Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Pearce Environment Ltd
Cedar Lodge • Wilcott Marsh • Shrewsbury • SY4 1AR
Tel: +44 (0)1743 741 421 • Mobile: 07811 113 250 Email: [email protected] • Web: www.pearce-environment.co.uk
6.0 Ecological and Protected Species Survey Report
July 2009
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 224
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
1 Introduction
1.1 Background
1.1.1 This survey and report was commissioned by Halletec Environmental Ltd and was undertaken by T Pearce and C Perdue of Pearce Environment Ltd on 8th July 2009. This survey is an update of our original report dated June 2008.
1.1.2 This survey was commissioned in a response to the proposed redevelopment of the existing fields into a leisure marina from the existing Shropshire and Worcestershire Canal to the east of the site. The development will include two buildings, a marina, stone access road, parking, new tree planting, creation of 2 new ponds and other landscape features.
1.2 Objectives
1.2.1 Our survey took the form of a record(s) search, an initial site walkover and close inspection of the site.
The objectives of this survey:
Provide baseline data on habitat and species on and adjacent to the site.
Highlight the need for any additional species specific surveys.
Investigate potential impacts that may occur during construction and/or operational stages.
Provide advice on legislative framework relating to habitats and species on site.
Suggest mitigation measures to be employed during the construction and operational stage.
Identify possible opportunities for ecological enhancement.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 225
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
2 Methodology
2.1 A general assessment was required of this site. Any features that are legally protected, or otherwise worthy of conservation, were to be identified as far as possible, along with the ecological value of the site.
2.2 Desk-based information
2.2.1 Information was gained through UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) The Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) for information on key environmental schemes and designations of relevance to the site.
2.3 Constraints
2.3.1 It is not possible to record all species present in one visit at this time of year, but it is possible to attain a reasonable assessment of the ecological interest of the site.
2.4 Habitat
2.4.1 The surveyor noted the presence of any watercourses or water bodies within, or immediately adjacent to the site, and the key ecological characteristics of the development area. The suitability of these watercourses for protected species, such as otter (Lutra lutra), great crested newt and water vole (Arvicola terrestris), was noted.
2.4.2 Exotic and invasive species, such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), were noted by the surveyor if present. These species can have implications for construction activity and human health respectively.
2.5 Breeding Bird Habitat
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 226
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
2.5.1 An assessment was made as regards the suitability of the habitats on site as breeding bird habitat. This was based on professional judgement and based on the species observed during the survey period.
2.6 Badger (Meles meles)
2.6.1 A badger survey of the study area was conducted using the standard survey methodology (Harris, Cresswell & Jefferies, 1989). According to this methodology, setts were assessed for level of use and the number of entrance holes, and are thus classified into four types: main, annexe, subsidiary and outlying. These are defined below.
Main sett: These are large, well-established setts, normally in continuous use.Each group will use only one main sett and it will form the most likely location for the raising of cubs;
Annexe sett: These setts are usually found in close association with the main sett, and will often be linked to it by a well-worn path. Where a second litter of cubs is born they will be raised in the annexe sett;
Subsidiary sett: Subsidiary setts will usually have five or less holes, although not all of these will be in continuous use; Outlying sett: These setts are used on an occasional basis and will usually consist of only one to three holes. Spoil heaps will generally be smaller than those found associated with the other sett types, indicating a smaller underground structure.
2.6.2 The entrance holes to setts can provide an indication as to the level of use of the sett, and can be classified as follows:
Well used: These holes are in regular use and are therefore free of debris. They may have been recently excavated.
Partially used: Debris, including leaves, twigs and other vegetation clutter the entrance to these holes, indicating they are not in regular use. The holes can be used after a minimum of clearance.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 227
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Disused: A considerable amount of clearance is needed before these holes can be used. The holes may become so blocked that only a depression in the ground is visible where the hole used to be.
2.6.3 The method followed the accepted standard approach of walking across the area concerned, looking for signs of badgers, including their setts. Signs are characteristic and include
Badger setts, main, annex, subsidiary, and outlier.
Evidence of recent excavations, at the setts.
Bedding, evidence of it being collected, or contained within the spoil heap. (Badgers collect dry vegetation for use as bedding material).
Latrines, containing badger dung (badgers defecate in the bottom of small pits).
Foraging scrapes or snuffle holes.
Characteristic tracks.
Badger hairs, especially around sett entrances, in spoil heaps, on fence wires, scratching posts and trees.
Badgers paw prints or claw marks.
2.7 Otter (Lutra lutra)
2.7.1 The standard survey methodology for otter was used along any watercourses within the study area. This methodology involved observing and recording the following field signs: Spraints; Food remains; Rolling places; Slides down riverbanks;
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 228
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Footprints or paths; Shelters (either holts or couches).
2.7.2 Notes were taken of riparian habitat, suitability and quality. The survey was undertaken during favourable weather conditions, and at a time when water level was low in the watercourse, to ensure that high water levels had not removed field signs.
2.8 Water Vole (Arvicola terrestris)
2.8.1 For the purposes of this survey, any watercourse(s) within the study area was surveyed using standard methodologies (Strachan, 1998). Signs of water voles, if present, were recorded on standard survey forms. These forms note sightings, sounds of entering water, latrines showing discrete piles of droppings, tunnel entrances (above and below water), cropped „gardens‟ or „lawns‟ around tunnel entrances, feeding stations of chopped vegetation, paths at waters edge, runs in the vegetation and footprints in the mud (Strachan, 1998). The optimum time to survey for water voles is between late April and early October.
2.9 Bats
2.9.1 Where features such as cracks, woodpecker holes, cavities, loose bark, dense ivy, bird or bat boxes were present, then closer inspection was required. Veteran trees can typically exhibit many of these features and can often be regarded as sites with clear bat roost potential. Signs of roosting bats are indicated by:
Staining around a feature e.g. cracks, caused by natural oils in bat fur; Scratch marks around a feature, caused by bat claws; Bat droppings beneath a hole; Urine stains below the entrance to a hole; Audible squeaking from a cavity; Large roosts or regularly used sites may produce an odour; Flies around an entrance, attracted by the smell of guano.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 229
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
2.9.2 During winter months only the potential of a tree to have a bat roost may be determined, and signs of roosting may not be obvious, and a more detailed activity survey can be required in the summer months when bats are present on roosts. If trees that have a high potential for bat roosts were found, then a specialist detailed inspection be required at a later date.
2.10 Amphibians
2.10.1 During this walkover, any wetland areas were assessed for their potential habitat suitable for great crested newts (Triturus cristatus). The standard methodology for a presence/absence survey is a combination of refuge searching, egg searching, netting, torching and bottle trapping. Presence/absence surveys should be undertaken during March to June. Great crested newts prefer extensively vegetated ponds with a mix of submerged, emergent, and floating plant cover, as well as open areas. Terrestrial areas should provide refuge habitat, foraging opportunities, and dispersal opportunities. Great crested newts need both aquatic and terrestrial habitat, and the development site was assessed for suitable areas such as rough grassland, woodland, scrub, debris etc. Great crested newts can move over considerable distances from ponds, up to 1.3km from breeding sites. The majority of newts will inhabit areas closer to their ponds, and newts commonly move between ponds that are within 250m of each other (English Nature, 2001). In other studies, 500m surrounding a newt pond can be considered “newt habitat” (Alexander 1997).
