LAND AT PORTISHEAD Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

for

Aston and Co UK Ltd

September 2017

01 August 2017

© The Landmark Practice 2017

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NH/ACIEEM RP/MCIEEM BR/MCIEEM GM CEnv D01 13/07/2017 23/08/2017 23/08/2017 24/08/2017

02 NH/ACIEEM RP/MCIEEM GM/MCIEEM GM/MCIEEM 08/09/2017 10/09/2017 15/09/2017 15/09/2017

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Purpose of Report The purpose of this report is to identify the ecological constraints and opportunities presented by a site near to Portishead, North Somerset in order to assess its potential to accommodate residential development and its capacity to deliver future housing needs.

Methodology A desktop study was undertaken to inform the presence of designated sites and existing biological records within the context of the site. An Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey of the site was conducted in July 2017. The survey area covered everything within the redline boundary. For bats, consideration was also given to adjacent properties, and for GCN ponds within 500m. The results of both the desktop study and the Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey were considered in the context of the site’s suitability, and capacity, to accommodate residential development. Constraints and opportunities were identified and discussed in this context.

Key Constraints  Site lies directly adjacent to Weston Big Wood SSSI, with a number of other statutory and non-statutory sites in proximity.  Known hibernation roost for Annex II species (greater and lesser horseshoe bats) within c. 20m of site boundary.  The hedgerows, particularly the established features, are likely to function (at least in part) as wildlife corridors between the site and the wider countryside.  A range for protected and/or notable species are likely to be present on the site. Features of greatest interest to these species are the trees, hedgerows, woodland and small areas of rough grassland habitat. None of these species are, however, likely to be represented to a degree that would preclude development of the site or significantly limit the site’s residential capacity.  An Ecological Constraints & Opportunities Plan (ECOP) has been prepared (Figure 4 refers) to inform site masterplanning.

Opportunities  Potential to retain and enhance existing features of ecological interest (hedgerows, mature trees and woodland) to deliver biodiversity gain.  Deliver ecological gain: by implementation of a sensitive habitat management regime designed with the principle of enhancing biodiversity.  Opportunities for integrating wildlife features within the development: including bat roosting and bird nesting features, sensitive lighting, native landscape planting and embedding Green Infrastructure within the masterplan.

Conclusion Subject to intelligent scheme design, including retention of features of greatest ecological interest, future development of the site can be achieved without significant negative ecological impact. The potential presence of any European Protected Species or notable species is highly unlikely to preclude or significantly limit the capacity of the site to deliver future housing needs A suite of Phase II ecological surveys are recommended to comprehensively inform detailed scheme design. A robust Ecological Impact Assessment will be required to support a planning application for the site.

Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

CONTENTS

Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 Site Location and Context ...... 1 Scope of Assessment ...... 1 2.0 LEGAL AND PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 2 Legal Context ...... 2 Planning Context ...... 2 3.0 METHODS ...... 4 Desk Study ...... 4 Field Survey ...... 5 4.0 RESULTS ...... 5 Designated Sites ...... 5 Habitats ...... 8 Species ...... 9 5.0 ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... 10 Designated Sites ...... 10 Habitats ...... 12 Species ...... 17 6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 23 Recommendations for Further Survey ...... 24

FIGURES

FIGURE 1: SITE LOCATION PLAN FIGURE 2: EXTENDED PHASE 1 HABITAT MAP FIGURE 3: ECOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES PLAN (ECOP)

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: LEGAL CONTEXT APPENDIX B: EVALUATION TECHNIQUES – ASSIGNING VALUES APPENDIX C: SURVEY PHOTOGRAPHS APPENDIX D: TARGET NOTES

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Landmark Practice (TLP) is an award winning multi-disciplinary consultancy offering bespoke and integrated services in environmental planning, landscape architecture, ecology and architectural graphics. We are independent and respected, working on a large range of development projects for our clients throughout the UK and abroad. Full details of the practice can be found at http://thelandmarkpractice.com/.

1.2 TLP was commissioned by Aston and Co UK Ltd in July 2017 to complete an Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey of Land at Portishead, North Somerset, hereafter referred to as the ‘site’. This Ecological Constraints and Opportunities report describes the current ecological interest within and around the site which has been identified through standard desk and field-based investigations. This report then goes on to set out the potential ecological constraints and opportunities in the context of future residential development of Land at Portishead.

Site Location and Context 1.3 The site, which measures 7.65 ha, is located to the south west of Portishead (approximate central site grid reference ST 45851 74734, Figure 1 refers). The local planning authority is North Somerset District Council (NSDC). The site lies northeast of Weston in Gordano and immediately northwest of the B3124 Clevedon Road. Weston Big Wood, the Old Black Rock Quarry and the remains of the railway infrastructure which connected the Quarry to Portishead Docks, lie to the northwest of the site. The site comprises a large arable field and fields comprising the former Clevedon Road Nurseries.

1.4 The site is being promoted by Aston and Co UK Ltd through the West of England Joint Strategic Partnership (JSP Emerging Spatial Strategy, November 2016). This site was also submitted during the Council's 2017 'call for sites' in February 2017 (NSDC planning team verified on 2 June 2017 that the site would be considered as part of the Housing and Economic Land Assessment and Availability (HELAA) review and the consultations for the replacement local plan) and by engagement in the examination of the Site Allocations Plan under the extant Local Plan. The site lies outside of the flood zone and the case is made that the Green Belt should be lifted.

1.5 The ecological sensitivities of the site will necessarily influence the emerging development framework for the site through an iterative design process. It is therefore anticipated that any emerging proposals will incorporate a degree of ‘inherent’ mitigation designed specifically to avoid or reduce the severity of any potential ecological impacts identified through the assessment process.

Scope of Assessment 1.6 This report sets out the findings of a detailed desk study and Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey undertaken by TLP during July 2017 in order to investigate potential for actual or inferred ecological constraints in light of potential future residential development.

1.7 The aims of this report are to:

• Determine the main habitat types within and immediately adjacent to the boundary of the site; • Identify any actual or potential habitat or species constraints which may remain pertinent to future development proposals;

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• Detail any potential avoidance, mitigation and compensation measures where necessary; and • Identify potential opportunities to enhance and add to the biodiversity resource within the site in line with local and national planning policy.

2.0 LEGAL AND PLANNING CONTEXT

Legal Context 2.1 A range of habitats and species that may actually or potentially be present at the site are afforded legal protection under domestic and European legislation (Appendix A refers).

Planning Context National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2.2 The NPPF advises that when determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying the following principles:

• ‘if significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused; • proposed development on land within or outside a Site of Special Scientific Interest likely to have an adverse effect on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (either individually or in combination with other developments) should not normally be permitted unless the benefits of the development clearly outweigh both the impacts that it is likely to have on the features of the site and any broader impacts on the national network of Sites of Special Scientific Interest; • development proposals where the primary objective is to conserve or enhance biodiversity should be permitted; • opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged; and • planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss.’

National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG) 2.3 The NPPG (DCLG, 2014) advises that information on biodiversity impacts and opportunities should inform all stages of development, from site selection and design, to include any pre-application consultation as well as the application itself. The guidance notes that:

‘An ecological survey will be necessary in advance of a planning application if the type and location of development are such that the impact on biodiversity may be significant and existing information is lacking or inadequate. Pre-application discussion can help scope whether this is the case and, if so, the survey work required.’ (Paragraph 016)

2.4 The guidance also notes that:

‘Local planning authorities should only require ecological surveys where clearly justified, for example if they consider there is a reasonable likelihood of a protected species being present and affected by development. Assessments should be proportionate to the nature and scale of development proposed and the likely impact on biodiversity.’ (Paragraph 016)

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Local Planning Policy 2.5 A review of local planning policies relating to biodiversity which are of potential relevance to this assessment are outlined below.

North Somerset Council Core Strategy (Adopted April 2012) 2.6 Policy CS4 Nature Conservation, seeks to maintain and enhance biodiversity within the North Somerset Area through the following. Key species of note include rare horseshoe bats, otters, wildfowl and wading birds, slow-worms and water voles.

1. ‘seeking to meet local and national Biodiversity Action Plan targets taking account of climate change and the need for habitats and species to adapt to it; 2. seeking to ensure that new development is designed to maximise benefits to biodiversity, incorporating, safeguarding and enhancing natural habitats and features and adding to them where possible, particularly networks of habitats. A net loss of biodiversity interest should be avoided, and a net gain achieved where possible; 3. seeking to protect, connect and enhance important habitats, particularly designated sites, ancient woodlands and veteran trees; 4. promoting the enhancement of existing and provision of new green infrastructure of value to wildlife; 5. promoting native tree planting and well targeted woodland creation, and encouraging retention of trees, with a view to enhancing biodiversity.’

2.7 The safeguarding and improvement of green infrastructure networks is dealt with by Policy CS9. Further provision is encouraged as well as links to existing provision, ensuring a multi-functional accessible network, improving biodiversity and landscape character and contributing to climate change objectives. Priority will be given to:

• ‘the protection and planting of trees in woodlands and urban areas, particularly native trees, for public amenity and climate change mitigation and benefits to biodiversity, health and recreation; • the protection and enhancement of biodiversity; • the continued development of a network of green spaces, water bodies, paths and cycleways and bridleways in and around the urban areas, recognising the value of sustainable drainage systems for green infrastructure; • the management, maintenance, upgrading and extension of the public rights of way network including improved connectivity to areas of green infrastructure within and outside North Somerset; • the provision of strategically significant green spaces in association with all areas of development.’

Biodiversity and Trees Supplementary Planning Document 2.8 This guidance document is now dated (Adopted December 2005). It provides additional detail on policies concerning biodiversity in the Development Plan which have now been superseded. It is however, still a material consideration and contains useful guidance regarding protected species and habitats. Applicants should ensure that a development can be successful reconciled with the interests of biodiversity and trees on the site and within the surrounding area, ensuring there is no net loss to the biodiversity resource.

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3.0 METHODS

3.1 The method for carrying out this assessment follows standard guidance published by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)1. The assessment has been undertaken by appropriately qualified ecologists using recognised best practice methodologies wherever possible and where these exist. Reasons for any deviation from best practice methodologies are provided below but usually relate to timing of instruction, access restrictions and/or application of professional judgement as appropriate.

Desk Study 3.2 The desk study involves the initial collation and review of contextual information such as designated sites and past records of protected and priority2 species occurring within the potential zone of influence3 of the application site.

3.3 The desk study involved collating information from the following sources:

• Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre Biodiversity Records Centre (BRERC); • Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC4); and • National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Atlas5.

3.4 The desk study was undertaken during May 2017 and involved obtaining the following information:

• International statutory designations (2km radius); • National statutory designations (2km); • Non-statutory designated sites (2km); • Protected/notable species records (2km); and • Bat species records (4km).

3.5 In light of the scope of the project, the above mentioned search areas are considered sufficient to cover the potential zone of influence of the project in relation to designated sites, habitats and species.

3.6 A desk based scoping exercise was undertaken using Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and aerial photographs to highlight any ponds within 500 m of the site that could potentially support great crested newts (Triturus cristatus). The 500 m search parameter is based on the ‘Great crested newt mitigation guidelines’ (English Nature, 2001), which advise that ponds up to 500 m away from a development site should be surveyed if it is considered likely that great crested newt populations centred on those ponds could be affected by changes to the application site.

1 CIEEM (2016) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal, 2nd Edition. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester. 2 Priority species include those of Principal Importance listed in Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. 3 The ‘zone of influence’ for a project is the area over which ecological features may be subject to significant effects as a result of the proposed project and associated activities. (CIEEM 2016) 4 www.magic.gov.uk 5 https://nbnatlas.org/

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Field Survey Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey 3.7 An Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey (IEA, 1995) was conducted of the survey area on 11th July 2017 by a suitably experienced ecologist from TLP. The survey covered the site and its immediate surroundings (up to 50m where access permitted).

3.8 The survey method6 that was employed aims to classify and map habitats using standard colour codes, with further information provided by means of dominant species codes and descriptive target notes. This level of survey does not aim to compile a complete floral and faunal inventory for the application site. The potential of the habitats within the survey area to support protected or notable species is also assessed in accordance with the Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment7.

