.6.10 Most of the fields on the site have been improved for grazing in the past and carry a sward of poor semi-improved neutral grassland. Many are now only infrequently grazed and are starting to be colonised by young trees (mainly oaks and hawthorn). For the most part the grassland is species poor and dominated by Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus, creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera, crested dog’s-tail Cynosurus cristatus, meadow foxtail Alopecurus pratensis, timothy Phleum pratense, common couch Elytrigia repens and black bent Agrostis gigantea. Other grasses present at lower frequency include tall fescue Festuca arundinacea, barren brome Anisatha sterilis, common bent Agrostis capillaris, perennial ryegrass Lolium perenne, cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata and sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 23 of 88

Figure 7: Habitats Plan (Ecology Consultancy Ltd)

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 24 of 88

6.6.11 A range of typical pasture weeds occur, including creeping thistle Cirsium arvense, field bindweed Convolvulus arvensis, hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, bristly oxtongue Picris echioides, curled dock Rumex crispus and broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius. Other forbs include common fleabane Pulicaria dysenterica, meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris, hoary ragwort Senecio erucifolius, hop trefoil Trifolium campestre, red clover Trifolium pratense, white clover Trifolium repens, tufted vetch Vicia cracca, common vetch Vicia sativa and slender tare Vicia tetrasperma. Marsh thistle Cirsium palustre and soft rush Juncus effusus are locally frequent in the damper parts of the fields.

6.6.12 An area of semi-improved neutral grassland with slightly enhanced species diversity, including a sedge Carex sp., wild parsnip Pastinaca sativa, stone parsley Sison amomum and perforate St.-John’s-wort Hypericum perforatum exists to the south of the site.

Scattered Trees

6.6.13 Scattered mature pedunculate oak trees mark some of the existing and historic field boundaries. Many of the oaks are in excess of 200 years old and contain fissures and holes suitable for nesting birds or roosting bats and may support notable invertebrates such as stag beetle Lucanus cervus.

Hedgerows

6.6.14 The fields that form the site are generally divided by hedgerows. Most of these are comparatively species poor and comprised mainly of hawthorn, elm Ulmus spp. and blackthorn. There are however some more species diverse sections which contain other shrub species such as Midland hawthorn Crataegus laevigata, hazel, dogwood, field maple, dog rose Rosa canina agg. and field rose. Standard trees are frequent within the hedges, and mainly comprise mature pedunculate oak and ash. The typical ground flora associated with the hedgerows includes bramble, ivy Hedera helix, hogweed, red campion, great willowherb and cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris, with the more species rich hedges also including woodland forbs such as dog’s mercury and lord’s-and-ladies. The hedgerows link habitats and potentially provide commuting and/or foraging habitat for bats.

Ponds

6.6.15 There is one pond located in the south-western part of the site. This appears to have been created within the past few years and contains a small island supporting a pedunculate oak tree and is covered in bramble scrub. Marginal vegetation includes floating sweet-grass Glyceria fluitans, hard rush Juncus inflexus and pendulous sedge Carex pendula. Aquatic vegetation includes a water crowfoot species Ranunculus sp., water starwort Callitriche sp. and white water-lily Nymphaea alba.

Target Notes

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 25 of 88

6.6.16 Target notes provide additional information about habitat features that are too small to be mapped on the Habitat Plan (figure 7). The approximate location to which each target note relates is indicated on the habitat plan. Target notes are detailed as follows: • T1 – a badger latrine located on the edge of woodland. A latrine was first recorded during the Phase 1 Survey and another latrine was recorded in approximately the same place during the badger survey. • T2 – an area of semi-improved neutral grassland with slightly enhanced species diversity, including a sedge Carex sp., wild parsnip Pastinaca sativa, stone parsley Sison amomum and perforate St.-John’s-wort. • T3 – a pond located in the south-west of the site, as described above (see Photo 10, Appendix 2). • T4 – a corrugated metal animal shelter showing evidence of use by roosting barn owls Tyto alba in the form of owl pellets. • T5 - Mature trees suitable for roosting bats. • T6 – Standing dead trees, of possible invertebrate, bat and nesting bird interest. • T7 - Mature trees suitable for roosting bats. • T8 - Area of great horsetail. • T9 – Small pond just outside of the site boundary, overgrown by surrounding trees and shrubs. • T10 – A large pond located some 150m to the south of the site, adjacent to Carrolls Farm. A large bed of emergent yellow-flag iris Iris pseudocorus occurs on the south and eastern margins, and willow Salix sp., hawthorn, elder and bramble scrub borders the northern and western edges. Other marginal vegetation includes gypsywort Lycopus europaeus, water mint Mentha aquatica and great willowherb. • T11 - A small semi-shaded pond approximately 200m to the east of the site boundary within a thin belt of trees (hawthorn and willow) and surrounded by tall vegetation of great willowherb, bramble and nettle. The pond is fairly shallow and largely covered by an emergent stand of bulrush Typha latifolia.

6.6.17 The site includes three UK BAP priority habitats as follows: • Lowland mixed deciduous woodland • Hedgerows • Ponds

Scarce and Notable Plants

6.6.18 No nationally scarce or Red Data Book plants were recorded on-site during the Phase 1 habitat survey. Four plants included in the Essex Red Data List (Harvey 2002) are present on-site. The species are as follows: • Water parsnip Berula erecta • Hawkweed oxtongue Picris hieraciodes • Stinking hellebore (Note: this species is long extinct in Essex and new records are likely to be garden escapes/throw-outs) • Common buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica

6.7 Fauna

6.7.1 Three levels of investigation were used to identify fauna within the site: a desktop study for existing information on the wildlife interest of the site and surrounding area, a Phase

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 26 of 88

1 habitat survey and protected species risk assessment and Phase 2 surveys of badgers, bats, breeding birds, great crested newts and reptiles.

Badgers

6.7.2 The badger survey showed that the species is using the site to a limited degree. This was indicated by the presence of a single dung pit to the north-east of ‘South of Barn Hill Wood’. This latrine probably represents a ‘hinterland’ latrine commonly found within the territory of a badger social group. The location of the latrine was in approximately the same position as the latrine recorded during the Phase 1 Habitat survey; however, the faeces were fresh and indicated that the latrine had been in recent use (see Target Note 1, Figure 1). No other field signs (e.g. boundary latrines, the presence of hairs, footprints, pathways, dung pits and feeding signs) of badgers were recorded during the survey. No other evidence of badgers (e.g. setts) was found during the survey though numerous mammal pathways were located and field signs of other terrestrial mammals (e.g. fox Vulpes vulpes, deer and rabbits Oryctolagus cunniculus) were also present.

Bats

6.7.3 The building inspection for bats showed that the buildings to the site do not currently support roosting bats, though a few old scattered bat droppings were found in one building. The location of the droppings was suggestive of roosting behaviour of low numbers of bats (e.g. 1 or 2 males) during preceding years. No other field signs of bats were found though there were suitable crevices for bats in Buildings 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9. Evidence of nesting birds was found in the majority of the buildings.

6.7.4 The activity surveys for bats showed that the habitat around the buildings was used by foraging common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus bats during all of the surveys and noctule Nyctalus noctula bats were recorded commuting over the site on the final survey. No bats were seen to emerge from or return to any of the buildings. For a full list of all bat contacts, see ECL (2008).

Breeding Birds

6.7.5 A total of 60 bird species were recorded during the breeding bird surveys. Most of the species recorded are widespread and common although 18 are of particular conservation concern, with 5 Red-listed and 13 Amber-listed. Two birds are listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), namely barn owl and Eurasian hobby Falco subbuteo. Six species recorded are also listed as priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, namely tree pipit Anthus trivialis, skylark Alauda arvensis, song thrush Turdus philomelos, common cuckoo Cuculus canorus, house sparrow Passer domesticus and yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella. For a full list of all bird species see ECL (2008).

6.7.6 The list of bird species of conservation concern and/or included in the ERDL (Harvey 2002) recorded from Netherhouse Farm during breeding bird surveys is as follows:

Species Schedule 1 BOCC Status ERDL status Harvey (2002) Barn owl Tyto alba Listed Amber Listed Common linnet Carduelis cannabina Listed Dunnock Prunella modularis Amber Eurasian hobby Falco subbuteo Listed Listed

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 27 of 88

Species Schedule 1 BOCC Status ERDL status Harvey (2002) Eurasian skylark Alauda arvensis Red Listed European starling Sturnus vulgaris Red European swallow Hirundo rustica* Amber Goldcrest Regulus regulus Amber Green woodpecker Picus viridis Amber Herring gull Larus argentatus* Amber House sparrow Passer domesticus Red Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Amber Meadow pipit Anthus pratensis Amber Mistle thrush Turdus viscivorus Amber Song thrush Turdus philomelos Red Listed Stock dove Columba oenas Amber Tree pipit Anthus trivialis Amber Listed Willow warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Amber Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Red Listed Red = Red list species of high conservation concern Amber = Amber list species of medium conservation concern * Species which were recorded flying over the site but which are unlikely to breed due to lack of suitable breeding habitat

Amphibians

6.7.7 No evidence of great crested newts was found in any of the ponds on-site or within 250m of the site boundary. Smooth newts Lissotriton vulgaris (formerly Triturus vulgaris) were found in all of the ponds, with the pond located on-site supporting a ‘medium’ population (population size classes sensu English Nature 2001). Common toad Bufo bufo and common frog Rana temporaria are also known to occur on the site, having been found sheltering under refugia placed as part of the reptile survey.

Reptiles

6.7.8 Seven reptile survey visits were made and no reptiles were found during any of the visits. However, a single grass snake Natrix natrix was observed during the course of the Phase 1 habitat survey in the southern most part of the site, on the margins of a track close to the site boundary.

Dormouse

6.7.9 A record exists approximately 1.9km to the south east of the site and the habitat on-site (e.g. hedgerows and woodland) is potentially suitable. However, the limited habitat connectivity (e.g. presence of arboreal pathways to adjacent habitat) significantly reduces the likelihood of dormice being present; the species is generally reluctant to come to ground level or traverse open spaces (Bright 1998; Bright and Morris 2005). It is therefore considered highly unlikely that the species would be present on site.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 28 of 88

Invertebrates

6.7.10 The major grassland areas were considered to have limited potential for noteworthy invertebrates. The sward was rank, with a relatively uniform height and without specific microhabitats known to be of particular value for example, bare earth, short swards with the potential to develop hot microclimates, or a mosaic of vegetation types likely to offer a range of conditions in close proximity. The boundary areas of the site were considered to have moderate potential for invertebrates. Along the boundary there was a gradual transition between the open areas of the farm track, through short perennial vegetation and tall ruderal vegetation to the woody species of the surrounding hedgerow. This area is likely to offer a general habitat mosaic with a range of conditions associated with transitional areas between scrub and grassland or woodland edge conditions. Within the woodland the principal features of interest were the dead wood habitats that may be used by larvae of the stag beetle Lucanus cervus, particularly stumps and subterranean dead wood such as dead tree roots.

6.8 Geology and Soils

6.8.1 The site is mainly located on London Clay, with a capping of till (mainly chalky, sandy clay), and the possibility of patches of Claygate Member London Clay and Bagshot Formation Sand along the eastern margin (BGS 1994).

6.8.2 The soil is described as ‘slowly permeable, seasonally wet, slightly acid but base-rich loamy and clayey soils’ with ‘impeded drainage’ and ‘moderate natural fertility’ (National Soils Resources Institute ‘Soilscape’ Map).

6.9 Landform

6.9.1 The Application Site straddles the northern end of a short north-south ridge on the eastern side of the River Lee valley. The ridge undulates gently to form three low, rounded hillocks, increasing in height from 57m for the northernmost to 80m for the southernmost. The central hill, which is topographical the most distinct as the higher summit is hidden by woodland, is known as Barn Hill and rises to 73m.

6.9.2 The fields on the fringes of the northern half of the site slope more gently than those at higher elevations. Those along the northern and eastern side sit in a valley bottom between the high ground in the centre of the Site, Lippitts Hill to the east and a hill to the north of Mott Street.

6.9.3 To the east of the Site the landform rises fairly sharply up towards Lippitts Hill (over 90m) and High Beach (over 110m).

6.9.4 Other than the 55m hill just to the north of Mott Street, the land is lower to the north, undulating between 20-35m as far as Waltham Abbey. The next significant high ground with clear views over the Site is Galley Hill, over 5km to the north.

6.9.5 To the south the ridgeline continues through Gilwell Park and Sewardstonebury, falling slightly from the 80m peak until it ends at Pole Hill (91m) on the edge of Chingford.

6.9.6 To the west is the wide floor of the River Lee valley.

6.9.7 Plan 365.01, submitted with the Application and reproduced in figure 2 above (not to scale), is a survey of the Application Site (based on a topographic survey carried out by Groundsurveys Ltd in February 2008). Plan 365.13 illustrates the topography of the wider area.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 29 of 88

6.10 Land Use

6.10.1 The existing land-use is mainly disused horse pasture and woodland.

6.10.2 A section of the London Loop that runs between Chingford and Enfield passes through the site from the south west corner close to Parsons Croft, across the field to the corner and out of the site. It re-enters the site to the west of the unnamed wood and continues along the track north then north-west and out of the site towards the A112 and Sewardstone (see figure 2 above).