2.10.2 The area was searched for signs of amphibians by undertaking a systematic hand search of any suitable refugia/hibernacula.
2.11 Freshwater White Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes)
2.11.1 Our survey will highlight any appropriate or suitable watercourses and riparian habitat for the species, then if deemed necessary more detailed crayfish surveying maybe required.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 230
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
2.11.2 The white-clawed crayfish is the only species of crayfish native to the British Isles, where it occurs in the greatest concentrations anywhere in the world. The UK supports approximately 24% of the world population.
2.11.3 The white-clawed crayfish has suffered serious population decline both in the British Isles and throughout its global range as a result of crayfish plague, the introduction of non-native crayfish species, pollution and habitat destruction.
2.11.4 The White-clawed Crayfish has declined to the extent that it is considered „Globally Threatened‟ by the IUCN and the species is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), making it illegal to: intentionally kill, injure or take from the wild; sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale a live or dead animal or part thereof. The species is listed on Annex II of the European Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). The White-clawed Crayfish also has a Species Action Plan and is a Priority Species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 231
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
3 Survey Results
3.1 The site
3.1.1 The site comprises of a parcel of land approximately 20 acres of semi improved rough pasture land. Located to the south of Swindon village. The centre grid reference of the site is SO 86220 90200.
3.1.2 The site lies south of the village of Swindon, Staffs. It is west of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, to the north west of Hinksford lock and to the east of Smestow Brook.
Photograph 1 - Showing Area Map
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 232
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Photograph 2 - Ariel Imagery
3.1.4 The land has been extensively grazed for many years, mainly by sheep (Mr Munday’s family have been on the land for over 100 years). The field is topped on a regular basis and the aftermath grazed, leaving a short sward height of common field grasses present.
3.1.5 Field edges are left and longer grass species and thistle, nettle and bramble are encouraged around the under storey of hedgerows.
3.1.6 The site benefits from an existing single species hawthorn hedgerow along its boundary with the canal, there is occasional breaches in the hedgerow. Occasional tree stands such as semi mature Elder and Ash were noted.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 233
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
3.2 Access
3.2.1 The site already has existing field gate and driveway access from the public road; it is proposed to retain this access, which would have no ill effect on ecology.
3.2.2 At the proposed location of the new boat access to the marina site, there currently is no hedgerow to remove, just an area of standing tall herb cover, predominantly common nettle, around the livestock fence line.
Photograph 3 – Taken from Canal tow path
3.3 Records
3.3.1 Historical records from the biodiversity database were searched for any important species recorded in the past. However they provide little insight into the ecology and conservation value of this particular site. 3.3.2 Information was gained on key environmental schemes and designations of relevance to the site, including protected species records from the following sources:
UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP)
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 234
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
The Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC)
National Biodiversity Network (NBN)
Nature on the Map (Natural England)
3.3.3 The desktop records search highlighted the following relevant protected species records within close proximity of the site, however no records were found within 1km of the site. It should be noted that a lack of records does not equate to a lack of species:
Species Latin Grid Ref Distance from Date Abundance site Great Crested SO 836900 2km to the west 2006 Unknown Triturus cristatus Newt (Highgate Common SSSI) Common Lizard SO 836900 2km to the west 1991 Unknown Zootoca vivipara (Highgate Common SSSI)
Grass Snake SO 836900 2km to the west 1991 Unknown Natrix natrix (Highgate Common SSSI)
Slow Worm SO 836900 2km to the west 1991 Unknown Anguis fragilis (Highgate Common SSSI)
Table 1 - Species record list
3.5.2 The site is known to be located near the following important nature conservation sites:
Special Protection Area (SPA) No sites of this type have been identified in close proximity to the site Ramsar Site No sites of this type have been identified in close proximity to the site Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Highgate Common SSSI Grid Ref: SO 839899 Size: 95.27 ha
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 235
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Highgate Common SSSI supports a nationally important assemblage of invertebrates chiefly associated with free-draining grassland, heathland, early successional habitat (areas featuring bare sandy surfaces), scrub and woodland edge habitats. This includes a nationally important assemblage of bees, wasps and ants (aculeate Hymenoptera).
Highgate Common is located between Wombourne and Kinver and comprises an area of common land bisected by White House Lane. The underlying geology includes part of the Bridgnorth Sandstone Formation known as „Lower Mottled Soft Red Sandstone‟ of the Bunter series along with patches of Pleistocene sands and gravels. Situated in a shallow valley, it is characterised by a gently undulating southward sloping topography with the occasional minor sandstone outcrop. This topography and the shelter from the surrounding tree cover gives rise to a warm local microclimate. The site comprises a diverse, and in places, intimate mosaic of warm, sheltered habitat types which support the important invertebrates. Areas of free draining herb-rich and acid grassland, including roadside verges, provide plenty of foraging areas. Early successional habitats and bare sand provide nesting and basking areas with scrub and woodland providing cover, roosting areas and shelter. Highgate Common features a rare and exceptionally diverse aculeate Hymenoptera fauna comprising of at least 140 species of which 36 are listed as Red Data Book (RDB), nationally or regionally scarce. There are nine aculeate Hymenoptera RDB species present, including the nomad bees Nomada signata, Nomada fulvicornis, and Sphecodes niger, the solitary bee Lasioglossum brevicorne and the solitary wasp Diodontus insidiosus. A rare mining bee Andrena nigrospina, is also present in good numbers on the site. This species was not included within the Red Data Books as it was not known from Great Britain at the time of publication. Nationally scarce species include the mining bees Andrena nigriceps, A.humilis and A. bimaculata, the solitary wasps Nysson dimidiatus and N. trimaculatus, and the
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 236
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
wingless wasp Methocha ichneumonides which is parasitic on the larvae of the green tiger beetle Cicindela campestris. Regionally important species that occur include the small red-tailed bumble bee Bombus ruderarius and the solitary bee Melitta haemorrhoidalis, which on Highgate collects pollen only from harebells Campanula rotundifolia. Highgate Common is also important for other invertebrate species and in total 82 geographically restricted species have been recorded; 20 regionally scarce, 51 nationally scarce and 11 RDB or provisional RDB species. Restricted range species are represented from groups including bush- crickets, moths, beetles, true flies, and dragonflies. They include the black-headed cardinal beetle Pyrochroa coccinea, the shiny fungus beetle Tritoma bipustulata, a weevil Magdalis cerasi and the leaf-roller weevils Rhynchites longiceps, R. cavifrons and R. interpunctatus amongst a range of species associated with woodland and scrub- woodland edge habitats. Early successional habitat on Highgate Common includes bare sand along tracks and footpaths, pioneer heathland where bare ground predominates between young heather plants, areas of ruderal vegetation along the edges of paths and areas of exposed soil in rabbit burrows and bare scapes. The occurrence of this habitat in close proximity with foraging habitat is critical for many of the bees and wasps and their associated cleptoparasites, and parasitoids. The red sandstone provides a friable, well-drained soil suitable for nesting within. Frequently encountered along the many footpaths and tracks which cross the common are the burrows of mining bees Andrena spp. and solitary bees Lasioglossum spp., which in turn, support many of the rare nomad bees Nomada spp. and Sphecodes spp. Foraging resources for a wide range of these important invertebrate species are provided by scattered patches of flower-rich grassland. These include roadside verges, featuring mugwort Artemisia vulgaris, umbellifers (e.g. hogweed, Heracleum sphondylium, and cow parsley, Anthriscus sylvestris), and members of the Asteracaea family (e.g. common cat‟s-ear, Hypochoeris
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 237
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
radicata, and mouse-ear hawkweed, Pilosella officinarum). Scattered shrubs, especially those that provide blossom, including sallow Salix spp., gorse Ulex spp., broom Cytisus scoparius, cherry Prunus spp. and bramble Rubus spp. also provide valuable foraging habitat. The heathland areas are characterised by heather Calluna vulgaris, bell-heather Erica cinerea with occasional bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus, often mixed with acid grassland dominated by wavy hair-grass Deschampsia flexuosa, and bent grasses Agrostis spp. These areas support over 14 heathland specialist species including bugs, bees and beetles. The largest areas of heath, grassland and early successional habitat lie south of White House Lane. To the east this mosaic gives way to an area of primarily acid grassland, replanted with conifers and dissected by a trackway that features bare sandy areas along its length. In the northern part of the site the open heath is dominated by wavy hair grass, heather and bracken Pteridium aquilinum. Several small areas of wet heath, important in supporting the nationally scarce bog- bush cricket Metrioptera brachyptera and the regionally scarce glow-worm Lampyris noctiluca, are also present, one of which contains two artificially created ponds. The remainder of the area supports semi-natural secondary woodland with a mostly silver birch Betula pendula and pendunculate oak Quercus robur canopy and predominantly bracken ground cover.