Notes and Limitations 3.9 The field survey was undertaken in July, which is during the optimum time of year for botanical and habitat surveying. As such the survey is not limited by seasonal or climatic factors.

3.10 The evidence set out in this report describes the characteristics of the site at the time at which the survey was undertaken. Many species of wildlife are highly mobile by nature and will routinely take advantage of new opportunities which arise within their home ranges. Over time this will alter the baseline conditions present at the site. Should there be delays in the delivery of this project, it is possible that the baseline ecology will change, for example by establishment of new badger setts or a change of land management from arable to fallow or grassland habitat. In the event of a significant delay (>2 years) between the survey and development coming forward, advice on the implications of potential changes at the site should be sought from a suitably experienced ecologist with update surveys carried out as necessary.

Nomenclature 3.11 Plant species nomenclature follows Stace (2010) and bird species nomenclature follows the British Ornithologists’ Union (BOU) English vernacular names in The British List: A Checklist of Birds of Britain (8th edition, 2013). Mammal nomenclature follows Harris and Yalden (2008).

4.0 RESULTS

4.1 Appendix B provides details of the evaluation techniques and criteria that have been used to assign value to the habitats and species identified in this report.

Designated Sites Statutory designated sites 4.2 The desk study identified three European designated sites within a 2 km radius of the site, and four nationally designated sites within a 2 km search radius of the site. These sites are described in Table 1, below, and their locations relative to the site are shown on Figure 2.

6 Joint Nature Conservation Council (2004) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – A Technique for Environmental Audit (reprinted with minor corrections for original Nature Conservancy Council publication). 7 IEA (1995) Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment. E & F Spon, London.

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Table 1: Statutory designated sites within the sites potential zone of influence.

Site Name Designation Approximate Reason For Designation / Description Distance / Direction From Site

Severn Special Area of 1.75km to the Internationally important assemblage of Estuary Conservation north overwintering birds, estuarine and intertidal (SAC), Special habitats. Protection Area (SPA), Ramsar and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Weston Big Site of Special Directly Deciduous woodland habitats (including Ancient Wood Scientific Interest adjacent to Semi-Natural Woodland). Trees of particular (SSSI) the north interest include the ancient-woodland indicators west small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) and wild service tree (Sorbus torminalis) both of which are locally abundant, rare whitebeams (Sorbus rupicola and S. eminens), and a hybrid between common whitebeam and wild service (S. aria x torminalis). The ground flora includes 2 colonies of the Red Data book species, purple gromwell (Buglossoides purpurocaerulea)

Gordano Site of Special 1.15km - Habitat diversity, assemblages of plants, birds Valley Scientific Interest 1.6km to the and invertebrates (SSSI) and south west National Nature Reserve (NNR)

Middle Hill Local Nature 1.2km to the Calcareous grassland, mosaic of other habitats, Common Reserve (LNR) west flora and invertebrates.

4.3 It should also be noted that the nearest component of the North Somerset and Mendip Bat SAC is located approximately 7.8 km to the south of the site at Brockley Hall Stables. The complex of sites which comprise the SAC include a range of important hibernation and maternity sites for greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros). The recently published North Somerset and Mendip Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Guidance on Development (Version 1, May 2017) identifies Bat Consultation Zones in geographic areas of North Somerset where horseshoe bats may be found. Bat Consultation Zones have been divided into three bands, A, B and C, reflecting the likely importance of the habitat for the bats and proximity to maternity and other known roosts. This has been informed by accumulation of known data including radio tracking studies of greater horseshoe bats. The document aims to achieve a consistent approach to considering impacts of development on the SAC in recognition of the landscape scale importance of the region for horseshoe bats. The site falls partially within Bat Consultation Zone B and partially within C.

4.4 In addition, three SSSI’s designated solely for geological interest are located within 2km of the site: Weston-in-Gordano SSSI, Nightingale Valley SSSI and Portishead Pier to Black Nore SSSI.

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Non-statutory designated sites 4.5 The desk study identified nineteen non-statutory designated sites within 2 km of the site boundary; these are detailed in Table 2 and their locations relative to the site are presented in Appendix B.

Table 2: Non-statutory designated sites within the sites potential zone of influence.

Site Name Designation Approximate Reason For Designation / Description Distance / Direction From Site

Severn Estuary Site of Nature 2km north Its vast tidal range & classic funnel Conservation shape make the Estuary unique in Interest (SNCI) Britain & very rare worldwide. It is important for both its biological and geological (including geomorphological) features.

Black Horse Field Wildlife Site 1.6km south Semi-improved acidic grassland with (WS) scattered scrub.

Cockheap Wood, Wildlife Site 1.6km south Ancient semi-natural broadleaved Dunhill Wood and (WS) woodland. Parsonage Wood Complex

Field north of Wildlife Site 1.3 km south Unimproved calcareous grassland. Clevedon Lane (WS)

Fields west of Lower Wildlife Site 1.5km south Marshy grassland including areas of Caswell House (WS) east Priority Habitat Coastal and Floodplain Grazing Marsh

Fore Hill Wildlife Site 800m north Semi-improved neutral grassland with (WS) calcareous areas and broadleaved woodland.

Gordano Valley, Wildlife Site 250m south Unimproved and semi improved Clapton Moor, Middle (WS) grassland, marshy grassland and Bridge and rhynes associated marginal habitats, with semi natural broadleaved woodland (including carr).

Land adjacent to Wildlife Site 1.8km north Priority Habitats Mudflats, Coastal Severn Estuary SSSI (WS) saltmarsh, Sabellaria alveolata reefs, (Portishead) Maritime cliff and slope, Coastal and floodplain grazing marsh; ancient semi- natural broadleaved woodland, on AWI, which may be Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland.

Nicholas Wood Wildlife Site 1.6km south Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. (WS)

Portishead Down Wildlife Site 1.2km west Semi-improved neutral grassland and (Police HQ) western (WS) scrub end

Portishead Down Wildlife Site 1.2km west Semi-improved neutral grassland and (Police HQ) (WS) scrub

Tickenham Hill, Wildlife Site 1.9km south Ancient semi-natural & semi-natural Cadbury Camp, (WS) broadleaved woodland, unimproved &

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Site Name Designation Approximate Reason For Designation / Description Distance / Direction From Site Chummock Wood semi improved calcareous grassland, Complex with semi improved neutral grassland & dense scrub

Walton Common to Wildlife Site 800m west Ancient semi-natural and semi-natural Severn Acre Wood (WS) broadleaved woodland, unimproved neutral and calcareous grassland with scrub.

West Park Wood – Wildlife Site 1.5km south Ancient semi-natural broadleaved north of M5 (WS) woodland.

Weston Big Wood Wildlife Site Directly Ancient semi-natural broadleaved (WS) adjacent to woodland, and semi-improved neutral north grassland, with unimproved calcareous grassland.

Woodland east of Wildlife Site 1.9km south Semi-natural broadleaved woodland, Clapton Wick (WS) west some poor grass land and other degraded areas.

Weston Big Wood Avon Wildlife Directly Ancient Woodland Trust Reserves adjacent (AWTR) (north)

Weston Moor Avon Wildlife 1km west Floodplain grazing marsh, species rich Trust Reserves rhynes (AWTR)

Clapton Moor Avon Wildlife 750 m south Wetland comprising species-rich Trust Reserves rhynes, fen and hay meadows (AWTR)

4.6 There are, in addition, eight Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS) designated solely for geological interest located within 2km: Black Rock Quarry, Clapton in Gordano, Clevedon to Portishead Coast, Fore Hill, Portishead Coast, St Marys Park Road, Weston Big Wood and Wynhol Viaduct.

Habitats 4.7 The principal habitats within and around the site, together with their dominant/characteristic plant species, were identified during the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey. The distribution of different habitat types within, and adjacent to the application site are mapped on Figure 3, illustrative photographs are provided in Appendix C and Target Notes are provided in Appendix D.

4.8 The site is located in the Gordano Valley immediately north west of the B3124 Clevedon Road, directly east of Weston-in-Gordano and southwest of Portishead. The site comprises a mix of habitats which can be grouped into six broad categories.

4.9 The main habitat types are arable, improved grassland, amenity grassland, semi-natural broadleaved woodland and a diversity of boundary features. The site also includes a large single storey house, associated outbuildings, access, car parking and formal gardens. Several other outbuildings are present, and are remnants from when the site supported a horticultural nursery.

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4.10 For clarity of description, the site has been split into six broad areas, comprising five numbered fields (Figure 3 refers) with the sixth area comprising the residential dwelling and its immediate surroundings.

4.11 The north western boundary of the site is formed by Weston Big Wood Nature Reserve an approximately 70ha Avon Wildlife Trust site, of which approximately 38ha is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Species 4.12 The survey area includes habitat with the potential to support the following species/species groups and this potential is considered in further detail in Section 5:

• Bats (roosting and foraging); • Badger (Meles meles); • Birds; • Dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius); • Reptiles; • Amphibians (including great crested newt (Triturus cristatus)); • Invertebrates; • Plants; • Other notable species; and • Invasive species.

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5.0 ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

5.1 The results of the desktop study and the Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey are presented in the tables below. These are then considered in the context of the site’s suitability, and capacity, to accommodate residential development. Within this assessment constraints and opportunities are identified and discussed. A likely value is also assigned to each ecological receptor identified. Further details of the assessment criteria employed is set out in Appendix B.

Designated Sites 5.2 As described in Section 4, there are a number of designated sites within the potential zone of influence of the site. Those that are considered relevant to the site in the context of potential future development proposals are discussed in turn below.

Designation Details Receptor Likely to Constraints and Opportunities Likely Preclude or Ecological Significantly Limit Value Development Capacity of the site?

Statutory As outlined above (Section 4 refers) there are a Yes – Weston Big Weston Big Wood SSSI is outside the site and would not be directly International Designated Sites range of statutory designated sites within 2km Wood SSSI would affected by any future development of the site. However, due to the to National of the site. The closest three are Weston Big need to be close proximity to the site, indirect effects, for example from Wood SSSI, Gordano Valley SSSI and Middle appropriately disturbance, lighting and recreational pressure, would require Hill Common LNR. Of particular note is Weston buffered within consideration. Big Wood SSSI, which bounds the site to the scheme design north west. The SSSI comprises approximately In order to avoid and mitigate potential detrimental impacts on the 40 ha of mixed deciduous woodland with good adjacent SSSI scheme design should include an appropriate buffer diversity of both tree and woodland flora of minimum 15m between built development and the woodland including ancient woodland indicator species. edge. The provision of public open space within the development and careful management of access would further reduce the The site is within 2km of the Severn Estuary likelihood of recreational pressures upon the SSSI. Monetary complex of designated sites, these include SAC, contributions or other beneficial arrangements (secured by Section SPA, Ramsar and SSSI designations, with the 106 agreement) may be appropriate to assist Avon Wildlife Trust site supporting an internationally important with the long-term maintenance, monitoring and management of assemblage of overwintering birds, estuarine the SSSI. and intertidal habitats.

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Natural England should also be consulted for advice on how impacts might be suitably avoided and/or mitigated.

The distance between the site and Gordano Valley SSSI and Middle Hill Common LNR is likely to preclude impacts upon these designated sites and it is not considered that any specific mitigation or assessment would be required.

The site is within 2 km of the Severn Estuary Complex of internationally designated sites. It is considered likely that potential for significant effects could be avoided/mitigated within a sensitively designed scheme. Any future planning application for the site would be required to provide NSC with the necessary supporting information to carry out HRA screening. If it is considered that future development proposals could have a likely significant effect on the complex of designated sites then NSC would need to carry out a Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA).

Non-Statutory The data search returned citations for nineteen No As above, the proximity of the site to the Weston Big Wood WS is Local Designated Sites non-statutory sites within 2km of the site, as unlikely to preclude development as the woodland areas would not outlined in Section 4 (above). Of these one, be directly affected. The indirect effects detailed above are valid and Weston Big Wood WS is located immediately could be mitigated accordingly. adjacent to the north western boundary of the site. The WS has been designated for the The provision of green open space within the development would species-rich broadleaved woodland present, reduce the likelihood of recreational pressure on non-statutory which supports a high diversity of ancient designated sites within 2km of the site. woodland indicator species, and part of the site is on the Ancient Woodland Inventory as Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland.

