Annie Holgate Junior and Infant Schools

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Report

PSDERSU2

October 2013

Document Control Sheet BPP 04 F8 Version 15; March 2013

Project: Annie Holgate Junior and Infant Schools Client: Education Funding Agency Project No: PSDERSU2 Document title: Extended Phase 1 Habit at Survey Report

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Executive Summary

This report contains confidential/sensitive ecological records and as such should not be made available for public circulation.

An extended Phase 1 habitat survey (P1HS) of Annie Holgate Junior and Infant Schools was carried out on 6th September 2013. This survey included an external inspection of all the existing buildings on both sites for bat roost and breeding bird potential. The field survey was supplemented by a data gathering exercise and desk top review.

The survey area comprises the area to be developed and all areas to be used during construction. Habitats present were mapped and the presence of, or the potential for them to support protected species, was noted. All existing buildings on site will be demolished, except for the plant room and Sure Start Accommodation at the infants school, so their potential for supporting protected species (in particular bats and breeding birds) was assessed.

The habitats recorded within the study area are of limited botanical value, containing a low diversity of common and widespread plant species. The survey area is dominated by amenity grassland, buildings and hard standing with introduced shrub beds and trees scattered around the site. There are also areas of woodland and scrub at the site periphery. A pond was located in the north of the survey area. Woodland is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species/habitats (which are all those listed as habitats and species of principal importance in Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act, 2006). There is also a spring that runs along the northern boundary, as such, exclusion measures are recommended to protect the wooded areas and spring corridor during construction (see Section 4.2)

The pond located within the survey area is surrounded by suitable terrestrial habitat for great crested newt (GCN) and has links to the wider area via woodland corridors and a nearby allotment site. It is recommended that a presence /absence survey is conducted to determine if GCN are using the site.

The buildings offer moderate potential for roosting bats and several possible bat roost features were identified. Depending on the preferred option that is selected, several of the existing buildings on site will be demolished. As such it is recommended that further surveys of the buildings will be required: two dusk emergence / pre-dawn re-entry surveys undertaken between July and August by suitably qualified ecologists.

No other ecological surveys are required to inform the detailed design or to accompany a planning application, but the timing of the demolition and any required vegetation removal should consider the potential for nesting birds. Depending on the findings of the recommended pre-construction check on the hole located in the area of scrub in the north of the survey area, additional generic construction site mitigation may be required should the presence of badger be confirmed.

Contents

1 Introduction 1 1.1 Background 1 1.2 Aims and Objectives 1 1.3 Site Description 2

2 Methodology 3 2.1 Desk Study and Consultation 3 2.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 3 2.3 Assessment of Bat Roost Potential 4 2.4 Constraints 5

3 Results 6 3.1 Data Search 6 3.2 Field Survey 8

4 Conclusions and Recommendations 14 4.1 Designated Sites 14 4.2 Habitats 14 4.3 Protected Species 14

5 References 19

Figures

Appendix A Proposed Options Site Plans

Appendix B Desk Study Results

Appendix C Photographs

Appendix D Target Notes

Appendix E Protected Species Legislation

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

Jacobs UK Ltd. (Jacobs) was commissioned by the Education Funding Agency (EFA) to provide environmental support to the option selection process and possible submission of a planning application for the proposed development of a new two storey block on the playing field at Annie Holgate Infant School (both schools are within the survey area), which is located in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire (grid reference SK52624862 see inset on Phase 1 Habitat Survey Map (Figure 1).

The proposed site plan of the preferred option being considered for the location of the new building is presented in Appendix A. The proposed works will comprise construction of a new school building and associated works as outlined below, depending on the selected preferred option:

 construction of a new two storey school to include nursery within existing playing fields at the Annie Holgate Infant and Nursery School  demolition of all existing school buildings at both junior and infant schools with exception of the plant room and Sure Start accommodation at the infant and nursery school  potential loss of some vegetation during the demolition process  creation of a new car park on an existing playing field area adjacent to the new school, increasing current parking provision.

1.2 Aims and Objectives

The aims of the survey were to record the habitats present and identify the presence of, or potential for, legally protected species to occur within the proposed development area. It is understood that this report will inform the detailed design and may accompany a planning application for the proposed works.

The objectives of the survey were to:

 undertake a desk study and consultation exercise to collect existing records of species and designated sites (statutory and non statutory) within 2km of the proposed development site;  undertake an extended Phase 1 habitat survey (P1HS) of the proposed development site;  undertake an external inspection survey of the buildings for evidence indicating use by bats;  assess the potential of the buildings and trees present to support roosting bats, and  identify the requirement for any further ecological surveys necessary to accompany a planning application.

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1.3 Site Description

Annie Holgate Junior and Infant Schools is located in Hucknall, 9km from the centre of Nottingham. The school is surrounded by residential properties and the A611 road runs along the western boundary. Woodland borders the northernmost tip of the survey boundary which extends into a larger area of allotments to the north. Due to the school’s suburban location, the wider landscape consists of a mix of urban conurbation with open areas (including recreation grounds, golf courses, and an airfield) and industrial units. Beyond 1-2km in all directions the landscape becomes dominated by extensive arable fields and pastures.

A small spring runs along the northern boundary. There are farmland ponds scattered throughout the wider landscape and larger lakes are located in parks (i.e. Leen Valley Country Park 2.3km east and Bullwell Hall Park 2km southeast). There are no ponds within 500m of the school. There are numerous woodland areas in the wider countryside and extensive woodland (Park Forest) lies 2.5km to the northwest.

The total survey area for the school site (approximately 5.4ha) comprises the main school buildings, car parks; playgrounds; and garden areas / playing fields (the area within the red line on Figure 1). The survey area focussed on the area to be demolished, developed and all areas to be used during construction.

The main school buildings are a mixture of single and two storey with two tall (exceeding two storey height) towers which are the plant rooms for each school. They are predominantly brick construction and some breeze block/concrete with wood and tile panelling/cladding with flat felt roofs.

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2 Methodology

2.1 Desk Study and Consultation

A desk study was undertaken to obtain ecological information about the wider study area and surrounding landscape. This study was designed to identify any statutory and non-statutory designated sites of nature conservation interest within 2km of the site, and to identify records of legally protected or otherwise notable species/habitats within 2km of the site.

Records were sought for protected species and other species of conservation importance, including those listed as priority species on the National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAP species) and listed as Species of Principal Importance (NERC Act 2006 Section 41).

The following web resources were accessed on 16th September 2013:

 the Multi-Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) website (www.natureonthemap.naturalengland.org.uk);  aerial photography and online maps (www.mapsgoogle.co.uk).

In addition data was requested from the following third party:

 Nottinghamshire Biological and Geological Records Centre (NBGRC) – the primary function of the NBGRC is to map the areas within the county that are particularly valuable for wildlife, but it also collates and supplies biodiversity data from a range of local ecological groups.

2.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Jacobs’ ecologists Lucy Besson and Anna Cocker undertook a site visit on 6th September 2013.

The site was surveyed on foot and all habitats within the survey area were assessed and mapped according to the survey methods outlined in the Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey (JNCC, 2010). Dominant and notable plant species were recorded, with botanical taxonomic nomenclature following that of Stace (2010). An extended Phase 1 habitat survey enhances the standard methodology by looking for evidence of any protected species that may be using the site, or identifying habitats within the site which may be capable of supporting particular protected species as developed in Guidance for Baseline Ecological Assessment (Institute of Environmental Assessment, 1995). The results are presented in Figure 1.