Other information The site also supports locally important populations of common lizard Lacerta vivipara, slow worm Anguis fragilis and grass snake Natrix natrix.
Approximately 2km to the West of the site.
National Nature Reserve (NNR) No sites of this type have been identified in close proximity to the site. Local Nature Reserve (LNR) No sites of this type have been identified in close proximity to the site. Other notified site, such as County An area of Lowland Heathland identified as a Wildlife Site, Ancient Woodland, SNCI. Biological Action Plan Priority Habitat, is located
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 238
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
adjoining Highgate Common SSSI to the south east.
This parcel of land is located approximately 2km from the application site.
Are any habitats likely to be affected by None anticipated. the works? Are any protected species likely to be None anticipated. affected by the works?
Site Location
1Km Search Area around the site
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 239
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Site SSSI Location Location
Map showing location of the site in relation to Highgate Common SSSI
Biological Action Site Plan Priority Location Habitat Location
Map showing location of the site in relation to the Biological Action Plan Priority Habitat
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 240
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
3.4 Habitat
3.4.1 The site is made up of two fields separated by a livestock and barbed wire fence, they comprise of semi improved grassland pasture of approximately 20 acres. Common rush (Juncus.sp) and areas of common nettle (Urtica dioica) and spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare) and noted on site. The site is topped regularly and then the aftermath grazed off by sheep.
3.4.2 Along the western edge or headland of the field and the banks of Smestow brook can be found a continuous swath of vegetation, unmanaged Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) and common nettle (Urtica dioica), with mature stands of Willow (Salix sp.), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) noted. It is planned to retain all trees on site and to further aid tree biodiversity by new planting across the site.
Picture 4 - Himalayan balsam on site
3.4.3 A stand of deciduous plantation woodland known as Swindon Rough is located opposite the site, across Smestow brook. The mixed woodland contains mature tree species such as Oak (Quercus robur), Birch (Betula pendula), Rowan
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 241
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
(Sorbus aucuparia), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). Ground cover includes: Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera). It is strongly felt that the area known as Swindon Rough will be unaffected by the proposed marina site.
3.5 Badgers
3.5.1 Badger (Meles meles) setts were not recorded within the survey area, however badger paw prints (photograph 5), tracks and other evidence of the species were noted along the river bank indicating badgers are crossing the brook from Swindon Rough.This remains unchanged from our previous findings. It is possible that a badger sett exists in the woodland on Swindon Rough.
3.5.2 A badger track, leading under the boundary livestock fence was discovered next to it on the site was a freshly used badger latrine (photograph 6), in the eastern corner of the site below Hinksford lock. There are suitable areas for foraging on site and on nearby land with interest in the amenity grassland of the sports club.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 242
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Photograph 5 -The badger paw prints crossing Smestow brook
Photograph 6 -The badger latrine on site 3.6 Foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
3.6.1 Recent fox activity was present on the site. Fox paw prints were discovered in muddy areas along the brook, also a recent fox scat (faeces) was evident on the field headland near the south of the site.
3.7 Otters
3.7.1 Evidence of otter (Lutra lutra) activity was noted, with paw prints discovered in mud along Smestow brook (Photograph 7). This represents the only evidence of otters found during the survey, no records of otters were found during the desktop search.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 243
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Photograph 7 – Otter prints along Stemstow Brook
3.7.2 As no signs of otters were discovered on our original report, but prints have now been found, occasional otter movements are expected along Smestow brook. Measures to safeguard this European Protected Species need to be adopted during the construction phase.
3.8 Water vole (arvicola terrestris)
3.8.1 There was no evidence of water voles such as burrows, feeding signs, latrines found during the survey, Smestow brook was not considered to be of high potential to support water voles, owing to steep sided banks and lack of suitable aquatic/emergent vegetation.
3.9 Bats
3.9.1 There were potential for bat roosts in some of the mature willows bordering the site and also in the woodland edge of Swindon Rough, no signs of bat roost sites were identified during the survey. It is felt that if all existing trees on site remain then there will be no potential loss to bat roosting sites. The large part of the site (semi improved grassland) offers little in the way of bat foraging apart from the
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 244
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
boundary of the site, with the hawthorn hedgerow, and brook bank side providing good insect habitats, also the canal offers good potential for bat foraging, particularly for species such as Daubenton‟s Bat. The woodland edge of Swindon Rough also provides excellent insect habitat.
3.9.2 The proposed layout of the site does offer a huge increase in potential bat foraging area, particularly with new areas of open water (2 ponds and a marina) and the landscape tree planting proposed.
3.10 Breeding birds
3.10.1 Common birds were observed and heard during the walkovers. These included:
Blackbird Robin Wood Pigeon Common Buzzard (heard over Swindon Rough) Green Woodpecker (heard on Swindon Rough) Carrion Crow Wren
3.10.2 Owing to the layout of the site and the presence of semi improved grazing / mown grass, ground nesting bird opportunity is restricted, other species can and do nest in the hedgerows and trees on the site boundaries, which will remain unaffected.