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Habitats 5.3 The following features/habitats are within or adjacent to the site.

Feature / Habitat Results Receptor Likely to Constraints and Opportunities Likely Type Preclude or Ecological Significantly Limit Value Development Capacity of the site?

The site includes a small parcel of semi-natural woodland on the western edge of Field 1, approximately 0.35ha in extent. The woodland is contiguous with the adjacent Weston Big Wood. Information supplied by the client indicates that this is more recent as the result of quarrying activity completed by the mid- 1940’s and has since been undergone This habitat is contiguous with Weston Big Wood SSSI and is ecological succession to climax vegetation. The representative of high quality habitat offering a range of north western boundary of much of the site as opportunities to protected and notable flora and fauna. well as a small copse on the edge of Field 1 Yes – appropriate comprises both mature canopy trees and a buffers to Broadleaved Consideration should be given to retention and appropriate dense understory. Species composition woodland would semi-natural buffering of the on‐site woodland within any emerging masterplan District includes mature and semi-mature ash need to be retained woodland for the site. Opportunities to enhance the woodland should be (Fraxinus excelsior), oak (Quercus robur), beech within scheme explored. This could include a Woodland Management Plan, (Fagus sylvatica) and field maple (Acer design detailing prescriptions to bring the woodland under favourable campestre) with a varied understory of management, new complimentary woodland planting to increase bramble (Rubus fruticosus), dogwood (Cornus connectivity to the wider landscape and sensitively designed access sanguinea), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), to remove potential for recreational pressures. common privet (Ligustrum vulgare), dog rose (Rosa canina), spindle (Euonymus europaea), wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana). Ground flora was dominated by dog’s mercury (Mercurialis perennis), lords and ladies (Arum maculatum) and harts tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) in the woodland proper.

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Diversity was typically greater at the woodland edge with false brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum), common nettle (Urtica dioica), ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea), hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo), herb robert (Geranium robertianum), wood avens (Geum urbanum) white bryony (Bryonia dioica), wild madder (Rubia peregrina), hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica), hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepium), wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia) and wild thyme (Thymus polytrichus).

This area of habitat is contiguous with the wider Weston Big Wood SSSI and offers a range of opportunities to protected and notable flora and fauna. This woodland is of less intrinsic ecological value due to the shaded conditions caused by the uniform and dense planting While contiguous with the wider Weston Big and the understorey species predominantly comprising the garden Wood, this small woodland copse escapee box. (approximately 0.25ha in extent) contains Broadleaved mature specimen trees planted uniformly in plantation No Local linear rows. The block includes some mature Consideration should be given to retention and appropriate woodland oak, copper beech (Fagus sylvatic f. purpurea), buffering of the on‐site woodland within any emerging masterplan false acacia (Robinia pseudacacia) with a dense for the site. Opportunities to enhance the woodland should be understory of box (Buxus sempervirens). explored. This could include a Woodland Management Plan, detailing prescriptions to bring the woodland under favourable management, new complimentary woodland planting to increase connectivity to the wider landscape and sensitively designed access to remove potential for recreational pressures.

Mature Trees A number of mature deciduous trees, mainly No Most of the trees identified are of negligible to low suitability for Local associated with field boundary features, are roosting bats. The trees are also likely to provide habitat for a range spread across the site. Species composition of invertebrate and bird species. Although English oak, and mature included common lime (Tilia x europaea), ash standard trees in general, remain common in the wider landscape, (Fraxinus excelsior), field maple (Acer the trees present nonetheless contribute to the structural and campestre), and sycamore (Acer habitat diversity of the site and are therefore of value. pseudoplatanus) with occasional Leyland cypress (Cupressus x leylandii), copper beech

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(Fagus sylvatica purpurea) and a number of Consideration should be given to retention of the best examples of ornamental species including both deciduous these trees in any emerging site masterplan, including the provision and coniferous species, predominantly of tree protection measures during construction works. Removal of concentrated around the Bungalow at Leyland cypress trees and laurel (Laurus sp.) would benefit the Clevedon Nursery. deciduous native tree species that are present.

Hedgerows The hedgerows present on site varied in their No Although many of the hedgerows on site were species-poor, they Local composition and ecological value. The nonetheless provide a wildlife resource, acting as green corridors hedgerows connected to Weston Big Wood (to providing connectivity through the site and into the wider the north and east) were typically more countryside. The mature more species-rich hedgerows which bound species rich with a good diversity of woody the site were considered more ecologically valuable than the internal species including hazel (Corylus avellana), and newly planted hedgerows. Whilst the former should be retained dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), hawthorn as a priority, consideration should also be given to retaining the best (Crataegus monogyna), common privet examples of the newly planted hedgerows. (Ligustrum vulgare), dog rose (Rosa canina), spindle (Euonymus europaea) and wayfaring Consideration should be given to retention of hedgerows and tree (Viburnum lantana). Those which where possible the maintenance of existing high quality habitat bounded the site to the south west and corridors through the development. Furthermore the removal of bisected the site were more species-poor, or non-indigenous coniferous species and re-establishment of field planted for visual screening comprising either patterns and hedgerows more in keeping with the best remaining hawthorn or cherry laurel (Prunus examples in the wider Gordano Valley should be considered. laurocerasus). Retention and enhancement of this habitat type would contribute The less diverse hedges were generally to adopted Local Planning policy to maintain and enhance Green dominated by hawthorn, other species Infrastructure. recorded include elm (Ulmus procera), elder (Sambucus nigra), ash with occasional hazel. Many of the hedgerows included examples of semi-mature and mature trees, predominantly common lime, sycamore and oak, Leyland cypress and other ornamentals were present.

Arable Field 1 is comprises a large arable field, which No No rare arable weeds were noted during the survey. Given that Site at the time of survey comprised for the most maize crops are normally subject to herbicides/pesticides the part by maize. Records for rare arable weed presence of rare arable weeds is considered unlikely. Loss of this corn spurrey (Spergula arvensis) was present habitat is therefore not considered to be of ecological significance. from within 2km. Though the arable field However this area of the site offers potential opportunities for didn’t support a particular diverse assemblage ecological gain such as through the creation of areas of botanical

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of arable weeds during the survey. Margins interest in retained green open space and areas buffering the were dominated by annual mercury woodland. (Mercurialis annua) with some oilseed rape (Brassica napus), annual nettle (Urtica urens), betony (Stachys officinalis), hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepia), occasional evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) and along the northern field boundary with Weston Big Wood, dense stands of bracken (Pteridium aquilinum)

Improved Fields 2, 3 and 4 and 5 comprise an improved No The areas of improved grassland habitat did not support a high Site Grassland grassland sward. The field centres are cropped floristic diversity and was limited in terms of habitat structure. Loss for hay/silage by machine twice per year. The of this habitat is therefore not considered to be of ecological field margins were longer with more ruderal significance but it does offer potential opportunities for ecological species. Species composition includes false oat gain, such as through the creation of areas of botanical interest in grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), dandelion green open space. (Taraxacum sp.), creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens), daisy (Bellis perennis), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), cocks foots and (Dactylis glomerata) being frequent and widespread. The rougher margins include other species more typical of hedgerow including lords and ladies (Arum maculata), ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea), common nettle (Urtica dioica), hedge bindweed and bramble.

Amenity The garden of the bungalow at Clevedon No The area of amenity grassland habitat were intensively managed and Site grassland Nursery are typical of managed amenity did not support a high floristic diversity. Loss of this habitat is grassland. The sward was closely mown and therefore not considered to be of ecological significance but it does limited in species diversity to typical lawn offer potential opportunities for ecological gain such as through the species such as red fescue (Festuca rubra), creation of areas of botanical interest in green open space. annual meadow-grass (Poa annua), perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne), daisy, dandelion, selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) and common mouse-ear (Cerastium fontanum).

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Tall ruderal Tall ruderal species occur scattered throughout No This habitat is not considered to be of ecological significance as it is Site the site associated with the hedgerows, small in extent and supports a limited diversity of commonly adjacent to the woodland and within the occurring botanical species. improved grassland (see above). Typical Loss of this habitat is therefore not considered to be of ecological ruderal species were present including thistles significance and losses can be offset by creation of new high quality (Cirsium sp), hogweed (Heracleum habitats within retained green open space. sphondylium), common nettle and broadleaved willowherb (Epilobium montanum).

Buildings A number of buildings were present within the No The old stable building has previously been subject to ecological Site to Local site. These include a modern chalet bungalow surveys with respect to bats in August 2016 (Skylark Ecology, 2016). and its associated outbuildings, an old stable Evidence of bats including a limited number of droppings from at building, and a small open barn. The stable least two different species was noted. Subsequent emergence/re- building was considered to have moderate entry surveys in 2016 identified no bats emerging or entering the potential to support roosting bats. The modern stable or extension buildings concluded that “there is no evidence to bungalow and associated outbuildings are less support the habitual use of a roost site, even on an occasional basis than 10 years old. The bungalow itself has an at the current time.” interlocking slate roof of air tight construction for high insulation, was erected with attic Loss of the buildings on site may require consideration in terms of trusses ready for loft conversion and that their potential to support protected species (roosting bats and conversion was undertaken in 2016. The nesting birds) but are not likely to be of ecological significance in buildings present are considered to be of low their own right. potential.

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Species 5.4 Based on the habitat types present and the results of the desk study, the site is considered to have the potential to support the species discussed below. Further Phase 2 surveys would be required to confirm presence/likely absence and/or population size (discussed further in Section 6). These surveys would need to be undertaken to inform a detailed scheme design for the site and to fully inform a robust Ecological Impact Assessment to support a planning application for the site.

Feature/Habitat Results Receptor Likely to Constraints and Opportunities Likely Type Preclude or Ecological Significantly Limit Value Development Capacity of the site?

Bats BRERC returned a diverse assemblage of bat Yes – woodland Bats are a European Protected Species (EPS) species and are very likely District species from within 4 km. These include brown edge habitats likely to utilise the site for foraging and commuting purposes. Significant long-eared (Plecotus auritus), common to be of impacts to foraging and commuting species of bat could be readily pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), natterer’s importance to mitigated through intelligent scheme design (i.e. retention of green (Myotis nattereri), noctule (Nyctalus noctula) foraging and open space and buffers to hedgerow/woodland habitat) and through and soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus). commuting bat implementation of a sensitive lighting strategy. In addition Annex II species greater horseshoe populations (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and lesser (including those Likelihood of a significant roost being present on the site is considered horseshoe (Rhinolophus hipposideros) were associated with the low, given the nature of the buildings and tree features present. noted with records being for the purpose built North Somerset Small/low status roosts (if present) could, again, be readily mitigated hibernaculum adjacent to the site in Weston Big and Mendip Bat through informed scheme design including provision of alternative Wood (<20m from the site boundary at grid SAC) requiring roosting solutions (for example on retained trees or within the fabric reference ST45707466)). Liaison with Avon retention and of new buildings) and appropriate Natural England licencing. The Wildlife Trust indicated that the hibernaculum suitable buffering presence of the purpose built hibernaculum (with known previous use) was built in winter 2006 by modifying the within scheme could also be mitigated, given its position within Weston Big Wood to existing structure of a former railway engine design. the north and the measures which will need to be designed into the shed. The hibernaculum has not been scheme to mitigate impacts on foraging/commuting bats. monitored since 2009, though a single greater horseshoe was present during repair works in The site falls within the consultation zone (Band B) for the North August 2013. Somerset and Mendip Bat Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and, as

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The habitats onsite are agricultural and such, consultation with the North Somerset District Council ecologist intensively managed, and as a result, are is required in terms of survey scope and appropriate mitigation. considered to be of low quality for foraging and commuting bats. The hedgerows, boundary features and scattered trees are likely to be of higher quality in comparison by providing navigation aids and by providing a foraging resource in their own right. The woodland edge of Weston Big Wood to the north west is likely to be of particular importance to foraging and commuting bats due to its position in the landscape and likely invertebrate interest.