6.10.3 A public footpath crosses the site from east to west from the junction of Green Lane and Mott Street to the A112 south of Netherhouse Farm opposite Ashbrook Court.

6.11 Water

6.11.1 A small intermittently flowing stream arises on the eastern flanks of Barn Hill and flows north along the valley close to the site’s eastern boundary. It passes out of the site about half way along the boundary and continues to flow north between the site and Green Lane before turning north-west where it bounds the northern site boundary and continues on towards the River Lea to the west.

6.11.2 A ditch is present within the existing hedgerow which runs south to north on the eastern side of Barn Hill and joins the stream half way along the northern boundary of the site.

6.11.3 A small pond is present in the west of the site just south west of Barn Hill Wood.

6.11.4 Drainage channels within the site either feed the watercourse referred to in 6.11.1 or drain off the western slope of the ridge, converging on a ditch that runs through the Netherhouse Farm area and Pipeline Station.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 30 of 88

7 BASELINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

7.1 Methodology

7.1.1 The assessment of baseline value and impact significance is structured around the identification of receptors. Receptors are identified chiefly through field assessment.

7.1.2 The key elements and characteristics of different parts of the Site are listed; these features are termed landscape receptors. Receptors might be distinct physical elements of the landscape, or characteristics relating to amalgamations of individual physical elements or the use of the site.

7.1.3 The receptors of views of the site are people viewing the landscape, whether from home, work, in transit or at leisure. Visual receptors are identified to reflect the range of views available, and each is defined as representing one or more of the following categories of receptor: • Resident with principle view of landscape (e.g. from main downstairs room or garden) • Resident with secondary view of landscape (e.g. from bedroom or at an oblique angle) • Recreational user of valued landscape (e.g. a beauty spot or nature reserve) • Recreational user of footpath/bridleway/amenity area (e.g. a park) • Road user (vehicular or pedestrian) • Worker (e.g. views from offices or factories)

7.1.4 An assessment is made of the value of contribution that each landscape feature makes to the landscape as experienced by each visual receptor. One or more representative viewpoints are identified for each visual receptor, to illustrate the range of views available.

7.1.5 The extent to which a landscape feature contributes to the view, in relation to other landscape elements, both on and off the Application Site, is assessed on a five-point scale, as detailed below. This does not make any judgement as to whether the feature in question is desirable or otherwise. Visibility of Landscape Feature - Guideline Definition High Feature is very prominent Medium Feature is very evident but not dominant Low Evident but other features more noticeable Negligible Only mildly evident None Not visible

7.1.6 The perceived sensitivity of the visual receptor is taken in account when assessing impact. Sensitivity is assessed as per the table below. Visual Receptor Sensitivity - Guideline Definition Very High Residents with principal view of landscape, High Residents with secondary view of landscape, recreational users of valued landscapes (e.g. with landscape designations, such as AONBs) Medium Non-vehicular users of footpaths or amenity areas Low Road users, workers and other viewers with high focus on another activity

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 31 of 88

7.2 Landscape Character Assessment

7.2.1 Landscape character assessment has been carried out at County level. The Essex Landscape Character Assessment (2002) places the Application Site within the Lee Valley Character Area.

7.2.2 The four ‘key characteristics’ identified for this Character Area are all felt to be very appropriate for the Site and its surrounding area: • Very broad flood plain occupied by wet gravel pits, woodland and a variety of fragmented agricultural, recreational and small scale industrial land uses. • Rolling farmland to the east, typically with bold blocks of woodland and linear tree belts on valleysides and ridges. • Significant clusters of active and derelict glasshouse land use. • Extensive views from higher ground within the area.

7.2.3 The Application Site landscape is very typical of the eastern side of the River Lee valley, as the following quotes from the description of landscape characteristics demonstrate: • Landform: “… undulating eastern valleysides made up of distinctive rounded low hills/small ridges”. • Semi-natural vegetation: “Mixed ancient woodland on the valleysides”. • Pattern of field enclosure: “Regular, hedgerowed, field pattern of small to medium size fields on the valleysides/ridges”. • Woodland/tree cover: “Strong pattern of valleyside/ridgetop woodlands and copses…”, and “hedgerow oak trees”.

7.2.4 The condition of the farmland hedgerows and woodlands is judged to be “moderate to good”.

7.3 Landscape Characteristic Receptors

7.3.1 The following characteristics are identified as receptors for the Application Site:

7.3.2 Openness: although there are a number of hedgerows within the Site, the sloping topography enhances visibility.

7.3.3 Unity: there are no significant incongruent elements within the Site, just natural textures of grass and trees.

7.3.4 Form: the ridgeline and low, rounded hilltops, combined with the woodland blocks, are the principle characteristic of the Site.

7.3.5 Remoteness: in the southern and eastern parts of the Site only a few houses are visible in the near vicinity, and there is little human activity within the sit as a whole. This creates a sense of remoteness when combined, to the western side of the Site, with the elevation above the extensive housing in the Lee valley, and to the eastern side by the extensive wooded areas and valley topography.

7.4 Landscape Elements Receptors

7.4.1 We have identified Landscape Element Receptors which are listed within the following paragraphs. For ease of reference they are grouped into the categories used as headings in the Baseline Site Description.

7.4.2 Some of the elements are discrete locations whilst others are more general areas or represent a number of locations with similar characteristics.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 32 of 88

7.4.3 Physical impacts as a result of the Proposed Development could potentially occur beyond the boundaries of the Application Site, but these fall outside the remit of the Landscape Impact Assessment – e.g. impacts on traffic on the surrounding road network, or on the flood risk or ecology of surrounding areas. Landscape Element Receptors are therefore limited to the area inside the Application Boundary.

7.4.4 Topographical Features: • Hilltop and ridge: the central southern part of the site forms the northern end of a north-south ridge that continues through Gilwell Park; there are three rounded peaks within the site, increasing in height from north to south, the central one of which is named Barn Hill • Valley: the north-south valley that runs along the eastern side of the Site

7.4.5 Vegetation: • Large copse: the copse on the high ground near the south-western corner of the Site • Small copse: the copse on the western slope of Barn Hill • Conifer plantation: the small conifer plantation on the north-western slope of Barn Hill • Hedgerows: the various hedgerows bordering fields within the Site • Hedge-line and field trees: mature trees either in fields, within hedgerows (including the 0.7ha belt of trees near to the eastern boundary)or marking the alignment of former hedgerows (the latter being principally on the higher ground in the centre of the Site) • Rough grassland: the grassland fields into which the Site is divided. These have not been regularly grazed in recent times.

7.4.6 Buildings and Infrastructure: • Surfaced track: the track running around the boundary of the Site, and across the southern edge of the northernmost field • Footpaths: the London Loop footpath crosses through the southern part of the Site and a footpath crosses east-west through the northern part of the Site • Overhead lines: running north-south through the site close to the eastern boundary, and crossing east-west in the northern part of the Site and close to the southern boundary.

7.5 Visual Receptors

7.5.1 A number of receptor areas are identified to represent the range of views available in terms of distance, direction, elevation and receptor type.

7.5.2 In some cases a receptor has a specific location from which the view of the Site can be assessed, such as a view from a particular house, but in other cases a number of viewpoints are used to represent the range of views available to the receptor.

7.5.3 Visual Receptor locations are categorised into three groups, based on distance from the Application Site. ‘Local’ receptors are those on or bordering the Application Boundary, ‘Intermediate’ receptors are up to 1000m from the Application Boundary and ‘Distant’ receptors are beyond 1000m.

7.5.4 The visual impact of the development proposals, in both construction and operational phases, will be constrained by topography and by land cover. The aerial photograph in plan 365.14 has been labelled to identify Visual Receptor locations.

7.5.5 Ridgelines beyond which views of any part of the Site are unavailable are indicated on plan 365.14. This principally applies to the area to the south and east of the ridge that

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 33 of 88

runs down from High Beach through Lippitts Hill and Gilwell Park ending close to the A112 at Yardley Hill.

7.5.6 It is not considered necessary to assess views of the Site from beyond the 3km ring indicated on plan 365.14, on account of the extent of availability of closer views.

7.5.7 Local Visual Receptors and the receptor type that they represent are as follows: • A – Residential view from northern boundary: Beechside Cottages, Mott Street. Back gardens face directly onto Site so views are principle residential and sensitivity is very high • B – Residential view from eastern boundary: Green Lane houses (Woodsprite, Silver Timbers, Cashfield House); strong boundary vegetation interrupts views but clear views from several upper floor windows in winter; views are secondary residential and sensitivity is high • C – Residential view from southern boundary: Olivers, Daws Hill. Main orientation is westwards, and topography and seasonal tree cover limit ground floor views, so receptor is classified as secondary residential views, with high sensitivity • D – Footpath view from southern part of site (London Loop) ; sensitivity is medium • E – Footpath view from north-western part of site; sensitivity is medium • F – Footpath view north-eastern part of site; sensitivity is medium • G – Footpath view from south-western part of site (London Loop); sensitivity is medium

7.5.8 Intermediate Visual Receptors are: • H – Residential views from below site – northern end; houses on A112 in Sewardstone face Site but intervening road and in places hedgerow mean that best views are from upper floors, i.e. secondary residential with high sensitivity • I – Principle residential views from below site – southern end; some houses on A112 at southern end of Sewardstone face Site and are on the same side of the main road; principle residential so sensitivity is very high • J – Secondary residential view from north-east of site (view from Manor Farm); sensitivity is high • K – Footpath view from above Site (the top of West Essex golf course); sensitivity is medium • L – Field view from above Site (south of Aldergrove Wood); sensitivity is low • M – Long-distance footpath view from west: London Loop; sensitivity is medium

7.5.9 Distant Visual Receptors are: • N – View from footpath over road near Quinton Hill Farm; this could also be considered representative of distant residential views; sensitivity is high • O – View from pavement above The Navigation pub; this could also be considered representative of distant residential views and views from the industrial premises between the A1055 and King George’s Reservoir; sensitivity is high.

7.6 Landscape and Visual Contribution

7.6.1 See section 5 of the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (appendix D) for photographs from all the representative viewpoints and assessment of the contribution of each landscape element and characteristic. The findings are summarised below.

7.6.2 From the majority of viewpoints, and increasingly so with distance from the site, the most distinctive features are the form of the ridgeline and hilltops, and the woodland block that sits on top of the highest section of the site.

7.6.3 Viewed from below the site, to the west, the ridgeline and copse form a backdrop against the skyline, and viewed from above the site to the east they form a distinctive

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 34 of 88

middle ground blocking all but distant views of the urban area to the west of the George V reservoir.

7.6.4 The relative openness of the central part of the site is evident from some angles, principally from higher ground and on site or from adjacent locations where tree cover doesn’t intervene.

7.6.5 The visual contribution of the open grassland on the lower slopes is only strong for adjacent residential properties and users of the public footpath crossing the northern part of the site.

7.6.6 Other than the hilltop copse, woodlands and hedgerows within the site have less of a visual impact, although the smaller woodland blocks and former hedgerow trees are prominent in views from the northern part of Sewardstone, and from the footpaths on this side of the site. In general, the hedgerows play less of a visual role.

7.6.7 The eastern section of the site feels more remote and rural than the western side of the ridge but, with largely wooded surrounds and a low number of residential properties, has fewer visual receptors.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 35 of 88

8 BASELINE ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

8.1 Archaeological Evidence

8.1.1 An archaeological desktop study has been carried out by Thames Valley Archaeological Services Ltd – see appendix A for full report.

8.1.2 There is no cartographic or documentary evidence of any buildings or other features of archaeological interest within the bounds of the site. A search of the Essex Historic Environment Record revealed no entries for the site. It is assumed that the site will have been farmland since at least the medieval period.

8.1.3 The hedgerows within the site have all been in existence since at least the mid- eighteenth century, but are unlikely to predate 1600 and do not qualify as ‘important’ hedgerows in historic terms under the definitions in Schedule 1 of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997.

8.1.4 Study of 74 aerial photographs taken between 1941 and 1991 revealed in two cases the possible indication of structural features beneath the northernmost field, but there is considerable doubt placed on this possibility.

8.2 Designations

8.2.1 There are no relevant designations relating to the site.

8.3 Site Evaluation

8.3.1 In terms of the known existence of prehistoric and Roman sites in the area, the Lea Valley is fairly rich in archaeological evidence and nearby evidence of Roman activity has been found in Waltham and, more locally, Northfields Nursery in Sewardstone. The absence of evidence from the site itself reflects a lack of investigation rather than a lack of archaeological potential.