Target notes (TN) were made to record key habitat features too small to be mapped and to provide greater detail on other features of ecological interest. Photos were also taken to illustrate the broad habitats types and/ or other features of interest.

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Signs indicating evidence of, or potential for the presence of protected species and other species of conservation concern were recorded and assessed using professional judgement. The following features were recorded if present:

 trees and structures suitable for bat roosts;  trees and habitats suitable for nesting birds;  habitat suitable for badger (Meles meles) and signs of activity, e.g. setts, latrines, runs, feeding remains, footprints;  transitional habitats, compost heaps, south facing banks which may be suitable for reptiles;  ditches and ponds with suitable habitat for great crested newt (GCN) (Triturus cristatus) and/or water vole (Arvicola amphibius) and  location and stand size of invasive non-native plant species.

2.3 Assessment of Bat Roost Potential

An external inspection of all buildings on site was undertaken to assess potential for roosting bats. This involved a ground based visual inspection of all the buildings using binoculars and a Clulite high-powered torch; concentrating on potential exit/ entry points into the roof space, wall cavities or other external features providing potential roosting sites for bats (e.g. gaps under tiles, around window frames, under fascia boards and hanging tiles). No internal inspections were completed.

All trees on site, particularly those that may be removed during construction were also assessed for potential to support a bat roost using standard methodology guidelines (Hundt 2012). Trees play a very important part in bat life cycles and at least 12 of the 18 bat species present in the UK are known to use tree roosting sites at some point through the year. Trees were surveyed from ground level and features such as woodpecker holes, rot holes, snags, loose bark or dense ivy were recorded. The context of the tree within the wider landscape was also taken into account i.e. the degree of connectivity with suitable foraging and roosting habitat and the proximity of the tree to areas of woodland or significant linear features (e.g. watercourse, mature hedgerow, wooded lanes).

Buildings were also assessed for bat roosting potential using the Bat Conservation Trust Good Practice Guidelines (Hundt 2012) and given either a Higher or Lower likelihood of bats being present based on the potential roosting features present1.

Assessment of the trees for bat potential was similarly carried out with regard to the guidelines outlined by the Good Practice Guidelines. Trees with bat roost potential were assessed and given a category from Category 1* (Trees with multiple, highly suitable features capable of supporting larger roosts) to Category 3 (Trees with no potential to support roosting bats)2. Trees where positive evidence of a bat roost has been recorded (either during the assessment or through historical records) are categorised as “Known or Confirmed roosts”.

The need for further bat activity surveys on buildings and trees identified as supporting potential bat roosting features was assessed as part of this study. The

1 See Bat Conservation Trust Good Practice Guidelines (2nd Edition) Table 8.2 for detailed description. 2 See Bat Conservation Trust Good Practice Guidelines (2nd Edition) Table 8.4 for detailed description.

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likelihood of specific impacts arising from the development (for example, demolition of a building, felling of a tree, significant disturbance to a building, etc.) was assessed to identify whether the action could result in contravention of existing wildlife legislation (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Habitat Regulations 2012).

This approach takes account of the roost potential and the likely impact, and based on this assessment, between 1 and 3 activity surveys comprising dusk emergence / dawn re-entry surveys are recommended if the feature shows potential for supporting roosting bats. These activity surveys are undertaken across the optimal season which runs from approximately April to September inclusive. The level of survey effort to provide confidence in a negative preliminary roost assessment of the buildings has been assessed using professional judgement and the guidance table within the current guidelines3 (BCT 2012) and uses the likelihood of a roost being present verses the risk of disturbance.

2.4 Constraints

The P1HS was undertaken in September, a suitable time of year for P1HS, yet foliage on the trees can obscure potential bat roost features from view. However, this is not considered a limitation on survey results since weather conditions were optimal and it was possible to assess the tree trunks and major limbs from the ground without foliage obscuring potential bat roost features.

Internal inspections of the buildings did not form part of the agreed scope for this survey. However an extensive external inspection of the school was undertaken, enabling the surveyors to satisfactorily assess the suitability of the building to support roosting bats; therefore this is not seen as a constraint on the initial inspection survey.

The natural environment is dynamic and subject to change over time with the inward and outward movement of species. Therefore, this report and its recommendations reflect the site conditions on 6th September 2013. Habitats can be affected/respond to change (natural or external influences/processes) slowly and for the timeframe of this project it is considered that natural change is unlikely to affect the protected species status on this site in the short term. The behaviour of wildlife can be seasonal and unpredictable, as such it is considered good practice for wildlife surveys to be repeated should development be deferred for over 12 to 18 months from the date of the initial survey.

3 See Bat Conservation Trust Good Practice Guidelines (2nd Edition) Table 8.5 for detailed description. 5

3 Results

3.1 Data Search

3.1.1 Statutory Designated Sites of Nature Conservation Importance

Online resources revealed that there is one statutory designated site within 2km of the survey area (Table 1). This site is designated as Local Nature Reserves (LNR).

Table 1 Statutory desig nated sites within 2km of the survey area Site Designation Description Distance / direction from site Bulwell Hall Park LNR Mosaic of woodland, 1.5km southeast Meadows wetlands, open meadows. (nearest part) Species rich unimproved grassland part of which is the most southerly site of magnesian limestone grassland in England. BAP habitats include lowland calcareous grassland and lowland hay meadow. Ancient woodland indicators and 35 species of grasses.

3.1.2 Non-Statutory Designated Sites of Nature Conservation Importance

There are 17 non-statutory designated sites within 2km of the site (Table 2). All of these are Local Wildlife Sites (previously called Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation – SINC). The location of these sites is presented in the map provided by NBGRC in Appendix B along with full details.

None of the sites are directly connected to the site by any ecological pathways (e.g. watercourses or woodland blocks).

Table 2 Non-statutory designated s ites within 2km of the survey area Site Designation Distance / direction from site Bulwell Wood and Pond LWS 2.0km southwest Bulwell Hall Park LWS 1.5km southeast Watnall Coppice East LWS 1.5km west Long Hill Meadow LWS 0.6km northwest Washdyke Lane Hedges LWS 0.8km north Dobpark Grassland LWS 0.8km north Bleinheim Lane Ponds LWS 2.0km southwest Mill Lakes, Bestwood LWS 2.0km southeast Farley's Disused Railway LWS 1.4km southeast Starth Wood LWS 1.4km southwest Watnall Brickyard LWS 1.6km southwest Eelhole Wood LWS 1.2km southwest Hucknall Colliery Site LWS 1.4km northeast

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Hucknall Airfield LWS 1.3km south Long Hill Disused Pit LWS 0.6km northwest Blenheim Lane Grassland LWS 2.0km southwest Farley's Grassland LWS 1.7km southeast

3.1.3 Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitats

Within 500m of the survey area there is one habitat listed as UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority habitat: there are four areas of deciduous woodland. The closest of these areas borders a small proportion of the survey area on the northernmost boundary. This small area of woodland appears to be part of a large area of allotments which extends to the north. The woodland is also linked to the roadside plantation woodland that runs along the A611 on the western boundary of the school.

One pond was identified in the school grounds (see P1HS map). No other ponds were identified from OS maps and aerial photography within 500m.

3.1.4 Species including those of Principal Importance (NERC Act Section 41) and National and Local BAP Species

The following records for protected and notable species were obtained from the data supplied by NBGRC (Table 3). The NBGRC also provided records of local Biodiversity Action Plan (LB AP) spec ies. Records were not in all cases sufficiently detailed t o identify an ex act locatio n but where available, specific locations are included. Full desk study re sults are presented in Appendix B.