In terms of roosting potential, the site supported a range of mature and semi-mature trees. No features of particular note were identified, though it is likely that the more mature specimens contain features which could be used by roosting bats. Several buildings/ structures are present including the modern chalet bungalow and its associated outbuildings, the former stable and a small open barn/equipment store. The buildings offer negligible and low potential for roosting bats.

Badger A large main sett was identified within the north No Although the presence of a main sett directly adjacent to the site Local western boundary of the site, extending into presents some constraints to development, however impacts could be Weston Big Wood. At least four sett entrances readily mitigated through sensitive scheme design (i.e. buffer around are located directly adjacent to the field setts, retention of green open space etc.) and Natural England boundary with at least a further ten present Licencing if appropriate. within the woodland. The orientation of the sett Given the potential for badgers to excavate new setts within short suggests that tunnels extend away from the site timescales, update badger surveys should be undertaken to inform (northwards). Other evidence of badger activity development of the site and the requirement for any badger including snuffle holes was noted throughout mitigation/compensation. the site. Consideration should be given to the incorporation of unlit, green open space in the site masterplan to compensate for any loss in

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potential foraging territory (i.e. field margins and improved grassland habitat).

Birds BRERC returned records for a range of bird No All breeding birds receive legal protection under national legislation. Local (District species including Schedule 1 species barn owl if wintering (Tyto alba), fieldfare (Turdus pilaris), peregrine There is the potential for notable farmland bird species to be present birds are falcon (Falco peregrinus), red kite (Milvus and breeding on site, which would be affected by construction works present) milvus), and redwing (Turdus iliacus) amongst during the breeding season. others.

Records of skylark (Alauda arvensis) were also Impacts to nesting birds can be mitigated through sensitive timing of returned, and it is possible that this species, and works. There is potential for the application scheme to demonstrate others associated with lowland farmland, are delivery of biodiversity gain, by retention of boundary features of breeding on site. The field margins and rough value to bird species and by informed scheme design, including grassland would provide some limited habitat incorporation of new areas of green space (to include ‘wilder/semi‐ for foraging barn owl (should they be present in natural’ areas of botanical interest). Buffer zones may be required the vicinity of the site). around any active Schedule 1 species nests. A number of wetland/wading bird species

records were returned by the data search. The site is located approx. 2km south of the Severn Longer term measures to compensate for the permanent loss of Estuary and given the habitats present there is potential nesting habitat for farmland species utilising the site may some limited potential for the site to be used on entail the provision appropriate compensatory habitat. This offers occasion by overwintering birds for foraging. the potential for ecological gain through intelligent masterplanning of the site. Field 1 is also likely to provide habitat for farmland species, including those that may breed on the site (such as skylark and also The limited potential of the site to be used during the winter months winter visitors such as fieldfare (Turdus pilaris). by the qualifying species of the Severn Estuary SPA means that it is unlikely that development would result in an adverse impact to the SPA and its qualifying features.

Dormouse BRERC returned a single record for dormouse No Dormouse is legally protected under European and National Site from within the 2km search area. This was legislation. associated with a site on the opposite side of There is potential for dormouse to occur within suitable woodland and Portishead’s urban area, almost 2 km distant. hedgerow habitat on site. Weston Big Wood SSSI, adjacent to the site, There are no records of dormouse being offers far more optimal and extensive habitat for the species, should associated with Weston Big Wood SSSI to the dormice be present. north west.

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No evidence of dormice was noted during the Development effects on dormouse could be mitigated through field survey however, the hedgerows which sensitive scheme design, e.g. retention of species‐rich hedgerows, bound the site, the pockets of woodland, and dense or linear scrub and woodland to maintain habitat corridors, Weston Big Wood to the north offered some and/or creation of alternative suitable habitat and Natural England good quality habitat for dormice and are well licencing if appropriate. connected into the wider landscape.

Otter & Water Records for both otter and water vole was No There is no potential for otter or water vole to occur within the site. As Negligible vole returned by BRERC. These records were all such these species have not been considered further. associated with sites to the south across the North Somerset Levels. The site itself does not support any aquatic habitats suitable for these species.

Reptiles Records for all four common reptile species No All native reptiles receive legal protection under national legislation. Site were returned from within 2km. None of the records are within close proximity to the site. The site supports habitat which offers limited opportunities to Much of the site represents sub-optimal common reptile species, with available habitat limited to field margins conditions for reptile species, though the (hedgerows and scrub) and woodland edge, which may limit the size of boundary habitats, and rougher field margins any population potentially present. are likely to offer some foraging and sheltering Mitigation through informed scheme design should include provision opportunities. of green open space, to include ‘wilder/semi-natural areas of botanical interest’ offering the potential for biodiversity gain and providing suitable habitat for common reptile species.

Amphibians BRERC returned eight records for GCN from No Great crested newt is legally protected under European and National Site (general & GCN) within 2km. The closest being associated with legislation. the Avon and Somerset Police HQ approximately 1km north of the site within There is no suitable amphibian breeding habitat within the site. There Portishead proper. are, however, three waterbodies within 500m. The site offers some limited opportunities for amphibians in their terrestrial phase though, No waterbodies were identified within the site. for reasons of spatial separation, the potential for GCN to occur on site A review of OS base mapping and aerial is considered to be very low. photography identified three potential waterbodies within 500m of the site. Pond 1 No breeding habitat would be lost. Consideration should be given to was approximately 400m north of the site on retention of hedgerows, woodland and semi‐natural grassland to the opposite site of Weston Big Wood. This

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waterbody was not locatable on aerial maintain existing terrestrial habitat (should great crested newts be photographs and is thought to be absent. The present), although the loss of these areas can be mitigated, and second pond and third ponds are located biodiversity gain provided, through the provision of green open space approx. 500m east and 300m south of the site and a sensitively designed drainage strategy to include permanently respectively. Access to these two waterbodies wet ponds. identified was not possible due to their location on private land. Ponds 2 and 3 are afforded poor connectivity to the site, with a number of fields, rhynes, residential properties and the Clevedon Road separating them from the site. The hedgerows, woodland and rougher margins on site provide moderate quality terrestrial habitat for amphibians, with the managed improved grassland, amenity grassland and arable fields offering offer sub-optimal habitat. Agricultural usage of the fields is likely to vary and therefore consistently available habitat for amphibians would be restricted to the field boundaries, woodland and grassland mosaic. Invertebrates A number of records for notable invertebrate No Significant impacts to this species group could be readily mitigated Site species (S41 species) were returned by BRERC. through the retention of hedgerow and woodland edge habitat. The These were primarily Lepidoptera and were potential for biodiversity gain for the wider invertebrate assemblage primarily associated with Gordano Valley and can be delivered via informed design incorporating habitat creation Weston Big Wood SSSI’s. and implementation of a sensitive regime of habitat management. The majority of the site is sub-optimal for invertebrates, due to the lack of floristic diversity and habitat structure. The hedgerows and woodland edge habitat however, is likely to offer some opportunities for invertebrate species.

Plants A number of records of notable plant species No Given the lack of species diversity and the paucity of habitats present Site were returned by BRERC, these were typically it is considered impacts on protected and notable species is unlikely associated with Weston Big Wood and Gordano to occur as a result of the site’s future development. The potential Valley SSSI’s. for biodiversity gain can be delivered via informed design

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incorporating planting of a variety of native flowering species that are of known benefit to biodiversity.

Other notable Records for hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), No These three species are priority species under the NERC Act Section Site species harvest mouse (Micromys minutus) and brown 41. Significant impacts to this species could be readily mitigated hare (Lepus europaeus) were returned by through the retention/creation of green open space and BRERC. hedgerow/woodland habitat and the implementation of a sensitive The hedgerows, grassland and arable field has habitat management regime. the potential to provide suitable habitat for foraging and shelter.

Invasive species A number of records for invasive non-native Despite the records for invasive species within the locality, the BRERC N/A species were returned by BRERC. These include records suggest that the records for mink and Elodea species are the following species listed in Schedule 9 of the concentrated on the levels to the south and are typical of aquatic Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as habitats not present within the site. The record for three cornered amended); garlic is associated with a garden and has in all likelihood been American mink (Neovision vision), Canadian introduced as an ornamental. waterweed (Elodea canadensis), Japanese Should invasive species be subsequently identified, specialist knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Nutall’s remediation works may be required. waterweed (Elodea nuttallii), rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) and three cornered garlic (Allium triquetrum) No invasive species were identified during the Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey.

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6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 The site itself is not subject to any nature conservation designations. Weston Big Wood SSSI and its component Wildlife Site, Avon Wildlife Trust Reserve is directly adjacent to the site and forms the north western boundary of the site. The presence of the SSSI and potential for impacts from development would require careful consideration in any emerging scheme design. It is considered that potential for indirect impacts (through recreational pressure) on the woodland and the interest features for which it is designated (notable and protected trees and ground flora) could be readily mitigated. Engagement with Natural England and AWT would be required to ensure that any future proposals for the site could deliver suitable mitigation and, where possible, enhancement to ensure favourable condition of the SSSI in the long-term.

6.2 There are, in addition, a number of other statutory and non-statutory sites within proximity to the site. They are considered unlikely to pose a constraint to development, provided the development scheme incorporates sufficient areas of public open space (in line with local and national planning policy) to alleviate the potential for recreational pressures on those designated sites in closest proximity to the development site.

6.3 The majority of the site supports arable farmland and species poor improved and amenity grassland, with a low diversity of common and widespread plant species, which is currently utilised for crop cultivation and for residential amenity. Areas of greater diversity and biodiversity value within the site are found associated with the boundary features; woodland edge, hedgerows, field margins, small areas of ruderal vegetation and small stands of broadleaved woodland, although no notable plant species were identified.

6.4 Based on the variety of habitats within the site, there is the potential for a range of legally protected and notable species to occur. However, due to the dominant habitat types (agricultural and regularly managed improved and amenity grassland) providing a paucity of floristic diversity and habitat structure, there are limited opportunities for foraging and sheltering. Protected species interest is therefore likely to be primarily restricted to boundary habitats and adjacent higher quality habitats, which may limit the size of the populations present.

6.5 The results of the survey and assessment demonstrate that the habitat types present, and their size and quality, and the potential presence of legally protected or notable species, is unlikely to preclude or significantly limit the capacity of the site to deliver future housing development. However, consideration should be given to the retention of higher value habitat features, such as the woodland edge, broadleaved woodland, hedgerows and mature and semi-mature trees due to their intrinsic ecological value and their potential to support legally protected or notable species. An Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ECOP) illustrating those areas of greatest ecological value has been prepared (Figure 4 refers) to inform site masterplanning.

6.6 Where habitat retention is not possible, creation of replacement wildlife corridors and new areas of biological value (‘wilder areas’) within areas of green open space would provide compensatory habitat and offer the potential to deliver ecological gain. Retained and created habitats should be subject to a regime of management, designed to meet the principles of Green Infrastructure and biodiversity gain, to further realise their ecological potential and accord with planning policy.

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6.7 Other opportunities exist to promote biodiversity within the developable area of the site, including the installation of integrated bat roosting and bird nesting features on new buildings, adoption of a sensitive lighting strategy, landscaping with native plant and tree species, creation of purpose built hibernacula for reptile species and the incorporation of Green Infrastructure and SUDS features within the site masterplan.

6.8 In terms of the strategy to support the planning merits of the site, enhancement of the biodiversity value of the proposed development, by reference to the opportunities for ecological measures discussed above (Section 5), would demonstrate a positive contribution to the aims and objectives of:

• NPPF/NPPG – by incorporation of biodiversity in and around developments and safeguarding of aged or veteran trees; and • Local planning policy – through protecting, enhancing, developing and integrating Green Infrastructure and ecological features.

Recommendations for Further Survey 6.9 Subject to the site being successfully promoted for residential development through the Local Plan process, a range of protected species surveys would be required to comprehensively inform scheme design, and an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) to support a future planning application for the site. These further surveys are outlined below;

• Bats; • Breeding birds • Badger; • Reptiles.

Bats Reason 6.10 Bats are subject to a high level of legal protection under both domestic and international law. In addition, many species of bats are listed on Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 as being species of principal importance for nature conservation. This makes all species of bats a material consideration within the planning process, whilst European legislation places a legal obligation on planning authorities to consider impacts on bats before any planning application is determined.