8.3.2 The topographical setting of the site, a locally prominent ridge spur in a river valley, is considered to represent an attractive setting for early occupation, and the absence of known activity since documentary evidence began suggests a reasonable likelihood that any archaeological evidence will have survived.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 36 of 88

9 BASELINE ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

9.1 Methodology

9.1.1 In accordance with the IEEM guidelines (2006) a range of criteria have been considered in assigning ecological value: • Presence of sites or features designated for their nature conservation interest. Examples include internationally or nationally designated sites such as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), locally designated sites such as Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs) • Biodiversity value, for example, habitats or species which are rare or uncommon, species rich assemblages, species which are endemic or on the edge of their range, large populations or concentrations of uncommon or threatened species, and/or plant communities that are typical of valued natural/semi-natural vegetation types • Secondary and supporting value, for example, habitats or features which provide a buffer to valued features or which serve to link otherwise isolated features • Presence of UK BAP and/or Essex BAP habitats and species • Presence of National Red Data Book (NRDB) Species • Presence of Essex Red Data List Species • Criteria for the selection of Local Wildlife Sites in Essex (Essex Wildlife Trust 2007)

Guidance on Determining the Nature Conservation Value of Features Value Criteria Examples Very High High importance and rarity. Internationally designated sites. International scale and limited potential for substitution. High High importance and rarity, national Nationally designated sites. Regionally scale, or regional scale with limited important sites with limited potential potential for substitution. for substitution. Medium High or medium importance and rarity, Regionally important sites with local or regional scale and (limited) potential for substitution. Locally potential for substitution. designated sites. Lower Low or medium importance and rarity, Undesignated sites of some local local scale. biodiversity and earth heritage interest. Negligible Very low importance and rarity, local Other sites with little or no local scale. biodiversity and earth heritage interest.

9.2 Designated Sites

9.2.1 The following sites of international importance for wildlife are situated in the vicinity of the site. The full citation of the Internationally and Nationally designated sites is provided (see Appendix 1 in Environmental Statement appendix C):

Epping Forest is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) (1604 hectares (ha), TQ 399959). At its closest point it is situated approximately 0.9 kilometres (km) to the south-east of the site. The ‘qualifying species and habitats’ present at the site that lead to the designation of the SAC are as follows:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 37 of 88

Primary habitats • Atlantic acidophilous beech forests with Ilex and sometimes Taxus in the shrub layer Qualifying habitats • Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix • European dry heaths Primary species • Stag beetle Lucanus cervus Qualifying species • Not applicable

9.2.2 The SAC site is also notified as a Site Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). In addition to beech forests and stag beetles, this designation also highlights the area’s importance for other groups including a mosaic of habitats supporting amphibians, reptiles, aquatic invertebrates and birds.

9.2.3 Chingford Reservoirs is notified as a SSSI. They cover an area of approximately 390 ha. and lie approximately 330m to the south-west of the site boundary (TQ 371953). They support a diverse assemblage of migratory wildfowl, gulls and other wetland birds, including nationally important populations of shoveler Anas clypeata and great crested grebe Podiceps cristatus. Gull species include black-headed gull Larus ridibundus, common gull Larus canus and herring gull Larus argentatus.

9.2.4 The following non-statutory sites of conservation interest are referred to as Local Wildlife Sites. Details of each site are provided in the table below:

Site Name Designation Grid Distance from Number Reference Netherhouse House Farm Essex W110 Barn Hill Wood Local Wildlife Site TQ 387 Within site 974 W111 Wood, South of Local Wildlife Site TQ 388 Within site Barn Hill Wood 972 W4 Blind Lane Local Wildlife Site TQ 393 Contiguous with Complex 973 eastern boundary M20 Carroll’s Farm Local Wildlife Site TQ 394 Contiguous with 973 eastern boundary G3 Woodlands Farm Local Wildlife Site TQ 384 c. 70m to SW Meadow 971 W2 Thompson’s Wood Local Wildlife Site TQ 390 c. 170 m to N 981 M3 Sewardstone Local Wildlife Site TQ 378 0.3 km to W Mosaic 990 W7 Aldergrove Wood Local Wildlife Site TQ 397 0.4 km to E 976 W5 Wood, West Essex Local Wildlife Site TQ 395 0.6 km to SE Golf Course 964 G4 Yardley Hill East Local Wildlife Site TQ 386 0.9 km to S Meadow 958 G2 Gilwell Park Local Wildlife Site TQ 383 1 km to SW Meadow 965 Greater London M071 Lea Valley Site of Metropolitan TQ 354 0.3 km to W Importance for Nature 906 Conservation M012 Epping Forest Site of Metropolitan TQ 393 1.1 km to S North Importance for Nature 918 Conservation EnL07 Prince of Wales Site of Local Importance for TQ 369 1.2 km to W Field Nature Conservation 982

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 38 of 88

Site Name Designation Grid Distance from Number Reference Netherhouse House Farm WFBII03 Sewardstone Road Site of Borough Importance TQ 376 1.3 km to S Rough for Nature Conservation, 958 Grade II

9.2.5 Site descriptions for the designated sites within the application boundary are given in section 6.6 above. There are also three Local Wildlife Sites which lie on or close to the site boundary:

W4. Blind Lane Complex (4.4 ha) TQ 393973 “This SINC comprises two interconnecting green lanes and a rectangular area of un- named woodland. The lanes are lined by numerous Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur) standards, Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and Field Maple (Acer campestre). Blind Lane, running west-east, contains a high concentration of Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) standards. The wood attached to Blind Lane contains Hornbeam in both coppiced and pollarded forms mixed with occasional Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) standards. The understorey is dominated by Holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) - Dog’s Mercury (Mercurialis perennis) is also present. Date selected 1992.”

M20. Carroll’s Farm, Sewardstone (11.42ha) TQ 394973 “This series of meadows has recently been acquired as Forest land and is protected under the Epping Forest Act of 1878. The block of land includes Fernhill Wood which is County Wildlife Site W3 and a strip of wood to the north of the site is included in Site W4 (Blind Lane Complex).

The northernmost meadow comprises a tall grassland sward of False Oat-grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Sweet Vernal Grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), Meadow Foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis), Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomerata), Yorkshire Fog (Holcus lanatus) and Rough Meadow-grass (Poa trivialis).

A narrow strip of apparently ancient woodland divides this field from the main block of grassland. This woodland strip is dominated by Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) which abundant Holly (Ilex aquifolium) in the understorey, along with Midland Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata). Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) occurs in the ground flora.

The main block of grassland comprises a series of land slippages and seepages which support a notable population of Ragged Robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) and Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia). Pignut (Conopodium majus) has also been recorded. The sward characteristics are very similar to the northern meadow, but with greater herb variety. Date selected 1996.”

9.3 Evaluation of Designated Sites

9.3.1 Habitats and species on the site and within the zone of influence of the development were evaluated following standard guidance on ecological impact assessment published by IEEM in 2006. They are evaluated according to the various geographic scales of reference provided by the above guidance.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 39 of 88

International

9.3.2 Features of international importance are principally those sites or habitats covered by international legislation or conventions. The only site of international importance in the vicinity of the Netherhouse Farm site is Epping Forest, designated as an SAC and SSSI. It is a large site of over 1500 ha and at its closest point is approximately 900m to the south-east of the site boundary. Epping Forest is therefore evaluated as being of Very High importance according to the criteria in Table 1 of the Ecological Impact Assessment (appendix C).

National

9.3.3 Features of national importance include SSSIs, which are designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Chingford Reservoirs SSSI covers an area of approximately 390 ha and lies approximately 330m to the south-west of the site boundary. It is separated from the Netherhouse Farm site by the Sewardstone Road and a number of residential properties and nurseries. Chingford reservoirs are therefore evaluated as being of High importance.

County

9.3.4 There are 15 non-statutory Local Wildlife Sites and Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation located within the 2km search area and two of these sites (Barn Hill Wood & South of Barn Hill Wood) are located within the site boundary, whilst two others (Blind Lane Complex and Carroll’s Farm) are contiguous with the site boundary. These features are evaluated as being of County importance. These sites are therefore evaluated as being of Medium importance.

9.4 Protected Species

9.4.1 Data provided by Greenspace information for Greater London (GIGL) and Essex Ecology Services (EECOS) identified the following notable species that were recorded within the area of search:

Common Scientific Name Grid Reference Distance & direction Date Name from site boundary (km) Stag Beetle Lucanus cervus Not provided 1.3 km S 2002 Great Crested Triturus cristatus TQ 403 973 1.2 km E 1983 Newt Great Crested Triturus cristatus TQ 409 966 1.6 km Various Newt Slow-worm Anguis fragilis Not provided 1.9 km SW 1997 Grass Snake Natrix natrix Not provided 1.9 km SW 1997 Badger Meles meles Not provided 0.7 E 1970, 1985 Water vole Arvicola terrestris TQ 376 980 0.6 W 1989/90 Water vole Arvicola terrestris Not provided 1.1 km W 1989 Dormouse Muscardinus TQ 405 955 1.9 km SE 2003 avellanarius Otter Lutra lutra TQ 368 982 1.4 2004 Otter Lutra lutra TQ 369 965 1.7 2004 Bats Vespertilionidae Not provided 1.8 km S 1986 Hobby Falco subbuteo Not provided 1.6 km SW 1987 Little ringed Charadrius dubius Not provided 1.6 km SW 1987 plover Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Not provided 1.2 km NW 1987 Black redstart Phoenicurus Not provided 1.3 km NW 2001

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 40 of 88

Common Scientific Name Grid Reference Distance & direction Date Name from site boundary (km) ochruros Black redstart Phoenicurus Not provided 1.6 km SW 1987 ochruros Black redstart Phoenicurus Not provided 1.7 km W 2001 ochruros Black redstart Phoenicurus Not provided 1.9 km W 1987 ochruros Black redstart Phoenicurus Not provided 1.9 km W 2001 ochruros

9.5 Evaluation of Habitats Woodland

9.5.1 Two areas of broadleaved woodland are designated as Local Wildlife Sites and are therefore evaluated as being of Medium importance (see above). The two small areas of broadleaved woodland that occur outside the Local Wildlife Sites on the northern boundary of the site, adjacent to Mott Street and towards the east of the site alongside a small stream, are both evaluated as being of Lower importance as they offer some local biodiversity interest at a local level.

Scattered trees

9.5.2 Although they are a common and widespread feature locally, mature trees which occur scattered within the hedgerows and fields, potentially provide a habitat for a range of wildlife (see below) and could potentially support uncommon, rare or protected invertebrates, fungi and other species associated with veteran trees. They are therefore considered to be of Lower importance.

Hedgerows

9.5.3 Most of the hedgerows on the site are relatively species poor, being composed of one or a few shrub species and lacking a characteristic ground flora that contains woodland species. Many are defunct and as a consequence either very gappy or tall (leggy). Some are recently planted. These hedges would not qualify as Important Hedgerows under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 and are therefore evaluated as being of Negligible importance.

9.5.4 A minority of hedgerows on the site are more species diverse, containing a variety of shrub and tree species and a slightly richer ground flora. Some of these may qualify as Important Hedgerows under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997. They are therefore evaluated as being of Lower Importance.

9.5.5 Five areas of hedgerow will be lost to the golf course and details of each hedgerow are provided in the table below. Location of each hedgerow is provided (see figure 8 below):

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 41 of 88

Hedgerow Number of woody Number Additional information – Important Number species of qualifying features Hedgerow1 climbers 1 5 species; 2 - Less than 10% gaps Not ash, oak (hybrid), bramble 1 tree per 50m important blackthorn, hawthorn, and ivy. Connection with wood and rose sp. hedges

Additional information

No mature trees suitable for bats, some decaying stumps 2 2 species; 1 - No qualifying features Not ash and blackthorn. bramble important Additional information

No mature trees suitable for bats, some decaying wood 3 4 species; 2 – Adjacent to footpath? Not blackthorn, elder, bramble important hawthorn, pedunculate and ivy Additional information oak. (average 3.7 species) No mature trees suitable for bats 4 6 species; 1 - Less than 10% gaps Important ash, elder, hawthorn, bramble 1 tree per 50m field maple, sessile Ditch? oak and rose sp. Hedgerow connected to (average 5.5 species) woodland

Additional information

No mature trees suitable for bats, one mature oak adjacent to woodland to be retained 5 3 species; 1 - No mature trees Not ash, blackthorn and bramble important elder 1 = Hedgerows are assessed using Hedgerow Regulations (1997) criteria.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 42 of 88

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 43 of 88

Grassland

9.5.6 Most of the grassland on the site is species poor and of comparatively low intrinsic importance for nature conservation. It is therefore evaluated as being of Negligible importance in its own right, though it may provide cover for ground nesting birds and offer suitable foraging habitat to several species of bird, including barn owl and hobby. The grassland also offers potential foraging habitat for badgers. The importance of this habitat with respect to these species is discussed (see below).

9.5.7 There is one area of slightly more species rich grassland located towards the southern end of the site and this is ranked as being of importance in an immediate local context. This area, indicated by Target Note 2 on Figure 1, is therefore considered to be of Lower importance.

Plantation

9.5.8 The small area of plantation woodland located to the north of Barn Hill is comprised mainly of exotic conifers and has a poor associated flora. It does however provide useful cover for wildlife and is therefore accorded importance at the zone of influence scale of reference and is therefore considered to be of Lower importance.

Pond

9.5.9 The small pond to the south of the site supports a reasonable diversity of aquatic flora and a good population of smooth newts; therefore it is considered to be of Lower importance.

