Land north of Tennis Court Lane Tollerton, North

Bat & Barn Owl Survey

December 2020

Report reference 1462 Revision 1 Prepared by Emily Hopkin Approved by Thomas McQuillan Issue date 4th December 2020

This report is valid for a period of 12 months from the issue date.

1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Contents 1 Introduction ...... 3

2 Methodology ...... 4

2.1 Desk Study ...... 4

2.2 Personnel ...... 4

2.3 Bat Scoping Survey and Inspection Survey ...... 4

2.4 Dusk Emergence Bat Survey ...... 4

2.5 Static Monitoring ...... 5

2.6 Barn Owl Survey ...... 5

2.7 Limitations ...... 5

3 Results ...... 6

3.1 Desk Study ...... 6

3.2 Application Site ...... 7

3.2.1 Building Description ...... 7

3.2.2 Trees and Hedgerows ...... 8

3.2.3 Tall Ruderal & Encroaching Scrub Habitat ...... 8

3.2.4 Surrounding Habitats ...... 8

3.2.5 Invasive Species ...... 8

3.3 Bats ...... 9

3.4 Barn Owl ...... 12

3.5 Other Considerations ...... 12

4 Conclusions and Recommendations ...... 13

4.1 Conclusions ...... 13

4.2 Recommendations ...... 14

4.2.1 Habitats ...... 14

4.2.2 Bats ...... 14

4.2.3 Birds ...... 16

Appendix 1. Legislation and Conservation Context ...... 17

Appendix 2. Photographs ...... 18

Appendix 3. NYBG Data & Design Plans ...... 22

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1 Introduction

1.1.1.1 This report presents the results of a Bat and Barn Owl Survey undertaken at Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton, , YO61 1AG. The survey focussed on bat and bird species and has been completed to provide supporting information for a planning application for the proposed development at the site1.

1.1.1.2 Included within the report are the findings of dusk emergence bat surveys and barn owl surveys undertaken in September 2020, along with a desktop study.

1.1.1.3 The site is located at OS grid reference SE50916417 at an altitude of ~24 m above sea level and comprises two farm buildings on the western periphery of the village of Tollerton (Figure 1). The site is located 15.5 km north of city centre and 6 km south of the market town of , with the neighbouring villages of Youlton and Alne centred 1.86 km and 1.80 km west and north west of site, respectively. The application site covers approximately 0.3 ha.

1.1.1.4 The aim of the survey was to determine the potential for the proposed development to affect protected/notable species and habitats, and to provide recommendations for mitigation and/or compensation input if required. The survey was completed to inform planning decisions in relation to the proposed development.

Figure 1. Approximate site location shown by red line (aerial imagery dated 2018).

1 The proposed development works will include the demolition of the existing barns to create four dwellings. Design plans appended to the report.

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2 Methodology

2.1 Desk Study

2.1.1.1 North Yorkshire Bat Group (NYBG) was contacted for bat records within a 2 km radius of the site. In addition, the following web sources were searched for statutorily protected sites and additional ecological data of most relevance: Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC), Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 mapping and aerial imagery (dating 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013, 2015, and 2018).

2.2 Personnel

2.2.1.1 The survey was led by Thomas McQuillan MCIEEM2 3.

2.3 Bat Scoping Survey and Inspection Survey

2.3.1.1 The buildings proposed for demolition were subject to detailed external and internal inspections for signs of bats on 3rd September 2020. This involved searching the exterior and interior of the buildings for signs of bats such as droppings and for potential bat roost locations. The survey was undertaken in accordance with current good practice guidelines4 5.

2.3.1.2 The buildings were assessed in terms of its potential to support bat roosts using the following categories:

 Negligible potential.  Low potential.  Moderate potential.  High potential.  Confirmed roost. 2.3.1.3 As part of the survey, an overview ecological appraisal was completed, with the aim being to gather sufficient baseline information on the habitats within the site in order to allow an interpretation of the associated ecological value. Evidence of barn owl activity and previous nesting bird activity was search for during the survey.

2.3.1.4 In addition, the site was searched for incidental evidence of protected / notable fauna and assessed in terms of its potential to support protected / notable fauna including species listed within European, national and local legislation and policies.