Method – Roosts 6.11 Mature trees within the site that possess features which may offer roosting opportunities to bats should be subject to a Ground Level Tree Inspection and categorised for their suitability to support roosting bats. Where possible, the assessment should be extended to trees immediately adjacent to the site boundary with the potential to support roosting bats. Subject to the emerging proposals and details of tree retention, further tree climbing surveys may need to be undertaken to inspect all features which have been highlighted as potentially offering bat roosting opportunities.

Method- Activity 6.12 Surveys should be conducted in accordance with industry recognised guidance produced by the Bat Conservation Trust (Collins, 2016) and the recently published North Somerset and Mendip Bats Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Guidance on Development (Version

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1, May 2017). The precise scope of surveys would need to be agreed through consultation with the NSC ecologist. However, given the habitats on site and immediately adjacent it is likely that multiple bat activity surveys (including both manual activity and automated detector surveys) would be required to provide adequate seasonal coverage. All accessible areas of the site should be covered by the bat transects, focussing on those areas of highest quality bat habitat and areas of the site likely to be impacted by development.

Timescales 6.13 Activity surveys should be undertaken to provide coverage throughout the peak active season (April – October inclusive). Tree inspections can be carried out at any time of year, although it is recommended that they take place no later than May, to allow further emergence/re-entry surveys (if required) to be scheduled during the remainder of the bat active season.

Breeding birds Reason 6.14 With some exceptions all active nests are legally protected from destruction and compliance with the legislation is readily achieved through appropriate timing of vegetation clearance/site preparation. Some species are afforded a higher level of protection (under Schedule 1 of the WCA), which makes disturbance of an active nest an offence. Peregrine falcon, red kite, barn owl and skylark were identified as locally present from the desk study with potential for nests to occur in close proximity of the site.

Method 6.15 Three survey visits, based on the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) Common Bird Census (CBC) method (Marchant, 1983), should be completed. The CBC method is used rather than the Breeding Bird Survey now employed by the BTO, as it gives a spatial distribution of species across a site, rather than just the number of adult birds in a given area.

6.16 The surveys should be conducted during the early morning or the late afternoon when the birds are displaying and singing (evening visits are better for thrushes). Details of birds occurring within the site along with their activity is recorded.

Timescales 6.17 The breeding bird survey should be completed between April and June inclusive.

Badger Reason 6.18 A large, active badger sett was identified within and directly adjacent to the north western boundary of the site. Due to the presence of existing setts, and as badgers are highly mobile creatures and able to excavate new setts within short timescales, a more detailed badger survey should be undertaken to fully ascertain their presence across the site.

Method 6.19 A badger survey should be undertaken to fully identify badger setts within and directly adjacent to the site, to inform scheme design/a planning application.

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Timescales 6.20 Badger surveys can be carried out at any time of year, but are best undertaken in the winter/springtime, before the vegetation becomes dense.

Reptiles Reason 6.21 There are existing records from within the 2km search radius for all four common reptile species and suitable habitat is also present to support them. All reptile species are protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), which makes them a material consideration within the planning process.

Method 6.22 Reptile refugia, comprising squares of roofing felt and tin sheets, should be placed in areas of suitable habitat and left to establish for up to ten days. A minimum of seven survey visits to check the refugia should be undertaken to determine presence/ likely absence. Further survey visits may be required to gain an indication of the population size present.

6.23 These surveys are weather and temperature dependent and should be conducted during times of intermittent or hazy sunshine with little or no wind and temperatures between 9o and 19°C, as recommended by the Herpetofauna Worker’s Manual (Gent and Gibson, 2003) and Froglife (1999).

Timescales 6.24 April/May and September are the optimum months for reptile surveys, although they can be undertaken at any time between March and October, provided that visits are conducted during suitable weather conditions.

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FIGURES

The Landmark Practice Legend:

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FIGURE 1 Site Location

Hope Chapel House Hope Chapel Hill Hotwells Bristol BS8 4ND T: +44 (0)117 923 0455 E: [email protected] www.thelandmarkpractice.com S:\PROJECTS\2950 - 2999\2995 Land at Portishead GM\GRAPHICS (WORKING)\InDesign\2995_Land Portishead_ECO fig's Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Architectural Graphics Drawn: GS SChecked:ite boun NHdaryDate:11 Sep 17 1:25,000 0 560 1,120 M

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2988_5km

Legend:

Site298 8boundary_2.5km Site boundary Radial extent Eastwood and Battery Point (LNR) 2988_1km Severn Estuary Special Protection Area2988_5km Site of Special Scientific Interest Seven Estuary (SSSI) (SSSI) Servern2988_2 .Estuary5km Special Area of Portishead to Black Nore (SSSI) Conservation Local Nature Reserve (LNR) 2988_1km Gordano Valley National Nature Reserve

Severn Estuary Ramsar Site

Reproduced with the permission of the controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright - Licence No. AR100017235 Crown Copyright - Licence No. © Stationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s Nightingale Valley (SSSI) Weston Big Wood (SSSI) Site boundary

2.5 km 1 km 1 km 2.5 km Buffer_1km

Middle Hill Common (LNR) Buffer_2.5km Weston-in-Gordano (SSSI)

m 1:25,000 2051501025000 Walton Common (SSSI) 0 0.5 1 km

Scale 1 : 25,000 @A3 Gordano Valley (SSSI)

LAND AT PORTISHEAD

FIGURE 2 Location of statutory designated sites

Court Hill

m 1:50,000 215015205000 Hope Chapel House Hope Chapel Hill Hotwells Bristol BS8 4ND T: +44 (0)117 923 0455 E: [email protected] 0 1 2 km www.thelandmarkpractice.com S:\PROJECTS\2950 - 2999\2995 Land at Portishead GM\GRAPHICS (WORKING)\InDesign\2995_Land Portishead_ECO fig's Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Architectural Graphics Drawn: GS Checked: NH Date:11 Sep 17

m 1:50,000 215015205000

0 1 2 km S S D D N N A S A L D L Y N Y E A E N L N O Y H O HO H E ON H NEEY N H YLLOA Site boundary_Ph1 O H AN Site boundary_Ph1 NE ND Y DSS LA D Site boundary_Ph1 NDN A S L Point A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Y Point A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A E 9m R 9m C R N C Point O A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A A A Cat ck A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A S A AH S Cat Tra ck O L I S O H 9m Tra O L L I R N D L L C E M IS L N E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A LA A A A A A A Y M A IS A O L E D A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A A A L A Cat A O S A D Site boundary_Ph1 k V H A R rac O I RD T L V H NL D L EE L D ! A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AIS A A A A A A S M L Y E ! A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A O D