9.6 Fauna Bats

9.6.1 Detailed surveys of buildings adjacent to the site did not reveal any roost sites for bats, though three species were recorded foraging and/or flying over the site, namely common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and noctule. Like all bat species, these are listed under Schedule 2 of The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) and are thereby European Protected Species. Soprano pipistrelle and noctule are also priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

9.6.2 The lack of roosts and low numbers and diversity of bats observed foraging at the site suggests that the site is of Lower Importance for bats.

Breeding birds

9.6.3 The assemblage of likely breeding birds on-site includes the presence of two Schedule 1 species (barn owl and hobby) and at least five red listed birds of conservation concern. Of particular note were records of ground nesting birds including tree pipits holding territory in at least two locations and approximately eight pairs of skylark.

9.6.4 Barn owl and hobby: Both species are listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and it is likely the site supports one breeding pair of each species; therefore this site is considered to be of Medium Importance to barn owl and hobby.

9.6.5 Tree pipits: This is a rare breeding species in the London area, confined to a few scattered localities in Hertfordshire, Essex, Surrey and Kent (Hewlett 2002). It is

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 44 of 88

estimated that there is a breeding population of 2-5 pairs in Essex as a whole and records are primarily associated with Epping Forest (Harvey 2002). For the purpose of this assessment the site is considered to be of Medium Importance for tree pipits.

9.6.6 Skylark: This is a ground nesting bird that breeds in open grassland and farmland. Although still widespread and common, it has undergone a serious decline in numbers in recent years, hence its inclusion in the red list. It is estimated that eight pairs breed on the site, which is considered to be of Medium Importance to this species.

9.6.7 Other breeding birds: Other red listed birds of conservation concern confirmed as breeding, or displaying behaviour consistent with breeding, were starling, house sparrow, song thrush and yellowhammer. Again, these species are still widespread and common but have undergone a serious decline in numbers in recent years. Due to their generally low numbers, the site is evaluated as being of Lower importance for these species.

9.6.8 Fuller (1980; 1982) provided a framework for evaluating the conservation importance of sites in the UK based on their breeding bird assemblage, with > 85 breeding species indicating national importance, 70-84 species being of regional importance, 50-69 of County importance, and 25-49 species of local importance. During the breeding bird survey a total of sixty species were recorded on the site. Of these 29 were confirmed as breeding or displayed behaviour consistent with breeding. A further 14 species recorded may breed on site but showed no definitive evidence of doing so. This gives a total maximum breeding list of 43 species, which would indicate that the site is of local significance for its breeding bird assemblage. For the purposes of the assessment the breeding bird assemblage overall is therefore considered to be of Lower importance.

Badger

9.6.9 A single badger latrine was found during the badger survey, with no evidence of any setts on the site. This suggests that the site forms part of the territory of a social group of badgers, which may also include the woodland to the south or east of the site (though further surveys would be required to verify this). The level of activity observed on site suggests that the area is of Lower importance for this species.

Dormouse

9.6.10 A record exists approximately 1.9km to the south east of the site in the Connaught Water area and the habitat on-site (e.g. hedgerows and woodland) is potentially suitable for dormice. However, the limited habitat connectivity (e.g. presence of arboreal pathways to adjacent sites) significantly reduces the likelihood of dormice being present; the species is generally reluctant to come to ground or traverse open spaces (Bright 1998; Bright and Morris 2005).

9.6.11 Essex Wildlife Trust Local Wildlife Selection Criteria states that all sites known to support breeding populations of dormouse should be considered for selection. All woodland immediately contiguous with the known site should also be included if it supports habitat conditions thought to be suitable for dormice. Because the site is effectively isolated from known populations of the species it considered to be of Negligible importance for dormice.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 45 of 88

Great Crested Newts

9.6.12 No evidence of great crested newts was found in any of the ponds on-site or within 250m of the site boundary. Therefore the site is considered to be of Negligible importance for this species.

Reptiles

9.6.13 Surveys have shown only occasional use of the site by grass snake (one sighting during the habitat survey but none during the reptile survey). It would therefore appear that the species is present in the general area at a low density. Essex Wildlife Trust Local Wildlife Selection Criteria states that any site supporting significant populations of three or more reptile species should be considered for selection. Therefore the site is considered to be of Lower importance for reptiles.

Conclusion

9.6.14 Those features which are evaluated as being of Lower importance or higher are considered to be significant ecological receptors. The likely impact of the proposed golf course development on these receptors is considered in section 13 below. Features of negligible importance are, by definition, not significant ecological receptors and are therefore not considered further in this assessment.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 46 of 88

10 BASELINE HYDROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

10.1 Flood Hazard for Existing Site

10.1.1 The EA and Thames Water however hold no records suggesting that the site has been previously affected by surface water flooding.

10.2 Probability of Flooding

10.2.1 See Flood Risk Assessment by Ambiental Technical Solutions Ltd in appendix E.

10.2.2 According to the EA Flood Map, the development site lies within Flood Zone 1 (Low Risk of flooding at the 1:100 year level). Detailed flood level information for extreme flood events is available for this area from the Lee Mapping Study, however the site is approx 800m from the Lee Flood Relief Channel, and, given that the site resides within Zone 1 analysis of this information is not required as part of this Flood Risk Assessment.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 47 of 88

11 BASELINE TRANSPORT ASSESSMENT

11.1 Traffic Volumes

11.1.1 Development along Bury Road and Daws Hill is very low density and the road is relatively lightly trafficked.

11.1.2 Traffic count data for Sewardstone Road has been obtained from ECC’s term consultant Mouchel Parkman. A 24-hour automatic traffic count was conducted on 24 May 2006 at a location 242m south-west of Godwin Close. This count-site is the closest to the Daws Hill junction; it also represents a neutral month and a neutral day so can be considered to be representative.

11.1.3 The traffic count is summarised below and included in full as Appendix D to the full Transport Statement (appendix C of this Environmental Statement).

11.1.4 In order to derive base traffic flows for 2008 it is necessary to apply a growth factor to the observed 2006 traffic data. For the purpose of this assessment we have used the National Road Traffic Forecast (NRTF) ‘central’ growth rate. From 2006 to 2008 this is a growth rate of 1.031. The resultant 2008 base traffic flows are indicated in the table below:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 48 of 88

12 EFFECTS ON HUMAN BEINGS, BUILDINGS AND MAN-MADE FEATURES

12.1 Change in Population and Consequential Environmental Effects

12.1.1 The development is not of a scale or type that would have any impact on population in terms of location of habitation, but it will have positive benefits in terms of generating employment. As stated in the Weller Designs’ Project Description (section 5), it is estimated that the management and maintenance of the golf facility will create about 10 new full-time jobs. It is anticipated that 5 or 6 of these jobs will be associated with the maintenance of the golf course and the remainder with the administration / service aspect of the facility. Some part time or seasonal positions will also be created.

12.1.2 On a temporary level, local work will also be generated during the construction period.

12.1.3 The provision of a new golf course represents an additional amenity for the public in an area with a large population catchment within 20 minutes travel time.

12.1.4 The new facility will satisfy the need identified in the Epping Forest District Local Plan (1998 with 2006 alterations) for pay and play courses in the area (policy RST18).

12.2 Visual Effects on Surrounding Area and Landscape

12.2.1 See Landscape and Visual Assessment – appendix D – for full details. Assessment uses the following guideline definitions: Visual Impact Significance Guideline Definition Negligible Moderate degree of change for receptor of low sensitivity, or very minor changes for a more sensitive receptor Minor Moderate degree of change for sensitive receptor with a small number of recipients of impact, or more considerable change for less sensitive receptors Moderate Considerable change in the view for a small number of very sensitive receptors, or a larger number of less highly sensitive receptors Major Considerable change in the view for a reasonable number of very sensitive receptors

12.2.2 The montages in figures 9-19 and sketches figures 20-21 below show views from within and beyond the site boundary before and after the proposed changes.

12.2.3 The following visual receptors are predicted to suffer moderate adverse impact as a result of the construction process:

12.2.4 Receptor A – Residential view from northern boundary: Beechside Cottages, Mott Street. Earthworks will take place in fairly close proximity to these properties for a number of weeks which, given that the gardens of these cottages are fairly open to the field beyond, will cause visual intrusion. The movements of trucks delivering soils to works areas will be evident for most of the construction phase, albeit partially screened by a hedgerow. Receptor sensitivity is very high but duration of impact is short-term and the scale of impact is limited to 4 cottages.

12.2.5 Receptor B – Residential view from eastern boundary: Green Lane houses. Course construction works are principal impact, but building works also in view. Haulage route passes close to properties, but most construction traffic will have left the perimeter

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 49 of 88

track before passing this point. Receptor sensitivity is high but duration of impact is short-term and the scale of impact is limited to 3 houses.

12.2.6 Receptor C – Residential view from southern boundary: Olivers, Daws Hill. Building works will be principle impact but golf construction also visually intrusive. Receptor sensitivity is high but duration of impact is short-term and the scale of impact is limited to one house.

12.2.7 Receptor H – Residential views from below site, in northern part of Sewardstone. Delivery traffic may be visually intrusive for properties near access point, for duration of construction works; receptor sensitivity is high.

12.2.8 The following visual receptors are predicted to suffer minor adverse impact as a result of the construction process:

12.2.9 Receptor D – Footpath view of southern part of site: London Loop footpath from the southern boundary to the crest of the ridge. Footpath passes close to building works, but magnitude of impact is limited by the fact that only a short stretch of the footpath is affected. Receptor sensitivity is medium and duration of impact is short-term. Volume of footpath usage not investigated, but assumed to be higher than for the other footpath as it forms part of a long distance circular route.

12.2.10 Receptor E – Footpath view western part of site: footpath from the western boundary to the crest of the ridge. Temporary diversion of route necessary to avoid golf course works. Receptor sensitivity is medium and duration of impact is short-term. Volume of footpath usage not investigated, but not thought to be high.

12.2.11 Receptor F – Footpath view eastern part of site: footpath from the eastern boundary to the crest of the ridge. Temporary diversion of route necessary to avoid golf course works, and protective fencing will be intrusive. Receptor sensitivity is medium and duration of impact is short-term. Volume of footpath usage not investigated, but not thought to be high.

12.2.12 Receptor G – Footpath view western part of site: London Loop footpath to west of ridge. No diversion of route necessary. Works will only be taking place in this area in later stages of construction. Volume of footpath usage not investigated, but assumed to be higher than for the other footpath as it forms part of a long distance circular route.

12.2.13 Receptor H – Secondary residential views from below site, in northern part of Sewardstone. For properties not adjacent to access.

12.2.14 Receptor I – Principle residential views from below site, in southern part of Sewardstone. Limited visibility of works from this area, and little impact from haulage. Receptor sensitivity is very high for a few properties but duration of impact is short-term and the scale of impact is limited to a small number of properties with clear views towards the site.

12.2.15 Receptor J – Secondary residential view from north-east of site (Manor Farm). No impact from delivery traffic and views of construction restricted by vegetation and topography. Receptor sensitivity is high but duration of impact is short-term and the scale of impact is limited to a few properties.

12.2.16 For all other receptors assessed, the construction impact is predicted to be negligible.

12.2.17 The following visual receptors are predicted to suffer moderate adverse impact during the operational phase of the completed development:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 50 of 88

12.2.18 Receptor A – Residential view from northern boundary: Beechside Cottages, Mott Street. The extent of change for these properties will be fairly significant, with the proximity of the 15th hole teeing area, the general landform changes, the new lake (visible from upper storey) and new copse planting. Openness will be reduced, and the presence of golfers using the tees is likely to be found intrusive. Receptor sensitivity is very high, scale of impact is limited to 4 cottages.

12.2.19 The following visual receptors are predicted to suffer minor adverse impact during the operational phase of the completed development:

12.2.20 Receptor B – Residential view from eastern boundary: Green Lane houses. Receptor sensitivity is high. Considerable change in view, including buildings as well as golf holes, but limited availability of views and greater separation from golfers than is the case with Beechside Cottages.

12.2.21 Receptor C – Residential view from southern boundary: Olivers, Daws Hill. Considerable change in view, with clubhouse and parking fairly close, but limited availability of views and only one property affected. Receptor sensitivity is high.

12.2.22 Receptor D – Footpath view of southern part of site: London Loop footpath from the southern boundary to the crest of the ridge. Sensitivity of receptor is medium. The character of the footpath in this area is very evidently affected, but for too short a length of the route to be of more significance.

12.2.23 Receptor E – Footpath view western part of site: footpath from the western boundary to the crest of the ridge. Golf course shaping has a significant impact for this footpath, which crosses a number of fairways. Sensitivity of receptor is medium.

12.2.24 Receptor F – Footpath view eastern part of site: footpath from the eastern boundary to the crest of the ridge. More of a sense of loss of remoteness as a result of the development on this side of the hill.

12.2.25 Receptor I – Principle residential views from below site, in southern part of Sewardstone. Limited impact of golf course from this area. Partially visible clubhouse may be viewed as a minor adverse impact from a few properties.