3.10.3 On our previous report a kingfisher nest was discovered, in a scoured bank of the Smestow Brook. This bank and the nest holes have since been washed away (possibly during the winter of 2008). There was some evidence of current kingfisher feeding signs, such as a feeding perch (Photograph 8) (droppings below favoured branches used by the bird(s) for catching fish) over the brook, but no new signs of a nest location, the lack of findings does not mean that there isn‟t a nest along the brook, therefore one could presume that kingfisher presence is still prominent on Smestow Brook. Measures to safeguard kingfishers need to be adopted during the construction phase
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 245
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Photograph 8 - Kingfisher feeding perch
3.10.4 Kingfishers (Alcedo atthis) are small unmistakable bright blue and orange birds of slow moving or still water. They fly rapidly, low over water, and hunt fish from riverside perches, occasionally hovering above the water's surface. They are a vulnerable to hard winters and habitat degradation through pollution or unsympathetic management of watercourses. Kingfishers are amber listed because of their unfavourable conservation status in Europe.
3.10.5 As a fairly rare, easily disturbed bird, the kingfisher is afforded the highest degree of legal protection under the Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
3.10.6 It is an offence to take, injure or kill a kingfisher or to take damage or destroy its nest, eggs or young. It is also an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb the birds close to their nest during the breeding season. Violation of the law can attract fines up to £5,000 per offence and/or a prison sentence of up to six months.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 246
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
3.11 Amphibians
3.11.1 There were no appropriate watercourses on the site that was considered to have a high potential to support amphibian life.
3.11.2 There is little terrestrial habitat around the site for use by amphibians, none were discovered during a hand search of suitable refugia around the site.
3.11.3 Records of Great Crested Newts exist on Highgate Common SSSI, some 2km west of the site. It is considered highly unlikely that the marina will have any ill effect on the species.
3.12 Reptiles
3.12.1 The site has low potential to support reptile populations, no evidence of any reptiles were noted.
3.12.2 Records of Common Lizard, Slow Worm and Grass Snake exist on Highgate Common SSSI, some 2km west of the site. It is considered highly unlikely that the marina will have any ill effect on the species listed above.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 247
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
4 Conclusions
4.1 Biodiversity
4.1.2 This is one of the rare occasions when the proposals for the site will bring about a beneficial change not only in social and economic areas but in the whole biodiversity of the site. By creating new watercourses, a marina, new woodland/ shrub planting many habitat improvements can be made.
4.1.3 The aim of the marina project is to create a leisure site that is part of the countryside and will be enjoyed by local wildlife as well as visitors. Remember all wildlife benefits from water and its availability.
4.1.4 We feel control measures for preventing the inevitable spread of Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) around the brook bank and onto the site, must be implemented, to avoid conflict with natural local biodiversity on the site. Such control measures are detailed in our recommendations section of this report.
4.2 Trees
4.2.1 It is not proposed to remove any trees or hedgerow from the site, which is welcomed.
4.2.2 Landscaping of the site to include native tree and shrub species will be a big boost to the native wildlife in the area and will offset some of the CO² emissions created (although we understand there is not expected to be a major increase on existing canal traffic). In addition nest boxes and bat boxes will be a welcome enhancement to the area.
4.3 Wildlife
4.3.1 The occasional presence of badgers and otters will need to be considered during the construction phase and measures to safeguard each protected species will need to be achieved; details are listed in our recommendations.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 248
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5 Recommendations
5.1 General
5.1.2 During works caution should be exercised in respect of all species offered statutory protection. In the unlikely event that any protected species are noted on site during works then, as required by law, we must be called in and Natural England consulted and necessary mitigation put in place.
5.2 Birds
5.2.1 Please note: All birds, their nests and eggs are protected by law and it is thus an offence, to: Intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird Intentionally take damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird whilst it is in use or being built. Intentionally take or destroy the egg of any wild bird Intentionally (or recklessly in England and Wales) disturb any wild bird listed on Schedule1 while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird.
5.3 Kingfishers
5.3.1 Kingfishers will remain to the confines of the brook, therefore should remain undisturbed by any construction works, this will need to be monitored during our ecological site monitoring visits.
5.2.3 Any future management of the river bank must be done sympathetically, with the needs of kingfishers considered. For example the retention of overhanging branches for perch feeding and scoured banks left for potential nest building.
5.2.4 Measures such as an artificial kingfisher nest bank (Photograph 9) and perches should be encouraged around the site in particular around the proposed ponds, to try and strengthen numbers of this rare bird.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 249
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Photograph 9 - Example of an artificial kingfisher nest bank
5.4 Bats
5.4.1 Schwegler Woodcrete Bat boxes and native tree/shrub planting (of benefit for insects) for the site, along with the new areas of open water are considered to be a welcome enhancement for local bat species.
Photograph 10 - Examples of Schwegler woodcrete bat box from Wildlifeshop.co.uk
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 250
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5.5 Badgers
5.5.1 Although no badger setts are known to exist on the site itself, badgers do venture on to the site, particularly from the Swindon Rough, it is thought to be occasional foraging use.
5.5.2 Reasonable Avoidance Measures (RAM‟s) such as the following should be adhered to during construction, along with regular ecological monitoring visits by ourselves: An entry point (sloping bank) be put in any open trenches every night and placed so that if an animal falls into a hole it can climb up the slope of the plank to escape.
The location of any site office/storage area and their management will be important. Ideally any storage area would be located away from features regularly used by badgers (setts, latrines, etc.). The storage area should be securely fenced so that badgers cannot get over, through or under any fences to access the area.
No food or food remnant should be left outdoors within the compound as such items can be attractive to badgers
During construction it will be essential to undertake monitoring of the badger situation on site, as large excavations, ground works and piled soil, such as the central bund are all potential areas for badgers to excavate setts into, which could result in delays, while licenses are sought for the removal.
5.6 Otters
5.6.1 Although no otter holts are known to exist on the brook, otters do and can venture along the brook and canal on to the site.
5.6.2 Reasonable Avoidance Measures (RAM‟s) such as the following should be adhered to during construction, along with regular ecological monitoring visits by ourselves: An entry point (sloping bank) be put in any open trenches every night and placed so that if an animal falls into a hole it can climb up the slope of the plank to escape.
The location of any site office/storage area and their management will be important. Ideally any storage area would be located away from features regularly used by otters (paths, spraints, etc.). The storage area
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 251
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
should be securely fenced so that otters cannot get over, through or under any fences to access the area.
No food or food remnant should be left outdoors within the compound as such items can be attractive to otters.
During construction it will be essential to undertake monitoring of the otter situation on site.
5.7 Water voles
5.7.1 No action/mitigation is required as no water vole burrows are known to exist on the site.
5.8 Amphibians / Reptiles (Herptiles)
5.8.1 Herptile species are not know to exist on site, however sensitive management of the site during landscaping can create terrestrial habitat for these species, with the creation of log piles such as those that already exist in site boundaries.
Photograph 11 - Log piles / dead wood on site to be retained.
5.8.2 It is also of benefit to amphibians that there will be new wildlife ponds.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 252
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5.8.3 If any reptiles or amphibians are encountered during works then please stop work and notify us immediately.