E R V H D AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AEA AA AA AA AA N ! A: Scattered Broadleaved H O O H A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N Point A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A E S A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AHO A YL 9m ! R OL A D LLiinneess Site boundary_Ph1 ! C L A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL N N AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AHA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AALI D k S H IS A S Cat Trac O L I O S A Lines !L L L AV L Lcat A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AIS A A A AL A AL M Lcat V E AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA Y A A O I D G V H9m S E G R 9m A E D AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA EAA AA AA AA AA V N EO PLco!aitnt A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH O G O R 9m O H R 9m J: Fence West Wood A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AR A N E GG J: Fence West Wood AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA CAA AA EY O E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A A A L E k S A R Cat Site boundary_Ph1 Trac A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A OAL A A A A AI A A C N G J: Fence West Wood AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAL AA AA CL D L H M IS L LI S E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AO A IF A E S A O D S Lines FT ! L R T V H T A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL C O D TR AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA EAA AA AA AA AAI L ONN R J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A S IF S S EE ! AJ: HSceadtgter/eTdre Besro Sapdelecaievse-dpoor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A T ST T EE AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA V O T R T PLcoaitnt A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A G N T J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A A S E9m A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AR A E T E AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA CAA AA S O T A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A AH A D k S R Cat Trac A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A OA A A A A AI AO A S Lines J: IFnetancte Hedge Species-poor N West Wood A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A !AL A A A A AL A LA G AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA D J: Intact Hedge Species-poor L S M IS L L A S E E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A O I ND D L S D R A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A VA A H A A A A S D A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA TAA A C Y N J: Intact Hedge Species-poor E T L D A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Ak V LA E Lc!at A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Ak EI A S M E YF N G A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A A N L T T M A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA E A O A T O Y NE R A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A YL S E Polygon A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AkH NE O E PolygoJ:n Hedge/Trees Species-poor O H E S A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N O Y D R M E A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAH E N T West Wood O YH E N G T J: Fence A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N LO H H E NA A S E PolygoSinte boundary_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AO A O YH N Pcat A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA !AA AA AA AA AA AA AA LAA NMeadLO L DD LPcinates H E S Site boundary_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL O MEeYaCHdAY N S A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AI N YLL N D A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A SFaErmLEAI AD Site boundary_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A FaYrmANF N S S Pcat A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A LN NL DT T J: Intact Hedge Species-poor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A HMoeuVasdeA ADSO Lcat Site boundary_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A HousO e YN SN R A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH L D G JH:a Hrdesdtgaen/dTinreges Species-poor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A AO FarHm E E Hardstanding A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N Y S S E A Point A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A TA E N E T Black Rock A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Ak HouYseE O ET Black Rock LO M9m Point AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA 4AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAR AAH AN R SHitaer dbsotuannddainrgy_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A A A2 4A A A A A A A A CA A O H N Point J: Fence West Wood A A A AM MA MA MA M A A A A A A A1 2 A A A A A A A A A A N O D G 9m Point BlQaucakr rRyock A A A A A A A A A A A A A 3A1 A AH A A A A A A AR AH E S PCaotlygon ck Quarry A A A A A A A A A A A A A 3A A A A A A A A A S CA A O YH S E Tra A A A A A A A A A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A AB A A A OA A A A A AI AR A N L 9m Point AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAB AA 4AA AA AAL AA AA AA AA AAL AAR AA E D Site boundary_Ph1 A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A A A A AH A LA A A A A S CA A A Cat C M A: Broadleaved Plantation ck A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 2 A A A AIS A A A AL A A YC N E J: Intact Hedge Species-poor Tra A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A1 A A OA A A A A AI A A L N A 9m A: Broadleaved Plantation A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A AH AL A AA A A OA AR A L D D Cat Quarry A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A AL S A A A S Cat Site boundary_Ph1 ck A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 3A A A A LA A VA A H A S CA A I R Track A A A A A A A A A A A! ! AM! ! MA! !MA! !M A! M! A! ! A! A A A A A A A O A IAS A A A LAI A A NF A SM D S Pcat a AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAOAA AA AA AA AA AAI AA AA E Tr A A A! !AM! !MA! !MA! M!A!M!A! !A! A A A AB A A A AL A A A A A A A DT A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH ALLA AA EA A OAL A A Mead L D T Cat A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A LAIS A A A AL S A A SDOM A Point S ! A: Scattered Broadleaved ck A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A VA A H A A A ME R A: Broadleaved Plantation ra disused A A A! !AM! !MA! !MA! M!A!M!A! !A! A A A A A A A OA AIS A A A AL I A TA NEA D R T A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AA A A OA A A Y D disused A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AAM AMA MAA MAA MAA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAL AA AAA AA AA AOAL AA AAk N A E J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor E D D ! ! M! !M! !M ! M! !M! ! ! ! H Farm R E AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AALAA AAVAA AA AA AA AA M RD M9m ! A: Scattered Broadleaved ! A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A A A AIS A VA A H AL RA A E S A E D ! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A EA A A A A N A T E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AA A A OA C A A D A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A EA A A A A N Legend:! A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A A A A A VA A H A A A House LA R T Point ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A D disused A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AAM AMA MAA MAAM AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AHA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA O CPaot lygoAHn:a Brdrsotaadnldeianvged Semi-natural A A A A A A A A A A A! ! A! ! A!!! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A EA A AS A A Y k AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA L Trac A A A! !A! !A!!!A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A AO MAeadA A A A AI A AH Po!int AA:: SBcroaattdelreeadv Bedro Sadelmeai-vneadtural ! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A LAMeaAd A A A A AR A O H 9m A A A A A A A A A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A AL A A N EY Black Rock A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL A A A A A CAH A M A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A A A IAS A A A LA A A E E A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A A A A A A A A AFarAm A A A A A O A NE A 9m I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A FAarAm A A A O A AR A Y D Lines AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A A A Cat I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A 4A A !A A A A A A S CA LA LO R A: Broadleaved Semi-natural ! V H k Nurseries H N Trac A A A A A A A A A A !A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A A A2 A A OMAeaAd A A A AI A ALH A D IPcI atI I Site boundary_Ph1 Nurseries A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A J: Intact Hedge Species-poor A A!!A A A A A A A A A A A A1 A ACotALtagAesA EA A AL AO A O H N I I I I Site boundary A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A MeadO Lines Quarry A A A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! !A! A A A A A A AH A LA A A A A S AH LAI D Ca!t A: Scattered Broadleaved k A A A A A A A A AA AA!AA AA AA AA AA AA A A A A A 3A A ACoA!ttaAIgSesA A A A AH AH N M rac I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I !! O L I O S SE T II II II II II II II II AAII AAII AAII AAII AAII AAII AAII AAII AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A A A A AB A A A FALarmA A A A A AO AL O E H A Lines A A !A AM!MA MA M AM A A A A A A A A A A A AA A A OAL A A A Y D Lines A A A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A !A A A A A A A LA FNarm ! L H I R I I I I A A A ANuArseArieAs A A A !A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A !A AIS A VA A H A A LA L M Lcat A A A!A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL A A EV D A A !A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL S E A II II II II BAS:i tIBemr bopoaroudvnleedadav rGeyd_ra PPshlsa1lanntadtion A A A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AO A A A A A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A TAL Y A A!A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A ACotAtaAgesAA EA A OA A AI A D Lines B: Improved Grassland A A A A A A A A AA AA AA!AA AA AA AA AA A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N E I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ! Lk I HousLe G S R ! A: Scattered Broadleaved A A A A A A A A AA AA AA !AMA MAA MAAM AAM AA A A A A A A A A A A A VA A H9Am A A D Lcat Site boundary_Ph1 II II II II II II II II AII AII AII AII AII AII AII AII AI AI A!I!!!! A!I ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL S AV AN S D M Hardstanding A A A A A A A A A A !A !!A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A EA A A A AI AV D G E IIILcIII!atIII III BroadleavedA: Scattere dsemi-natural Broadleav etreed A A A!! A!!! A! ! A! ! A!8m! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A A S V S O Lcat B: Improved Grassland I I IBlaIdicsukIs eRdI ocI kI AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AAIA AAIA AAIA!AAMIA AMAA MAAAMAAA8MmAAA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AHA AA A G E R PPooliyngton II II II II II II II II AII AII AII AII AII AII AII AII AIIA AIIA AI!IA! AI!IA! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA 9AAm AAO AA V G Lcat West Wood A A A A A A !A A A A A!!A A A A A A A A A A A 4A A !A A A A A 9Am A LA E O G 9m ILiIneI sI J: Fence R II II II II ! A A A! ! AM! !MA! !MA! M! A!M! A! ! A! A A A A A2 A A A A A A A A A LA G E R I I I I I I !I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AAI AAI AAI AAI AA AA AA8mAA AA AA AA AA AA AA1 AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A9Am AAC AA O E J: Fence West Wookd AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AI G II kII II QII uaII rrII y II II II II II II II II II II AIIA AIIA AI!IA! AI!IA! A!A!! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA 3AA AA AAH AA AA AA AA AA AA AHA AAS E R PCaotint CA:: Broaackdelena Cveodn tSineumoiu-nsatural T A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A MAeadA A A A A S A A ack T A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AMA MAA MAAM AAM AA AA AA AA AA AAB AA AA AA OAA AA AA AA AA AA I AAO AA A C O G E ILPciInateI sI FenceJC: :F Bernacceken Continuous Tr West Wood A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A !AL A A A A A AH LA MeadL G 9m Point J: Fence I I I I I I !I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AAI AAI AAI AAI AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA LAA AA AA AA AAL AAR AAL V I R E Lcat A: Broadleaved Plantation A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A AO A M III III III III III III III III AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AAII AAII AAII AAII AA AA AA AA A A A A A A A A FAarmAIS A A A AL AC A C F E G E S Lines J: Fence Resr West Wookd AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA !AA AA AA AA AA AA ARA LAAI G A 9m A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A A A A A A A AA A A AO A A L T D Resr A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A A SFarm T C: Bracken Continuous T A A A ANuArseArieAs A AA AA AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! AA AA AA AA AA AA AAH AA AA AA AA AA HAA CAA ALA I O R I CIat I I A A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A VA A A S A A A C F E D E S R cov rack A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A ACoOtAtagAesA A A A I A AI CL N cov T I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AAI AAI AAI! !AAI! !AA! !AA! !AA! !AA! !AA! AA AA AA AA AA AA AAH AAL AA AA AAE AA AA AA AA SHouVseLI T O T CLcaatt J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor ck III III III IIdI isuIIIsedIII III III AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AIAII AAIIA AAIIA AAIIA AM!AIIA MAAA MAAAM AAAM AAA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA LAA AA AA AA AALS AA AA IF O S S E ! HedgeA: Sc awithtter etreesd Br nativeoadlea ved ra A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A OA AIS A A A AI A A A C F M R S R Hardstanding Resr T A A A A A A A A A A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL A A A A AL A A L TGNE T E A A A A A A A A AA AA AA A!A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A T A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A 9ALm A A V T ILcIatI I J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor ! A A A!A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A LA AA A A OA A A I O D G T E T J: Fence OM West Wood AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAIS AA AA AA HAAL AA AA F NEE RS S R CB:: ITmalpl rRouvedde rGalrassland I I I I I I I I I I! ! I! ! I! ! I I I I AI AI AI AI A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A VA A A A A GNA D R species-poor cov I I IBlaI ckI RI ocI kI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI! ! AI! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A AA A A OA A A T D T E JC: :H Teadllg Reu/Tdreereasl Species-poor II II II II II II II II II II! ! II! ! II! ! II II II II AII AII AII AII A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 9Am A A O E T E J: Hedge/Trees Species-poor A A A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A EA A A A A O R E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A VA A H A A A S T A A! ! A! ! A! ! A A A A AA AA AA! !! AA! ! AA!!! AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! AA AA AA AA AA 4AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA NE DSTR R E I I !I I AA:: BSrcoaatdtelereadv eBdr oSaedmlei-anvaetdural ! ! ! ! ! ! AA AA AA AAM AMA MAA MAA8MmAA AA AA AA AA AA AA2AA AA AMAeaAdA AA AEA AA AA AA AA C O T G E T ! AJ:: FHSeecndacgttee/rTerde eBsro Sapdelecaievse-dpoor West WIIooIId II II II II II II AII AII! ! AII! ! AII! ! AII AII AII AII AII AII AII! ! AII! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A1 A A A A A A A A A A L S R T C: Tall Ruderal II II II QII uaII rrII yII II II II! ! II! ! II! ! II II II II AIIA AIIA AIIA AIIA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA 3AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAH AA I T E S E A A A A West WIooId I I I I I I AI AI! ! AI! ! AI! ! AI AI AI AI AA AA AA AMA MAA MAAM AAM AA AA AA AA AA AAB AA AA AA FAAarmAA AA AA AA AA AA OAA FT G T IA IA IA IA IntactJ: IFneta nhedgecte He dspecies-poorge Species-poor ! ! ! ! !N!urseries AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA!AA AA AA AA AA AA ALA O T Lines I I I I I I !I I I I! ! I! ! I! ! I I I I AI AI !AI AI A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A C E R I I I I A: Broadleaved Plantation III III III III III III III III AIII AIII! !AIII! !AIII! !AIII AIII AIII AIII AIII A!III AII!I ! AII!I ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A ACotAtagAesA A A A A AL N Drains k ! ! ! ! ! ! AA AA AA!AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAI L EDrainsA A A A JJ:: HInetdagcte H/Teredegse SSppeecciieess--ppoooorr I T I I I I I I I AI AI! ! AI! ! AI! ! AI AI AI AI AA AA AA AM!A MAA MAAM AAM AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA S I S S A A A A JC:: A Bmraecnkietyn G Croansstilnaunodus ! ! ! ! ! ! A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A C F A JJ:: IAnmtaecnt iHtye Gdgraes Ssplaencdies-poor I I I I I I I I I I! ! I! ! I! ! I I I I AAI AGAIle!nAAIth!oAA!Ir!nAeA AA TN7AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA OATA A L T T T EE I I I I J: Intact Hedge Species-poor ! H k I O T Lines III III III IIdI isuIIIsedIII III III AIII AIII! !AIII! !AIII! !AIII AIII AIII AIII AIIIA GAIIIAlenAII!IAth!oAII!IArn! Ae!A! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA A!A AA AA AA AA AA AA LAA V F N S R MD A Lcat B: Improved Grassland Resr I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA!AMIA MAA MAAM AAM AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AAO TAAL T T rainsAALAiAnAeA sAA J: HInetadcgte H/Terdegees Speciies-poor Roseland A A! !A! !A! !A A A A A A A!!! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A !A A A A A A9m A LAk I OG S E E A AmenityJ: Amen grasslandity Grassland I I I I I RIoseIlandI I I I I I I !I I AA AA AA!AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA ATAL S N T R M E A I I I I cov III III III III III III III III AIII AIII AIII AIII AIII AIII AIII AIII AII GAIIlenAII!th!oAII!rn! eA! ! A! ! A!8m! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A TAk I A E E E PolygoJ:n Hedge/Trees Species-poor A A A A A A A A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AkA S V SO M ETA A LAcatA A I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA! ! AIA! ! AA!!! AA! ! AA! ! AA! ! AA! AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA TAA A T M E A A A A A: Broadleaved Semi-natural A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A MAeadA A A A A A Ak R E Polygon I I I I I RoI seIlandI I I I I I I I I AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA9m AA AA V G M T ILcIatI I JC:J ::I nTFtaealcnl tRc Heueddegrael Species-poor West WIIIooIIId III III III III III III AIII AII!I ! AII!I ! AII!I ! AIII AIII AIII AIII AIA AIA AI!A! AI!A! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA G PolygoJJ:n: AArraabbllee I I I I I I !I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA AIA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA FAAarmAA AA AA AA 9AAm AA AA G E E AAPAAolAAygAAon I kI I I I I I I AI DAI! ! AI! ! AI! ! AI AI AI AI A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A O Pcat Arable T AA AD A ANuArseArieAs A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA Mead E PolygoCn: Bracken Continuous I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I A A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A TA R A I I I I III III III III III III III III OAIII A AII!I ! AII!I ! AII!I ! AIII AIII AIII AIII AIA A!IA AIA AIA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AACotAAtagAAesAA AA AA AA AA AA C O Pcat J:: IAnrtabclte Hedge Species-poor West Wood R AO A A A A A A A A A A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A kA Mead L R G E A! ! A! ! A! ! A! J: Fence I I I I I I I I R AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA A!IA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA Farm I M AA!P!cAA!a!tAA! !AA! Resr A AD! ! A! ! A! ! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A F S Pcat J: FInetancte Hedge Species-poor West Wood ON AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA !AA !AA!AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA Mead T G E I! ! I! ! I! ! I! I I I I IEDI I I I A I I I I I I I A A A!A!A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A HFMoaeurasmde T A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! cov I I I CLIEVI EDIONI I AI AI! ! AI! ! AI! ! AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA AIA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA TAA O E RDrains Pcat B: Improved Grassland I I I CLI EVI I I I OAI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AIA AIA AIA!AIA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AkA C N E A!P! Ao! !lAy! g! A!oBareHnard groundstanding R A A! ! A! ! A! ! A A A A A A A!A A A A A A A AF1A A A A A A A A A A A A A HFMoaeurasmdeL ME A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! 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A: Broadleaved Plantation disuVseilldas AA AA AA AA AA AA !AA AA AA AA AA! !AAM! !AMA! !MAA! M!AA!M!AA! !AA! AA AA AA AA AA 4AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA M AMM MAM MMA MMAMMJH:a Irndtsatcatn Hdeindgge Species-poor RDoOsNeland AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AAI AAI A!AI !MAM!AI !MMA!AIM!MA!AIMM! A!AMIM! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA AA2 AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA House ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Ho I I I CLIdEisVuIsEedI I I AI AI AI AI AI AI !AI AI AIA AIA AIA! ! AMIA! !MAA! !MAA! M! AA!M! AA! ! AA! AA AA AA AA A1A AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA HCa: Trdasllt aRnuddinegral BlQaduicsauksr erRdyock A A! ! A! ! A! ! A A A A A A A! ! AM! !MA!!!MA! M! A!M! A! ! A! A A A A 3A A A A A A A A A A AT A M! !M! !M ! M! ! MA: Broadleaved Semi-natural A A A A A A A A A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Polygon A A A A A A !A A AA AA AA! !AMA! !MAA! M!AA!M!AA!M !AA! !AA! AA AA AA AAB AA AA AA AMAeaAdA AA AA AA AA AA AAk E AM AM MA MA MPJ:h B1a_rOer cghroaurdnd disused A A! ! A! ! A! ! A A !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 4A A A A A A A A A A A M M M M M M M M M M T ! ! ! ! ! ! ! BroadleavedPh1_Orcha semi-naturalrd Reproduced with the permission of the controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright - Licence No. AR100017235 Crown Copyright - Licence No. © Stationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s Black Rock AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AAI AAI A!AI ! AM!AI !MA!AI!!MA!AIM! A!AIM! A!A! A!A AA AA AA AA AA2 AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA M E AA:: BBrrooaaddleleaavveedd PSlaenmtia-ntioantural ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! k I I I I I I I I AIA AIA! ! AIA! ! AIA! ! AIA AIA !AIA AIA AIA AIA A!IA! A!IA! A!A! A!A! A!A! !AA! A!A AA AA AA AA AA1 AA AA FMAAaeramdAA AA AA AA AA AA AA M! !M! !M ! M! ! MJ: Arable Quarry A A A A A A A A A A A! !MA! !MA!!M! A!M! A!M ! A! ! A! A A A A 3A 4A A A A A A A A A A M AM AM MA MA MA: Broadleaved Semi-natural AA AA AA AANuAArsAeArieAAs AA AA AA AA!! !!AA!M! !!AMA!!!!!MAA!! !M!AA!!M!!A!A! !!AA!! 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A!A! !A A A A A A A A MeAadA A A A A A A Mead I I I I J: Bare ground Ho I I I IdisuIsedI I I AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AA AA A!A!!A!MA! MA!A!MA!A!M A!AM! !AA! !A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Farm ! ! ! ! ! ! ! B: Improved Grassland I I I BlIacIk IRoIckI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI !AI! ! A!I! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A FAarmA A A A A A A I I I I I I I I I I I I AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA !AIA AIA AA AA AA!!!AA!AA AA AA8mAA A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A HFoaursme AMI! !MAI! !MAI! M! AI! MB: Improved Grassland I I I I I I I I AII AII AII AINI urAIIseArIIiesAII AII AIAI AIAI AI!AI!! AI!AI ! A!AI!! A!AI ! A!AI ! A!A! !A A A A A A 4A A MAeadA A A A A A A II II II II AH:a Brdrosatadnledainvged Semi-natural I I I I I I !I I AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA AIA F2!AIA!AIA!AIAM AMA MAA MAA8mM AA AA AA AA AA AA AA 2AA ACAotAAtagAAes AA AA AA AA AA AA House I I I I Hardstanding I kI I I I I I I AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI AAI! !!AAI! !AA!!!AA! !AA! !AA! ! ! 1 AMI MAI MAI MAI MCHAJ:::a ABrdrrasoabtacalkdeneldenian Cvgeodn tSineumoiu-nsatural I TI I BlIaQcuIka rIRroy!IckI IA IA IA IA IA IA IA IA A A A !A A A A8m A A A A A A 3A A A FMAaeramdA A A A A A A I I I I I I I I AII DAII AII AII AII AII AIAI AIAI AIAI AIAI!AI!AI !!AI!AI ! A!AI ! A!AI ! A!AI ! 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S Site boundary_Ph1 D N Avoid A Avoid L Legend: Y Site boundary_Ph1 E Avoid N Site boundary_Ph1 H O SitePrio boundaryrity Retain ON H EY Priority Retain LA Site boundary_Ph1 ND Avoid S AvoidSAPvirtioei rdb idevelopmenttoy uRnedtaariyn_Ph1 Buildings Point Buildings A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A PrioritisePriority R foreta retentionin R 9m Buildings C APvrioirdity Retain