Table 3 Records of p rotected and notable species within 2km of the site since 2000 Date of Number of most Species records Designations recent within 2km record European badger 2 202/04/2 011 Protection of Badgers Act 1992 Meles meles LBAP Brown long-eared 2 01/06/2006 WCA 1981 (Sch5) Plecotus auritus NERC 2006 UKBAP LBAP Noctule bat 1 17/08/2011 WCA 1981 (Sch5) Nyctalus noctula NERC 2006 UKBAP LBAP Common pipistrelle 2 06/07/2012 WCA 1981 (Sch5) Pipistrellus pipistrellus LBAP Pipistrelle sp. 10 08/07/2010 Various White-clawed crayfish 1 2009 WCA 1981 (Sch5) Austropotamobius UKBAP pallipes LBAP Water vole 2 28/11/2006 WCA 1981 (Sch5) Arvicola amphibius NERC 2006 UKBAP LBAP

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The NBGRC also provided records within 2km of other notable species listed as UK BAP priority species: brown hare (Lepus lepus), stoat (Mustela erminea), hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), common toad (Bufo bufo) and smooth newt (Triturus vulgaris).

A total of 25 species of birds were found in the desk study including five UK BAP priority species (also NERC species of principle importance) and five species listed on Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 (as amended). The following table (Table 4) is a summary table of the UK BAP/NERC/Schedule 1 species found in the desk study (full details of all birds records found are available in Appendix B).

Table 4 Records of notable bird spec ies within 2km of the site since 2 008 Numbe r of Record s within UK BAP / Common Name Species Na me 2km Schedule 1 NERC Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti 2 Y Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 1 Y Great Bittern Botaurus stell aris 1 Y Y Grey Partridge Perdix perdix 1 Y Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 2 Y Merlin Falco columbarius 1 Y Redwing Turdus iliacus 1 Y Sky Lark Alauda arvensis 1 Y Willow Tit Poecile montanus 2 Y

3.1.5 Non native invasive plant species

Numerous records of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) within 2km of the survey area were obtained from NBGRC. This species is listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

3.2 Field Survey

3.2.1 Habitats

All habitats within the survey area were mapped in Figure 1. The figure is augmented by a series of photographs (displayed in Appendix C)) and Target Notes (Appendix D). The following habitats were recorded in the survey area:

 amenity grassland;  hard standing and Astroturf;  hedgerow (intact species-poor);  introduced shrub;  broad-leaved semi-natural woodland;  broad-leaved plantation woodland;  scattered trees (broad-leaved and coniferous);  a pond;  arable (allotment and orchard);  scrub (scattered and dense continuous), and

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 bare ground

The dominant habitats within the survey area are amenity grassland (playing fields) and hard standing (playgrounds and car park). There are expanses of broad-leaved semi-natural and plantation woodland along with dense scrub around the site periphery. Introduced shrubs (non-native, ornamental) with species typical of amenity landscaping were recorded around the buildings and courtyards. There are also numerous broad-leaved trees and some coniferous trees scattered around the school. Hedgerows line some of the walkways and car parks/playing field.

Each habitat type is summarised below:

Amenity grassland: This habitat is dominant throughout the site including the playing fields and grass areas around the school buildings and car parks. The sward is mown short and well managed. The dominant grass species observed was perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) with occasional common cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomerata) and common forb species scattered throughout, including: ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis), white clover (Trifolium repens) and common cat’s-ear (Hypochaeris radicata).

Hard standing and Astroturf: Hard standing is dominant throughout the site and includes the playgrounds, car park and walkways around the school, which were typically of tarmac or paving-slab composition. A small area of Astroturf was also recorded at the infant school site.

Hedgerow: Some of the walkways and car parks are lined with closely-clipped hedgerows which are dominated by hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), with occasional bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and elder (Sambucus nigra).

Introduced shrub: Introduced shrubs were recorded in beds scattered throughout the school buildings and in areas of hard standing. They comprised a mixture of non-native shrubs of ornamental and amenity value; typically thorny and dense, maintained to below window height at approximately 1-1.5m tall. One of the beds (TN 5, photo 1) included non-native Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa) which is a non- native invasive species listed on Schedule 9 of the WCA 1981 (as amended), whereby it is an offence to cause the spread of this species into the wild. In the north of the site there are some patches of introduced shrubs in a designated garden area (TN 8).

Broad-leaved semi-natural woodland: This habitat was present along the northeast boundary. The canopy was composed of predominantly mature poplar trees (Populus sp.) up to approximately 15m tall. The shrub layer was composed of a mixture of younger trees including hawthorn, oak (Quercus robur), ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Swedish whitebeam (Sorbus x intermedia) and holly (Ilex aquifolium). The ground layer was species poor grassland and leaf litter and localised bramble.

Broad-leaved plantation woodland: This habitat is present along the southwest boundary with the A611 and at the northern periphery in the junior school part of the

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site. The canopy was a dense composition of a mixture of broad-leaved trees up to approximately seven metres in height. No shrub layer was noted and the ground layer was a mixture of species-poor grasses, bare ground and leaf litter. Species present included sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), hawthorm, blackthorn and whitebeam. The plantation to the north included eared willow (Salix auriculata), buddleja (Buddleja davidii) and ornamental dogwood (Cornus alba).

Scattered trees: There are numerous scattered broad-leaved trees throughout the school site including horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), ash (Fraxinus excelsior), sycamore, oak (Quercus robur), weeping willow (Salix chrysocoma), wild cherry (Prunus avium), rowan, hornbeam (Carpinus betula). Some coniferous trees were also present including a Leyland cypress (Cuppressus x leylandii) shelter belt on the western boundary and occasional scattered coniferous trees in the school grounds. The trees were generally all more mature specimens, all of which were maintained to a high standard.

Pond: A small c.3m x 2m pre-formed pond was found in the north of the site (TN 9, photo 2) behind a locked gate. The pond seemed to be devoid of aquatic plants aside from a covering of duckweed (Lemna sp.). Wooden crates and post were partially erected over the surface. The pond was also quite shaded by the surrounding vegetation.

Arable: In the north of the site there is a designated garden area (TN 8) that includes an allotment and orchard with young fruit trees with amenity grassland pathways throughout (photos 3 and 4)

Scrub: An area of dense continuous scrub was recorded on the southwest boundary of the site which included hawthorn, bramble and young self-set trees such as rowan, sycamore and ash. A young willow (Salix sp) tree which appeared to be self-set was also recorded near the entrance to the infant school (scattered scrub).

Bare ground: A small area of bare earth in an empty flower bed was recorded at the junior school.

3.2.2 Protected Species Potential

Bats

There were several records of bats found in the desk study, mostly of Pipistrelle species with one or two brown long-eared, Daubenton’s and noctule records. No records of roosts were given within the survey area.

The survey area is surrounded by residential properties with associated gardens and a large area of allotments with many trees. There is also woodland along the site boundaries and just to the north boundary at the south of the allotments. These habitats provide foraging and commuting habitat for bats along with roosting opportunities in the neighbouring housing.

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The main school buildings are predominantly well-sealed single and two storey buildings which are old (1950’s onwards) but well maintained. They are constructed from a range of materials including concrete, brick, wood and stone rendered panelling and breeze block with flat felt roofs (see photos 5 and 6 for general impression of buildings).

