British Pipeline Agency Fisher’s Green

Ecological Constraints Survey Report

856794

JANUARY 2017

RSK GENERAL NOTES

Project No.: 856794

Title: Fisher’s Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report – Rev 00

Client: British Pipeline Agency

Date: January 2017

Office: Hemel Hempstead

Status: Final

Author Lindsay Stronge Technical reviewer Corin Simmonds

Signature: Signature: Date: 03/01/2017 Date: 05/01/2017

Project manager Jessica Breeze Quality reviewer Corin Simmonds

Signature: Signature: Date: 03/01/2017 Date: 05/01/2017

RSK Environment Ltd (RSK) has prepared this report for the sole use of the client, showing reasonable skill and care, for the Where any data supplied by the client or from other sources have been used, it has been assumed that the information is correct. No responsibility can be accepted by RSK for inaccuracies in the data supplied by any other party. The conclusions and recommendations in this report are based on the assumption that all relevant information has been supplied by those bodies from whom it was requested. No part of this report may be copied or duplicated without the express permission of RSK and the party for whom it was prepared. Where field investigations have been carried out, these have been restricted to a level of detail required to achieve the stated objectives of the work. This work has been undertaken in accordance with the quality management system of RSK Environment Ltd.

British Pipeline Agency Fisher’s Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. This report presents the details of an ecological constraints survey carried out at Fisher’s Green, Cheshunt in a rural location in . The purpose of the survey was to determine the ecological value of the land, and to assess its potential for protected species in an area where a pipeline crossing is being re-routed underground by the British Pipeline Agency (BPA). The survey was carried out on 7 December 2016 by Corin Simmonds, a principal ecologist and Lindsay Stronge, a graduate ecologist.

2. The proposed working areas comprise hard standing, ruderal vegetation, buildings, scrub, scattered trees, semi-improved grassland and arable. There are multiple waterways; , the and Hooksmarsh lake in addition to fishery lakes adjacent to the working areas,

3. Habitats in the working areas are likely to contain only common and widespread plant species and no non-native invasive species were recorded.

4. There are six statutory designated sites and four Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) within 2 km. The proposed working areas fall within the impact zone of the Turnford & Cheshunt Pitts Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and therefore Natural England must be contacted to discuss the proposals.

5. No Badger (Meles meles) setts were found within the working area or 30 m from it but there was evidence of foraging badgers.

6. The site contains habitat suitable for foraging Badgers, Otters (Lutra lutra) and Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus). As a precautionary measure we suggest that any excavations made during the course of works are covered overnight. If excavations cannot be covered, a ramp should be left in place to allow any trapped to escape.

7. There are three records of Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) within 1 km and numerous water bodies within 500 m. However, these water bodies are unlikely to be suitable for Great Crested Newt as they are lakes or form part of a commercial fishery. It is therefore highly unlikely that Great Crested Newt will be found on site. 8. There is one building on land between the two rivers that may be suitable for roosting bats. This area was inaccessible; but as the new pipeline route will go underground the building will not be affected. 9. There are lines of trees along the waterways and hedgerows. If any clearance of scrub and trees is necessary it should take place outside of the nesting bird season (March to August inclusive) or the vegetation should be checked by an ecologist no more than three days prior to the works. If any active nests are found these should be left until the young have fledged.

10. The waterways that run between the proposed working areas (the River Lea and Cornmill stream) are known to contain both Otter and Water Vole however at this location the bank sides are canalised using sheet piling, rendering them unsuitable for Water Vole burrows or Otter holts. Planned works involve microtunnelling beneath the river and we therefore conclude that neither species will be affected.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of this Report ...... 1 1.2 Ecological Context ...... 1 1.3 Structure of the Report ...... 1 2 METHODS ...... 2 2.1 Background Data Search ...... 2 2.2 Ecological Constraints Survey ...... 3 2.3 Constraints ...... 3 3 RESULTS ...... 4 3.1 Background Data Search ...... 4 3.1.1 Biodiversity Action Plans ...... 4 3.1.2 Designated Sites ...... 4 3.1.3 Protected and Noteworthy Species ...... 7 3.2 Habitats ...... 9 3.2.1 Working Area 1 ...... 9 3.2.2 Working Area 2 ...... 9 3.2.3 Working Area 3 ...... 9 3.3 Protected Species ...... 10 3.3.1 Badgers ...... 10 3.3.2 Great Crested Newt ...... 10 3.3.3 Otter and Water Vole ...... 10 3.3.4 Bats ...... 10 3.3.5 Reptiles ...... 11 3.3.6 Hazel Dormice ...... 11 3.3.7 Nesting Birds ...... 11 3.3.8 Invertebrates ...... 11 3.3.9 West European Hedgehog ...... 11 4 EVALUATION AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 12 4.1 Designated Sites ...... 12 4.2 Habitats and Plant Species ...... 12 4.2.1 Habitats ...... 12 4.2.2 Plant Species ...... 13 4.3 Protected Animals ...... 13 4.3.1 Badgers ...... 13 4.3.2 Great Crested Newt ...... 13 4.3.3 Otter and Water Vole ...... 13 4.3.4 Bats ...... 14 4.3.5 Reptiles ...... 14 4.3.6 Hazel Dormice ...... 15 4.3.7 Nesting Birds ...... 15 4.3.8 Invertebrates ...... 15 4.3.9 West European Hedgehog ...... 15 5 FIGURES ...... 16 British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

TABLES Table 1. Data Sources...... 7 Table 2. Statutory sites within 2 km of the site boundary...... 9 Table 3. Non-statutory sites within 2 km of the site boundary...... 11 Table 4. Protected species records within 2 km of the site boundary...... 12 Table 5. Noteworthy species records within 2 km of the site boundary...... 25 Table 6. Glossary of abbreviations used in this report...... 32

FIGURES Figure 1. Site Location Plan ...... 18 Figure 2. Ecological Constraints Plan ...... 19 Figure 3. Location of Designated Sites in relation to proposed working areas ...... 20

APPENDICES APPENDIX 1 - NOTEWORTHY SPECIES...... 21 APPENDIX 2 - ABBREVIATIONS...... 28

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of this Report

This report provides the details of an ecological constraints survey carried out at Fisher’s Green in Cheshunt, Essex (Figure 1). The purpose of the survey was to determine the ecological value of the site and assess its potential for protected animal species and important habitats. This information is required to guide the proposed re- routing of a pipeline by BPA.

1.2 Ecological Context

The c. 2 ha proposed working area comprises three separate areas (Figure 2). Working area 1 comprises a car park and areas of tall ruderal herbs. Working area 2 comprises hard standing, a dry ditch with scrub and scattered broadleaved trees. Working area 3, the largest area (c 1.7 ha), is rough grassland and part of a ploughed arable field; Cornmill stream runs directly alongside it. The boundaries of the fields contain lines of trees, scrub and some defunct hedgerows. The site is bounded to the north by the Holyfield Fishery and to the east by the B194. The largest working area is part of larger fields (a mixture of semi-improved grassland and ploughed arable) which continue to the south. To the west there is a large complex of interconnected water bodies which form part of the Lee Valley Country Park.