2.4 Dusk Emergence Bat Survey

2.4.1.1 Dusk emergence bat surveys were undertaken on the barns on 3rd and 17th September 2020.

2.4.1.2 Two surveyors were present during the survey on 3rd September 2020; Thomas McQuillan MCIEEM and Anna Berthinussen (2016-23914-CLS-CLS - CL20 Level 4)

2.4.1.3 Three surveyors were present during the survey on 17th September 2020; Thomas McQuillan MCIEEM, Anna Berthinussen (2016-23914-CLS-CLS - CL20 Level 4) and Emily Hopkin.

2.4.1.4 Good views of all Potential Roost Features (PRFs) on the barns proposed for development were held during the surveys. The surveyors used Batbox duet, Peersonic RPA3 and Bat Scanner detectors. The dusk emergence survey conditions are summarised in Table 1.

2 Natural Class Licence Registration No. 2015-11312-CLS-CLS - CL18 Level 2 (Bats). 3 Natural England Class Licence Registration No. WML- CL09:2014-6237-CLS-CLS (Great Crested Newts). 4 Collins, J. (ed.)(2016) Bat surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn). The Bat Conservation Trust, . 5 Bat Survey Requirements, Minimum Standards in North Yorkshire Version 1; North Yorkshire Bat Group; 12/11/2013

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2.4.1.5 The surveys were undertaken in accordance with current good practice guidelines6.

Table 1. Bat Survey Conditions Date 3rd September 2020 17th September 2020 Sunset 19:49 19:14 Survey duration 19:45 – 21:15 19:10 – 20:40 Weather conditions 13.9 – 17.1 °C, dry, cloud 60 %, 15 – 12.3 °C, dry, cloud 5 %, humidity 70 – 84% and wind Bft 0 humidity 63 – 94% and wind Bft 0

2.5 Static Monitoring

2.5.1.1 During the dusk emergence survey on 17th September 2020 a Pettersson D500X detector was placed inside the northern room of Barn 1. The survey findings were analysed via BatClassify and BatSound.

2.6 Barn Owl Survey

2.6.1.1 An initial barn owl daytime survey was undertaken at the site on 3rd September 2020. All aspects of the barns were inspected for evidence of barn owl roosting activity and building usage.

2.6.1.2 Any barn owl activity recorded during the dusk bat surveys on 3rd September and 17th September 2020 was noted (i.e. location and behaviour).

2.7 Limitations

2.7.1.1 There were no significant access issues to the barns. Given the objectives of the bat and barn owl survey it is considered that there were no significant survey limitations.

2.7.1.2 The bat surveys were completed within the main bat survey season of May – September inclusive. Whilst the surveys did not cover the bat maternity period providing caution is applied to the conclusions of this report (namely the classification of roosts – i.e. day roosts or maternity roosts) this is not considered to be a significant constraint.

6 Collins, J. (ed.)(2016) Bat surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn). The Bat Conservation Trust, London.

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3 Results

3.1 Desk Study

3.1.1.1 The North Yorkshire Bat Group records are presented in Appendix 3. NYBG holds twenty-one records within the search area; species include Natterer’s, brown long-eared, common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Pipistrellus sp., and unknown bat species.

3.1.1.2 There are several records of bat roosts and in-flight bats within Tollerton and the neighbouring village of Alne. Notable records are as follows:

 Unknown bat species roost (of unknown number) located 53 m north east of site south of Tennis Court Lane within a residential building at grid reference SE510642.

 Unknown bat species roost (of unknown number) located 153 m south of site at Fir Tree Farm.

 Pipistrellus species roost of six bats located 200 m north east of site within a residential building at grid reference SE511643.

 Unknown bat species record (type unknown) located 232 m north of site along Alne road in Tollerton.

 Historic (blocked in most recent record) unknown bat species roost (of unknown number) consisting of three records located 380 m east of site within residential properties on Black Lane.

The majority of the remaining records were located > 1.76 km from site. There are no bat records for the surveyed site or barns within.

3.1.1.3 There are no statutorily designated nature conservation sites within or adjacent to the application site. Upper Dunsforth Carrs SSSI7 is centred 6.8 km west of site.