No evidence of roosting bats was observed during the site visit. The school was generally in good condition as visible from ground level, with few openings detected. Table 5 describes the survey findings for buildings with TN locations shown on Figure 1.

Table 5: Description of buildings and bat roost potential TN Description Photos Roost No. potential 1 Gap under tile cladding Moderate leading into a cavity

2 Junction between roof levels Moderate under roof felt possibly extending under felt

3 Plant room tower with Moderate windows assumed to be open at all times (to regulate temperature). Also includes two narrow holes in brickwork (c.4mm) where pipes used to be.

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TN Description Photos Roost No. potential 4 Lower window open on Low - plant room creating entry Moderate point into building

6 Di slodged bricks where Low mortar is missing creating crevice. Probably superficial and not leading inside building.

7 Location of junior school (Same feature as TN 3) Moderate plant room tower with windows assumed to be open at all times (to regulate temperature).

Birds

The woodland, introduced shrubs, scrub and trees on site provide nesting opportunities for birds. Common species are likely to roost and nest within the aforementioned habitats such; as blackbird (Turdus merula), wood pigeon (Columba palumbus) and magpie (Pica pica).

Five UK BAP priority species (also NERC species of principle importance) and five species listed on Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 (as amended). It is unlikely that any of these species would breed on site either because they are a winter visitor to the UK or the habitat available on site has very limited suitability. Other UK BAP / NERC species such as; dunnock (Prunella vulgaris), starling (Sturnus vulgaris) and house sparrow (Passer domesticus) do however have the potential to be present and nest on the site. Bulfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula), a UK BAP and NERC species was recorded on site near the pond (TN 9) in the dense vegetation there during the survey.

Badger

Two records of badger were obtained from NBGRC in the same grid square as the school site since 2000.

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No signs of badger were recorded during the surveys and the site is considered to have limited potential to support badgers. The surrounding woodland and allotments do offer suitable foraging and potentially sett-making opportunities for badger.

Reptiles

No records of any reptile species were obtained in the desk study. Suitable reptile habitats are generally lacking on site and suitable refugia or basking sites are absent. The surrounding woodland, allotments and gardens do offer suitable habitat, particularly allotments, as they have plenty of refuges for reptiles such as compost heaps which are good for species such as slow worm (Anguis fragilis) and grass snake (Natrix natrix) that require warmth for egg incubation.

Water vole

Although there are two water vole records within 2km of the survey area, there are no water bodies suitable for water vole within the survey area. The spring running along the northern boundary was difficult to see as it was densely wooded (behind security fence and shaded which would exclude most aquatic/marginal plants that typically sustain water voles. Water voles also require open water to escape predators which appeared to be lacking due to the dense cover. The close proximity to residential properties (runs along bottom of gardens) implies high predator (domestic cats) and disturbance which are also unfavourable conditions for water vole.

Great Crested Newt

No records of GCN were found in the desk study, however many records of common amphibians such as common frog (Rana temporaria), common toad and smooth newt. The pond on site, it is not considered to be optimum breeding conditions for GCN due to the shading, lack of aquatic vegetation and steep, preformed sides. The surrounding habitats on site and on the site periphery; including woodland, introduced shrub, allotment, the spring corridor (north boundary) and plantation woodland provide suitable terrestrial habitat that is connected to allotments and woodland in the wider area. Despite the seemingly poor quality of the pond, it has good terrestrial connectivity, and if GCN were to be present in the area, it could be used as a breeding site.

Notable Plant species

Several records of Japanese knotweed were found in the desk study; however none was identified within the survey area. A Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa) was found at TN 5 (photo 1) which is a non-native invasive species listed on Schedule 9 of the WCA 1981 (as amended), whereby it is an offence to cause the spread of this species.

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4 Conclusions and Recommendations

4.1 Designated Sites

The nearest designated site is Long Hill Meadow LWS located approximately 500m from the survey area across a residential area. There is limited habitat connectivity between any of the designated sites and the survey area. It is highly unlikely that the proposed work would adversely impact the sites and they are therefore not considered to be a constraint.

4.2 Habitats

A small area of deciduous woodland is located adjacent to the north of the northernmost tip of survey area boundary. The construction area does not include this woodland and it is unlikely that there will be any impacts to this habitat during the development. Furthermore, the area of board-leaved woodland located within the survey area is to be retained according to the development proposals. There is potential for damage to occur to the root zones of trees along the site boundary and for those trees on site which are to be retained during construction. In order to protect trees and woodland, an exclusion zone is recommended during construction. Further information on suitable tree protection can be found under British Standard guidelines (BS 5837, 2012).

Along the north boundary (just outside survey area), there is a spring that runs through a wooded corridor along the bottom of the residential gardens that border the site. It is located approximately 50m from the footprint of the proposed new school building. It is therefore recommended that in order to protect this feature, a suitable exclusion zone is implemented during construction activities. Further information on suitable protection in this matter can be found in the Environment Agency’s Pollution Prevention Guidance 5 (PPG 5) (Environment Agency, 2007).

Aside from the woodland, none of the remaining habitats on site are protected or UK/local BAP priority habitats or habitats of principal importance (Section 41) and therefore are not considered to be a constraint to the proposed works. The pond to the north of the site is manmade and has limited value and could be considered a priority habitat in the literal sense, but is not affected under the current proposals.

Section 40 of the NERC Act 2006 states that "Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity". To meet this Biodiversity duty it is recommended that habitat enhancement opportunities should be explored in order to maintain and enhance the biodiversity value of the site if feasible within the scope of the proposed development.

4.3 Protected Species

A summary of wildlife legislation relevant to the species listed below can be found in Appendix E.

14

4.3.1 Badger

Two badger records were obtained from NBGRC which were reported road deaths and located within the same grid square as the school.

The current proposals do not implicate loss of any potential badger habitat, but it is advised that the recommendations in section 4.2 area followed with regard to woodland in order to protect woodland on site that could be used by badgers in the future. During construction, it is good practice to cover open trenches or provide suitable means of escape (either an earth slope being left at one end or a plank which can act as a ramp) for badger and other mammals. This should be implemented at the end of each construction day to avoid unnecessary suffering to mammals that may pass through the site.

4.3.2 Reptiles

The location of the proposed new building does not implicate loss of suitable reptile habitat. There is potential for reptiles to be present in the wider area and in the habitats adjoining the site. Exclusion zones are recommended to avoid damage to woodland habitats as per section 4.2 which would also mitigate for reptiles in this case.

4.3.3 Water vole

The site itself does not have the potential to support water vole. There is a low likelihood that water voles may commute via the spring that runs along the north site boundary. The recommendations in section 4.2 for protection of the spring (PPG 5) are considered to mitigate for the low risk of encountering water voles during construction.

4.3.4 Great crested newt

Due to the presence of a pond within the survey area and connectivity of terrestrial habitat to the wider area, a further GCN presence / absence survey is recommended to determine if GCN are using the pond and if they are present on site. This would entail four survey visits, at least a week apart between April – May, with at least two visits between mid April – mid May. If GCN are recorded during the first four visits then a further two visit are required to ascertain population size. Surveys should be carried out by a Natural England (NE) licensed personnel in accordance with Natural England (formerly English Nature) guidelines (English Nature, 2001).

4.3.5 Bats

Generally, the buildings on site were assessed as having a low-moderate likelihood of being used by bats due to the presence of several suitable bat roosting features across the site.