1.3 Structure of the Report

The remainder of this report is structured as follows:  Section 2 describes the survey and assessment methods;  Section 3 presents the survey results;  Section 4 gives an evaluation of the results;  Section 5 provides the Figures;  Appendix 1 lists noteworthy species records within 2 km, and;  Appendix 2 lists abbreviations used in the report.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

2 METHODS

2.1 Background Data Search

A search was made in November 2016 for reference materials relating to the ecology of the pipeline crossing, and a list of sources is given in Table 1.

Table 1: Data Sources Information Obtained Available From Protected and Noteworthy Essex Wildlife Trust species-records Protected and Noteworthy Essex Field Club. Full results are given in Appendix 1. species-records Protected and Noteworthy Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre species-records Designated site locations and Natural England website citations Designated site locations and Essex Wildlife Trust citations Designated site locations and Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre citations Designated site information Visit Lee Valley website; http://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/en/content/cms/natu re/nature-reserve/river-lee-country-park/ Designated site information Essex County Council website Designations and legal Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) website protection of noteworthy species Details of species and Essex BAP website habitats listed on the LBAP http://essexbiodiversity.org.uk/biodiversity-action- plan

A search was made for information on statutory designated sites (often internationally and nationally important sites for ecology) and non-statutory designated sites (often important in a local context) within 2 km of the site boundary. A search was also made for records of noteworthy species within the same 2 km area. Species included in the search parameters are:  European protected species (listed on Schedules 2 and 5 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) Regulations 2012);  nationally protected species under Schedules 1, 5 and 8 of The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and The Protection of Badgers Act 1992;  species listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable on the IUCN 2001 Red List  all species listed on the RSPB Birds of Conservation Concern 4 as Red or Amber; British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

 Nationally Rare or Nationally Scarce species;  Notable invertebrates; and  species of Principal Importance under The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006) or are Priority Species under the Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

2.2 Ecological Constraints Survey

The survey involved a day-time walkover of the site to assess the nature conservation value of any habitats and evaluate the potential for protected species. The results from the Background Data Search were used as a basis for designing the scope of the survey; therefore particular attention was paid to areas adjacent to waterways, along with focus on the general habitats on the site for their potential to support Great Crested Newts, breeding birds and Badgers. No detailed surveys to confirm the presence /absence of any species were undertaken but incidental signs were noted The survey was carried out by Corin Simmonds with assistance from Lindsay Stronge on 7 December 2016. Corin is a Full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (MCIEEM) and is experienced in surveys of this type.

2.3 Constraints

It should be noted that habitat surveys carried out in late autumn or winter (October to March) are generally considered sub-optimal. They can usually describe habitat types adequately, but many plant species (including invasive species) may be unidentifiable or altogether died-away. The area of site present between the two rivers was inaccessible; however, as the proposed works will not directly affect this area, this is not considered to be a significant constraint.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

3 RESULTS

3.1 Background Data Search

3.1.1 Biodiversity Action Plans Under Section 41 of The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006, a total of 56 Habitats of Principal Importance (HoPI) are listed and 943 species. These habitats and species were previously referred to as UK BAP priorities.

The Essex LBAP lists 19 Habitat Action Plans and no Species Action Plans. Local Habitat Plans that are relevant to the proposed development are listed below.  Arable Field Margins  Hedgerows  Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland

3.1.2 Designated Sites

Statutory Sites There are six statutory designated sites within 2 km of the site boundary, comprising one Ramsar, one Special Protection Area (SPA), three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and one Country Park (CP). Some of the sites overlap or cover the same area. The sites are listed in Table 2 in order of proximity to the site; short descriptions are given for the sites. Table 2: Statutory Sites within 2 km of the Site Boundary

Site Name Designation Approximate Distance (m)

River Lee CP On site The River Lee CP covers a large area that has been transformed from old gravel pits and farmland. Habitats include woodland, hedges, wildflower meadows, farmland, marshy grassland, reedbeds, lakes and a section of the River Lee. The CP is important for birds; species include Barn Owl (Tyto alba), Gadwall (Anas strepera), Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris), Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos), Redshank (Tringa totanus), Shoveler (Anas clypeata), Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), Teal (Anas crecca) and Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella). The aquatic habitats are important for dragonflies, damselflies and Water Vole (Arvicola amphibious). The CP includes Lee Valley / Turnford & Cheshunt Pits Ramsar, SPA & SSSI, as described below. All of the site boundary and proposed pipeline route are within the CP. Lee Valley / Turnford & Cheshunt Pits Ramsar, SPA & SSSI Borders site The site is named as Lee Valley Ramsar and SPA and Turnford & Cheshunt Pits SSSI. The site includes ten former gravel pits and associated areas of marsh, grassland, ruderals, scrub, woodland and part of the River Lee. The pits support a rich and varied aquatic and marginal flora which includes the nationally scarce Myriophyllum verticillatum

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Site Name Designation Approximate Distance (m)

(Whorled Water Milfoil). Some of the former gravel pits were infilled with power station pulverised fuel ash which exerts a strong calcareous influence on the vegetation. These areas support large colonies of Dactylorhiza incarnata (Early Marsh-orchid) and D. praetermissa (Southern Marsh-orchid). The woodland around the lakes tends to be dominated by Alnus glutinosa (Alder) and Salix sp. (Willow) and there is also a large block of woodland to the west. The site is important for birds and supports internationally important numbers of wintering Gadwall and Shoveler. The site also supports important numbers of Coot (Fulica atra), Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), Great Bittern, Smew (Mergellus albellus), Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) and Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus). The site supports a range of invertebrates; species include Hairy Dragonfly (Brachytron pratense), Lesser Marsh Grasshopper (Chorthippus albomarginatus), Red-eyed Damselfly (Erythromma najas), Roesel's Bush-cricket (Metrioptera roeselii) and the musk beetle Aromia moschata. The site also supports a good range of mammals, reptiles and amphibians; including a large population of Grass Snake (Natrix natrix). The northern boundary of the western working area (to the west of the River Lee) borders the Ramsar, SPA & SSSI. SSSI Borders site Waltham Abbey SSSI is an area of Alnus glutinosa (Alder) woodland that was planted around 1700 and managed as coppice to provide charcoal for gunpowder manufacture. The canopy is dominated by Alnus glutinosa (Alder) with Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore), Fraxinus excelsior (Ash), Populus sp. (Poplar) and Salix fragilis (Crack- willow). The ground flora is dominated by Glechoma hederacea (Ground-ivy) and dioica (Common Nettle) with locally dominant Petasites hybridus (Butterbur). The woodland is important for birds and supports the largest heronry in Essex. Waltham Abbey SSSI borders the proposed pipeline to the south. Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea SSSI 840 Cornmill Stream and Old River Lea SSSI comprises freshwater habitats and rough grassland and has one of the most diverse invertebrate faunas in Essex. The slow- moving streams support a rich and varied aquatic and marginal flora such as Butomus umbellatus (Flowering-rush), Nuphar lutea (Yellow Water-lily), Potamogeton lucens (Shining Pondweed) and Schoenoplectus lacustris (Common Club-rush). The SSSI is particularly important for dragonflies, damselflies and molluscs, species of note include White-legged Damselfly (Platycnemis pennipes). The site also includes an area of rough grassland which provides feeding and breeding grounds for both invertebrates and birds.