A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A A A A A A S A A Cat Ideally Retain Track O I L L Ideally retain mature native L M IS L E Ideally Retain A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A O D

V H R trees within hedgerows E D Buildings A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A ! PBIAdru:ei oiSaldrlcilitynay gt RtRseeertetaadini nBroadleaved A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A MinimumMinimum constraints Constraints Minimum Constraints A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AH A O Ideally Retain ! L Lines Minimum Constraints A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A AL BuildingsBIdueialdlliyn gRsetain IS SSSI A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A V Lcat SSSI 9m G 1:2,500 E SiteMin ofim specialum Co scientificnstraints interest 0 50 100 M A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A O 1:2,500 SSSI 0 50 100 M R (SSSI)IMdienaimllyu Rme Ctaoinnstraints West Wood A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A G J: Fence E 1:2,500 0 50 100 M Site boundary_Ph1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A CL Bat hibernacula IF S SSSI TO T SSSI A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A N R MJ:i nHimedugme /CTroenesst rSaipnetscies-poor S 1:2,5E 00 0 50 100 M A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A T 1:2,50E0 Main badger sett 0 50 100 M T Avoid A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A SJ:S ISnItact Hedge Species-poor A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 1:2,500 T A Priority Retain 0 50 100 M k E

Reproduced with the permission of the controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright - Licence No. AR100017235 Crown Copyright - Licence No. © Stationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s M A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Polygon A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Pcat Buildings Mead A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Farm House A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Hardstanding Black Rock Ideally Retain A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 4A A A A A A A A A A M M M M M 12 Quarry 3 A A A A A A A A A A A AM MA MA M AM A A A A A AB A A A A A A A A A A A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A: Broadleaved Plantation A A A A A A A A A A A! ! AM! !MA! !MA! M! A!M! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Minimum Constraints disused A A A A A A A A A A A! ! AM! !MA! !MA! M! A!M! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A A A A A A A A A A A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! ! A! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A ! ! ! ! !!! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Mead A: Broadleaved Semi-natural ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! SSSI I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI A A A A A A A A Farm Nurseries I I I I !! Cottages 1:2,500 I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI A A A !A!A A A A 0 50 100 M !!!!! I I I I B: Improved Grassland I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI!AI A A A A !! I I I I I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI A AMinimumA8m A 15m buffer to woodland Scale 1 : 2,500Site b@A3oundary_Ph1 I I I I ! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A I kI I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I T C: Bracken Continuous I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI A A A A Resr Avoid cov I I I I I I I I AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI AI A A A A LAND AT PORTISHEAD I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I C: Tall Ruderal ! ! ! ! ! ! I I I I I I I I I I! ! I! ! I! ! I I I I I I I I ! ! ! ! ! ! A A A A Priority Retain I I I I I I I I I I! ! I! ! I! ! I I I I I I I I FIGURE 4 ! ! ! ! ! ! DrainsA A A A ! ! ! ! ! ! J: Amenity Grassland I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I GIlenIthoIrne Ecological Opportunities and A A A A I I I I I RoIselIandI I I I I I I I I BuConstraintsildings Plan A A A A I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I A A A A J: Arable D A I I I I I I I I OI I I I I I I I R A! ! A! ! A! ! A! Ideally Retain N ! ! ! ! ! ! ! LEVEDO C ! ! ! ! ! ! ! J: Bare ground ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Hope ChapelM Houseini m Hopeu mChapel C Hillo nHotwellsstra Bristolints BS8 4ND T: +44 (0)117 923 0455 E: [email protected] Pp Rock J: Bwww.thelandmarkpractice.comuildings Villas S:\PROJECTS\2950 - 2999\2995 Land at Portishead GM\GRAPHICS (WORKING)\InDesign\2995_Land Portishead_ECO fig's Ho SSSI Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Architectural Graphics M MDrawn:M M GSM Checked: NH Date:11 Sep 17 1:2,500 M M M M M 0 50 100 M Ph1_Orchard 1:2,500 M M M M M 0 50 100 Meters M M M M M Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

APPENDIX A: LEGAL CONTEXT

The Landmark Practice Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

APPENDIX A: LEGAL CONTEXT

European Legislation The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) enacts, within the UK, the European Directives EU Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (as amended) and Directive 2009/147/EC on the Conservation of Wild Birds. These Regulations provide for the designation and protection of statutory designated wildlife sites of European value ('European sites'), and the protection of a number of rare and vulnerable species in a European context ('European Protected Species' – EPS).

European sites, including Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Ramsar Sites are recommended for designation in the UK by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).

European Protected Species (‘EPS’), such as bats, great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and otter (Lutra lutra) are listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). They are afforded full protection under Section 9(4) of the Act and Regulation 41 of the Regulations. These make it an offence, inter alia, to:

• deliberately capture, injure or kill any such animal;

• deliberately disturb any such animal, including in particular any disturbance which is likely:

- to impair its ability to survive, breed, or rear or nurture their young;

- to impair its ability to hibernate or migrate.

- to affect significantly the local distribution or abundance of that species; or

• damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of any such animal; or

• intentionally or recklessly disturb any of these animals while it is occupying a structure or place that it uses for shelter or protection; or

• intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any place that any of these animals uses for shelter or protection

In addition, four British bat species are listed on Annex II of the Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (the ‘Habitats Directive’). These are:

• Greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum)

• Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros)

• Bechstein’s bat (Myotis bechsteinii)

• Barbastelle (Barbastella barbastellus)

The Landmark Practice Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

In certain circumstances where these species are found the Directive requires the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) by EC member states to ensure that their populations are maintained at a favourable conservation status. Outside SACs, the level of legal protection that these species receive is the same as for other bat species.

National Legislation

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended, principally by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006) enshrines the protection of statutory designated wildlife sites of national importance (Sites of Special Scientific Interest – SSSIs) in England and Wales.

The Act also sets out varying degrees of protection and offences with regard to native species that are rare and vulnerable in a national context and their habitat. The Act also provides for the control and management and offences in respect of invasive non-native species. Sites of national importance (SSSIs and National Nature Reserves - NNRs), are designated by Natural England under the Act and are protected from any development that may destroy or adversely affect such sites, either directly or indirectly.

In addition, the Animal Welfare Act 2006 further protects wild animals from unnecessary suffering when under the control of man and combines with the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996, which protects wild mammals from intentional cruelty. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (as amended) affords protection specifically to badger (Meles meles) and their setts.

Section 40 of the Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act 2006 places a statutory duty on Local Planning Authorities to consider the effects upon biodiversity when exercising their functions in England and Wales.

Section 41 (S41) of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 requires the Secretary of State to publish a list (in consultation with Natural England) of habitats and species which are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England. The Government has a duty to take reasonably practicable steps to further the conservation of the species and habitats that are included in lists published under Section 41.

Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services sets out the means by which the Government will comply with its duty under Section 41 of the NERC Act to take or promote the taking by others of steps to further the conservation of listed habitats and species, including through the continued implementation of Action Plans.

Finally, ‘important’ hedgerows, are protected from removal (up-rooting or otherwise destroying) by the Hedgerow Regulations 1997.

Specific offences relating to those species protected solely by national legislation is provided below.

Water Vole

Water vole is listed on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and is afforded full protection under Section 9 of this Act. The Act makes it an offence, inter alia, to:

The Landmark Practice Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

• Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct the access to any place that a water vole uses for shelter or protection;

• Intentionally or recklessly disturb a water vole while it is occupying a structure or place that it uses for shelter or protection;

• Intentionally kill, injure or take a water vole.

Badger

The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 consolidates previous legislation (including the Badgers Acts 1973 and 1991 Badgers (Further Protection) Act 1991). It makes it a serious offence to:

• kill, injure or take a badger;

• attempt to kill, injure or take a badger; or

• to damage or interfere with a sett.