7 SSSI – Site of Special Scientific Interest. 6 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

3.2 Application Site

3.2.1 Building Description

3.2.1.1 There are two agricultural buildings within the site as shown in Figure 2 and described below.

Barn 1

3.2.1.2 Located within the eastern region of the site is a medium sized barn that measures approximately 18 m x 30 m. The single-storey barn has been extended/repaired on several occasions over the years and this is evident in the mixed materials and roof and wall elevations of the barn. The building has a typical timber and steel frame with corrugated cladding on the roof and external elevations. The barn has a multi-pitched roof with all roofing sheets present. The barn contains no enclosed loft voids with the internal rooms open to the underside of the roof sheets. The barn is used for a combination of agricultural storage, livestock housing and grain storage; the internal area of the barn is separated into several rooms subject to their use. The barn is accessed via doorways on the northern, western and southern elevations, with access for livestock on the eastern elevation. See Appendix 2: Photo 1.

Barn 2

3.2.1.3 A single-storey barn (6 m x 16 m) located in the central region of the site. The barn is open on the southeast elevation and has a sloped roof (northwest elevation). The barn was considered to be in a poor state of repair and is used for general agricultural storage. The barn has a timber frame and is clad in corrugated sheeting on the roof and external elevations. The barn contains no enclosed loft void with the internal room open to the underside of the roof sheets. Appendix 2: Photo 2.

Figure 2. Showing Barns 1 & 2 (aerial imagery dated 2018).

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3.2.2 Trees and Hedgerows

3.2.2.1 Whilst there are no standard trees within the site, several of the individual hedge plants on the eastern edge of the site have become tall and outgrown due to a lack of management.

3.2.2.2 Mature hedgerows run along the western and partially eastern edges of the site. Species composition of the hedges is dominated by hawthorn Crataegus monogyna with occasional elder Sambucus nigra, blackthorn Prunus spinosa, sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus and bramble Rubus fruticosus. The hedge on the western boundary of the site is managed to a height of 1-1.2m with the partial hedge on the eastern edge of the site outgrown (3-6 m in height).

3.2.3 Tall Ruderal & Encroaching Scrub Habitat

3.2.3.1 Due to a lack of management on the site scrub and tall ruderal habitat has developed.

3.2.3.2 The scrub and tall ruderal habitat is located throughout the site although is focused around the barns and along the western and eastern edges of the site. An area of dense scrub is located around the hay bales to the north of Barn 2 as shown in Appendix 2: Photo 8.

3.2.3.3 Species within these areas included scented rosebay willowherb Chamaenerion angustifolium, redshank Persicaria maculosa, hedge bindweed Calystegia sepium, bramble Rubus fruticosus, greater plantain Plantago major, cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris, common nettle Urtica dioica, hedge woundwort Stachys sylvatica, white clover Trifolium repens, creeping thistle Cirsium arvense, silverweed Potentilla anserine, white dead-nettle Lamium album, red dead-nettle Lamium purpureum, cleavers Galium aparine and shepherd’s purse Capsella bursa-pastoris. Several self- seeded sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus and ash Fraxinus excelsior saplings were recorded on the site.

3.2.3.4 Based on aerial imagery the usage of the site and habitats within have remained unchanged since at least 2002.

3.2.3.5 Typical of a farmstead, there are several areas of bare earth and hardstanding. These can be seen on the aerial image for the site in Figure 1. Other features within the site include silage bales and agricultural machinery.

3.2.4 Surrounding Habitats

3.2.4.1 The application site is situated on the western periphery of the village of Tollerton with residential buildings along Tennis Court Lane located to the south and east. Agricultural farmland and a small farmstead borders the site to the west with the recently constructed doctors surgery to the north.

3.2.4.2 Agricultural farmland is the dominant habitat in the wider area. The south flowing River Kyle is located 360 m west of site. Trees are scattered in the local and surrounding area with small clusters located > 800 m northwest of site within and to the west of Alne Park. Trees located close to site mainly form field and property boundaries and reside in residential properties.

3.2.5 Invasive Species

3.2.5.1 Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera was recorded in the northwest region of the site; this species is listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause it to grow in the wild.