SSSI Impact Risk Zones The site intersects SSSI Impact Risk Zones for the Turnford and Cheshunt Pits SSSI and Waltham Abbey SSSI. Natural England should be consulted for all planning applications, except householder applications.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Non-statutory Sites There are four non-statutory designated sites within 2 km of the site boundary, all of which are Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs). These sites are listed in Table 3 in order of proximity to the site; short descriptions are given for the sites.

Table 3: Non-Statutory Sites within 2 km of the Site Boundary

Site Name Designation Approximate Distance (m)

Lee Valley, South LWS On site Lee Valley South LWS is an extension of Turnford and Cheshunt Pits SSSI. The LWS is predominately wet woodland and scrub with areas of grassland, swamp, standing water and waterways. Tree and scrub species include Corylus avellana (Hazel), (Hawthorn), (Blackthorn), Salix sp. (Willow) and Sambucus nigra (Elder). There are a few glades of calcareous grassland within the wood and scrub. The River Lee and the channel south of Holyfield Weir exhibit a varied marginal and emergent flora. The site is important for birds and aquatic invertebrates; species include Bittern, Kingfisher and Water Rail. Otter and Water Vole have also been recorded on site. The site forms an important wildlife corridor. The proposed pipeline crosses Lee Valley South LWS as it crosses the River Lee. Galleyhill Wood Complex LWS 580 Galleyhill Wood Complex LWS comprises ancient woodland and wooded trackways. The majority of the ancient woodland is dominated by Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam) coppice with Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) and Quercus robur (Pedunculate Oak) and a very limited understorey and ground flora. There is a more diverse section of woodland to the north with a varied canopy and a ground flora with ancient woodland indicator species. The LWS also includes adjacent broad-leaved semi-natural woodland blocks and wooded trackways that form a connected corridor of semi-natural habitats. Thistly Marsh and Area W. of Cheshunt Marsh LWS 1,030 Thistly Marsh and Area W. of Cheshunt Marsh LWS has been designated as it is next to Turnford and Cheshunt Pits SSSI. Land N. and W. of Turnford and Cheshunt Pits LWS 1,160 Land N. and W. of Turnford and Cheshunt Pits LWS has been designated as it is next to Turnford and Cheshunt Pits SSSI.

Other Notable Sites There is one area of ancient woodland within 2 km of the site boundary, namely Galleyhill Wood. Galleyhill Wood is 1.16 km to the north-east of the site boundary.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

3.1.3 Protected and Noteworthy Species At least 237 noteworthy species are recorded from places within 2 km of the site boundary. Of these, 2 are amphibians, 115 are birds, 91 are invertebrates, 13 are plants, at least 14 are mammals and 2 are reptiles. Species that are protected by law under Schedules 2 and 5 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) Regulations 2012, The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 or The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and have been recorded in the search area are listed in the table below; a full species list is given in Appendix 1.

Table 4: Protected Species Records within 2 km of the Site Boundary

Latin Name Common Name Designation

hin

km

Most Recent Noof Records Wit 100m Within 1km Within 2

Amphibians Bufo bufo Common Toad WCA5 1998 4 Triturus cristatus Great Crested Newt EPS(Sch2), WCA5 1998 3 P P

Birds Accipiter gentilis Northern Goshawk WCA1.1 2014 1 P Alcedo atthis Kingfisher WCA1.1 2015 33 P Anas acuta Northern Pintail WCA1.2 2015 10 P Anas querquedula Garganey WCA1.1 2014 7 P Anser anser Greylag Goose WCA1.2 2015 60 P Aythya marila Greater Scaup WCA1.1 2014 2 P Botaurus stellaris Bittern WCA1.1 2015 62 P Bucephala clangula Goldeneye WCA1.2 2015 27 P Calidris pugnax Ruff WCA1.1 2011 1 P Cettia cetti Cetti's Warbler WCA1.1 2015 60 P Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover WCA1.1 2014 13 P Charadrius WCA1.1 P morinellus Eurasian Dotterel 2013 1 Chlidonias niger Black Tern WCA1.1 2011 1 P Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier WCA1.1 2013 4 P Circus cyaneus Hen Harrier WCA1.1 2013 2 P Cygnus WCA1.1 P columbianus Bewick's Swan 2013 5 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan WCA1.1 2014 2 P Falco columbarius Merlin WCA1.1 2013 2 P Falco peregrinus Peregrine WCA1.1 2015 14 P Falco subbuteo Hobby WCA1.1 2015 31 P Fringilla WCA1.1 P montifringilla Brambling 2015 3 Hydrocoloeus WCA1.1 P minutus Little Gull 2012 1 Larus WCA1.1 P melanocephalus Mediterranean Gull 2011 1

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Latin Name Common Name Designation

hin

km

Most Recent Noof Records Wit 100m Within 1km Within 2

Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit WCA1.1 2014 6 P Melanitta nigra Common Scoter WCA1.1 2003 1 Milvus milvus Red Kite WCA1.1 2015 22 P Numenius WCA1.1 P phaeopus Whimbrel 2013 2 Pandion haliaetus Osprey WCA1.1 2014 2 P Panurus biarmicus Bearded Tit WCA1.1 2013 3 P European Honey- WCA1.1 P Pernis apivorus buzzard 2014 3 Phoenicurus WCA1.1 P ochruros Black Redstart 2013 1 Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill WCA1.1 2014 2 P Podiceps auritus Horned Grebe WCA1.1 2013 1 P Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe WCA1.1 2014 8 P Recurvirostra WCA1.1 P avosetta Avocet 2014 3 Regulus ignicapilla Firecrest WCA1.1 2011 1 P Tringa nebularia Greenshank WCA1.1 2014 4 P Tringa ochropus Green Sandpiper WCA1.1 2014 10 P Turdus iliacus Redwing WCA1.1 2015 36 P Turdus pilaris Fieldfare WCA1.1 2015 37 P Tyto alba Barn Owl WCA1.1 2015 9