5.9 Wildlife ponds
5.8.1 Preliminary ideas have come up with two wildlife ponds to be created with a „bentomat‟ type liner, with shelves, creating some shallows, planting of native aquatic flora and have suitable habitat, such as grasses, wildflowers, log piles, scrub, stones, carpet tiles around the edges.
5.8.2 It is recommended to „soft fence‟ the pond (wooden post and rail or chestnut pail) to prevent use by humans and disturbance by dogs.
5.8.3 At no time should the ponds be stocked with fish as this would cause an in balance in biodiversity within the ponds, due to predation by fish of amphibians and aquatic invertebrates.
5.10 Landscaping
5.10.1 We are able to offer our services with regard to the landscaping, tree planting and wildlife creation / habitat management works on the site.
5.10.2 It is important that the area marked as wildlife/amenity is separated as much as possible, for example public footpaths or access should be made only available to the eastern sides of the proposed wildlife ponds, towards the track. We feel strongly about this from various points of view, one view is that wildlife disturbance could be kept to a minimum, whilst enjoying sightings of wildlife along the vistas created by the landscaping. Another reason for keeping public away from the brook is to prevent the spread of Himalayan balsam. Also from a safety point of view there is much erosion on the brook bank and safety issues may arise. Also access to paths can be made from the road and car parking areas.
5.10.3 Nest boxes and bat boxes will be a welcome enhancement to the site; these are readily available from wildlifeshop.co.uk.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 253
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5.10.4 To prevent the inevitable spread of Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) across the site, we suggest the following management recommendations before, during and after construction of the marina: To leave a 7m headland (as Himalayan balsam can disperse it‟s seed this distance) along the brook boundary of the site, which must be cut/topped (which we are able to do) to ground level, annually in June, before the Himalayan balsam flowers.
If we don‟t carry out the Himalayan balsam control, then any contractor that does do the work will need to make sure their machinery/equipment is thoroughly washed to prevent spread of the plant, please note that the seeds can remain dormant for up to 2 years.
In case of spread as a result of flooding, then a site inspection annually (perhaps coincided with the annual cut) for Himalayan balsam could occur and be dealt with accordingly.
6 Quality Assurance
George E Pearce - Director
George enjoys the highest reputation as an expert in his field. He has studied badgers and their behavior for over 50 years and has worked closely with many animals on a daily basis. George Pearce became a professional consultant prior to the Protection of Badgers Act, 1992. He has been granted licenses by English Nature, The Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food, Department of Environment Farming and Rural Affairs, The Welsh Office Agricultural Department and The Countryside Council for Wales. He is recognized as a badger and fox expert by Magistrates and Crown Courts and has appeared as an expert witness in numerous badger related court cases. He lectures on the lifestyle of the badger and fox to a wide range of audiences and speaks regularly at nationwide conferences. He has many years of hands on experience, gained when running an animal rehabilitation unit. The RSPCA and local vets have placed injured and convalescent animals and birds in his care and he has successfully returned to the wild, over 100 badgers and 60 foxes. He brings to his work a lifetime's interest in badgers and foxes and offers independent and unbiased advise to all clients.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 254
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Tristam E Pearce - Managing Director
Tristam's wealth of knowledge about badger and fox behavior has been built up over the past 18 years, working alongside his father and learning at first hand from the animals themselves as they recovered in the wildlife rehabilitation centre. Today as a company director he is actively involved in every aspect of protected species surveying, monitoring, conservation and mitigation. He has experience in surveying for badgers, bats, newts, reptiles, water voles and crayfish. He has significant practical experience of sensitive planning issues. He routinely deals with every aspect of mitigation and project management. Tristam is the holder of an English Nature Nationwide Badger Disturbance licence, which enables him to supervise work near badger setts. He has also been issued with numerous licenses from English Nature, the Department of Environment Farming and Rural Affairs and the Countryside Council for Wales. Tristam is trained in confined space working and possesses his Personal Track Safety and Individual Working Alone Certifications. He is also a member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 255
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Site Photographs
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 256
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 257
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Beaufort Court 17 Roebuck Way ANV Milton Keynes MK5 8HL Acoustics Noise Tel 01908 642811 and Vibration Acoustic Consultants Fax 01908 642800
7.0 Noise Assessment
October 2009
Principals: M Breslin BSc MIOA L P Jephson BEng MIOA
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 258
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction 260 2.0 Noise Units and Standards 261 2.1 Noise Units 261 3.0 Standards and Guidelines 263 3.1 Planning Policy Guidance Note 24 263 3.2 British Standard BS 4142 263 3.3 British Standard BS 5228 264 4.0 Baseline Noise Monitoring 265 4.1 Unattended Noise Survey 265 4.2 Attended Noise Monitoring 266 5.0 Construction Noise and Vibration Assessment 268 5.1 Preamble 268 5.2 Assessment of Construction Noise Levels 268 5.3 Assessment of Vibration Impacts 270 5.4 Mitigation and Control Measures to be Adopted During the Construction 271 6.0 Assessment of Operational Noise 273 6.1 Noise Associated with Boats Using the Marina 273 6.2 Noise Associated with the Operation of the Refuelling and Pump Out Station 274 6.3 Noise Associated with the Operation of the Tea Room Building 274 6.4 Traffic Associated with the Operation of the Development 275 7.0 Summary 277 References 278 Figures 279 Appendices 282
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 259
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
1.0 Introduction
Acoustics Noise and Vibration (ANV) have been appointed to carry out a noise assessment associated with the construction and operation of a canalside marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire. The proposal is to construct the marina on existing agricultural land to the west of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. The site will be excavated to form a 226 berth marina, tea room, and refuelling facility. The following section of this report presents a description of the noise units referred to, with the criteria adopted for the assessment described in Section 3. Section 4 describes the monitoring exercise carried out to evaluate the existing noise environment around the site. Section 5 presents an assessment of the likely construction noise impacts, with operation noise assessed in Section 6. Finally, Section 7 provides a summary of the findings of the assessment.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 260
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
2.0 Noise Units and Standards
2.1 Noise Units
Decibels (dB)
Noise can be defined as unwanted sound. Sound in air can be considered as the propagation of energy through the air in the form of oscillatory changes in pressure. The size of the pressure changes in acoustic waves is quantified on a logarithmic decibel (dB) scale firstly because the range of audible sound pressures is very great, and secondly because the loudness function of the human auditory system is approximately logarithmic.
The dynamic range of the auditory system is generally taken to be 0 dB to 140 dB. Generally, the addition of noise from two sources producing the same sound pressure level will lead to an increase in sound pressure level of 3 dB. A 3 dB noise change is generally considered to be just noticeable, a 5 dB change is generally considered to be clearly discernible and a 10 dB change is generally accepted as leading to the subjective impression of a doubling or halving of loudness.
A-Weighting
The bandwidth of the frequency response of the ear is usually taken to be from about 18 Hz to 18,000 Hz. The auditory system is not equally sensitive throughout this frequency range. This is taken into account when making acoustic measurements by the use of A-weighting, a filter circuit which has a frequency response similar to the human auditory system. All the measurement results referred to in this report are A-weighted.