3.2.5.2 No other species listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were recorded at the site.

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3.3 Bats

3.3.1 Evidence of Bats and Bat Roost Potential

3.3.1.1 Barn 1

3.3.1.2 Barn 1 was considered to hold features of moderate potential to support roosting bats. Potential roost features include crevices between structural timbers and the corrugated sheeting on the external elevations and roof area. No bat droppings or feeding remains were found during the daytime inspection although this negative finding may have been due to the earth floor within the barn hindering the visual search for bat droppings.

3.3.1.3 Barn 2

3.3.1.4 Barn 2 was considered to hold features of negligible potential to support roosting bats. The barn was in a poor state of repair and did not display any features of potential value to bats. No evidence of bat roosting activity was recorded in Barn 2 during the daytime scoping survey.

3.3.1.5 Other Bat Considerations

3.3.1.6 None of the trees within the site were considered to hold features suitable for roosting bats; features of potential value to roosting bats may have included fluting, crevices and notable areas of deadwood. The hedgerows and buildings provide foraging opportunities for bats.

3.3.1.7 The wider environment is dominated by agricultural farmland with isolated blocks of woodland and was considered to offer suitable conditions for foraging and commuting bats. The hedges on site contain few gaps and are well linked to the agricultural hedgerows in the wider landscape.

3.3.2 Bat Dusk Emergence Surveys

3rd September 2020

3.3.2.1 During the dusk emergence bat survey on 3rd September 2020, three Myotis sp. bats were recorded to emerge from the northern room of Barn 1. During the survey foraging and commuting activity was recorded within the site from common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Myotis sp. and noctule bats. Raw survey data is shown in Table 2.

Table 2. Dusk Emergence Bat Survey Results (3/09/2020)

Time Notes TM – positioned southwest of Barn 1 20:14 Pipistrelle pass WE along Tennis Court Lane 20:19 Common pipistrelle foraging along Tennis Court Lane (and again at 20:29) 20:32 Noctule pass 20:33 Common pipistrelle foraging (and again at 20:38) 20:45 Myotis pass - unseen AB - positioned to the north of Barn 1 20:09 Bat (no detection) flew north from east side of the barn 20:14 Pipistrelle flying within barn before emerging from open doorway on the left side of the barn 20:15 Three Myotis bats flying within the barn – no exit. 20:20 Common pipistrelle flew out from open doorway on the left side of the barn

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20:21 Soprano pipistrelle flying within the barn 20:24 Soprano pipistrelle bat flew from open doorway on the left side of the barn – one bat still flying within the barn 20:30 Soprano pipistrelle foraging within the barn flew out of open doorway on the left side of the barn headed west 20:33 – 20:35 Myotis bat flying within the barn and passing in and out of open doorway on the left side of the barn 20:36 Common pipistrelle overhead pass

17th September 2020

3.3.2.2 During the dusk emergence bat survey on 17th September 2020 three common pipistrelle and two Myotis sp. bats were recorded to emerge from Barn 1. During the survey foraging and commuting activity was recorded within the site from common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Myotis sp. and noctule bats. Raw survey data is shown in Table 3.

Table 3. Dusk Emergence Bat Survey Results (17/09/2020)

Time Notes TM – Positioned to the southwest of Barn 1 19:36 Noctule pass WE high over barn 19:38 Common pipistrelle emergence from inside Barn 1 – existed via the open doorway on the western elevation. 19:41 Common pipistrelle emergence from inside Barn 1 – existed via the open doorway on the western elevation. 19:49 Common pipistrelle emergence from inside Barn 1 – existed via the open doorway on the western elevation. 19:54 Common pipistrelle pass 20:07 Bat pass - unseen 20:08 Common pipistrelle pass (and again at 20:10) 20:26 Common pipistrelle detected - unseen AB – Positioned to the north of Barn 1 19:38 – 19:40 Myotis bat flying within barn 1 (and again at 19:43) 19:43 Bat flew out and in of open doorway on the north side of the barn (peak two bats emerged from inside barn) 19:47 Soprano pipistrelle flew out of barn through open doorway on the left side 19:54 Pipistrelle bat foraging within the farmyard 20:08 Myotis bat flew into barn (from north) through open doorway on the left side and foraging within – very quiet echolocation 20:11 Myotis detected - unseen 20:17 Bat flew into barn (from north) through open doorway on the left side 20:26 Myotis flying around barn area with livestock to the left-hand side 20:33 Bat detected – unseen. EH – Positioned to the east of Barn 1 19:37 1x noctule pass WE