Invertebrates Apatura iris Purple Emperor WCA5 2014 1 P P Austropotamobius White-clawed

pallipes Freshwater Crayfish WCA5 1984 5 Lucanus cervus Stag Beetle WCA5 2011 39 P Nymphalis

polychloros Large Tortoiseshell WCA5 1995 2 Polyommatus

(Lysandra) coridon Chalk Hill Blue WCA5 2013 1 White-letter P Satyrium w-album Hairstreak WCA5 2015 35

Mammals Arvicola amphibius Water Vole WCA5 2015 70 Chiroptera a Bat EPS(Sch2) 2002 7 P Eptesicus serotinus Serotine EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 2 Lutra lutra European Otter EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2014 20 Meles meles Eurasian Badger BA 2011 5 Myotis daubentonii Daubenton's Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 5 Myotis nattereri Natterer's Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 1

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Latin Name Common Name Designation

hin

km

Most Recent Noof Records Wit 100m Within 1km Within 2

Nyctalus noctula Noctule Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 8 Nathusius's

Pipistrellus nathusii Pipistrelle EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2014 6 Pipistrellus

pipistrellus Common Pipistrelle EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 23 Pipistrellus

pygmaeus Soprano Pipistrelle EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2015 15 Pipistrellus sp. a Pipistrelle bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2010 3 Plecotus sp. a Long-eared bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 2012 1 Brown Long-eared

Plecotus auritus Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 1998 3

Plants Hyacinthoides non-

scripta Bluebell WCA8 2016 4

Reptiles Natrix natrix Grass Snake WCA5 2008 12 P Zootoca vivipara Common Lizard WCA5 1994 3

Note - P relates to records with 4 figure or tetrad grid references that could potentially be anywhere within a 1 km or 2 km square.

3.2 Habitats

3.2.1 Working Area 1 Working Area 1 is directly beside Hooksmarsh lake. There is a tarmac car park bordered by areas of ruderal vegetation such as Epilobium sp. (Willowherb species) and some mature trees including a Salix spp. (Willow) and Populus nigra (Black- poplar). There are stands of Cornus sanguinea (Dogwood) at the water’s edge.

3.2.2 Working Area 2 There is an area of compacted bare ground in use as an ad hoc car park in working area 2. There are more mature trees here and large Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) and Ilex aquifolium (Holly). A dry ditch line filled with leaf litter is present and a very large and split Salix spp. (Willow) tree lies along and across it.

3.2.3 Working Area 3 This is the largest area and comprises semi-improved grassland and part of a ploughed arable field. A defunct hedge divides the two. This hedge contains some trees such as Crataegus monogyna (Hawthorn) and scrub species such as Rubus fruticosus agg. (Bramble) but has numerous large gaps and is no longer structurally intact. The grassland has a short sward length and contains species such as Dactylis glomerata

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

(Cock’s-foot) Lolium perenne (Perennial Rye-grass) and Poa trivialis (Rough Meadow- grass). At the boundary with Crossmill stream there are some immature Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore) trees and an area of Cornus sanguinea (Dogwood).

3.3 Protected Species

3.3.1 Badgers There are two records of Badgers within 2 km of the site and a number of mammal paths, latrines and snuffle holes were noted during the survey. The remains of a Hedgehog showing signs of Badger predation were also found. The site appears to be in regular use by foraging Badgers but no Badger setts were found. One mammal hole was located beside Fisher’s Green Lane in area 2 but its size and shape were unsuitable for a Badger.

3.3.2 Great Crested Newt There are three records of Great Crested Newt within 2 km of the site with the most recent being in 1998. The records are only accurate to a tetrad and therefore could potentially be anywhere within this 2 km square. There are no suitable water bodies on site or within 500 m (the standard radius for Great Crested Newt waterbody to be considered relevant to a site). Those present are large lakes used by waterfowl or smaller commercial fishery ponds, neither of which are suitable for breeding Great Crested Newts. There are areas of rough grassland suitable for foraging newts and patches of scrub which may offer limited hibernation potential.

3.3.3 Otter and Water Vole There are recent records of Otter within 100 m (2014) and Water Vole within 1 km (2015). No Water Vole field signs were found on areas of the bank accessible to surveyors at the boundaries of the working areas. A mammal path leading from the River Lea under a fence to a fishery pond was found and is possibly the result of Otter activity. No other Otter field signs were found during the survey.

3.3.4 Bats There are numerous records of at least eight species of bats within 2 km; these include all three Pipistrellus species and larger species associated with woodland such as Noctule (Nyctalus noctula).

Foraging and commuting The site provides habitat suitable for foraging and commuting bats, primarily along the boundaries with water bodies and over the grassland. There are areas of scrub and lines of immature trees along Cornmill Stream and the River Lea which are likely to be used by foraging and commuting bats. There appears to be limited potential for light spill from residential properties along Fisher’s Green Lane.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Roosting There is one derelict and ivy-covered building between two of the work areas. This area was inaccessible and so the roosting potential of the structure is unknown. Although a complete ground-level tree assessment was not carried out, most trees on site appeared to be immature and did not contain features suitable for roosting bats. In working area 1 there is a large Salix spp. (Willow) at the water’s edge with split limbs, adjacent to working area 2 there is a large Salix spp. (Willow) tree along the dry ditch line with split limbs which could possibly have some roosting potential. There were also some mature trees along the field boundaries which could be suitable for roosting bats.

3.3.5 Reptiles There are 12 records of Grass Snake (Natrix natrix) within 1 km and areas of suitable habitat for foraging are present in the adjacent SSSI. The grassland in working area 3 is of limited suitability although patches of scrub along the field boundary may provide some opportunity for hibernating animals.

3.3.6 Hazel Dormice There are no records of Hazel Dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) within 2 km and no suitable habitat exists on site. It is therefore highly unlikely that Dormice would be present.

3.3.7 Nesting Birds Scrub and trees provide opportunities for nesting birds. Common species were heard and seen during the survey including Magpie (Pica pica), Blackbird (Turdus merula) and Robin (Erithacus rubecula). There are records of nine raptor species within 1 km and it is likely that the grassland and margins in working area 3 provide foraging habitat for many species, including raptors.

3.3.8 Invertebrates There are records of Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus) and White-letter hairstreak butterfly (Satyrium w-album) within 100 m of the site. Both are Species of Principal Importance and the White-letter hairstreak is an Endangered Red Data Book species. There are some areas of fallen or dead wood in areas directly adjacent to working area 2 which Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus) may use. White-letter hairstreaks rely on Ulmus spp. (Elm) trees although none were noted in the proposed working areas during the survey.

3.3.9 West European Hedgehog The remains of a Hedgehog predated by a Badger were found on site during the survey. Areas of tall ruderal herbs and grassland provide suitable foraging habitat as well as opportunities for nesting.

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

4 EVALUATION AND CONCLUSIONS

4.1 Designated Sites

The proposed working areas are outside of the adjacent SSSI and works should be completed within four months. The pipeline will be routed under the waterways to reduce potential effects. Pollution control measures and Environment Agency protocols should be followed to ensure that no silt or other substances enters any of the adjacent water bodies during works. Storage of materials and vehicles should only be on existing hard standing or appropriate areas of the constructed compound. Details of how the SSSI will be protected will be discussed and agreed with Natural England.