As both junior and infant school buildings marked for demolition have potential bat roosting features present, it is recommended that further survey work is undertaken on these buildings and the refectory during the active bat season (April to

15

September inclusive). This should include a visual check for the presence of a bat roost (fresh droppings, staining, or sighting / hearing). Following this, two dusk emergence or dawn re-entry surveys should be conducted during the optimal time of year (July to August inclusive) to ascertain bat activity.

A NE licence may need to be obtained to permit works if bats are found following the bat emergence / re-entry surveys.

Regardless of the outcome of further surveys, it is recommended at this stage that bat sensitive features are considered in the new design such as installation of bat boxes, directional lighting (to minimise any potential impacts on bat commuting and foraging habitats) and landscape planting (which should include night-scented species such as honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.) that attract insects and enhance foraging opportunities for bats). By retaining the trees in the survey area the foraging value of the site for any bats utilising the local area can be preserved.

4.3.6 Birds

No further bird surveys are considered necessary to accompany a planning application for the proposed works. However, the potential for nesting birds should be taken into account when programming the demolition of the buildings and any required vegetation removal. All species of bird are afforded legal protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

It is understood that the majority of the trees and woodland will be retained on site. However, for any areas of vegetation that will require removal and offer suitable bird nesting habitats, the timing of removal of this vegetation should avoid, where possible, the bird breeding season which typically runs from March to August inclusive. If vegetation removal during the bird nesting season cannot be avoided, precautionary nesting bird surveys will be required no more than 24hrs in advance of works. This would involve ecologists monitoring trees and shrubs to determine whether they are used by nesting birds. If nesting birds were discovered in any of the vegetation their removal would have to be postponed until all the young have fledged or the nest is abandoned.

Retaining trees, woodland and shrubs throughout the survey area would continue to provide nesting and foraging opportunities for birds. A range of bird box designs installed in suitable locations on trees and buildings within the site would increase nesting opportunities for birds. Planting and sensitive management of additional trees and scrub areas to replace the ones that will be lost would also improve the foraging and nesting potential of this habitat for birds.

4.3.7 Notable plant species

It is recommended that if the works involve the removal of the Japanese rose (at TN5) then they are disposed of appropriately so that the seeds (hips) are not transferred beyond the school grounds and spread into the wild in accordance with the WCA 1981 (as amended) e.g. incineration of the plants or disposal rather than composting. The plants do not cause structural damage to buildings unlike other Schedule 9 species such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), but do threaten

16

native plant species due to their invasive, spreading nature. The planting of native shrubs, plants and trees would be more appropriate in the new design. And contribute towards supporting local biodiversity in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework guidance.

17

18

5 References

BS 5837 (2012) Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction – Recommendations, British Standards Insitute

Environment Agency (2007), Works and Maintenance in or near Water: PPG 5

Hundt L (2012). Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd edition. Bat Conservation Trust, London.

Institute of Environmental Assessment, IEA (1995). Guidance for Baseline Ecological Assessment

JNCC (Joint Nature Conservation Committee). (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey: A technique for environmental audit. JNCC, Peterborough.

English nature (now ‘Natural England’), (2001). Great crested newt mitigation guidelines.

Stace, C. (2010). New Flora of the British Isles, 3rd edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

19

Figures

Figure 1 - Annie Holgate Junior and Infant School Phase 1 Habitat Survey Map

/ FIGURE 1 ! ! Legend ! ! ! ! ! ! Survey Area Boundary ! !9 ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !1 Target Note ! ! ! !! ! !! Broad-leaved Tree !! ! ! ! ! ! ! Coniferous Tree ! A A ! A A ! G ! ! !8 Scattered Scrub ! ! ! ! A Species-poor Intact Hedge ! ! ! ! ! Fence !! ! Arable Grassland ! A ! A ! A ! ! ! Broad-leaved Semi-natural Woodland ! ! ! ! ! ! Dense/Continous Scrub ! ! A A ! ! ! Broad-leaved Plantation Woodland !! ! !! ! ! A A Amenity Grassland ! ! ! ! ! ! Introduced Shrub ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! 6 Bare Ground ! ! ! ! ! !! !7 Pond A ! Astroturf

! A Hardstanding A ! ! ! Building

! Not Included in the Survey ! ! ! A A ! ! ! ! ! A ! A ! ! ! ! ! ! !5 ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A ! ! A ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! A !4 ! ! ! !3 ! ! A ! ! 0 OCT 13 Initial Issue AD LB SW DC ! ! ! ! Rev. Date Purpose of revision Drawn Check'd Rev'd Appr'd ! !

1 City Walk, Leeds, LS11 9DX, UK. A Tel: +44(0)113 242 6771 Fax:+44(0)113 389 1389 www.jacobs.com !2 A ! Client

!1

Project G A ! ! ! PRIORITY SCHOOLS ! ! ! A Drawing Title A ! ANNIE HOLGATE JUNIOR AND INFANT SCHOOL PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY MAP A A Drawing Status FINAL A Scale @ A3 1:1,250 DO NOT SCALE Jacobs No. A PSDERSU2 Client No. Drawing No. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey mapping with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised 0 25 50 75 PSDERSU2_AH_EC_P1HS_01 reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100019980 (2013). Metres This drawing is not to be used in whole in or part other than for the intended purpose and project as defined on this drawing. Refer to the contract for full terms and conditions.

Appendix A Proposed Options Site Plans

Appendix B Desk Study Results

Non-statutory designated sites (NBGRC 2013):

Non-statutory designated site information (NBGRC 2013):

No. Name Area Grid Ref. Description 1/30 Bulwell 17.411 SK 517462 An ancient deciduous woodland Wood and ha Pond 1/123 Bulwell Hall 93.434 SK 534466 An excellent assemblage of species-rich habitats Park ha in a large city park 2/72 W atnall 11.045 SK 506488 A deciduous woodland Coppice ha East 2/155 Long Hill 1.55 ha SK 521493 A damp species-rich meadow Meadow 2/222 Wa shdyke 0.136 ha SK 523499 Shrub-rich hedges Lane Hedges 2/223 Dobpark 21.537 SK 522498 Remnant area of pastures incorporating some Grassland ha notable marshy areas 2/227 Bleinheim 3.084 ha SK 520464 Species-rich pools surrounded by a noteworthy Lane Ponds grassland and newly planted saplings 2/231 Mill Lakes, 22.269 SK 548478 A landscaped lake with a good range of species Bestwood ha 2/235 Fa rley's 4.324 ha SK 539471 A notable wooded and scrubby habitat Disused Railway 2/319 Start h Wood 6.065 ha SK 515473 Species-rich deciduous coppice with standards 5/18 Watn all 14.687 SK 508478 A mosaic of grassland, woodland, scrub and Brickyard ha ruderal communities with a diversity of native and alien species 5/19 Eelh ole 6.621 ha SK 514478 A valuable, deciduous woodland with areas of Wood open acidic and grassland in an urban setting 5/48 Hucknall 27.677 SK 532503 Landscaped colliery spoil, colonised by plants of Colliery Site ha nutrient poor habitats with areas of tree planting 5/918 Hucknall 91.84 ha SK 524468 A significant area of species-rich calcareous and Airfield base-rich neutral grassland 5/1072 Long Hill 1.629 ha SK 519491 Once typical dry grassland communities on Disused Pit disused workings 5/2116 Blenheim 5.216 ha SK 524462 A species-rich calcareous grassland with a clear Lane stream Grassland 5/2275 Farley's 3.425 ha SK 542475 A species-rich coal measures grassland Grassland