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19:38 – 19:41 Constant commono pipistrelle detections – unseen 19:41 – 19:46 Infrequent soprano pipistrelle detections - unseen 19:47 Myotis detected - unseen 20:00 Common pipistrelle detected - unseen 20:04 Pipistrelle foraging overhead passing EW 20:09 – 20:11 Frequent pipistrelle detections - unseen 20:24 2x bats together and 1 bat straight after (no echolocation detected) flew out of open barn to the south of Tennis Court Lane passing down on the south side of Barn 1.

3.3.3 Static Monitoring

3.3.3.1 During the dusk emergence survey on 17th September 2020 a Pettersson D500X detector was placed inside the northern room of Barn 1. The survey findings were analysed via BatClassify and BatSound, and are shown in Table 4 below. The results confirmed that the Myotis bat activity recorded in Barn 1 was whiskered / Brandt’s.

Table 4. Pettersson D500X results & whiskered / Brandt’s spectrogram

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3.3.4 Bat Roost Status

3.3.4.1 The daytime and dusk emergence surveys recorded the presence of bat roosting activity within Barn 1 as follows (Refer to Figure 3):

 Barn 1: common pipistrelle day roost (max. three individual bats) located within the western part of the barn. Roost likely to be located between a roof timber and the corrugated sheeting.

 Barn 1: whiskered / Brandt’s day roost (max. three individual bats) located within the northern part of the barn. Roost likely to be located between a roof timber and the corrugated sheeting.

3.3.4.2 No evidence of bat roosting activity was recorded in Barn 2.

Figure 3. Showing the roost locations within Barn 1 (aerial imagery dated 2018).

3.4 Barn Owl

3.4.1.1 No evidence of barn owl activity was recorded in Barn 1 or Barn 2 during the initial barn owl survey on 3rd September 2020.

3.4.1.2 No barn owls were recorded on the site during the dusk bat surveys on 3rd September 2020 and 17th September 2020.

3.5 Other Considerations

3.5.1.1 There are numerous opportunities for birds to nest within the site; habitats that were considered to be suitable for nesting birds included the two barns and the bordering vegetation. Birds that may nest within the site include swallow, blackbird and house sparrow.

3.5.1.2 It is not considered that the proposed developments will impact great crested newt, otter, water vole, hedgehog, badger or reptile species.

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4 Conclusions and Recommendations

4.1 Conclusions

4.1.1.1 Habitats of notable ecological value within the site include the boundary hedgerows on the eastern and western edges of the site. As shown in the proposed site plan (Appendix 3) these hedgerows will be retained as part of the scheme. The hedgerow on the western edge of the site has been supplemented with native tree planting (6no. trees); species include cherry, field maple, silver birch and rowan.

4.1.1.2 There are no historic records for bat species within the surveyed site, although there are several records of bat species within Tollerton and the neighbouring village of Alne.

4.1.1.3 Following a daytime bat scoping survey in September 2020, Barn 1 was considered to hold features of moderate potential to support roosting bats. Potential roost features include crevices between structural timbers and the corrugated sheeting on the external elevations and roof area. No bat droppings or feeding remains were found during the daytime inspection although this negative finding may have been due to the earth floor within the barn hindering the visual search for bat droppings.

4.1.1.4 Barn 2 was considered to hold features of negligible potential to support roosting bats. The barn was in a poor state of repair and did not display any features of potential value to bats. No evidence of bat roosting activity was recorded in Barn 2 during the daytime scoping survey.

4.1.1.5 During the dusk emergence bat surveys undertaken on During the dusk emergence bat survey on 3rd September 2020, three Myotis sp. bats were recorded to emerge from the northern room of Barn 1. During the dusk emergence bat survey on 17th September 2020 three common pipistrelle and two Myotis sp. bats were recorded to emerge from Barn 1. During the surveys foraging and commuting activity was recorded within the site from common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Myotis sp. and noctule bats. No evidence of bat roosting activity was recorded in Barn 2.