4.2 Habitats and Plant Species

4.2.1 Habitats The majority of habitats present on the proposed working areas are common and ubiquitous in lowland Britain and are likely to contain only common and widespread plant species.

4.2.1.1 Working Area 1 The majority of this area is already hard standing. Tall ruderal vegetation and trees are only present outside of the fenced areas beside the lake shore/ river banks and should be unaffected by works.

4.2.1.2 Working Area 2 A large part of this area is compacted bare ground. There is a small area of woodland which begins on the other side of the fence and continues around the fishery lakes. A dry ditch line filled with leaf litter is directly beside working area 2 and a very large and split Salix spp. (Willow) tree lies along and across it. Works should be limited to areas of bare ground and tree removal should be avoided but if any trees are removed they should first be assessed by an ecologist.

4.2.1.3 Working Area 3 The grassland appears to be semi-improved with common and ubiquitous species. The proposed compound, temporary car park and haul road will involve stripping the top soil. The removed top soil should be stored and replaced following completion of the works so the grassland can naturally regenerate. There is a defunct hedgerow and ditch dividing the grassland from the arable field. It is not structurally intact and is of limited ecological value. Small areas of this defunct hedge may be removed to construct the temporary haul road but tree felling should be avoided and the width of the haul road should be limited to avoid excessive removal. Arable field margins are subject to a local Habitat Action Plan. As this survey was conducted at a suboptimal time of year and we do not know the existing management regime we were unable to assess if the margins in this field meet the criteria for this British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

habitat type. As a precautionary measure we suggest that the temporary haul road is positioned at least 3 m from the base of the boundary hedge to avoid disturbing marginal areas.

4.2.2 Plant Species No rare, protected or non-native invasive species were recorded. However, it should be noted that the survey was conducted at a suboptimal time of year. Invasive species are unlikely to be present in the grassland and arable areas. Invasive species such as Impatiens glandulifera (Indian Balsam) are more likely to be present along the watercourses however as the works will avoid disturbing these areas (drill pits will be in the grassland and car parks) the potential effects are limited. The proposed works involve the temporary removal of top soil in working area 3; however this area will be restored following completion of works so the impacts are limited.

4.3 Protected Animals

4.3.1 Badgers Badgers are protected from injuring and killing and damage or disturbance to their setts by UK law. The proposed works will not directly affect Badgers and no setts were found at the time of survey. Most of the working area is used by foraging Badgers, but the proposed works will only result in a temporary removal of this grassland. Therefore this should not affect Badgers, especially given the availability of other suitable foraging and sett buildings habitat in the local area. As a precaution any excavations associated with the works should be covered overnight or fenced off to prevent animals falling in. If this is not possible then a ramp should be left in place so that they can escape if necessary.

4.3.2 Great Crested Newt Great Crested Newts are protected from deliberate killing, injuring or disturbance. Their resting places and breeding ponds are protected from damage under both UK and EU law. There are no ponds in the three working areas and any water bodies within 500 m are considered to be unsuitable for Great Crested Newt due to their size or use (for example – many are owned by Holyfield commercial fishery). Although there is some habitat within or adjacent to the proposed working areas that is suitable for foraging and hibernating newts, the lack of suitable water bodies make it unlikely that Great Crested Newts are present. No further action is required.

4.3.3 Otter and Water Vole Otters are protected under UK and EU law from killing or injuring and disturbance in their places of rest. It is an offence to damage, destroy or block access to their places of rest. Water voles receive the same protection, under UK law only. Both Otter and Water Vole are known to be present on Cornmill Stream and in the River Lea. At the time of survey no evidence of Water Vole burrows or Otter holts were found at the banks of the watercourses where works are planned. The river banks in these areas are constructed from sheet piling and are heavily canalised rendering them unsuitable for burrows and holts. It is possible that Water Vole and Otter are present in these rivers when foraging or commuting but as the works proposed involve microtunnelling at a distance of 4 m

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under the river there should be no impact upon these species. The eastern drill pit will be c. 15 m from Cornhill stream and the western drill pit will be c. 8 m from the River Lea; both far enough away from the watercourse banks to avoid impacting riparian species if they were present. Otter may travel over the land in all three working areas therefore as a precaution any excavations associated with the works should be covered overnight or fenced off to prevent animals falling in. If this is not possible then a ramp should be left in place so that they can escape if necessary.

4.3.4 Bats Bats are protected from killing, injuring and capture under UK and EU law. Additionally their roosting places are protected from damage and destruction and it is an offence to block access to these roosting places or to intentionally or recklessly disturb bats whilst they are in them.

Foraging and commuting There is habitat suitable for foraging and commuting bats. However, proposed works should not affect these as large areas of habitat will not be removed. The majority of works will occur during the day, except when the construction of the crossing beneath the River Lea begins. At this point continuous, 24 hour working will be employed. Lights in the working areas should not be left on overnight and when 24 hour working is employed lights should only illuminate areas necessary for working. Unnecessary illumination of the surrounding lakes and linear features such as hedgerows and lines of trees should be avoided to prevent disturbance to bats.

Roosting Although the roosting potential of the building in between working areas 1 and 3 is unknown it will not be affected by works as this area of land will be tunnelled under. Although a complete ground-level tree assessment was not carried out, most trees on site were not suitable for roosting bats. If any trees are removed as part of the works they should first be assessed by an ecologist for their potential to support roosting bats.

4.3.5 Reptiles Common reptile species are protected under UK law from killing, injuring and trade. There are some areas of habitat suitable for foraging reptiles and some habitat suitable for hibernation. This primarily occurs at the marginal areas of working areas 2 and 3. The adjacent waterbodies in the SSSI and fishery would provide excellent habitat for Grass snakes. It is possible that hibernating reptiles may be present in areas of ground or log piles/leaf litter that may be disturbed as part of works. As a precautionary measure we suggest that any areas of vegetation/ leaf litter / log piles to be removed or disturbed during works are hand searched by an ecologist immediately beforehand. A toolbox talk should also be delivered to contractors.

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4.3.6 Hazel Dormice The habitats present on site are unsuitable for dormice, their presence is highly unlikely and therefore no further action is required.

4.3.7 Nesting Birds Whilst many individual bird species have special protections, all wild birds’ nests (regardless of species) are protected by British law from damage, destruction or disturbance when the nest is active, which includes when it is being built. There is habitat suitable for nesting birds throughout the site. Removal of scrub or trees should only take place outside of the bird breeding season (March to August inclusive). If clearance works need to be carried out during the bird breeding season, the site should be checked by an ecologist, and any nests in use should be left undisturbed until the young have fledged.