12.2.26 For all other receptors assessed, the operational impact is predicted to be negligible.

12.3 Summary of Key Visual Impacts and Potential Mitigation

12.3.1 The most significant impacts are likely to be some sense of intrusion and reduction in openness for the residential properties adjoining the site on Mott Street, during both construction and operation. The new lake and, over time, the nearby copse planting will also be significant landscape changes, but it is more subjective as to whether these will be considered in positive, negative or neutral terms by the residents.

12.3.2 Possible mitigation measures to reduce this impact would be the provision of temporary screening during construction works and the limiting of working hours in the vicinity of residential properties. Longer-term screening in the form of tree and shrub planting could be introduced if desired by residents.

12.3.3 To reduce intrusion the perimeter track could be closed off in this part of the site (and perhaps replaced with tree and shrub planting).

12.3.4 For the houses on Green Lane the limited availability of views reduces the impact of the completed development, but the construction works are still likely to be a moderate adverse impact. Similarly the property nearest the golf clubhouse and car park, Olivers, is expected to suffer less impact than would otherwise be the case because the

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 51 of 88

principle views from both house and garden are not towards the site, and vegetation and topography play a screening role.

12.3.5 The greatest degree of change will be experienced by footpath users crossing the site, but the lack of permanence of their relationship with the site, and the short duration of impact when using these routes (in particular for the section of the London Loop that passes the clubhouse) limit the extent of adverse impact.

12.3.6 Most receptors are located in the valley to the east of the site, where visibility of the golfing surfaces is quite limited. Fairways are generally shaped into the hillside and run along the line of the slope rather than up or down it, so the steeper sections of rough and semi-rough grass surrounding the fairways are more visible than the golf holes themselves. The impact of shaping is reduced against backdrop of the hillside.

12.3.7 The most significant impact for residents of Sewardstone is likely to be the construction process, using temporary haulage access from the A112, but this will be limited to properties in the immediate vicinity of the access.

12.3.8 Views down on to the site from higher ground to the west show the golf course more distinctly, but the impact of shaping is diminished with elevation. The number of receptors is much more limited from the west due to a lack of sizeable settlements and the screening impact of woodland areas.

12.3.9 The fundamental character of the site landscape is defined by its ridge/hill form, with woodland blocks (in particular the large copse on the highest part of the ridge). This will not be strongly affected by the development.

12.3.10 With regard to Local Plan policy RST16, adverse impact is predicted to be limited to residents of properties adjacent to or very close to the site, and to users of public footpaths crossing the site. This impact relates to proximity, and is not accentuated by the topographical form of the site, so it is considered to be fair to conclude that the siting of the golf course “would not have an adverse effect upon the character or appearance of highly visible landscape”.

12.3.11 With regard to Local Plan policy RST19: • This study shows that the few receptors would be affected visually by the proposed water features. The proposed re-contouring will create a more undulating landscape but not one of overt mounds disconnected from the broader landform. • Additional shaping or planting to add screening around the new clubhouse and car park could be introduced if it was felt to be necessary.

12.4 Public Safety

12.4.1 Warning signage will be used during construction to notify the public and construction traffic of approaching crossing points, so there should be no risk to public safety. Likewise the use of safety fencing and temporary diversions where necessary will avoid conflict between construction works and footpath users.

12.4.2 During the operational phase, the crossover between public rights of way and golf holes is managed to minimise risk to the public: crossing points are at 90 degrees to the line of play, rather than running alongside golf holes, so the likelihood of accidents is much reduced.

12.4.3 None of the residential properties adjacent to the site are in locations at risk from stray golf balls.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 52 of 88

12.5 Levels and Effects of Noise and Emissions

12.5.1 The generally high traffic levels in the vicinity of the A112 mean that the noise and emissions associated with the movement of delivery trucks and operation of construction machinery are not considered likely to have any significant additional impact in this area.

12.5.2 For properties adjoining the site construction noise will be more intrusive but the phased movement of operations around the site means that the duration of high impact in any particular area will be limited.

12.5.3 In mitigation for the above, temporary acoustic (and visual) screening measures can be introduced to reduce impact, if residents request it.

12.5.4 The measures described in section 2.5 above, and in more detail in the Weller Designs’ Project Description section 7.3, should minimise any adverse effects resulting from dust or dirt.

12.5.5 In operational terms, golf is considered to be a low-impact activity with regard to noise and emissions.

12.6 Construction Effects on Local Roads and Transport

12.6.1 See Transport Assessment by Entran in appendix B for more details.

12.6.2 90 lorry deliveries per day (180 movements) are projected for the bulk of the 18 month importation period, using the existing access point on Sewardstone Road (opposite Northfield Nursery). Figures are shown in the table below, together with construction staff and light lorry movements.

12.6.3 The existing access will be upgraded so that it will be 7.3m wide for the first 50m and a minimum of 6.0m thereafter. At least the first 35m (2 to 3 vehicle lengths) of this access will be hard paved (macadam) after which it will be compacted stone. A wheel-wash facility will be located at the transition from stone to macadam.

12.6.4 In order to mitigate against any environmental impacts, the development proposes the delivery of a Construction Environmental Management Plan, to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority prior to the commencement of works. It is expected that this plan will include for and address: • Construction workers travel plan; • HGV arrival/departure and routing strategy; • Hours of operation; • Mud and wheel cleaning; • Dust and noise

12.6.5 In addition to a travel plan aimed at encouraging more sustainable non-car travel (see Transport Statement section 7 in appendix B for full details) it is proposed to introduce

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 53 of 88

infrastructure improvements as part of the development. Secure, covered cycle parking will be provided in the form of build cycle stores and Sheffield loop stands. A pair of new bus shelters will be provided at the existing bus stops on Sewardstone Road, bus timetable information will be provided at both new shelters and raised ‘Kassel’ kerbs will be provided at the existing and proposed bus lay-bys.

12.6.6 A threshold analysis has been conducted to establish whether any existing highway junctions are likely to be affected by the development. This threshold analysis establishes the proportional increase in traffic as a result of the development on each road radiating out from the site. In the past the IHT guidelines on Traffic Impact Assessment (1994) recommended thresholds of 10% for uncongested roads and 5% for congested roads. The 2007 DfT guidelines supersede this methodology and state that any additional traffic through highly sensitive junctions may necessitate capacity analyses; similarly a 20% rise through a very lightly trafficked junction may have no material affect at all. However, in order to establish a suitable ‘area of influence’ we have used the lower IHT threshold of 5% as a starting point.

12.6.7 It is likely that some traffic will enter and leave the site to the south-east using Bury Road and Rangers Road (A1069); however, this is likely to be a small proportion of all site traffic. For a robust assessment, the impact on the Daws Hill/Sewardstone Road junction has assumed all site traffic arriving and departing to the to the west. The turning proportions into and out of the Daws Hill junction have been determined by reference to the base traffic flows on the A112.

12.6.8 In the morning peak period southbound traffic represents 59% and northbound traffic represents 41% of the total. Accordingly, traffic towards and away from the site has been weighted by these same proportions. In the PM peak the proportions are 40% southbound and 60% northbound indicating a reversal in the tidal flow.

12.6.9 The tables below indicate the development traffic flows and 2008 base traffic plus development traffic flows.

12.6.10 The proportional increase in two-way traffic on Sewardstone Road is derived by comparing 2008 base traffic with 2008 base plus development. The proportional increases are shown the table below:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 54 of 88

12.6.11 It is clear from the table above that the development would generate less than one percent additional traffic either northbound or southbound on Sewardstone Road. For this reason no additional junction capacity analyses up or downstream are necessary.

12.6.12 The Proposals are considered to demonstrate the following during all peak hours: • A minimal temporary minor adverse impact on the operation of the highway network; • Given the low levels of daily flows generated by construction traffic, no significant severance (temporary minor adverse) effect will result; • Given the low levels of traffic flow generated by the construction traffic, there will be a temporary minor adverse effect on driver delay. Furthermore, the background traffic peak hour movements are unlikely to coincide with any notable peak in construction traffic. It is accepted some delay will be experienced by drivers on the local highway network during the movement of abnormal loads and vehicles; • Pedestrian activity will not be significantly affected (temporary minor adverse) by construction traffic. The routing of vehicles reflects the objective of minimising travel through areas of significant residential development and town centre activities where increases could result in an impact to pedestrian activity; and • Given the low levels of daily flows generated by the construction traffic, there will be no significant effect on the level of accidents and safety within the surrounding area.

12.6.13 Overall the pre-mitigation significance of construction phase traffic impacts is considered to be temporary minor adverse.

12.7 Operational Effects on Local Roads and Transport

12.7.1 At present the farmland has a stone surface or hard paved private road running around its southern perimeter, this in turn takes access from Daws Hill via a 6.0m wide existing access, widening to 14m across the bellmouth. This existing access is to remain and will form the vehicular access to the golf course.

12.7.2 The site access is located on the outside of a bend in Daws Hill. To the left Daws Hill has a sinuous alignment but a visibility splay of 2.4m x 160m to the nearside kerbline can still be achieved. It should be noted that this measurement was taken during the winter months and it is noted that during the summer some vegetation may need to be cut back to achieve the same level of visibility. To the right of the access Daws Hill slopes downhill; as a result the available visibility is limited by the brow of the hill. Measurement on site shows that from a height of 1.05m above carriageway level a visibility splay of 2.4m x 89m can be achieved.

12.7.3 For a lightly trafficked private access onto a derestricted road the appropriate visibility splay is 2.4m x 215m unless the observed vehicle speeds on the main road are less than the 100kph design speed. In this instance the presence of a hill, restricted carriageway width and bend in the road mean that the observed vehicle speeds through the bend are in around 20mph with approach speeds from 100m being 30mph

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 55 of 88

or less. For this reason the visibility splay of 2.4m x 89m to the right is appropriate for the local conditions.

12.7.4 In order to make the site access as visible and safe as possible two new ‘Junction on a bend ahead’ signs are proposed. The precise location of the sign west of the access will need to be agreed on site with the highway authority. Te sign to the south can be located on a new pole with the existing ‘1:8 gradient’ sign, relocated to a point adjacent to the existing ‘SLOW’ marking.

12.7.5 The anticipated travel attraction and generation has been calculated using the Trip Rate Information Computer System (TRICS 2008b). Sites were selected for 18-hole municipal golf courses. In order to maximise the sample size sites were not restricted to the South East of England but trip rates were derived from sites with up to 100 parking spaces. Full TRICS results are included as Appendix E in the Transport Statement (appendix B to this report).

12.7.6 The TRICS database indicates the following trip rates:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 56 of 88

12.7.7 The conclusion of the TRICS analysis is that planning permission for a public 18-hole golf pay-and-play course would only generate around one vehicle movement every 4-6 minutes in the weekday highway peak periods and a maximum of one trip every 2 minutes in the site’s busiest lunchtime period. In gross traffic generation terms this is not a significant level of traffic generation.

12.8 Effects on Human Artefacts

12.8.1 Although there are no planning designations specifying that archaeological investigation should take place, the assessment by Thames Valley Archaeological Services concludes that the site does have sufficient potential to warrant further investigation through trial trenching, prior to the commencement of any works that might damage archaeological remains.

12.8.2 The report recognises that the proposals primarily involve land raising, which would be unlikely to disturb in situ remains, so it is suggested that trial trenching could be limited to areas in which cut grading (other than the stripping of up to 30cm of topsoil) is proposed.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 57 of 88

13 EFFECTS ON FLORA, FAUNA AND GEOLOGY

13.1 Methodology

13.1.1 Ecological impacts were characterised using a tabulated version of the methodology recommended by IEEM (2006). In this, each impact is described in terms of a number of qualitative and quantitative attributes, as detailed in the table below:

Descriptor Description Positive or negative Whether the impact benefits or detracts from net biodiversity value of the feature Magnitude Level of severity of influence on the feature (in this case described as per TAG criteria – see Table 3). Extent Area affected and percent of total area of the feature Complexity Direct or Indirect impact Reversibility Reversible or Not Reversible (can the impact be reversed whether this is planned or not?) Frequency Constant or intermittent (the interval and variation in level of activity should be stated if possible) Duration Measured time interval for the activity and likely duration of impact on the receptor Confidence Certain/near-certain: probability estimated at 95% chance or higher Probable: probability estimated between near-certain and 50:50 Unlikely: probability less than 50:50 but above 5% Extremely Unlikely: probability estimated at less than 5%

13.1.2 The assessment of significance of effects was undertaken utilising the Transport Assessment Guidance developed by the DfT. Their criteria for describing the scale (magnitude) of impacts on ecological receptors are as follows:

Magnitude Criteria Major The proposal (either on its own or with other proposals) may adversely affect the negative integrity of the site or feature, in terms of the coherence of its ecological structure and function, across its whole area that enables it to sustain the habitat, complex of habitats and/or the population levels of special interest. Intermediate The site’s or feature’s integrity will not be adversely affected, but the effect is likely negative to be significant in terms of its ecological objectives. If, in the light of full information, it cannot be clearly demonstrated that the proposal will not have an adverse effect on integrity, then the impact should be assessed as major adverse. Minor Neither of the above applies, but some minor negative impact is evident. (In the negative case of Natura 2000 sites, a further appropriate assessment may be necessary if detailed plans are not yet available). Neutral No observable impact in either direction. Positive Impacts which provide a net gain for wildlife overall.