Units Used to Describe Time-Varying Noise Sources (LAeq, LA10, LA90 and LAmax)
Instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure level is not generally considered as an adequate indicator of subjective response to noise because levels of noise usually vary with time.
For many types of noise the Equivalent Continuous A-Weighted Sound Pressure Level (LAeq,T) is used as the basis of determining community response. The LAeq,T is defined as the A-weighted sound pressure level of the steady sound which contains the same acoustic energy as the noise being assessed over a specific time period, T.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 261
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
The LA10 is the noise level exceeded for 10% of the measurement period. It has been used in the UK for the assessment of road traffic noise.
The LA90 is the noise level exceeded for 90% of the measurement period. It is generally used to quantify the background noise level, the underlying level of noise, which is present even during the quieter parts of the measurement period.
The LAmax is the maximum value that the A-weighted sound pressure level reaches during a measurement period. LAmax F, or Fast, is averaged over 0.125 of a second and LAmax S, or Slow, is averaged over 1 second.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 262
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
3.0 Standards and Guidelines
3.1 Planning Policy Guidance Note 24
The principal planning guidance on noise is PPG 24 [1]. PPG 24 advises that Much of the development which is necessary for the creation of jobs and the construction and improvement of essential infrastructure will generate noise. The planning system should not place unjustifiable obstacles in the way of such development. Nevertheless, local planning authorities must ensure that development does not cause an unacceptable degree of disturbance.
For construction activities, PPG 24 advises the use of the guidance within BS 5228 to assess noise from the works.
With regard to noise from the operation of plant and equipment within commercial developments, such as that associated with the operation of any extraction or refrigeration within the tea rooms, or the operation of the refuelling station, PPG 24 refers to BS 4142 when defining acceptable noise limits to minimise potential disturbance.
3.2 British Standard BS 4142
British Standard 4142 [2] is the British Standard method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas. BS 4142 is a comparative standard in which the estimated noise levels from the proposed development are compared to the background noise level from the existing uses.
BS 4142 relates the likelihood of complaint to the difference between the Rating Level of the noise being assessed and the background noise level. The background noise level is the LA90 noise level, usually measured in the absence of noise from the source being assessed.
The Rating Level of the noise being assessed is defined as its LAeq noise level (the 'specific noise level'), with the addition of a single 5 dB acoustic feature correction should the noise exhibit a marked impulsive and/or tonal component or should the noise be irregular enough in character to attract attention. During the daytime, the specified noise levels are determined over a reference time interval of 1 hour. At night the reference time interval is 5 minutes.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 263
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
If the Rating Level of the noise being assessed exceeds the background level by 10 dB or more BS 4142 advises that there is a likelihood of complaint. A difference between background level and Rating Level of around 5 dB is described as being of marginal significance. A Rating Level of 10 dB below the background level is described as being a positive indication that there will be no complaints. This is because a sound 10 dB below background level, unless it has particularly noticeable characteristics, is likely to be inaudible.
3.3 British Standard BS 5228
BS 5228 [3] is the principal standard within the UK providing guidance on noise from construction activities. The aim of the guidance is to provide a methodology to assess noise levels from construction operations and seeks to ensure that the contractors adopt the principal of Best Practicable Means to reduce noise from site operations and hence seek to reduce potential impacts and disturbance associated with the works.
Whilst the standard does not define specific limits for construction activities, it does provide examples of limits applied to major construction projects. For rural areas where the existing ambient noise levels are low, a limit of 65 dB LAeq,T is suggested for weekday daytime (07:00 – 19:00 hours) and Saturday morning (07:00 – 13:00 hours) periods, as constituting the threshold of a significant effect.
Furthermore, where the works involve long term substantial earth moving (in excess of 6 months duration), such as during the extraction of the marina basin, the standard advises that the guidance contained in MPS 2 [4] needs to be taken into account when setting criteria for acceptability. Based upon the MPS 2 guidance BS 5228 suggests a limit of 55 dB LAeq, 1 hour is adopted for these types of activities where the duration of the activity is likely to exceed 6 months.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 264
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
4.0 Baseline Noise Monitoring
4.1 Unattended Noise Survey
An unattended noise survey has been carried out at a position close to the dwelling potentially most affected by the proposed development to enable the day and night-time noise environment to be determined.
The monitoring equipment was located within the northern part of the site adjacent to the canal bank and close to the Lock Keepers Cottage, which is located close to the proposed access and tea room building. The monitoring location is indicated on Figure 1.
The location was chosen, as it was considered that the noise levels monitored would be typical of the other properties surrounding the development, as it was located away from the traffic using the surrounding roads in the area, which were observed to be audible across the site.
The survey was carried out between Wednesday 9th and Monday 14th September 2009 and included both weekday and a weekend period. Weather conditions remained good throughout the survey, fine and dry with light winds.
The measurements were made using a Rion NL-32 Class 1 Sound Level Meter, which was calibrated before and after the survey using a Rion NC-74 Class 1 Acoustic Calibrator. The microphone was positioned free-field during the survey and at a height of 1.2 metres above ground level. The instrument was additionally fitted with an Rion NX-22J Sound Recording Card, which enabled periodic audio recordings to made of the general noise environment and also when a threshold was exceeded, allowing events generating high noise levels to be identified.
Measurements were made over consecutive 15 minute periods throughout the survey, principally to ensure that the background noise levels were obtained over a sufficient duration to provide results representative of the noise environment. The results of the survey are presented graphically on Figure 2 and tabulated in Appendix A. The data has been subsequently analysed into the day, evening and night-time periods, with the period results presented in Table 4.1 below.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 265
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Day Period Period Noise Levels [dB]
LAeq LA90 Wednesday 9th Day (07:00 – 19:00) 50.3 43.9 September 2009 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 47.5 39.7 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 42.3 34.3
Thursday 10th Day (07:00 – 19:00) 53.3 44.6 September 2009 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 47.4 40.4 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 45.7 34.3
Friday 11th September Day (07:00 – 19:00) 50.6 43.8 2209 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 47.3 39.1 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 40.9 32.7
Saturday 12th Day (07:00 – 19:00) 50.4 42.0 September 2009 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 46.6 39.5 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 40.3 33.2
Sunday 13th Day (07:00 – 19:00) 50.1 42.1 September 2009 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 45.6 38.3 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 39.9 33.0 Average Weekday Day (07:00 – 19:00) 52 44 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 47 39 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 43 34
Average Weekend Day (07:00 – 19:00) 50 42 Evening (19:00 – 23:00) 46 39 Night (23:00 – 07:00) 40 33
Table 4.1 Period Noise Levels Obtained from Unattended Noise Survey
4.2 Attended Noise Monitoring
To supplement the unattended noise monitoring and to evaluate the variation in noise levels around the site, a series of attended sample noise measurements were made concurrent with the unattended noise survey during Wednesday 9th September 2009 at positions representative of the other potentially affected dwellings surrounding the site.
The measurements were made using a combination of a Rion NA-28 Class 1 Sound Analyser and a Rion NL-32 Class 1 Sound Level Meter, which were calibrated using a Rion NC-74 Class 1 Sound Level Calibrator. At each position, the microphone was sited freefield and at a height of 1.2 metres above the ground.