4.3.8 Invertebrates Stag beetles and White Letter Hairstreak butterflies are Species of Principal Concern and are therefore a material consideration in the planning process. Efforts should be made to minimise impacts upon these species or to provide enhancements. There are some areas of fallen or dead wood near the dry ditch (adjacent to working area 2) which Stag Beetle may use. These should not be removed or disturbed of as the larvae may be present. White-letter hairstreaks rely on Ulmus spp. (Elm) trees although none were noted in the working areas at the time of survey and therefore the works should not affect the species. If any trees are removed as part of the works they should first be assessed by an ecologist.

4.3.9 West European Hedgehog Hedgehogs are listed as a Species of Principal Importance in England under The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006). Suitable Hedgehog refuge areas (e.g. piles of leaf litter and log piles) should be checked prior to clearing to ensure that no Hedgehogs are killed or injured in the process. Following a toolbox talk on the species, checks can be made by the contractors carrying out the works and if any hedgehogs are found works should stop in that area and the animal(s) left to disperse on their own accord. Hedgehogs have poor eyesight, meaning they often fall into holes and get stuck. As a precaution any excavations associated with the works should be covered overnight or fenced off to prevent animals falling in. If this is not possible then a ramp should be left in place so that they can escape if necessary.

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5 FIGURES

Figure 1 – Site Location Plan Figure 2 – Ecological Constraints Plan Figure 3 – Location of Designated Sites in relation to proposed working areas

British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

APPENDIX 1 – NOTEWORTHY SPECIES RECORDS

Table 5 displays noteworthy species records that are located within 2 km of the site boundary. These species records were obtained from Essex Wildlife Trust, the Essex Field Club and Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre. The Latin and common names for species are given as well as their level of designation. A glossary defining abbreviations used in the table is given in Table 6, Appendix 2. If a species is not included in the table below it does not necessarily mean the species is absent from the search area, but rather that data-holding organizations do not have records of it in these locations. Table 5: Noteworthy Species Records within 2 km of the Site Boundary

Latin Name Common Name Designation Amphibians Bufo bufo Common Toad WCA5, S41 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Triturus cristatus Great Crested Newt S41

Birds Acanthis cabaret Lesser Redpoll S41, Red Accipiter gentilis Northern Goshawk WCA1.1, S41, Red Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Amber Alauda arvensis Skylark S41, Red Alcedo atthis Kingfisher WCA1.1, Amber Anas acuta Northern Pintail WCA1.2, Amber Anas clypeata Shoveler Amber Anas crecca Teal Amber Anas penelope Wigeon Amber Anas platyrhynchos Mallard Amber Anas querquedula Garganey WCA1.1, Amber Anas strepera Gadwall Amber Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose S41, Red Anser anser Greylag Goose WCA1.2, Amber Anser brachyrhynchus Pink-footed Goose Amber Anthus pratensis Meadow Pipit Amber Apus apus Swift Amber Asio flammeus Short-eared Owl Amber Aythya ferina Pochard Red Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck Amber Aythya marila Greater Scaup WCA1.1, S41, Red Botaurus stellaris Bittern WCA1.1, S41, Amber Branta bernicla Brent Goose Amber British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Latin Name Common Name Designation Branta bernicla subsp. bernicla Dark-bellied Brent Goose S41, Red Bucephala clangula Goldeneye WCA1.2, Amber Calidris alpina Dunlin Amber Calidris pugnax Ruff WCA1.1, Red Cettia cetti Cetti's Warbler WCA1.1 Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover WCA1.1 Charadrius hiaticula Common Ringed Plover Red Charadrius morinellus Eurasian Dotterel WCA1.1, Red Chlidonias niger Black Tern WCA1.1, Amber Chroicocephalus ridibundus Black-headed Gull Amber Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier WCA1.1, Amber Circus cyaneus Hen Harrier WCA1.1, S41, Red Coccothraustes coccothraustes Hawfinch S41, Red Columba oenas Stock Dove Amber Cuculus canorus Cuckoo S41, Red Cygnus columbianus Bewick's Swan WCA1.1, Amber Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan WCA1.1, Amber Cygnus olor Mute Swan Amber Delichon urbicum House Martin Amber Lesser Spotted Dendrocopos minor Woodpecker S41, Red Egretta garzetta Little Egret Amber Emberiza citrinella Yellowhammer S41, Red Emberiza schoeniclus Reed Bunting S41, Amber Falco columbarius Merlin WCA1.1, Red Falco peregrinus Peregrine WCA1.1 Falco subbuteo Hobby WCA1.1 Falco tinnunculus Kestrel Amber Fringilla montifringilla Brambling WCA1.1 Gallinago gallinago Snipe Amber Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher Amber Hirundo rustica Swallow Amber Hydrocoloeus minutus Little Gull WCA1.1, Amber Larus argentatus Herring Gull S41, Red Larus canus Common Gull Amber Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull Amber Larus marinus Great Black-backed Gull Amber Larus melanocephalus Mediterranean Gull WCA1.1, Amber Larus michahellis Yellow-legged Gull Amber Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit Amber Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit WCA1.1, Red Linaria cannabina Linnet S41, Red Locustella naevia Grasshopper Warbler S41, Red Luscinia megarhynchos Nightingale Red Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe Amber British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Latin Name Common Name Designation Melanitta nigra Common Scoter WCA1.1, S41, Red Mergellus albellus Smew Amber Milvus milvus Red Kite WCA1.1, Amber Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail Red Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail S41, Red Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher S41, Red Numenius arquata Curlew S41, Red Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel WCA1.1, Red Oenanthe oenanthe Wheatear Amber Pandion haliaetus Osprey WCA1.1, Amber Panurus biarmicus Bearded Tit WCA1.1, Amber Passer domesticus House Sparrow S41, Red Passer montanus Eurasian Tree Sparrow S41, Red Pernis apivorus European Honey-buzzard WCA1.1, Amber Phoenicurus ochruros Black Redstart WCA1.1, Red Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart Amber Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler Amber Picus viridis Green Woodpecker Amber Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill WCA1.1, Amber Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover Amber Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover Amber Podiceps auritus Horned Grebe WCA1.1, Red Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe WCA1.1, Amber Prunella modularis Dunnock S41, Amber Pyrrhula pyrrhula Bullfinch S41, Amber Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet WCA1.1, Amber Regulus ignicapilla Firecrest WCA1.1, Amber Riparia riparia Sand Martin Amber Scolopax rusticola Eurasian Woodcock Red Sterna hirundo Common Tern Amber Sterna paradisaea Arctic Tern Amber Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern Amber Streptopelia turtur Turtle Dove S41, Red Strix aluco Tawny Owl Amber Sturnus vulgaris Starling S41, Red Sylvia communis Whitethroat Amber Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe Amber Tadorna tadorna Common Shelduck Amber Tringa nebularia Greenshank WCA1.1, Amber Tringa ochropus Green Sandpiper WCA1.1, Amber Tringa totanus Common Redshank Amber Turdus iliacus Redwing WCA1.1, Red Turdus philomelos Song Thrush S41, Red Turdus pilaris Fieldfare WCA1.1, Red