4.1.1.6 The daytime and dusk emergence surveys recorded the presence of bat roosting activity within Barn 1 as follows:

 Barn 1: common pipistrelle day roost (max. three individual bats) located within the western part of the barn. Roost likely to be located between a roof timber and the corrugated sheeting.

 Barn 1: whiskered / Brandt’s day roost (max. three individual bats) located within the northern part of the barn. Roost likely to be located between a roof timber and the corrugated sheeting.

4.1.1.7 No evidence of barn owl activity was recorded in Barn 1 or Barn 2 during the initial barn owl survey on 3rd September 2020. No barn owls were recorded on the site during the dusk bat surveys on 3rd September 2020 and 17th September 2020.

4.1.1.8 There are numerous opportunities for birds to nest within the site; habitats that were considered to be suitable for nesting birds included the two barns and the bordering vegetation. Birds that may nest within the site include swallow, blackbird and house sparrow.

4.1.1.9 It is not considered that the proposed developments will impact great crested newt, otter, water vole, hedgehog, badger or reptile species.

4.1.1.10 To conclude, based on the proposed design plan as shown in Appendix 3 which retains those features of ecological value as part of the development and with the adoption of the mitigation and enhancement recommendations presented within this report it is considered unlikely that the development will have a significant ecological impact.

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4.2 Recommendations

4.2.1 Habitats

4.2.1.1 The hedgerows edging the site were considered to be of notable ecological value and of potential value to several protected species. It is recommended that these features be retained as part of any development scheme. As shown in the proposed design plan, the hedgerow on the western edge of the site has been supplemented with native tree planting (6no. trees); species include cherry, field maple, silver birch and rowan.

4.2.1.2 It would be recommended that native species are included within the landscape design plan for the site along with additional habitat features such as hedging and tree planting where possible.

4.2.1.3 It is recommended that the new hedgerow on the northern edge of the site includes native species such as hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel and holly.

4.2.1.4 It is recommended that Himalayan balsam should be eradicated from the site through physical removal, e.g. pulling or crushing before the plant sets seed from July. Follow-up removal may be required in subsequent years.

4.2.2 Bats

4.2.2.1 Barn 1

4.2.2.2 This report concludes that Barn 1 contains a confirmed common pipistrelle day roost and whiskered/Brandt’s day roost. These roosts will be impacted by the development and therefore suitable mitigation and compensation input will be required.

4.2.2.3 A European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licence will be required in order to permit works which would result in the damage, destruction, or blocking of access to, a breeding site or resting place used by a European Protected Species (including all bat species). NE is able to issue EPSM licences upon the presentation of evidence-based and proportionate mitigation provided the following ‘3 tests’ are met:

1. That the action is for the purpose of preserving public health or public safety or other imperative reasons of overriding public interest including those of a social or economic nature;

2. That there is no satisfactory alternative; and

3. That the action authorised will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the species concerned at a favourable conservation status in their natural range.

4.2.2.4 NE aims to process licence applications in 30 working days. If a period of time elapses after the date of the most recent bat survey (2020) and before the commencement of the proposed works, it may be necessary to undertake update surveys to confirm whether: a) an EPSM licence is required (i.e. whether the work will result in the damage, destruction, or blocking of access to, a breeding site or resting place used by a bat; and b) whether there are any satisfactory alternatives (see 2nd of the 3 tests above) which would negate the need for an EPSM licence. NE is only able to issue an EPSM licence if the ‘3 tests’ are met and if the works would otherwise result in an offence. NE is not able to issue a licence on a precautionary basis, e.g. if there is not robust evidence that a bat’s resting place would be damaged/ destroyed. Data from a dusk or dawn survey undertaken June – August inclusive will be required to support the EPSM licence.

4.2.2.5 Recommendations for mitigation and compensation input should be finalised within the EPSM licence. Such information will be dependent on the final scope of works (i.e. timings for construction and demolition works). Mitigation input will relate to timings of works, method of working (where works must be completed by hand or with hand tools), the requirement for ecological supervision during works, procedures that should be following during the works stage should a bat be found,

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and details of temporary and permanent roost provision. Roost provision should include permanent features suitable for common pipistrelle and whiskered/Brandt’s bats.