Measurements were made at 5 positions around the site as indicated on Figure 1.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 266
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
At least two 15 minute measurements were made at each location, which was considered sufficient to obtain a reasonable estimate of the noise environment at these locations.
The results of these measurements are presented in Appendix B. A comparison of the results against the unattended survey results is also made within the appendix. The analysis indicated that background noise levels at the dwellings located further from the road were between 2 – 3 dB(A) lower than at the unattended survey position, with the measurements made at the dwellings adjacent to Hinksford Lane, which were closer to the road indicating background levels 2 dB(A) higher than at the unattended survey position.
Observations made at these locations, indicated that the overall noise environment at each position was equivalent to those observed at the unattended monitoring position, typically influenced by traffic on the surrounding road network, occasional aircraft and helicopters overhead and boats travelling on the canal.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 267
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5.0 Construction Noise and Vibration Assessment
5.1 Preamble
The assessment of the potential construction noise and vibration impacts associated with the construction of the marina has been based upon information supplied by Land and water Services Ltd.
It is anticipated that the main civils work associated with the construction of the marina would take approximately 19 weeks.
The main excavation of the marina basin would be carried out using tracked excavators, dozers and articulated dump trucks. All soils excavated would be retained on site for landscaping and restoration.
Sheet piling would be required to construct the entrance spay structure at the entrance to the marina and to construct the main quay facility. The jettys would be constructed using tubular mild steel piles, typically 152 mm diameter. The sheet and tubular piles would be driven using either hydraulic or vibratory techniques to minimise potential impacts to occupants of surrounding properties. There would be no percussive piling carried out on site.
Dewatering would be required during the period of construction, which is anticipated would be carried out using hush packed diesel pumps. There would be located adjacent to the canal bank at positions away from surrounding residential properties.
The paved surfaces, access roads / pavements would be constructed using standard plant, typically comprising excavators, dump trucks and a vibratory roller.
At this stage, the final numbers of deliveries to the site are unknown, however, these would be principally associated with deliveries of concrete, piles, jetty materials and road construction materials. It is anticipated that at worst there would be 1 – 2 deliveries to the site per hour during normal working hours.
Site hours are anticipated to be standard for construction sites, normally between 08:00 – 18:00 hours Monday to Friday and 08:00 – 13:00 hours on Saturday. There would be no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays.
5.2 Assessment of Construction Noise Levels
Noise levels associated with the main elements of the construction, extraction, piling and road construction, have been calculated at the properties potentially most affected by the works.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 268
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Noise levels have been calculated using the methodology contained in BS 5228:1. As no detailed construction information is available at this stage, the calculations have been based upon the construction activities occurring at the closest boundaries to the properties. Whilst other plant would be operating in different areas of the site, their influence on the overall noise levels are likely to be minimal compared to the plant working closest to the site boundaries.
The calculation details are provided in Appendix C, with the calculated levels are summarised in Table 5.1.
Receptor Calculated Freefield Noise Levels [dB LAeq,T] Excavation Piling Road Dewatering Construction
Lock Keepers 61.1 65.9 70.4 37.2 Cottage
Reynolds Close 64.1 69.5 61.0 41.9
Hinksford Lane 50.5 55.9 45.9 38.5 Hinksford Park View 52.2 57.6 49.8 34.4 The Brooklands 59.7 65.1 61.0 37.2
Table 5.1 Construction Noise Levels
The calculations indicated that the noise levels associated with the construction of the marina
would remain below a 65 dB LAeq limit at the majority of the properties surrounding the site, which are considered to be acceptable to minimise potential impacts.
During periods where plant is operating close to the properties along Reynolds Close, The Brooklands and the Lock Keepers Cottage, this limit would be exceeded at times, resulting in potential noise impacts, particularly during periods of piling and road construction. To ensure potential impacts were minimised, the contractors would need to implement appropriate mitigation and control of noise levels on site and appropriate measures are described in Section 5.4.
Dewatering pumps are likely to be required throughout the duration of the construction and these are likely to operate on a 24 hour basis. The calculations based upon dewatering pumps located adjacent to the cricket pitch, indicate that noise levels associated with the pumps could potentially exceed background noise levels by more than 10 dB(A) during the night-time period and thus result in potential noise impacts. To ensure any potential impacts were minimised the pumps would be located at a position on the site furthest from surrounding residents, although they would still need to be sited adjacent to a suitable water course to enable the water to be discharged. The
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 269
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
contractors would also ensure that silenced pumps were used and if required these would be enclosed by hoarding to further reduce potential impacts.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 270
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
5.3 Assessment of Vibration Impacts
The majority of activities carried out on site would generate low levels of vibration, which would not impact upon the occupants of surrounding properties.
As discussed previously, there would be no percussive piling carried out on site, with the piles installed using either hydraulic or vibratory techniques, which seek to minimised vibration.
The use of vibrators to install the sheet piling and piles for the jettys would, however, have the potential to impact upon the occupants of surrounding properties, when the activity is within ~50 metres of the properties, although any potential impacts would be very low and of short duration. The use of a vibratory roller would also have the potential to give rise to an impact at the Lock Keepers Cottage during the construction of the main access.
To ensure any potential disturbance was minimised, the contractor would be required to inform local residents of works carried out in close proximity and select the most appropriate method for the installation of the piles. Where it is anticipated that vibration impacts may occur the contractors would also be required to carry out vibration monitoring for the duration of works in the area adjacent to the potentially affected property.
5.4 Mitigation and Control Measures to be Adopted During the Construction
Noise and vibration levels associated with the majority of the construction is considered unlikely to generate impacts at the surrounding properties, as there is a relatively large distance between the works and properties and the overall duration of the works is only anticipated to be 19 weeks.
However, appropriate control and mitigation measures would be adopted, which seek to ensure any potential impacts to occupants of surrounding properties are minimised.
Restriction of hours of working to between 08:00 – 18:00 hours Monday to Friday and 08:00 – 13:00 hours Saturdays. There would be no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays.
The contractors would be required to adopt Best Practicable Means to control noise and vibration levels from site operations.
There would be no percussive piling carried out on site.
All plant and machinery would be well maintained at all times.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 271
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
The use of localised hoarding to be considered where noise and vibration levels are anticipated to be high.
Supersilenced dewatering pumps would be utilised on site, with their location chosen to minimise potential impacts. Consideration would also be given to providing hoarding around the pumps.
Noise and vibration levels to be monitored at surrounding properties periodically when works are being carried out in close proximity.
Details of a site supervisor to be provided to the local authority and posted at the site perimeter, who is on site at all times and can deal with any complaints which may arise from the works.
With appropriate mitigation and control measures adopted, potential impacts associated with the construction would be minimised.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 272
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
6.0 Assessment of Operational Noise
6.1 Noise Associated with Boats Using the Marina
Boats would enter the marina using a new entrance from the canal located opposite the cricket ground. The boats would then enter the berths, where they would be moored.