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Latin Name Common Name Designation Turdus torquatus Ring Ouzel S41, Red Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush Red Tyto alba Barn Owl WCA1.1, Amber Vanellus vanellus Lapwing S41, Red

Invertebrates Acronicta psi Grey Dagger S41 Acronicta rumicis Knot Grass S41 Adscita statices Forester S41 Agonopterix capreolella Fuscous Flat-body S41 Agrochola helvola Flounced Chestnut S41 Agrochola litura Brown-spot Pinion S41 Agrochola lychnidis Beaded Chestnut S41 Allophyes oxyacanthae Green-brindled Crescent S41 Amphipoea oculea Ear S41 Amphipyra tragopoginis Mouse Moth S41 Anagnota bicolor Anagnota bicolor Notable Andrena varians a mining bee Notable:B Apamea anceps Large Nutmeg S41 Apamea remissa Dusky Brocade S41 Apatura iris Purple Emperor WCA5 Aporophyla lutulenta Deep-brown Dart S41 Arctia caja Garden Tiger S41 Asteroscopus sphinx Sprawler S41 Atethmia centrago Centre-barred Sallow S41 White-clawed Freshwater Austropotamobius pallipes Crayfish WCA5, S41 Blepharita adusta Dark Brocade S41 Brachylomia viminalis Minor Shoulder-knot S41 Calamotropha paludella Bulrush Veneer Notable:B Caradrina morpheus Mottled Rustic S41 Chiasmia clathrata Latticed Heath S41 Coenonympha pamphilus Small Heath S41 Cosmia diffinis White-spotted Pinion S41 Cossus cossus Goat Moth S41 Diarsia rubi Small Square-spot S41 Diloba caeruleocephala Figure of Eight S41 Dioxyna bidentis Dioxyna bidentis Notable Dytiscus circumcinctus Dytiscus circumcinctus NS Ecliptopera silaceata Small Phoenix S41 Ennomos erosaria September Thorn S41 Ennomos fuscantaria Dusky Thorn S41 Ennomos quercinaria August Thorn S41 Eulithis mellinata Spinach S41 Euxoa nigricans Garden Dart S41 British Pipeline Agency Fishers Green – Ecological Constraints Survey Report 856794 – 1 (00)

Latin Name Common Name Designation Graphiphora augur Double Dart S41 Gyraulus acronicus Thames Ram's-horn S41 Hemistola chrysoprasaria Small Emerald S41 Hepialus humuli Ghost Moth S41 Hoplodrina blanda Rustic S41 Hydraecia micacea Rosy Rustic S41 Hydrochus angustatus Hydrochus angustatus NS Lampronia capitella Currant Shoot Borer S41 Lasiommata megera Wall S41 Limenitis camilla White Admiral S41, GB RDB(VU) Lucanus cervus Stag Beetle WCA5, S41, Notable:B Lycia hirtaria Brindled Beauty S41 Macaria wauaria V-moth S41 Malachius aeneus Scarlet Malachite Beetle S41 Malacosoma neustria Lackey S41 Melanchra persicariae Dot Moth S41 Melanchra pisi Broom Moth S41 Mesoligia literosa Rosy Minor S41 Mythimna comma Shoulder-striped Wainscot S41 Nephopterix angustella Spindle Knot-horn Notable:B Nymphalis polychloros Large Tortoiseshell WCA5 Orthonama vittata Oblique Carpet S41 Orthosia gracilis Powdered Quaker S41 Pelurga comitata Dark Spinach S41 Pexicopia malvella Hollyhock Seed Moth Notable:B Phyllotreta cruciferae Phyllotreta cruciferae Notable:B Phyllotreta vittula Phyllotreta vittula Notable:A subcinerea Mallow Groundling Notable Polyommatus (Lysandra) coridon Chalk Hill Blue WCA5 Pyrgus malvae Grizzled Skipper S41, GB RDB(VU) Black-headed Cardinal Pyrochroa coccinea Beetle Notable:B nanella Brindled Groundling Notable:B Rhizedra lutosa Large Wainscot S41 WCA5, S41, GB Satyrium w-album White-letter Hairstreak RDB(EN) Scopula marginepunctata Mullein Wave S41 Scotopteryx chenopodiata Shaded Broad-bar S41 Segmentina nitida Shining Ram's-horn S41 Siphonella oscinina Siphonella oscinina Notable Sitochroa palealis a moth Notable Sphaerium solidum Sphaerium solidum S41 Spilosoma lubricipeda White Ermine S41 Spilosoma luteum Buff Ermine S41

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Latin Name Common Name Designation Stenus butrintensis Stenus butrintensis Notable Stratiomys potamida Stratiomys potamida Notable Tholera cespitis Hedge Rustic S41 Tholera decimalis Feathered Gothic S41 Timandra comae Blood-Vein S41 Trichiura crataegi Pale Eggar S41 Tyria jacobaeae Cinnabar S41 Watsonalla binaria Oak Hook-tip S41 Xanthia gilvago Dusky-lemon Sallow S41 Xanthia icteritia Sallow S41 Dark-barred Twin-spot Xanthorhoe ferrugata Carpet S41

Mammals Arvicola amphibius European Water Vole WCA5, S41 Chiroptera a Bat EPS(Sch2) Dama dama Fallow Deer DA Eptesicus serotinus Serotine EPS(Sch2), WCA5 Erinaceus europaeus Western Hedgehog S41 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Lutra lutra European Otter S41 Meles meles Eurasian Badger BA Micromys minutus Harvest Mouse S41 Myotis daubentonii Daubenton's Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 Myotis nattereri Natterer's Bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Nyctalus noctula Noctule Bat S41 Pipistrellus nathusii Nathusius's Pipistrelle EPS(Sch2), WCA5 Pipistrellus pipistrellus Common Pipistrelle EPS(Sch2), WCA5 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Pipistrellus pygmaeus Soprano Pipistrelle S41 Pipistrellus sp. a Pipistrelle bat EPS(Sch2), WCA5 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Plecotus sp. a Long-eared bat S41 EPS(Sch2), WCA5, Plecotus auritus Brown Long-eared Bat S41

Plants Catabrosa aquatica Whorl-grass ENG BSBI RDB(VU) Cyperus longus Galingale NS Euphorbia exigua Dwarf Spurge ENG BSBI RDB(VU) Hyacinthoides non-scripta Bluebell WCA8 GB RDB(VU), ENG Hydrocharis morsus-ranae Frogbit BSBI RDB(VU) GB RDB(VU), ENG Lathyrus aphaca Yellow Vetchling BSBI RDB(VU), NS

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Latin Name Common Name Designation Medlar NS Nymphoides peltata Fringed Water-lily NS Onobrychis viciifolia Sainfoin ENG BSBI RDB(VU) ENG BSBI RDB(VU), Potamogeton friesii Flat-stalked Pondweed NS GB RDB(VU), ENG Spergula arvensis Corn Spurrey BSBI RDB(VU) Syntrichia virescens Lesser Screw-moss NS Trifolium fragiferum Strawberry Clover ENG BSBI RDB(VU)

Reptiles Natrix natrix Grass Snake WCA5, S41 Zootoca vivipara Common Lizard WCA5, S41

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APPENDIX 2 - ABBREVIATIONS

Table 6 displays abbreviations of protected species legislation.