4.2.2.6 An overview of the mitigation and compensation input which would be applied as part of the EPSM licence is provided below:

Mitigation Strategy

4.2.2.7 Immediately before the commencement of works, the licensed bat ecologist will provide a toolbox talk to the contractors explaining the presence of bats, their legal protection, roles and responsibilities, the proposed method of working and procedures should bats or evidence of bats be found.

4.2.2.8 The licensed ecologist will carry out searches including an endoscopic inspection for bats and evidence of bats such as droppings immediately prior to the work. The licensed ecologist will supervise the hand removal of the ‘high roost risk’ sections on Barn 1 (roof timbers and corrugated sheeting) and will be present on site until it can be satisfactorily concluded that bats are very likely to be absent from the building. The method for roost destruction will be destructive search by soft demolition during periods when bats are least sensitive to disturbance (March-April and September-October inclusive).

4.2.2.9 The removal of the timbers and corrugated sheeting around any potential roost locations will be undertaking by hand/with hand tools under the supervision of a Natural England licensed bat ecologist.

4.2.2.10 The licensed ecologist will aim to ensure that materials are removed carefully in order to minimise the chance of injuring or killing any bats present, e.g. lifting the roofing sheets carefully upwards and checking as each piece as it is removed.

4.2.2.11 If a bat is discovered at other, unsupervised times, work will cease immediately and the ecologist will be called for advice. This advice will include leaving the bat to disperse of its own accord, or wait for the licensed handler to appear and move the bat. Builders and contractors are explicitly forbidden from handling bats.

Compensation Strategy

4.2.2.12 Compensation would detail temporary and permanent roost provision as part of the development.

4.2.2.13 Temporary compensation input would include two bat boxes (Schwegler 1FF or similar), which would be installed on site prior to the commencement of works. Any bats found during the development works would be placed within these bat boxes.

4.2.2.14 Permanent compensation input would include six bat bricks (Ibstock or similar). These would be built into the external elevations of the new dwellings. The bat bricks would be suitable for common pipistrelle and whiskered/Brandt’s bats.

4.2.2.15 The positioning of the bat boxes and bricks should be guided by an experienced ecologist to increase the chance of occupancy (avoiding overhanging vegetation, artificial light etc).

4.2.2.16 Barn 2

4.2.2.17 Whilst no evidence of bat roosting activity was recorded in Barn 2 to maintain good practice it would be recommended that works are completed in accordance with the below points:

 Ensure all personnel are aware of the findings and working practices within this report. The removal of the roof timbers and corrugated sheeting should follow a ‘soft strip’ approach with such works undertaken in a controlled manner by hand / hand tools. In the unlikely event that a bat is discovered during developments all works would cease until Quants Environmental have liaised with Natural England on the subsequent development procedures and licencing

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requirements. In the unlikely eventuality of a bat or evidence of bats such as droppings being found during other construction works, the contractors should stop immediately and contact Quants Environmental.

 Contractors must avoid handling a bat where possible, and should a bat be discovered during development works the bat should be allowed to disperse on its own accord, or wait for the licensed handler to collect the bat. If it is necessary to remove a bat to avoid it being harmed, gloves MUST be worn. It should be carefully placed in a cardboard box and kept in the dark in a quiet place until the licensed ecologist arrives on site.

4.2.3 Birds

4.2.3.1 All wild birds in the UK are protected under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird or take, damage or destroy the nest (whilst being built or in use) or its eggs. The initial ground works, barn demolition and any vegetation removal should be completed outside of March to August (inclusive). Alternatively, if such work is required during the breeding bird season, a breeding bird survey check must be undertaken in order to confirm absence or presence of nest sites. If an active nest is found within the site, it must be avoided until the nest is no longer in use which may cause delays to the development.

4.2.3.2 To provide nesting opportunities for house sparrows, 4no. house sparrow integral boxes would be installed on site as part of the developments (1no. in each dwelling). The integral boxes would be located on the northern or eastern elevations of the new dwellings. House sparrow boxes are made of concrete and should be positioned at a height of > 3 m from ground level. Recommended model Schwegler 1SP: External dimensions: height 24.5 cm, width 43 cm and depth 15 cm.