13.1.3 The magnitude of effects on species has been assessed using the same criteria.

13.1.4 In order to judge the overall significance of impacts, a matrix approach has been used, derived from the Transport Assessment Guidance and modified to ensure consistency across the EIA. The matrix is presented below:

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 58 of 88

Magnitude of Nature conservation value of feature potential impact Very High High Medium Lower Negligible Major negative Very large Very large Moderate Slight Neutral adverse adverse adverse adverse Intermediate Large Large Moderate Slight Neutral negative adverse adverse adverse adverse Minor negative Slight adverse Slight Slight Slight Neutral adverse adverse adverse Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral Positive Large Large Moderate Slight Neutral beneficial beneficial beneficial beneficial

13.2 Sources of Potential Impact

13.2.1 A number of biophysical changes can occur as a result of development activities. Those which can have ecological effects include: • land take and associated habitat loss; • disturbance due to construction operations; • changes in pattern of human activity and associated disturbance or damage; • fragmentation of habitats; • creation of barriers or other obstacles affecting the movement of animals; • hydrological changes, affecting either surface or ground waters; • changes in the way habitats are managed; • changes in soil conditions; • changes in number of predators and/or prey; and • introduction of new habitats and/or species.

13.2.2 These activities and potential impacts as relevant to the Proposed Development are assessed in the following section. The assessment methodology is based on the IEEM’s Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom. Impacts are assessed against current baseline conditions.

13.2.3 In assessing the likely impacts on ecological resources, consideration has been given to both the construction and operational phases and to both on-site and off-site effects.

13.3 Construction Impact on Designated Sites Internationally Designated Features

13.3.1 The only internationally designated site of nature conservation interest in the vicinity of Netherhouse Farm is Epping Forest SAC. At its closest point this is approximately 900m to the south-east of the site boundary. Due to the separation distance, the generally higher elevation of the SAC in relation to the site, the intervening geology (impervious clay), and the nature of the project, it is not considered likely that the development will have any significant adverse impacts on the Epping Forest SAC, including indirect hydrological effects. The likely magnitude of effects on the site is therefore considered to be Neutral. Overall, there is a Near Certain probability that the significance of impact on Epping Forest would be Neutral.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 59 of 88

Nationally Designated Features

13.3.2 Chingford Reservoirs SSSI is located approximately 330m to the south-west of the site boundary and is separated from it by the Sewardstone Road and a number of residential properties and nurseries. Due to the separation distance and the intervening land use, the proposed development is not considered likely to have any adverse impacts on Chingford Reservoirs. As a man made and artificially lined reservoir, the SSSI will not be subject to any indirect hydrological effects. The Netherhouse Farm site does not provide significant supporting habitat for the wetland bird species for which the SSSI is designated. As such, the likely magnitude of effects on the site is considered to be Neutral. Therefore the likely significance of impact on Chingford reservoirs is determined to be Neutral and the level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

County

13.3.3 There are 15 non-statutory Local Wildlife Sites and Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation located within the 2km search area and two of these sites (Barn Hill Wood & South of Barn Hill Wood) are located within the site boundary, whilst two others (Blind Lane Complex and Carroll’s Farm) are contiguous with the site boundary.

13.3.4 The proposed golf course has been designed to protect the two Local Wildlife Sites that lie within its boundary. They will be actively managed for nature conservation to enhance their biodiversity value. The sites that are contiguous with the site boundary will not be directly affected by the development, though there is a possibility that run-off from the golf course could lead to eutrophication (nutrient enrichment) and siltation of the stream that flows through the Blind Lane complex. Site drainage will be carefully designed to avoid such impacts and standard water course protection measures will be employed during the construction phase (see Weller Designs’ Project Description). It is proposed to feed a series of swales and ditches into the watercourse which could lead to more regular water flow, therefore potentially enhancing its ecological value, though it is unlikely that the stream will ever be more than ephemeral in its flow pattern.

13.3.5 The remaining non-statutory wildlife sites are separated from the Netherhouse Farm by intervening farmland, recreational land or residential areas and are therefore highly unlikely to be affected by the golf course development. The likely magnitude of effects on the sites is therefore considered to be Neutral and the likely significance of impact will be Neutral in terms of habitat loss. However, the loss of the semi-improved grassland may increase ‘edge effect’ on the woodland and this is further discussed below (see below). Based on current proposals the confidence in these predictions is Near Certain.

13.3.6

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 60 of 88

13.4 Construction Impact on Flora

13.4.1 A summary of the loss of current habitats present on-site along with a summary of predicted gains through habitat creation is included below:

Existing Habitats Existing habitat Pre-development Post- Loss / Gain development Broadleaved 4.25 Ha 6.27 Ha 2.02 Ha woodland (gain) Conifer plantation 0.38 Ha 0.38 Ha 0 Ha Semi-improved 56.5 Ha 13.6 Ha 30.04 Ha grassland (pasture) (Wildflower (loss) meadow) 12.5 Ha (Managed roughs) Hedgerows 2031 m 3357 m 1712 m (gain) Other Habitat Creation Water features 1.85 Ha Reed bed 0.21 Ha

13.4.2 Semi-improved grassland: Although the majority of the species poor grassland will be lost, the area of moderately species rich grassland in the south-west of the site (Target Note 2, Figure 1) will be retained and incorporated into the planned rough/wildflower meadow. The likely magnitude of effects on overall grassland habitat is considered to be Minor Negative; however, the likely significance of the impact on the valued grassland at the site (e.g. that which is regarded as an important ecological receptor) is Neutral. Based on current proposals the confidence in the prediction of this effect is Certain. The loss and disturbance of the existing grassland may, however, have impacts on ground nesting birds, foraging habitat for barn owl and hobby, and foraging habitat for badgers - this is considered further in Sections 1.6.18 – 1.6.22 (breeding birds) and 1.6.26 (badgers) below.

13.4.3 Broad-leaved woodland: The proposed development will not have any direct impacts on the broad-leaved woodland within or adjacent to the site, which will be retained and managed for their nature conservation interest. Therefore the likely magnitude of effects on this habitat is considered to be Neutral. The significance of impacts is therefore likely to be Neutral in terms of habitat loss. Based on current proposals the confidence in the prediction of this effect is Certain.

13.4.4 Hedgerows: of the existing 2031m of hedgerow, 386m (19%) will be lost to enable construction of fairways (see Figure 2). Only one of the five hedgerows affected is important according to Hedgerow Regulations (1997) criteria. This hedgerow has an average of 5.5 woody species per 30m section and four qualifying features (see Table 8). The other four affected sections of hedgerow are species poor and/or lack sufficient qualifying features to be regarded as important under Hedgerow Regulations criteria.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 61 of 88

The magnitude of effects on the hedgerows may be regarded as Minor Negative. The significance of this for the species poor hedgerows is considered to be Neutral, though effects on the important hedgerow may be regarded as Slight Adverse. Based on current proposals the confidence in the prediction is Certain. The loss of the grassland may increase ‘edge effect’ on the hedgerows and this is further discussed below (Section 1.6.36).

13.4.5 Coniferous plantation: The proposed development does not have any direct impacts on the coniferous plantation and it will not be used for access, becoming, in effect, a quiet sanctuary area. The magnitude of effects is considered to be Neutral and the significance of impact Neutral in terms of habitat loss and disturbance. The confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

13.4.6 Scattered trees: The proposed development will result in the loss of several ash saplings. These were assessed for the potential to support protected species such as bats and were found to be of negligible importance in this respect. All other trees will be retained. The magnitude of effects is considered to be Neutral, with the significance of any impacts likely to be Neutral in term of habitat loss. Based on current proposals the confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

13.4.7 Ponds: It is proposed to retain the existing pond located in the west of the site, together with the immediately surrounding grassland habitat. This area will be actively managed for its nature conservation value. The magnitude of effects on this feature is therefore considered to be Neutral. The likely significance of impact in terms of habitat loss on pond habitats will therefore be Neutral. Based on current proposals the confidence in the prediction is Near Certain.

13.5 Construction Impact on Fauna

13.5.1 Breeding birds: With certain exceptions, all nesting birds are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) - any destruction of nests, eggs or young would therefore constitute an offence under the Act. The majority of breeding birds at the site are associated with hedgerows/scrub, woodland, buildings and grassland. It is possible – though readily avoided - that young birds or eggs could be destroyed if vegetation clearance and demolition of buildings were to be carried out during the nesting season. The duration (i.e. number of breeding seasons affected) is not known and would depend on phasing of the development. It is clearly an irreversible effect for the individuals affected, but is reversible in the sense that adult birds would seek to nest elsewhere in subsequent seasons and could use any of the suitable habitat present on the site in the future. The likely extent of the effect would be limited to semi-improved grassland, a small length of hedgerow (319m) and associated trees and several farm buildings.

13.5.2 Barn owl and hobby are given special protection under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Breeding bird surveys indicate that both species are likely to be using the site for breeding, and they have also been observed hunting over the grassland. The breeding habitats of these species at the site (hollow or mature trees) will not be directly affected by the proposals, though clearly there could be some temporary disturbance to nesting pairs if site clearance and landscaping activities were to be undertaken during the nesting season. The loss of tall rank grassland habitat could result in a reduction in small mammal prey availability for barn owl, though this would be a temporary effect, to be partially offset when the new wildflower grassland is established in the roughs and other out of play areas. Hobby may also suffer a temporary decline in food availability, in this case small birds and insects such as dragonflies. Again, this will be offset once the site landscaping is complete. In the absence of mitigation, it is therefore possible that these species could temporarily cease to breed at the site, in which case the magnitude of the effects is considered to

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 62 of 88

be Intermediate Negative. The significance of the impact would be Moderate Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

13.5.3 The grassland at the site currently supports approximately eight breeding pairs of skylark. The loss of grassland will result in a temporary loss of breeding habitat for this species on the site, to be partially offset when the new wildflower grassland is established in the roughs and other out of play areas. Published studies of skylark nesting densities in grassland, ‘set aside’ and other habitats average 0.15 to 0.26 per ha. (Poulsen et al. 1998, Toepfer & Stubbe 2005). At the lower density (0.15), the 17.6 ha of wildflower meadow and out-of-play rough to be available post-construction could therefore theoretically support 2.64 pairs, whilst at the higher density the figure would be 4.576. There is therefore likely to be a reduction in skylark territories at the site of between 43% and 67%. The magnitude of effects on this species is therefore considered to be Intermediate negative. The likely significance of the impact would be Moderate Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is probable.

13.5.4 Tree pipits are included in the Essex Red Data List (Harvey 2002) and current population estimates are at 3 – 5 breeding pairs in Essex. Although a ground-nesting species, the principal nesting habitat of tree pipit is open wood or woodland edge (Marchant et al. 1990) and these habitats are unlikely to be affected by the current development proposals. However, there could be some temporary disturbance to nesting pairs if site clearance and landscaping activities were to be undertaken during the nesting season. The species may also suffer some temporary loss of foraging habitat in the form of grassland habitats bordering their favoured edge habitats. The magnitude of effects on this species is considered to be Intermediate Negative. The likely significance of the impact would be Moderate Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is probable.

13.5.5 The site currently supports four other red listed breeding birds, namely starling, house sparrow, song thrush and yellowhammer. These tend to nest either in buildings (starling and house sparrow) or in hedgerows, scrub and woodland (starling, song thrush and yellowhammer). The magnitude of impact on these habitats is assessed above as being Minor Negative for hedgerows and Neutral (e.g. woodland). No buildings are affected by the proposals. The overall magnitude of effects on these species is considered to be Minor Negative. The likely significance of the impact would be Slight Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

13.5.6 The remainder of the breeding bird assemblage comprises species whose nesting behaviour is largely associated with hedgerows, scrub, trees and woodlands. The magnitude of impact on these habitats is assessed above as being Minor negative for hedgerows and Neutral for trees and woodland. Therefore, overall, the magnitude of effect on the breeding bird assemblage is considered to be Minor Negative and the likely significance of the impact would be Slight Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

13.5.7 Reptiles: The surveys and field observations have confirmed a low population density of grass snake to be present on site. In the absence of mitigation, any animals present in the grassland areas and hedgerows affected by the development proposals could be killed or injured during vegetation clearance. Given the low numbers of animals present, the magnitude of effects at the population level is considered to be Neutral. The likely significance of the impact on grass snake would be Neutral. The confidence in the prediction is Near Certain. It should however be noted that whilst the overall significance of impact on the conservation status of reptiles is considered to be neutral, killing/injury of individual animals would constitute a contravention of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 63 of 88

13.5.8 Bats: The surveys have indicated that bats are not currently using any of the buildings scheduled for demolition for roosting purposes. However, loss of commuting habitat may occur through the removal of hedgerows and a small loss of potential foraging habitat may occur through the removal of semi-improved grassland and hedgerows. However, the affected length of hedgerow is small (319m) and the loss of grassland will be temporary, to be offset once the new golf course landscape is established. The magnitude of effects on this species group is therefore considered to be Neutral and the likely significance of the impact in relation to bats is considered to be Neutral. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

13.5.9 Badgers: The surveys have shown that the site is likely to be included within the territory of a badger social group and the habitats present (e.g. woodland, semi- improved grassland and hedgerows) are likely to be used for foraging. The loss of the grassland, in particular, is likely to result in a reduction of available foraging habitat for this group. This reduction in foraging area is likely to be temporary, to be offset by the creation of habitat types that will afford foraging opportunities. Given the widespread availability of other suitable foraging habitat in the immediate vicinity and the fact that the woodlands and most of the hedgerows within the site will remain undisturbed, it is considered unlikely that this would have a significant effect on the welfare of this group. The magnitude of effects on this species is considered to be Minor Negative. Therefore, the likely significance of impact in relation to badgers is considered to be Slight Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

Pollution

13.5.10 Pollution events may occur as a result of run-off from the use of herbicides and fertilizers used during site construction (e.g. removal of vegetation and establishment of turf) or through the leakage of fuel, lubricants or other hazardous materials from plant etc.