Table 6. Glossary of abbreviations used in this report

Code Full Title Explanation Amber Amber list Amber listed species have a population status in the UK of medium conservation concern. BA The Protection of Legislation making it an offence to kill, injure or Badgers Act 1992 take a Badger, or to damage or interfere with a sett unless a licence is obtained from a statutory authority. BAP Biodiversity Action A plan that identifies threats to significantly Plan important species and habitats, and sets out targets and actions to enhance or maintain biodiversity. DA The Deer Act 1991 All wild deer with the exception of Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi) and Chinese Water deer (Hydropotes inermis) are protected by a closed season. ENG BSBI A Vascular Plant Red A list published in 2014 by the Botanical Society RDB List for England of Britain and Ireland of the red list status of plants in England. Measured against standardised IUCN criteria. ENG BSBI Critically Endangered A BSBI Red List designation for species at an RDB(CR) extremely high risk of extinction. ENG BSBI Endangered A BSBI Red List designation for species at a very RDB(EN) high risk of extinction. ENG BSBI Vulnerable A BSBI Red List designation for species at high RDB(VU) risk of extinction. EPS (Sch 2) European Protected European protected animal species (listed on Species (Schedule 2) Schedules 2 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) Regulations 2012)

EPS (Sch 5) European Protected European protected plant species (listed on Species (Schedule 5) Schedules 5 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) Regulations 2012) GB RDB Red Data Book Species identified in one of the UK Red Data Species 2001. GB RDB(CR) Critically Endangered An IUCN Red List designation for species at an extremely high risk of extinction. GB RDB(EN) Endangered An IUCN Red List designation for species at a very high risk of extinction. GB RDB(VU) Vulnerable An IUCN Red List designation for species at high risk of extinction.

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Code Full Title Explanation HAP Habitat Action Plan A plan that identifies threats to a priority habitat and sets out targets and actions to enhance or maintain that habitat. IUCN International Union A worldwide partnership and conservation for Conservation of network to influence, encourage and assist Nature and Natural societies throughout the world to conserve the Resources (also integrity and diversity of nature and to ensure known as The World that any use of natural resources is equitable and Conservation Union) ecologically sustainable. LBAP Local Biodiversity A plan that identifies threats to locally important Action Plan species and habitats, and sets out targets and actions in Species Action Plans and Habitat Action Plans to enhance or maintain biodiversity at the county or regional level. LHAP Local Habitat Action A plan that identifies threats to a locally important Plan priority habitat and sets out targets and actions to enhance or maintain that habitat. LSAP Local Species Action A plan that identifies threats to locally important Plan species, and sets out targets and actions to prevent losing that species from the local area. Notable Scarce and Invertebrate species which are estimated to threatened occur within the range of 16 to 100 10km squares invertebrates but subdivision into Notable A and Notable B categories is not possible as there is insufficient information available). Notable:A Scarce and Taxa which do not fall within Red Data Book threatened categories but which are none-the-less invertebrates uncommon in Great Britain and thought to occur in 30 or fewer 10km squares of the National Grid or, for less well-recorded groups, within seven or fewer vice-counties.

Notable: B Scarce and Taxa which do not fall within Red Data Book threatened categories but which are none-the-less invertebrates uncommon in Great Britain and thought to occur in between 31 and 100 10km squares of the National Grid or, for less-well recorded groups between eight and twenty vice-counties. NN Nationally Notable Designation for invertebrate taxa that are thought to be notably important in the UK. NR Nationally Rare Species in 15 or fewer hectads in Great Britain. NS National Scarce Species in 16-100 hectads in Great Britain. Red Red List Red listed species have a population status in the UK with high conservation concern. SAP Species Action Plan A plan that identifies threats to significantly important species, and sets out targets and actions to prevent losing that species to extinction.

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Code Full Title Explanation S41 Species of Principal Species of Principal Importance in England under Importance The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006) UKBAP UK Biodiversity A plan that identifies threats to locally important Action Plan species and habitats, and sets out targets and actions in Species Action Plans and Habitat Action Plans to enhance or maintain biodiversity in the UK. WCA The Wildlife and Containing 4 Parts and 17 Schedules, the Act Countryside Act covers protection of wildlife (birds, and some 1981 (as amended) animals and plants), the countryside, National Parks, and the designation of protected areas, and public rights of way. All wild plants in Britain are protected from intentional uprooting by an unauthorized person, but land owners, land occupiers, persons authorized by either of these or persons authorized in writing by the Local Authority for the area are exempt. Protection for some species may be limited to certain Sections of the Act (e.g. S13(2). WCA1 Schedule 1 of The This Schedule lists birds protected by special Wildlife and penalties at all times, but virtually all wild birds Countryside Act have some protection in law. 1981 (as amended) Acts which are prohibited for all wild birds (except derogated ‘pest’ species) include intentional killing, injuring or taking; taking, damaging or destroying nests in use or being built; taking or destroying eggs; possessing or having control of (with certain exceptions but including live for dead birds, parts or derivative); setting or permitting certain traps, weapons, decoys or poisons. Selling, offering or exposing for sale, possessing or transporting for sale any live wild bird, egg or part of an egg or advertising any of these for sale, or dead wild bird including parts or derivatives are also prohibited. Many birds must be formally registered and ringed if kept in captivity. Schedule I WCA birds are additionally protected from intentional or reckless disturbance while building a nest, or when such a bird is in, on or near a nest containing eggs or young, or intentional or reckless disturbance of dependent young.

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Code Full Title Explanation WCA5 Schedule 5 of The Schedule 5 animals are protected from Wildlife and intentional killing, injuring or taking; possessing Countryside Act (including parts or derivatives); intentional or 1981 (as amended) reckless damage, destruction or obstruction of any structure or place used for shelter or protection; selling, offering or exposing for sale, possessing or transporting for the purpose of sale (alive or dead, including parts or derivatives). Protection of some species is limited to certain Sections of the Act (e.g. S9(1), S9(4a), S9(4b), S9(5)). WCA8 Schedule 8 of The Plants and fungi protected from intentional Wildlife and picking, uprooting, destroying, trading (including Countryside Act parts or derivatives), etc. 1981 (as amended)

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