Badger records (NBGRC 2013):

Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes SK528487 02/04/2001 Hucknall Adult road death reported at Long Hill Rise , 100 Sandy Lane, Hucknall. Poor condition, sparse tail hair and aggression marks on rump SK528487 none given Hucknall Juvenile male road death reported at Long Hill Rise. No date given

Bat records (NB GRC 2013):

Species Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes Type Brown Long- SK519466 01/06/2006 Bulwell Woodhall Farm, Small roost Roost eared Blenheim Lane, Bulwell SK526491 07/08/1990 37 Garden Road, 1 Regular roos t in roof Roost Plectotus Hucknall void. Droppin gs. auritus SK530468 09/02/2000 Stable block, Bulwell Hall Many droppings Roost Park suggest a major roost SK543479 19/08/1988 The Lodge at Huckn all Casual Noctule SK533475 17/08/2011 Rolls Royce Access foraging pass casual Road off the A611 Nyctalus Hucknall By-pass noctula

Common SK536493 06/07/2012 Hucknall Town Centre 1 casual Pipistrelle SK533475 17/08/2011 Rolls Royce Access foraging pass casual Road off the A611 Pipistrellus Hucknall By-pass pipistrelles Pipistrelle SK513485 15/07/2003 19 Dalebrook Crescent, 71 Emergenc e count Roost sp. Hucknall and dropping s. Roost in roof space. SK516472 06/04/2000 Starth Wood Farm, 1 Casual Hucknall SK516475 0 4/09/1997 Woodland Farm, 1 Adult male injured by Roughswood Lane cat, died of w ounds. SK518473 29/07/2002 11 Conway Road, Small roost of Roost Hucknall Pipistrelles in soffit SK518473 26/03/2000 Conway Road, Hucknall Probable Pipis trelle. 50 Roost in a house SK519466 01/06/2006 Bulwell Woodhall Farm, Activity aroun d farm Casual Blenheim Lane, Bu lwell SK519473 21/07/1995 8 Trent Drive, Hucknall 8 Owners cou nt. Roost Roost behind soffit boards. SK519476 30/05/1988 3 Woodlands Grove, 68 Emergenc e count. Roost Hucknall Roost in roof a pex in cavity wall. Dr oppings. SK519477 19/08/2004 7 Oak Tree Close, Roost behind soffit and Roost Hucknall in cavity wall . Typical Pipistrelle roost. SK524476 20/08/2002 Howitt Security Pr inters Casual Daniels Way, Hucknall SK524494 03/10/2008 Rosedale, Roberts Lane, 4 Common Pipistrelle Casual Hucknall foraging near buildings in garden SK5249 13/09/1998 Hucknall bypass 1Orphaned baby Casual SK525477 20/08/2002 Daniel's Way, Hucknall 1 Grounded bat in Casual Industrial park. Released. SK526496 13/09/1999 17 Greenwood Vale, 1 Bat roost in soffit. Roost Hucknall Access point near apex. SK529495 11/03/1999 38 Coniston Road, Possible roost under Roost Hucknall barge boards along

gable end wall. Droppings pres ent. SK532489 01/06/1994 32 Shortwood A venue, Dead Casual Hucknall SK537488 08/07/2010 Beardal Street, Hucknall ~5 casual SK544481 22/07/1999 19 Leen Valley Way, 1 Orphaned b aby Roost Hucknall SK545481 23/07/1999 19, Leen Valley Way, 1 Orphaned b aby Casual Hucknall unidentified SK524494 03/10/2008 Rosedale, Roberts Lane, 1 Foraging near Casual bat species Hucknall buildings in garden ( thought to be Whiskered/Brandt's )

SK526493 27/06/1990 1 Park Avenue, Hucknall Owner reporte d roost. Roost No problem. SK519478 03/01/1991 7 Astral Grove, Hucknall Droppings al ong line of Roost ridge beam in roof void. SK518473 12/08/1996 9 Conway Road, 50 Emergenc e count Roost Hucknall from roof spa ce. Poss Pipistrelle. SK517483 05/08/1998 40 Tiverton Close, 11 Small bats counted Roost Hucknall out SK531490 06/12/2001 25 Windmill Grove, 1 Bat found in loft Roost Hucknall SK532498 05/07/1999 14 George Street, Bats reported emerging Roost Hucknall from gable e nd of empty counc il house. SK536492 04/06/1990 5 Portland Park Close, 100 Emergence count Roost Hucknall from behind soffit. Building work occuring. SK538489 19/09/1986 7 Bamkin Close, Owner seen bats in loft. Casual Hucknal l Refused visit. SK542482 03/05/1989 21 St John's Crescent, Regular roost reported Roost Hucknall by owner

White-clawed c rayfish records (NBGRC 2013):

Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes SK516474 1973 stream near Westville SK534494 2009 Baker Brook, 22 Small section in Town Centre. Count included Hucknall 6 juveniles, indicating successful breeding SK536493 Jul-12 Hucknall Town 19 Centre SK538469 1986 Bulwell Hall, Lake SK538469 1991 Bulwe ll Hall, Lake SK538469 1986 Bulwell Hall, Lake SK540492 1990 Baker Lane Brook, Hucknall Baths

Water vole records (NBGRC 2013):

Grid Ref. Dates Location Habitat Notes SK523497 28/11/2006 Dob Park Field signs SK526477 28/10/2000 Hucknall Stream Voles seen (no numbers given) SK527477 26/10/1999 Rolls Royce River latrines, burrows Airfield

Mammal records (N BGRC 2013):

Species Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes Brown Hare SK508479 22/07/2010 Watnall 3 Adult and young Lepus lepus Brickyard SK515474 06/05/2011 Starth Wood Observed SK523503 15th Dob Park 1 Running along the November hedgeline/fenceline on the woodland 2010 side SK534469 04/08/2004 Home wood 1 Adult. Sometimes seen in meadows, surrounding arable, occasionally in Hucknall woodland but first time seen in meadow Stoat SK523497 19/04/2009 Dob Park Observed Mustela erminea Hedgehog SK542495 19/10/20 12 Oakenhall family of 3 hedgehogs living in my Erinaceus Avenue on the garden. Seen most days. europaeus outskirts of Hucknall, NG15 7TH

Amphibian records (NBGRC 20 13):

Species Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes Common Frog SK512485 03/1993 Hucknall Breeding, 15 adults counted, 30, Rana temporaria Dalebrook Crescent SK512485 14/03/1995 Hucknall 45 Breeding, 30, Dalebrook Crescent SK512497 03/1994 Hucknall 4, 52, Papplewick Avenue SK513483 1996 Hucknall Close to end with Bolingey Way, Dalebrook Crescent SK5148 18/03/1994 Hucknall 12 Breeding - eggs, 39, Rockwood Crescent SK5148 08/03/1995 Hucknall 15 Breeding, Pond since 1993, 71, Bolingey Way SK5148 21/03/1994 Hucknall 17, Rockwood Crescent SK518479 03/1994 Hucknall 52 Adults, 33, Willow Avenue SK520477 1994 Hucknall 69, 14, Astral Grove SK544486 02/04/2011 Butler's Hill, 100's across a cleared 'triangle' of Hucknall land. Adjacent pond presumed used for breeding SK5448 15/05/2000 Hucknall 10, 44, Leen Valley Way SK5247 1989 Hucknall Adults, 308, Watnall Road, SK520491 1995 Hucknall 20+ 9, Common Lane SK528502 18/03/1994 Hucknall 48 Adults, Barbara Square SK532 490 18/03/1994 Hucknall 37, Central Avenue. SK534474 21/03/2010 Farley Way 10 clumps of frogspawn Pond SK534499 21/03/2010 Linby Ranges estimate 500+ frogs Pond SK534499 04/04/2010 Linby Rang es lots of frogspawn Pond SK538468 15/03/1990 Bulwell 49 40 frog spawn, Bulwell Hall Pond no. 2 SK538468 1995 Bulwell Bulwell Hall Pond no. 2