Each berth would be provided with an electricity supply and the users of the marina would be required to ‘hook up’ when they are moored. This would ensure that boats are not moored in the marina with engines running, thus seeking to minimise any potential impacts to surrounding residents.
The principal noise source would therefore be associated with the manoeuvring of the boats into and out of the marina. It is not anticipated that there would be a large number of movements in any one day, as the moorings would be most likely to be where boats are stored and it is less likely that a large number of moorings would be used for overnight stays. Noise levels associated with the boat movements at the dwellings to the east of the marina and the existing canal would be unlikely to change noticeably with the marina operational, as noise levels at these properties are already influenced by the existing boats using the canal.
Increases in noise levels would be likely at the dwellings to the west and south of the marina, located on The Brooklands and Hinksford Park View. Based upon a typical source term noise
level obtained from a boat of 53.7 dB LAeq at a distance of 10 metres, the following noise levels have been calculated at these dwellings, assuming a boat manoeuvring at a position within the marina closest to the properties:
The Brooklands (approx 70m) – 36.7 dB LAeq;
Hinksford Park View (approx 150m) – 30.2 dB LAeq.
The noise levels associated with the boat movements at these dwellings would be lower than the existing background noise levels during the daytime period, when the movements would be most likely to occur. Furthermore, at The Brooklands, existing ambient noise levels are influenced by the road traffic, which gives rise to considerably higher noise levels than those anticipated from the boats. Potential impacts associated with the boat movements within the marina are therefore anticipated to be negligible.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 273
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
6.2 Noise Associated with the Operation of the Refuelling and Pump Out Station
The refuelling and pump out station would be located in the north western part of the marina, adjacent to the northern facilities building. It is anticipated that this facility would be operational during normal daytime working hours 7 days per week, with provision to service 2 boats at any one time.
The facility would be located approximately 90 metres from the closest dwellings located on The Brooklands.
At this stage of the development the final proposals for this facility are unknown. A design aim would therefore be adopted to ensure noise levels associated with the operation of the facility remained acceptable at these dwellings, based upon the noise levels from the operation the facility not exceeding the existing background noise levels. Upon this basis, a daytime limit of 40
dB LAeq, 1 hour is recommended at the dwellings, which could be imposed as part of a planning condition, which would seek to ensure any potential impacts to the surrounding residents is minimised.
6.3 Noise Associated with the Operation of the Tea Room Building
A tea room is proposed to be constructed within the northern area of the site approximately 50 metres from the Lock Keepers Cottage.
The building would contain a managers office, tea room, gift shop and farm shop and would operate between 08:00 – 18:00 hours 7 days a week. The principal noise sources associated with these facilities, with the exception of traffic movements, which are considered below, would be associated with the operation of external plant, such as refrigeration units and any extraction plant from the kitchen. As the requirements for the plant has not been determined at this stage, criteria have been specified for the plant, based upon noise levels from the plant not exceeding the existing background noise levels at the surrounding properties and based upon the results of the monitoring obtained during the weekend period. The proposed limits are specified in Table 6.1 below.
Location Proposed Noise Rating Level at Dwellings (Freefield) dB LAeq,T Daytime (07:00 – 19:00) Evening (19:00 – 23:00) Night-time (23:00 – 07:00)
Lock Keepers Cottage 42 39 35
Dwellings on The Brooklands 40 37 35
Dwellings Along Reynolds Close 42 39 35
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 274
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
Table 6.1 Proposed Noise Limits for External Plant
Note that the night-time limits proposed are in excess of the existing background noise environment. Given that the background noise environment is low at night, BS 4142 indicates that
where noise levels are very low, a Rating Level of 35 dB LAeq is considered to be very low. This limit has therefore been adopted as an acceptable night-time noise environment, as it seeks to ensure that potential disturbance is minimised and that a good standard of noise is maintained within the surrounding dwellings.
Whilst not considered specifically within this assessment, consideration would also be given to the occupants of boats moored in the marina overnight and the overnight berths would be selected within areas of the marina where the noise levels were low and away from the area directly adjacent to the tea rooms, where possible.
6.4 Traffic Associated with the Operation of the Development
The proposed development is anticipated to generate a small number of vehicle movements during a typical day as follows: Boat owners (In line with British Waterways guidelines) – 25 Marina employees – 2 The farm shop – 25 The tea room/gift shop – 25 Service vehicles - <0.5 Casual visitors/miscellaneous – 10
The flows identified above equate to a total of 87 – 88 vehicle movements per day.
Given the nature of the facility, it is likely that these movements would be spread throughout the day, with on average 8 – 10 vehicle movements per hour entering the marina.
Calculations have been carried out on the basis of 10 vehicle movements per hour, with the vehicles parking and doors opening / closing. The calculations give rise to a noise level of 46 dB
LAeq, 1 hour at a distance of 10 metres.
There would be a single property potentially affected by the vehicle movements, The Lock Keepers Cottage, which is adjacent to the proposed access road into the marina. The dwelling is approximately 10 metres from the proposed access.
Assessing the calculated noise level from the proposed vehicle movements at this property against the existing daytime ambient noise levels, which are principally attributed to road traffic,
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 275
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
which were typically of the order of 51 – 55 dB LAeq, 1 hour during the daytime, would indicate at worst, the additional traffic would give rise to an increase of 1 dB(A) at the property. A 1 dB(A) increase in noise levels is not perceptible under normal listening conditions and the traffic accessing the site would give rise to a negligible noise impact at this property. However, consideration would be given to provide a close boarded fence alongside the access road adjacent to the dwellings to further reduce any potential for a noise impact.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 276
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
7.0 Summary
A noise assessment has been carried out to support a planning application for a proposed canalside marina at Swindon.
The operation of the site is unlikely to generate high levels of noise, with noise levels associated with future operations principally attributable to the movement of barges, vehicles entering and leaving the marina and plant associated with the operation of the marina and proposed tea room / farm shop.
A noise monitoring exercise has been carried out to determine the existing noise environment around the site at positions representative of the existing surrounding dwellings. The results of this exercise have been used as the basis of the assessment to identify potential impacts and to propose noise limits associated with fixed plant and services.
Vehicle movements using the site are anticipated to be low, with approximately 88 vehicle movements per day. The small number of vehicles is unlikely to generate any noise impacts at the surrounding properties.
With appropriate design and control measures implemented in the final scheme design for the scheme, no operational noise impacts have been identified.
Potential impacts are anticipated during the construction of the marina during periods of piling and road construction. Appropriate control and mitigation measures would be adopted throughout the works, which seek to ensure any potential impacts are minimised.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 277
Chartered Surveyors, Minerals Planning & Environmental Consultants
References
1. Department for Communities and Local Government. Planning Policy Guidance PPG 24, Planning and Noise. 1994.
2. British Standards Institute. Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas. BS 4142. 1997.
3. British Standards Institute. Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites – Part 1: Noise. BS 5228: 2009.
4. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Minerals Policy Statement 2. Controlling and mitigating the environmental effects of mineral extraction in England. Annex 2: Noise. March 2005.
Marina at Swindon, South Staffordshire 0651-1- v1.0 278