13.5.11 A list of herbicides and fertilizers that will be used is provided in Weller Designs’ Project Description (section 8). Glyphosate will be used to clear vegetation and fertilisers will be used for pre-seeding and post-seeding. All use will follow approved use guidelines and inputs will be strictly regulated to ensure that only the minimum amount of product to achieve the desired effect is used. This, coupled with the use of vegetated buffers, will minimise the potential for run-off and leaching into adjacent areas and watercourses. Standard Environmental Good Practice guidelines will be employed to minimise the risk of accidental spillages and spill kits, and appropriately trained staff will be available to ensure that any spillages that do occur are promptly and efficiently cleaned up. The magnitude of effects from pollution is considered to be Neutral with Neutral significance of impact on the wider ecology of the area. The confidence in the prediction is Near Certain.

Siltation and Hydrological Effects

13.5.12 During vegetation clearance and until the new turf/planting is established, the site will potentially be vulnerable to accelerated soil erosion from runoff, particularly given that much of the site is on sloping ground. This in turn could lead to an increase in sediment loads entering water courses etc. Such impacts can have a variety of ecological consequences in riparian systems, for example increasing turbidity and interfering with primary production by covering macrophyte vegetation or reducing light levels in the water column, or, if it includes organic matter and/or inorganic fertilisers, stimulating biochemical oxygen demand and causing algal blooms. Abrasive effects may result in direct fish kills through gill damage. On settling it may destroy fish spawning grounds or specialised invertebrate habitats (Biggs et al 2001).

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 64 of 88

13.5.13 As well as the siltation effects noted above, if run-off was to be discharged directly into local watercourses it has the potential to cause problems such as increased scour and erosion, with consequent effects on riparian ecosystems downstream, for example the River Lea.

13.5.14 The effects will be temporary and will generally recede to pre-development levels as new turf and other vegetation cover is restored. Overall, the magnitude of effects of siltation and hydrological effects is considered to be Minor Negative and the significance of the effects will be Slight Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

Disturbance: Noise, Vibration and Lighting

13.5.15 Noise is considered most likely to be a significant effect during the construction phase, potentially altering patterns of species behaviour (e.g. roosting, foraging or hibernating) and will have the most significant effect on breeding birds.

13.5.16 Construction noise emissions will be of variable duration and frequency. Some noise output such as generators are likely to cause continuous low level disturbance whilst other sources of noise such as demolition and movement of heavy construction plant and materials will be more intense and erratic. The effects of disturbance are, however, highly reversible and will operate only when disturbance-generating activities are taking place. There will be no residual effects once works are complete and, during the construction period, most species will quickly return to any favoured areas once a disturbance activity has ceased.

13.5.17 No percussive piling, or similar operations with the potential to cause significant ground vibrations, is anticipated and there will be no requirement for night-time lighting during the construction phase.

13.5.18 Overall, the magnitude of effects of disturbance is considered to be Neutral. The significance of these effects during construction are considered to be Neutral providing site clearance works are undertaken outside the bird breeding season (see below). The confidence in the prediction is Near Certain.

Habitat Fragmentation

13.5.19 Habitat fragmentation could occur if the current configuration of habitats at the site is changed in order to implement the development. This will result from loss of linear habitats (e.g. hedgerows) that may provide important corridors for animals to pass between habitats (e.g. woodlands, waterbodies). Another associated effect of habitat fragmentation/loss can be the possibility of an ‘edge effect’ as a result of the juxtaposition of a new habitat/feature (e.g. fairway) with an important habitat (e.g. ancient woodland). The consequences of ‘edge effects’ may include an increase in lighting to a woodland understorey, or removal of a buffer that may prevent the contamination of hedgerows or woodlands with fertilisers, pesticides and/or herbicides. All existing woodlands and the majority of hedgerows on the site will be retained and augmented by significant new planting. The total loss of hedgerow amounts to 386m, less than 20% of the total exiting resource. Connectivity remains between important habitats (e.g woodlands) and one important hedgerow exists to the south of the site. Therefore the magnitude of effects of habitat fragmentation is considered to be Neutral. The overall significance of effects of habitat fragmentation is therefore likely to be Neutral. The confidence in the prediction is Near Certain.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 65 of 88

13.6 Operational Impact

Increased Human Activity

13.6.1 Increased vehicular traffic will be confined to the south-west corner of the site where a new access route is proposed from Daws Hill. Small vehicular use (golf carts and maintenance vehicles) will increase across the golf course but will be largely confined to defined paths, access routes and in-play areas such as tees, greens and fairways.

13.6.2 Routine maintenance of the golf course will be largely confined to the in-play areas. Maintenance of the rough and out of play areas is anticipated to be low key, limited to occasional cutting as required to maintain the wildflower meadows and prevent scrub invasion. This work will be timed to avoid the nesting season and should therefore have no disturbance effect on ground nesting birds etc. Management of woodland and hedgerows will also be undertaken outside of the nesting season (in this case, mainly during the winter) so again will not result in significant disturbance.

13.6.3 The main effect of increased levels of human activity is likely to be on nesting birds. The majority of species that breed on the site nest in hedgerows, scrub and woodland, so are unlikely to be affected by routine use of the course. Species such as tree pipit and skylark, which nest on the ground are potentially more vulnerable, though tree pipit tends to favour areas within or close to open woodland, woodland edges and hedgerows, which again will be afforded a good degree of protection. Species that nest in the more open areas of the ‘rough’ such as skylark are potentially more vulnerable e.g. to players searching for lost golf balls etc., who could inadvertently disturb and/or destroy nests.

13.6.4 The effects of additional disturbance will be ongoing for the life of the development but is likely to exhibit a degree of seasonality with approximately 40% more use of the site expected to occur during the peak breeding season (e.g. spring and summer months), due to increased day length and more favourable weather conditions. This is of note because it means that there will be periods when the frequency and duration of disturbance is low and others when disturbance may become more frequent.

13.6.5 In practice the magnitude of the impact is likely to be Minor Negative because birds and other wildlife will generally adjust their activity patterns to avoid regularly disturbed areas. However, there will remain a risk that some nests may be disturbed/destroyed so the likely significance of impact is assessed as being Slight Adverse. The confidence in the prediction is Probable.

Lighting

13.6.6 The operational phase of the development will produce additional lighting in the area of the clubhouse and new buildings adjacent to Sewardstone Road. It is unlikely that there will be any impacts on bats in the vicinity of Sewardstone Road as this area is already well lit from street lights and residential properties. However, the increased lighting around the clubhouse may result in low level disturbance of some species of bat (e.g. Myotid Myotis spp. and long-eared spp. Plecotus) foraging or commuting through the area or adjacent to the woodland. Conversely, an increase in lighting may attract prey (e.g. moths) for other species of bat (e.g. Pipistrelle Pipistrellus spp. and noctule Nyctalus noctula) and could result in an increase in activity of these species.

13.6.7 Any effects arising from night-time lighting will continue throughout the operational phase and are not reversible during the life of the development. Due to the limited extent of additional night time light spillage onto suitable bat foraging and commuting habitat, the magnitude of effect is considered to be Neutral. The likely significance of

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 66 of 88

effect is regarded as being of Neutral. The confidence of the prediction is Near Certain.

Run-off

13.6.8 Construction of the clubhouse and car park will result in the replacement of grassland with paved surfaces, leading to localised increases in run-off rates. It is planned to harvest all runoff from these areas for use in irrigation of the golf course. It will first be directed through a reedbed filtration system and thence into a lagoon located in the south of the site. As such there will be no increase in the overall amount of run-off leaving the site and the likely magnitude of effect Neutral. The likely significance of the impact would be Neutral. The confidence of this prediction is Near Certain.

Pollution

13.6.9 The maintenance of the golf course will follow the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and will seek to minimise the use of pesticides and herbicides and be limited to disease control only (i.e. there will be no routine applications as a ‘precautionary’ measure). Section 8 of Weller Designs’ Project Description discusses this in more detail and includes a list of products that a likely to be used. Many of these products are considered non-hazardous and do not warrant a DEFRA hazard classification. The movement of pesticides into surface and ground water after precipitation could occur. However, provided that use is strictly controlled and is with approved use guidelines, the impacts are likely to minor. The magnitude of effects of pollution during the operational phase is considered to be Neutral. The likely significance of the impact is therefore regarded as being Neutral. The confidence of the prediction is Probable.

13.6.10 During the operation of the golf course fertiliser will be applied sparingly, but in frequent low application rates (see section 8 of Weller Designs’ Project Description). Liquid organic conditioners and amendments will also be used in season, whereby uptake is generally more through the leaf. Anticipated requirements for the greens are approximately in the region of 250-40-180Kg per ha of nitrogen, phosphates and potassium respectively, with rates of approximately 50% and 65% this amount on the tees. Fertiliser use on fairways is likely to be limited to two applications per year of mainly slow-release nitrogen and potash, Phosphate use will be very low compared with agricultural use. The levels of input are designed to meet the growth requirements of the golf course turf, with no excess amounts that might be vulnerable to leaching into groundwater/run-off. The magnitude of effects of fertiliser use is considered to be Neutral. The likely significance of the impact is therefore regarded as being of Neutral. The confidence of the prediction is Probable.

13.7 Mitigation for Construction Phase Impacts Habitat Loss

13.7.1 The main habitats affected by the construction of the golf course are poor semi-improved neutral grassland and hedgerow.

13.7.2 Semi-improved neutral grassland: The loss of 30.04 ha of species-poor semi-improved neutral grassland will be offset by the creation of some 13.6 ha of wildflower meadow and 12.5 ha of managed rough. Both of these grassland habitats will be of greater diversity that the grassland that currently exists at the site. The wildflower meadow will be managed specifically to encourage a diversity of plants, invertebrates, birds and other wildlife. The managed rough – whilst not specifically managed for biodiversity – will

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 67 of 88

nevertheless provide a habitat for a range of low growing grassland species and may also be of value to small mammals and invertebrates.

13.7.3 This wildflower mix has been chosen to suit the London clay soils present at the site and comprises species which are locally appropriate and typical of meadows in the area.

13.7.4 With the implementation of the above measures a minor negative impact will become a Moderate Beneficial impact. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

13.7.5 Hedgerows: The loss of 386m of hedgerow will be offset by the planting of extensive new hedgerows, resulting in an overall gain of 1712m or 65%. This will contribute towards the goal of the Essex BAP, which aims to maintain hedgerows at their current status and achieve favourable hedgerow management. Native black poplar Populus nigra ssp. betulifolia will be planted in damper areas of hedgerow. The planting of this species will contribute to the goals of the Essex BAP that aims to encourage planting of black poplars (provided they are from local provenance). Hedgerows will be planted with other native species which are typical of existing hedges in the area.

13.7.6 The planting of these new hedgerows will strengthen habitat connections across the site and provide extensive new habitat for birds and other species.

13.7.7 To protect them from disturbance during the construction phase a 10m wide buffer of grassland will be retained along both sides of retained hedgerows and treelines.

13.7.8 With the provision of this mitigation there will be a positive effect on the hedgerows on site, resulting in an overall Moderate Beneficial impact. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

Badgers

13.7.9 The significance of impact on badgers during the construction phase is considered to be Slight Adverse, due to the loss and disturbance of foraging habitat. However, the improved grassland (fairways, tees and greens), additional hedgerows, 10 metre buffer zone along hedgerows and woodland and wildflower meadows will provide a mosaic of habitats that will support foraging badgers. The golf course will not be treated with wormicides and therefore the fairways, tees and greens will provide a good stock of earthworms that form a major part of the badger’s diet. Short mown grassland (<50mm) such as this is often of great attraction to badgers as it is easier to find and capture worms as they come to the surface on warm, damp nights (Woods, 1995). Therefore the significance of impact on badgers will be reduced from Slight Adverse to Slight Beneficial. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

Breeding Birds

13.7.10 The significance of impact on breeding birds during the construction phase is considered to be Moderate Adverse for barn owl, hobby, skylark and tree pipit due to the loss of foraging habitat (barn owl and hobby) and potential loss of nesting habitat (skylark and tree pipit). Effects on other, less notable, breeding birds are considered to be Slight Adverse.