SK538469 1994 Bulwell 3Bulwell Hall Pond no. 1 SK538469 15/03/1990 Bulwell 6 Bulwell Hall Pond no. 1 SK539500 01/03/1995 Hucknall Adults and tadpoles. 21, Leen Drive SK542494 18/03/1994 Hucknall Adults and eggs. 40, Oakenhall Avenue

Common Toad SK526471 15/06/2009 Hucknall adult toad in a hole, Rolls Royce Bufo bufo SK513486 02/1993 Hucknall 1, 30 Dalebrook Crescent SK520477 1994 Hucknall 2, 14 Astral Drive SK534499 04/04/2010 Linby Ranges 10 toads Pond SK538469 1994 Bulwell 1 Bulwell Hall Pond SK542494 18/03/1994 Hucknall 40, Oakenhall Avenue Smooth Newt SK542494 18/03/1994 Hucknall 40, Oakenhall Avenue Lissotriton SK538469 1994 Bulwell Adult, Bulwell Hall Pond vulgaris SK518479 03/1994 Hucknall 33, Willow Avenue

SK5448 15/05/2000 Hucknall Adult. 44, Leen Valley Way SK5148 21/03/1994 Hucknall 17, Rockwood Crescent SK5148 08/03/1995 Hucknall Adult, 71, Bolingey Way

Invasive plant spec ies records (NBGRC 2013):

Species Grid Ref. Dates Location Notes Japanese SK536493 May-12 Hucknall Town knotweed Centre Fallopia japonica SK508480 02/08/1997 Watnall aband. mine site + brickyard, on dumped material SK509477 12/09/2005 Watnall aband. mine site + brickyard, on dumped material SK510479 12/09/2005 Watnall aband. mine site + brickyard, on dumped material SK510480 25/04/1995 Watnall aband. mine site + brickyard, on dumped material SK514484 12/05/2010 Hucknall Adjacent to the stream side walkway next to Polperro Way, Hucknall SK516468 20/03/2004 Hucknall Small colonies in rough grassy scrub of former tip, N edge airfield SK519491 23/09/2010 Hucknall Beauvale, colonies in aband former sand pit SK523483 28/06/2003 Hucknall SK523490 23/09/2010 Hucknall in an allotment car park at the end of Priory Road, Hucknall SK523502 25/05/2009 Hucknall Present on Dob Park in plantation SK524491 31/12/2001 Hucknall SK525480 12/05/2010 Hucknall along the southern boundary of the playing fields located on the corner of Watnall Road/Nabbs La SK525481 12/05/2010 Hucknall along the southern boundary of Hucknall Football Club SK526477 04/06/1997 Hucknall Road verge SK526482 18/08/2010 Hucknall on the western side of the Hucknall ring road just north of the Watnall road roundabout SK527477 18/01/2010 Hucknall in the bank of a large depression to the south east of the Hucknall industrial Park SK527478 18/01/2010 Hucknall In an area of restored grassland on Hucknall pit tip. SK527496 19/09/2010 Hucknall in amongst the woody vegetation to the south of the garages located behind Redwood Court, Hucknall SK528477 03/08/2005 Hucknall SK528479 12/05/2010 Hucknall In an industrial site to the north of the right of way running between Hucknall Ring Road and Farley Lane Brook SK528499 26/11/2009 Hucknall in the shrubby edge to the wlkway that

runs alongside Coronation Road, Hucknall SK529483 28/06/2003 Hucknall SK529491 20/03/2004 Hucknall SK530494 26/11/2009 Hucknall in a large area of open space to the west of Spring Street, Hucknall SK530495 31/12/2001 Hucknall Spring Street SK530495 31/12/2001 Hucknall Derbyshire Street SK531468 13/01/2005 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 1 Home Wood SK531499 28/06/2003 Hucknall SK531500 20/01/2009 Hucknall The Ranges (Hucknall/Linby Pit Tip) SK532468 20/03/2004 Bulwell Bulwell Hall Park, rough grd nr B. Hall SK532468 13/01/2005 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 3 SK532468 13/01/2005 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 2 SK532468 13/01/2005 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 4 SK532500 09/03/2005 Hucknall Rough grassy ground nr. Allotments SK533468 13/01/2005 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 6 SK534494 01/10/2009 Hucknall A small stand on the northern bank of the brook (tributary to the River Leen) near the Woodland located between Baker St and Titchfield St SK535493 01/10/2009 Hucknall in a yard used for car parking, off Albert St and behind Boots on the High Street SK535493 01/10/2009 Hucknall a large bank of knotweed present along the southern end of an area of derelict land (now scrub) - between the brook and the High Street SK536470 24/03/2010 Nottingham Bulwell Hall 5 SK536483 28/06/2003 Hucknall SK536493 01/10/2009 Hucknall scattered area of knotweed dure3ctly adjacent to the brook (River Leen tributary) in a block of waste land between Perlethorpe Dr and High St. SK536493 01/10/2009 Hucknall a single plant on the southern bank of the brook (tributary to the River Leen) and at the northern end of Woollaton street SK536497 12/05/2010 Hucknall adjacent to the stream that runs through some allotment gardens on the north west boundary of hucknall leisure centre SK537493 01/10/2009 Hucknall Along side the brook (tributary to the River Leen) in the garden of No 3 Kneesall Grove. SK538494 22/10/2009 Hucknall Robin Hood Line, West Side. (Mansfield - Nottingham). Hucknall Station, North Side SK541490 11/05/2006 Hucknall Former colly site, large patches on grassy dumped rubble/soil heaps SK542471 04/06/1997 Hucknall Dumped material in grassland SK542475 18/04/2009 Hucknall Large clump on former dumping into Woodland SK543485 15/10/2009 Bestwood Robin Hood Line, East Side (Mansfield - Nottingham). north of Butler's Hill Rail Crossing SK546478 08/07/2002 Hucknall Dism rly land in scrub

Bird Records (NBGRC 2013):

Name Grid Ref. Date Site Count Notes Barn Swallow SK523498 07/04/2009 Dobpark 1 over the site Barn Swallow S K548478 08/04/2011 Mill Lakes 8