The 1992 Act defines a badger sett as “any structure or place which displays signs indicating current use by a badger”.

Reptiles

The four widespread8 species of reptile that are native to Britain, namely common or viviparous lizard (Lacerta vivipara), slow worm (Anguis fragilis), adder (Vipera berus) and grass snake (Natrix helvetica), are listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and are afforded limited protection under Section 9 of this Act. This makes it an offence, inter alia, to intentionally kill or injure any of these species

8 The other native species of British reptile (sand lizard and smooth snake) receive a higher level of protection under the Habitats Regulations 1994 and (in England and Wales only) the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). However, the distribution of these species are restricted to only a very few sites. All marine turtles (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae) are also protected.

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APPENDIX B: EVALUATION TECHNIQUES

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APPENDIX B: EVALUATION TECHNIQUES- ASSIGNING VALUE B.1 INTRODUCTION

A number of systems and criteria are available to assess the nature and extent of ecological interest found at any site. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment have been prepared by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2016), which have been employed below. The IEEM guidelines detail a recommended approach to the valuation of ecological receptors on the following scale:

 International importance

 National importance (England/Northern Ireland/Scotland/Wales)

 Regional importance

 County (or Metropolitan)

 Local or Parish; and/or

 Within zone of influence only

B.2 HABITATS AND FEATURES

Internationally important habitats are considered to be those listed on Annex I of the Habitats Directive. All internationally important examples, however, should have been designated within Special Areas for Conservation (SACs). Other examples should be considered to be of value at the level for which they are designated (see below). There are published guidelines for the selection of SACs (see Brown et al, 1997) and SPAs and Ramsar Sites (Stroud et al, 1990).

There are similar published criteria for the selection of nationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) (NCC, 1989) which give criteria for both habitats and species.

The majority of Local Authorities have a system of 'second tier' sites which do not wholly fulfil SSSI designation criteria, but which are, nonetheless, of local to regional value. Policies, encouraged by Government advice, recognise that protection should be extended beyond the statutory sites to include the best examples of wildlife habitats, populations of rare species and geological features remaining in the District and are particularly valuable in supplementing and supporting the national framework for SSSIs. DEFRA (2006) has published Guidance on their Identification, Selection and Management of such sites. The Hedgerow Regulations (1997) provide a useful framework for the assessment of the ecological importance of hedgerows.

It is possible that there may be habitats that do not fall within designated sites but are considered to meet the published selection criteria. Similarly it is possible that habitats within designated sites may not fulfil the criteria for designation in their own right. This may be due to the site having deteriorated or that they have been included for other reasons such as secondary or supporting value. If a habitat is considered to be in an unfavourable condition, consideration must be given to its potential value if restored. Consideration should also be given to secondary or supporting value where a habitat or feature may have no particular interest in itself but may perform an important ecological

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function such as a buffer against negative impacts or an important link between habitats. The presence of a diverse range of habitats can increase the value of a site.

B.3 SPECIES

A number of resources are available to assess the rarity and vulnerability of individual species. Red Data Lists utilise standard criteria defined by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN, 2001, now the World Conservation Union, WCU) to classify the scarcity and conservation status of species of flora and fauna. The Red Data List system can operate at an International, National or Regional level (e.g. County Red Data Lists). The IUCN maintains a list of threatened species on a global scale.

The IUCN threat categories are defined as follows: Extinct (EX), Extinct in the Wild (EW), Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), Near Threatened (NT), Least Concern (LC), Data Deficient (DD) and Not Evaluated (E). Species falling within the categories CR, EN and VU are considered to be threatened. These categories are defined by five criteria as follows:

Criterion A considers the percentage decline of a taxon, regardless of current range or abundance.

Criterion B is designed to identify threats associated with extremely restricted distribution when combined with other risk factors.

Criterion C considers the combination of extremely small population size with similar risk factors to Criterion B.

Criterion D identifies very small or restricted populations.

Criterion E requires quantitative analysis to estimate the extinction probability of a taxon based on known life history, habitat requirements, threats and any specified management options.

Earlier Red Data Lists and Books (such as the British Red Data Book for Insects (Shirt 1987) and subsequent reviews: Falk, 1991 and Hyman and Parsons, 1992) classified species on the former IUCN criteria as: Extinct, Endangered (RDB1), Vulnerable (RDB2), Rare (RDB3) and insufficiently known (RDBK).

Criteria for the selection of Nationally Notable insects (now termed Nationally Scarce) species generally follow Eversham (1983). These Nationally Notable/Scarce species are further divided into Notable A (present in 16-30 squares) and Notable B (31-100 squares).

Rare birds in Britain are defined as any species for which records would have to be verified by the British Birds Rarities Committee. County rarities are taken to include all national rarities and also any species listed in County bird reports requiring a full description, which should be submitted to the relevant County Recorder. The presence of rare birds at any time of year, including locally rare species, adds significantly to the ecological value of a site. In general, however, only rare birds with a regular pattern of occurrence at a site should be included in this category.

National and County distribution atlases and species reports such as county bird reports can provide valuable additional information for evaluation. They can also provide information on species status at the level of geographic coverage of the atlas. Species at

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the edge of their distribution (especially in the context of global change) and notably large populations of species that are uncommon or threatened in the wider context enhances a species value. A species that is rare and declining should be assigned a higher level of importance than one that is stable. Other rarity related evaluation criteria include the need to protect populations for which the UK holds a large / significant proportion of the international / European population. The presence of a diverse assemblage of species can enhance the value of a site.

Further guidance on the evaluation of certain protected species has been published by English Nature e.g. Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines (EN, 2001) and Bat Mitigation Guidelines (Mitchell-Jones, 2004) and non-statutory organisations e.g. Froglife (1999, endorsed by English Nature).

B.4 OTHER RESOURCES

Natural Areas

English Nature (now Natural England) has divided England into 120 'Natural Areas' described as areas of the countryside identified by their unique combination of physical attributes, wildlife, land-use and culture (English Nature, 1998). Natural Areas provide a useful framework for assessing species and habitats beyond the traditional administrative boundaries. In the UK Biodiversity Action Plan they are described as:

"… biogeographical zones which reflect the geological foundation, the natural systems and processes and the wildlife in different parts of England, and provide a framework for setting objectives for nature conservation"

The Natural Area profiles provide contextual information to confirm temporal and spatial scope. They can provide information to aid evaluation of the relative importance of ecological receptors.

Biodiversity Action Plans

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) published in 1994 (UK Biodiversity Steering Group, 1995-1999) highlighted 38 key habitat types (now termed priority habitats), which were subsequently revised to include 26 non-maritime and 19 maritime priority habitats. A review was undertaken in 2007 resulting in the publication of a new list comprising 1,149 priority species and 65 priority habitats (40 terrestrial and 25 maritime).

Under the 2007 review, priority habitats were selected according to the following criteria:

1. Habitats for which the UK has international obligations;

2. Natural and semi-natural habitats at risk, such as those with a high rate of decline in extent and/or quality, especially over the last 20 years, or which are rare;

3. Habitats important for assemblages of key species.

4. Habitats which are 'functionally critical' i.e. those 'essential for organisms inhabiting wider ecosystems', may be useful in some cases as a supporting criterion but is unlikely to be a qualifying criterion in its own right.

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Priority species were selected against the following criteria:

1. International threat;

2. International responsibility (of the UK) + moderate decline in the UK;

3. Marked decline in the UK; or

4. Other important factor(s).

Following the establishment of devolved governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in 1998, each country produced its own biodiversity strategy. In 2002, DEFRA published Working with the Grain of Nature: a biodiversity strategy for England. This has since been superseded by Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England's wildlife and ecosystem services (DEFRA, 2011) which builds on the Natural Environment White Paper (TSO, 2011) and provides a comprehensive picture of how the Government is implementing its commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the EU Biodiversity Strategy in England. It sets out the strategic direction for biodiversity policy for the next decade on land (including rivers and lakes) and at sea.

Section 41 (S41) of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 requires the Secretary of State to publish a list (in consultation with Natural England) of habitats and species which are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England. The Government has a duty to take reasonably practicable steps to further the conservation of the species and habitats that are included in lists published under Section 41. The S41 list includes all the habitats and species in England identified as requiring action under the UK BAP with the addition of hen harrier which, without continued conservation action, it is considered unlikely that its population will increase from its current very low levels in England.

Biodiversity Action plans at lower levels such as regional and county have also been produced for many areas.

Selection of habitats and species for BAPs is on the grounds that they are in a sub-optimal state and does not imply any specific level of importance of a habitat or species. The value of priority habitats and species should be determined as described above. Only where a specific habitat or species action plan states that all areas of a particular habitat or all populations of a given species should be protected should the habitat or species be valued at the appropriate level of the BAP. BAPs can assist in ecological evaluation but must be reviewed on a case by case basis.

Bird Species of Conservation Concern

Bird Species of Conservation Concern in the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man was first published in 1996, updated in 2002 (Gregory et. al., 2002) and again in 2009 (Eaton et. al., 2009). The list is prioritised into species of high (red) and medium (amber) conservation concern; all other species are of lower (green) concern. Red-listed species are globally threatened according to IUCN (World Conservation Union) criteria or in rapid decline (greater than 50% over the past 25 years) in the UK, currently or historically and those that have declined historically and not shown a substantial recent recovery. Amber listed species are in moderate decline (25-49% over the past 25 years), rare breeders, localised or internationally important populations, of an unfavourable conservation status in Europe or those whose population has declined historically but made a substantial recent

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recovery. It should be noted that despite substantial declines, many red-listed species such as skylark (Alauda arvensis) and song thrush (Turdus merula) remain relatively common in the UK countryside. As for BAPs, inclusion of species on one of the lists is not sufficient in itself for assigning a level of value to the species concerned. Each species should be evaluated according to the guidelines above with reference to the criteria for inclusion of the species.

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APPENDIX C: SURVEY PHOTOGRAPHS

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APPENDIX C: SURVEY PHOTOGRAPHS

Photograph 1: View west across Field 1. Note the maize crop and narrow field margins

Photograph 2: View east across Fields 2 and 3. Note the modern Chalet Bungalow. Fields 2 and 3 comprised closely mown amenity grassland.

Photograph 3: View north across Field 4 towards Weston Big Wood SSSI. Note the managed improved grassland.

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Photograph 4: View east across Field 5. Note the old stable building. Note the managed improved grassland and semi-mature tree lines.

Photograph 5: View north across Field 2.

Photograph 6: External view of the old stable building.

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Photograph 7: Loft space within old stable building.

Photograph 8: Large area of annual mercury (Mercurialis annua) adajcent to Weston Big Wood in Field 1.

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Photograph 9: Example of active badger sett entrance in northern site boundary and in Weston Big Wood SSSI.

Photograph 10: Bat hibernacula adajcent to site in Weston Big Wood SSSI.

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APPENDIX D: TARGET NOTES

The Landmark Practice Aston and Co UK Ltd Land at Portishead Ecological Constraints and Opportunities

APPENDIX D: TARGET NOTES

Target Note

1 Old stable building of moderate potential for roosting. Previous ecological surveys suggest that it has been intermittently used as a roost by individual bats of more than one species.

2 Purpose built bat hibernacula owned and managed by the Avon Wildlife Trust. Has been occupied in the past by greater and lesser horseshoe bats, both Annex II species associated with the North Somerset and Mendip Bats SAC.

3 An extensive main badger sett comprising >10 entrances is within the site boundary and the woodland edge.

4 Large uncultivated area on north western edge of Field 1. Dominated by annual mercury (Mercurialis annua).

5 Area of broadleaved woodland contiguous with Weston Big Wood. It comprises a similar composition of species as the wider woodland, though falls outside the boundaries of the SSSI, Ancient Woodland and other non-statutory designations.

6 Small stand of broadleaved plantation woodland. Contained lots of mature specimens in linear rows, species included oak (Quercus robur), copper beech (Fagus sylvatic f. purpurea), false acacia (Robinia pseudacacia) with a dense understory of box (Buxus sempervirens).

7 The north western boundary of Field 1 was buffered by a wide margin dominated by bracken (Pteridium aquilinum).

8 Relatively recent hedge laying was evident in the hedgerow bounding Field 1 to the south-east.

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