13.7.11 Vegetation clearance will be timed to avoid the bird nesting season, which generally runs from March through to the end of October. However, some species – including barn owl – may continue to nest outside this core period, so care will be taken to check

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 68 of 88

for the presence of nesting birds before undertaking vegetation clearance or any other work that might cause disturbance. A detailed breeding bird survey will be carried out during the spring and early summer months so that the nesting sites of key species such as barn owl, hobby and tree pipit can be confirmed and protected.

13.7.12 Along both sides of hedgerows and treelines a 10m wide buffer of long grass will provide foraging habitat for barn owl and hobby, as well as provide some protection from disturbance to any identified nest sites. The buffer will also provide valuable nesting habitat for ground nesting birds, namely skylarks and tree pipits.

13.7.13 Nesting boxes for barn owl and hobby will be erected in mature trees in suitable locations around the site. A range of nest boxes for other species will also be provided, both on trees and on golf course buildings. These will include nest boxes for red list species such as house sparrow and starling.

13.7.14 With the implementation of these measures, the significance of the impact on barn owl, hobby, skylark and tree pipit will be reduced to Slight Adverse. Impacts on other species will be reduced to Neutral. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Probable.

Siltation and Hydrology

13.7.15 A variety of standard run-off, erosion control and water course protection measures will be employed to minimise the risk of siltation and effects on hydrology. This will include the use of vegetated buffers along boundaries and water courses, stilling/settling ponds and, where necessary, bunds and silt fences. If such measures are utilised and run-off and soil erosion are maintained within acceptable limits, the significance of effect will be reduced from Slight Adverse to Neutral. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

13.8 Mitigation for Operational Phase Impacts Increased Human Activity

13.8.1 As noted in section 1.6.39, the main impact of increased human activity on the site is likely to be disturbance to breeding birds. The main technique used to reduce the potential for impact will be to carry out an annual breeding bird survey of the site to determine where the principal species of conservation concern are nesting and afford them adequate protection by e.g. erecting warning notices and/or temporary fencing. This survey will also form part of the monitoring for the project (see section 1.8.1 below).

13.8.2 Hedgerows on the site will be managed to ensure that they continue to provide suitable nesting cover, as well as foraging habitat. This will entail periodic cutting in autumn/winter to maintain an A-shaped profile. Only one side of the hedge will be cut in any one year to ensure a continued supply of berries and other food through the winter. Favourable management of hedgerows is included as a goal in the Essex BAP for this habitat.

13.8.3 Information boards will be erected near the club house and in other strategic locations around the course to inform players and other visitors about the wildlife found on the course and how they can help to protect it.

13.8.4 If habitats are appropriately managed and nature conservation can be prioritised in access and management, then the operational effects of disturbance can be reduced to Neutral. The level of confidence in the prediction of this effect is Near Certain.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 69 of 88

13.9 Residual Effects

Habitat Loss

13.9.1 Following implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, as described above, the likely residual impacts of the proposed development have been assessed.

13.9.2 The proposed development along with the mitigation provided will comply with: • Legislative requirements for protected species; • National and local planning policies; and • Relevant aims of the Essex Biodiversity Action Plan.

Construction Phase

13.9.3 The key residual effect of the development during construction will be on breeding birds, where Slight Adverse impacts are predicted for barn owl, hobby, tree pipit and skylark. The impact is likely to be temporary for most species, as suitable habitat will be restored once the golf course is constructed. There is however likely to be a permanent reduction in overall numbers of skylark breeding at the site of between 43% and 67%.

13.9.4 Moderate beneficial impacts are predicted in terms of grassland habitats, where there will be gain in valued species diverse meadow habitat, and hedgerows, which will increase in length by some 65%.

Operational Phase

13.9.5 With the implementation of mitigation measures outlined in section 1.7 above, no residual impacts are anticipated in the operational phase.

Conclusions

13.9.6 As with the development of any large area of open countryside, there will inevitably be some ecological impacts associated with the proposed golf course. However, with appropriate mitigation the majority of these can be reduced to within acceptable limits. When the proposed habitat creation and enhancement measures are also taken into account it is considered that there will be a net gain for biodiversity at the site.

13.9.7 The predicted residual ecological impacts associated with the proposed development are summarised in the table below. The majority of residual effects are assessed as being Neutral significance, with a Moderate Beneficial effect for hedgerows and grassland, and a Slight Adverse effect for some species of breeding bird.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 70 of 88

Feature Importance Nature of Construction Operational phase Duration Reversible/ Significance after mitigation (TAG impact phase significance permanent criteria) significance Habitats Hedgerows Lower Loss of Slight adverse Neutral Long term Reversible Moderate beneficial hedgerows (important hedgerows1 only) Neutral on all other hedgerows Poor semi-improved neutral Negligible Loss of Slight adverse Neutral Long term Reversible Moderate beneficial grassland grassland Moderately species rich neutral Lower No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Neutral grassland Scattered trees Lower No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Neutral Ponds Lower No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Moderate beneficial after habitat creation Broad-leaved woodland Medium No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Minor beneficial Coniferous woodland Lower No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Neutral Species Nesting and foraging habitat for Medium Loss of Moderate Slight adverse Short term Reversible Slight Adverse barn owl, hobby, tree pipit and habitat and adverse (ground nesting skylark disturbance birds only) Other breeding birds excluding Lower Loss of Slight adverse Neutral Short term Reversible Neutral those above nesting habitat Badgers Lower Loss of Slight adverse Neutral Short term Reversible Slight Beneficial foraging habitat Bats Lower No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Minor beneficial after provision of bat boxes Reptiles Negligible No impact Not significant Not significant NA NA Neutral though minor beneficial for grass snakes e.g. pond creation

14 EFFECTS ON LAND

14.1 Topographical Changes

14.1.1 The montages in figures 9-19 and sketches in figures 20 and 21 give an indication of the proposed appearance of the landform, and Levels Change Plan 365.12 gives a clear indication of the degree of alteration to which the existing terrain will be subject. The shaping aims to create a gently undulating surface with tiers and ridges but without the excessive mounding that is sometimes associated with golf developments. The creation of extensive mounding between fairways has been avoided.

14.1.2 The changes to the physical state of the natural landform are sufficient to warrant classification as a negative change, but in terms of their impact they are only judged to be of minor adverse significance.

14.2 Other Physical Impacts

14.2.1 There is no reason to believe that the protective measures detailed in the Project Description will not be effective in averting unintended physical impacts. The construction of golf courses through the use of imported inert soils is a methodology that has been commonly used in recent decades, and is closely regulated by the Environment Agency.

14.3 Land Use

14.3.1 Given the low grading of the site as agricultural land – grade 3 and 4 in DEFRA’s Agricultural Land Classification – the proposed use is not felt to be detrimental to agriculture.

14.3.2 Alternative uses of the site are very much limited by its location within designated Green Belt. The section below demonstrates the Site’s suitability for the proposed land use with respect to Green Belt policy.

14.3.3 The “do nothing” option would not be expected to result in any major improvement in the conservation value of the site, and from the Applicant’s point of view would be to the detriment of the value of the site.

14.3.4 There is no impact on surrounding land uses.

14.4 Green Belt Policy

14.4.1 As open air recreational facilities golf courses are not in principal inappropriate development within the Green Belt. Construction of buildings in the Green Belt is in principle acceptable if they are essential to the operation of an acceptable land use.

14.4.2 The proposals do not have a significant impact on the openness of the Green Belt, other than for a few immediately adjacent residential properties and some short stretches of public footpath. The hillside topography and limited introduction of new trees and shrubs means that open views into the site are not significantly affected and extensive views are still available from within it. The topography of the site limits the impact of alterations to the terrain when viewed from either the valley below or the higher ground to the west.

15 EFFECTS ON WATER

15.1 Flood Risk

15.1.1 Development of the type proposed is classified as ‘low vulnerability’, according to guidance in PPS25, and as such is not fundamentally inappropriate.

15.1.2 Surface water from the proposed impermeable surfaces (clubhouse, maintenance building, wash-down area, car park and entrance road), amounting to approximately 4500m2, will be channelled into the proposed irrigation lagoon, via the reed bed.

15.1.3 Given the sloping nature of the site at present, and the distance of over 800m to the nearest fluvial flood source, it is not anticipated that the proposed re-contouring to create golf course features will have a significant impact on run-off rates.

15.1.4 However, to ensure there is no enhanced risk to any sensitive receptor a detailed drainage design will be produced to demonstrate sufficient surface water run-off attenuation to ensure that the 1 in 100 year event ‘Greenfield’ run-off rate, adjusted to allow for climate change (as calculated in Ambiental’s Flood Risk Assessment – see appendix E) will not be exceeded at any location.

15.1.5 The proposed Grading Plan (365.03) indicates basins located at various points along the western side of the site that will function as sustainable drainage features, slowing the rate of surface water run-off. This meets the requirement of policy Local Plan policy UB3.

15.2 Water Quality

15.2.1 Studies have shown that most fertilisers and pesticides have little potential to affect groundwater or surface water quality. With correct application of appropriate products, taking into account site conditions and environmental factors, there is minimal risk of adverse impact on water quality.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 73 of 88

16 EFFECTS ON AIR and CLIMATE

16.1 Chemical Emissions

16.1.1 The emissions produced by construction or operational vehicles or machinery will have no significant impact on air quality or climate.

16.2 Particulate Matter

16.2.1 The only particulate likely to be released by inert waste is dust, during the construction phase in dry conditions. The risk is posed by this is low, given the measures proposed to minimise its generation (see Weller Designs’ Project Description section 7.3).

16.3 Odour

16.3.1 Inert wastes do not present the risk of odour release. Odour caused by fuel of oil spills would be dealt with immediately by site operatives and would be very localised, and therefore unlikely to have a significant impact.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 74 of 88

17 OTHER INDIRECT AND SECONDARY EFFECTS

17.1 Traffic

17.1.1 Indirect/secondary effects on traffic will be negligible. The inert soils which will be delivered to the site will, if this project does not take place, still be transported from the construction sites at which they originate to other sites for re-use or disposal, so at the wide scale there is no adverse impact on the transport network.

17.2 Resource Usage

17.2.1 The storage of irrigation water in the lagoon at the southern end of the site will reduce the need to use mains water in times of shortage. The lagoon will be filled over the winter months, when mains water is generally in more ready supply, and its level reduced through usage during the growing season.

17.2.2 The recycling of ‘grey’ water from hard surfaces (clubhouse, car park, entrance road and maintenance area) and the on-site treatment of foul water before discharging into the irrigation lagoon (via the reed bed) represents an effective recycling process.

17.3 Associated Developments

17.3.1 The project is not expected to result in any associated developments, and is not being undertaken in conjunction with any other projects.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 75 of 88

Figure 9: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint A1- Beechside Cottages, Mott Street. No planting shown.15th tees are in foreground.

Figure 10: view from receptor viewpoint A1- Beechside Cottages, Mott Street – after copse planting to south-west has developed to maturity.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 77 of 88

Figure 11: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint B1- Green Lane houses. Planting to right of clubhouse shown at maturity. Irrigation lagoon is in foreground, with 9th green to left of view and 18th green to front right of clubhouse.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 78 of 88

Figure 12: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint D1- London Loop footpath near southern boundary. Low level planting is shown around the car park. The grass track route of the London Loop has been altered to reflect what is shown on Ordnance Survey maps, rather than the course suggested by the current view. The 9th green is to the right foreground.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 79 of 88

Figure 13: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint D2- London Loop footpath near southern boundary. The proposed reed bed is in the foreground, with the maintenance building (including screening hedgerow as it will appear after c.5 years of growth) to the right and the irrigation lagoon to the rear. The 9th green is to the left of the view.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 80 of 88

Figure 14: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint E1- footpath near western boundary. Large sections of the hedgerow alongside the footpath have been removed and the terrain is more stepped, reflecting the creation more level fairways with steeper slopes of rough grass in between. New planting not shown.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 81 of 88

Figure 15: view from receptor viewpoint E1- footpath near western boundary – after small area of copse planting has developed for c.15 years.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 82 of 88

Figure 16: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint H1 – central part of Sewardstone. View is at completion of works, without planting.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 83 of 88

Figure 17: view from receptor viewpoint H1 – central part of Sewardstone – after new copse planting has matured.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 84 of 88

Figure 18: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint I1 – southern end of Sewardstone. View is after new copse planting to north of clubhouse has developed. Hedgerow to west of clubhouse could be maintained at a greater height than shown, to further reduce visibility of building.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 85 of 88

Figure 19: before (above) and after (below) views from receptor viewpoint J1 – Manor Farm. View is at completion of works – i.e. before planting has developed.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 86 of 88

Figure 20: Photo and sketch of view looking south from proposed 7th tees – the definitive route of the public footpath passes the spot from which this photo was taken.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 87 of 88

Figure 21: Photo and sketch showing view from behind 13th tee. The London Loop footpath passes close behind this tee, although there is an existing hedgerow in between which would limit views.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT – NETHERHOUSE FARM GOLF COURSE Page 88 of 88