Blackcap SK5146 06/04/2011 Bulwel l Wood 3 Blackcap SK523498 07/04/2009 Dobp ark 1 singing Black-headed Gull SK 535494 01/01/2009 Hucknall 16 Black-headed Gull S K535494 04/01/2009 Hucknall 7 Cetti's Warbler S K548478 01/04/2010 Mill Lakes 1 singing male Cetti's Warbler SK 548478 23/04/2010 Mill Lakes 1 Common Buzzard SK5146 06/04/2011 Bulw ell Wood 3 Common Buzzard S K5147 05/04/2011 Starth Wood 1 Common Buzzard SK548478 12/01/2010 Mill Lakes 1 Flying over Common Buzzard SK548478 06/04/2010 Mill Lakes 1 Shirebrook Pit Common Cuckoo SK5350 23/06/2011 Wood 1 calling on North Tip Common Snipe S K548478 13/04/2011 Mill Lakes 1 Common Whitethroat SK 548478 13/04/2011 Mill Lak es 1 Fieldfare SK535494 11/01/2010 Hucknall 100 Shirebrook Great Bittern SK5350 06/03/2009 Colliery 1 flushed and flew into Derbyshire appeared to have come from a Grey Heron SK535494 16/04/2011 Hucknall 1 garden Grey Partridge SK535494 15/06/2009 Hucknall 3 3 pairs - Rolls Royce Airfield female on Baker Lane Brook at Grey Wagtail S K535494 08/04/2011 Hucknall 1 Titchfield Street Shire brook Pit Grey Wagtail SK5350 25/01/2011 Wood 1 on the Shire Brook Shirebrook Grey Wagtail SK5350 09/05/2009 Coll iery 1 male on territory Lesser Redpoll SK523498 07/04/2009 Dobpark 2 overhead Shirebrook Lesser Redpoll SK 5350 31/01/2009 Collie ry 50 Mandarin Duck SK 5349 25/05/2009 Jacks dale 9 pair with brood of 9 juvs Male aggressive towards grey Mandarin Duck SK 548478 20/05/2010 Mill Lakes 1 lag goslings several pairs Rolls Royce Meadow Pipit SK535494 15/06/200 9 Hucknall Airfield adult male flew east across Nottingham road towards Mill Merlin SK 535494 19/11/2011 Hucknall 1 Lakes Raven SK 535494 13/04/2011 Hucknall 1 over Redwing SK5349 13/10/2009 Jacksdale 2 Robin SK535494 13/04/2011 Hucknall 1 nest Rock Dove SK535494 17/03/2011 Hucknall 12 Rock Dove SK535494 04/01/2009 Hucknall 9 several pairs Rolls Royce Sky Lark SK535494 15/06/2009 Hucknall Airfield Sparrowhawk SK5147 05/04/2011 Eelhole Wood 1 Willow Tit SK523498 07/04/2009 Dobpark 1 singing Willow Tit SK535494 13/04/2011 Hucknall 1

Appendix C Photographs

Photo No. Description Japanese rose shrub located at TN 5 - listed on Schedule 9 of WCA 1981 (as amended) invasive species.

1

Pond at north of site (TN 9)

2

Allotment in garden area (TN 8)

3

Looking across to garden area (TN 8) – mixed use including allotment, orchard and introduced shrubs with amenity grassland parthways. 4

General photos of school buildings.

5

General photos of school buildings.

6

Appendix D Target Notes

Target Note Description Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 1 Table 5 of report. Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 2 Table 5 of report. Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 3 Table 5 of report. Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 4 Table 5 of report. Location of Japanese rose - listed on Schedule 9 of WCA 1981 (as 5 amended) invasive species (photo 1) Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 6 Table 5 of report. Potential bat roost feature – addressed in section 3.2.2 ‘Bats’. Photos in 7 Table 5 of report. Mixed use garden area with allotment, orchard and introduced shrub 8 segregated by amenity grassland pathways (photos 5 and 6) 9 Pond (photo 2).

Appendix E Protected Species Legislation

Legislation relating to badger Badgers (Meles meles) are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (as amended) whi ch makes it an offence to:  wilfully kill, injure, take, possess or cruelly ill-treat a badger, or to attempt to do so;  intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to a badger sett; and  disturb a badger when it is occupying a sett.

These provisions have implications for construction or preparation works undertaken in the vicinity of an active sett and may be confounded by distance from the sett entrance. Any works resulting in ground penetration, vibration or noise near an identified badger sett entrance/s have the potential to disturb badgers and advice should be sought from a suitably experienced ecologist under such circumstances. If disturbance to an active sett is probable then a licence may need to be obtained from Natural England before any works commence.

Legislation relating to reptiles The four widespread species of reptile, namely the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), slow-worm (Anguis fragilis), grass snake (Natrix natrix) and adder (Viper berus). Are protected under section 9 (parts 1 and 5) of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which make it an offence to:

 intentionally kill or injure, and  sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative).  Other species of reptile in the UK (sand lizard and smooth snake) are afforded a higher level of protection, but have a restriction distribution and are not relevant to this study.

Grass snake, slow-worm and adder are all UK BAP priority species.

Legislation relating to water vole The water vole (Arvicola amphibius) is fully protected under Section 9 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) through its inclusion in Schedule 5. The legal protection makes it an offence to:

 intentionally kill, injure or capture or take a water vole;  possess or control (live or dead animal, part or derivative);  deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to a breeding site or any structure or place used for shelter or protection by a water vole;  deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly disturb a water vole whilst occupying such as structure or place, and  sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative).

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Water vole is a UK BAP priority species.

Legislation relating to great crested newts Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) (GCN) is afforded strict protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 implements the European Union’s ‘Habitats Directive’ (Council Directive 92/43/EEC (a) on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora) in England and Wales. The relevant sections of this legislation make it an offence to:

 intentionally kill, injure or capture or take a GCN;  possess or control (live or dead animal, part or derivative);  deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to a breeding site or any structure or place used for shelter or protection by a GCN;  deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly disturb a GCN whilst it is occupying such a structure or place, and  sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative).

The above legislation applies to all life stages of a GCN, including eggs, juveniles and adults. Impacts upon each individual GCN as the result of an illegal act constitute a separate offence under the above legislation.

GCN is a UK BAP priority species.

Legislation for other amphibians Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) the five widespread amphibian species, smooth newt (Triturus vulgaris), palmate newt (Triturus helveticus), common toad (Bufo bufo) and common frog (Rana temporaria) receive limited protection through section 9(5) only which makes selling, offering for sale, possessing or transporting for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative) an offence.

Common toad is a UK BAP priority species

Legislation relating to bats All bat species and their roosts and resting places are protected under Schedules 5 & 6 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000, and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 implements the European Union’s ‘Habitats Directive’ (Council Directive 92/43/EEC (a) on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora). The relevant sections of this legislation make it an offence to:

 intentionally kill, injure or capture or take a bat;  possess or control (live or dead animal, part or derivative);  deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to a breeding site or any structure or place used for shelter or protection by a bat;

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 deliberately (intentionally) or recklessly disturb a bat whilst it is occupying such a structure or place, and  sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative).

A number of bat species are UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species.

Legislation relating to breeding birds

All birds, their nests and eggs are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and it is an offence, with certain exceptions, to:

 intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird;  intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built;  intentionally take or destroy the egg of any wild bird; and  intentionally or recklessly disturb any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 while it is nest building or is in, on or near a nest with eggs or young; or disturb the dependent young of such a bird.

Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides further protection for selected species (including peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus), during the breeding season. If any person intentionally or recklessly disturbs any wild bird included in Schedule 1 while it is building a nest or is in, on or near a nest containing eggs or young; or disturb dependent young of such a bird. That person shall be guilty of an offence. For the purpose of this offence 'Any wild bird' means any bird included in Schedule 1.

A number of bird species are UK BAP priority species.

Legislation relating to invasive non-native plants Certain invasive plant species, including Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa) are listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended), which makes it an offence to ‘…plant or otherwise cause (these species) to grow in the wild’. This includes spreading or transferring contaminated soil from one area to another.

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