4.2.3.3 The nesting boxes should be installed at under the guidance of the ecologist.

16 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Appendix 1. Legislation and Conservation Context Bats Bats are fully protected through The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 as European Protected Species (EPS). They also receive some protection through inclusion in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). It is an offence to deliberately capture, injure or kill a bat. It is an offence to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a bat. It is an offence to deliberately disturb a bat; in particular any disturbance which is likely (a) to impair their ability - (i) to survive, to breed or reproduce, or to rear or nurture their young, or (ii) in the case of animals of a hibernating or migratory species, to hibernate or migrate; or (b) to affect significantly the local distribution or abundance of the species to which they belong. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), it is also an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb a bat while it is occupying a structure or place which it uses for shelter or protection; or obstruct access to any structure or place which any such animal uses for shelter or protection. The ‘appropriate authority’ (Natural England in England) has powers to issue licences for various purposes including - (a) scientific or educational purposes… and (e) preserving public health or public safety or other imperative reasons of overriding public interest including those of a social or economic nature and beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment. The appropriate authority shall not grant a licence under this regulation unless they are satisfied - (a) that there is no satisfactory alternative, and (b) that the action authorised will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the population of the species concerned at a favourable conservation status in their natural range. It is an offence for any person authorised by virtue of a licence to which this paragraph applies to contravene or fail to comply with any condition which the licence requires him to comply with. Nesting Birds All wild birds in the UK are protected under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird or take, damage or destroy the nest (whilst being built or in use) or its eggs. Bird species listed in Schedule 1 of the 1981 Act, e.g. barn owl, receive further protection which makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb these species while building a nest or in, on or near a nest containing eggs or young; or to disturb dependent young of such a bird.

17 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Appendix 2. Photographs Photo 1. Southern elevation of Barn 1.

Photo 2. Southern elevation of Barn 2.

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Photo 3. Eastern elevation of Barn 1.

Photo 4. Western boundary of the site. Showing additional tree planting.

19 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Photo 5. Barn 1 – west elevation – where the common pipistrelle day roost is located.

Photo 6. Barn 1 – northern elevation of the barn where the whiskered / Brandt’s day roost is located.

20 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Photo 7. Dense scrub to the north of Barn 2.

Photo 8. Barn 1 – internal area.

21 1462 – Land north of Tennis Court Lane, Tollerton Bat & Barn Owl Survey

Appendix 3. NYBG Data & Design Plans

Species Site Grid ref. Quantity Date Comment Natterer's Bat St Mary’s Church, Alne SE4951265330 24 01-Aug-17 Day roost Natterer's Bat St Mary’s Church, Alne SE4951265330 2 May-18 Day roost Common Pipistrelle Holmfield Farm, Tollerton SE5153463942 1 11-Sep-15 In flight Common Pipistrelle Forest Farm, York Road, Tollerton SE527642 2 09-May-18 Roost

Brown Long-eared Bat Alne Cross SE492649 04-Feb-03 Roost Brown Long-eared Bat St Mary’s Church, Alne SE4951265330 1 01-Jul-17 Brown Long-eared Bat Forest Farm, York Road, Tollerton SE527642 1 05-Jun-18 Roost Soprano Pipistrelle Holmfield Farm, Tollerton SE5157263967 2 11-Sep-15 Foraging The Cottage, The Terrace, Main Pipistrelle species Street, Tollerton SE511643 6 01-Jul-02 Roost Grounded Pipistrelle species Alne SE4965 1990 bat Pipistrelle species Alne SE4965 05-Sep-86 Dying bat Pipistrelle species Forest Farm, York Road, Tollerton SE527642 1 05-Jun-18 Unknown Tollerton SE5064 1 20-May-01 Injured bat The Cottage, The Green, Tollerton, Unknown York SE510642 13-Sep-01 Roost Unknown Fir Tree Farm, Main Street, Tollerton SE509640 22-Sep-86 Roost Roost Unknown Appletrees, Back Lane, Tollerton SE513643 30-Mar-87 (blocked) Unknown Appletrees, Back Lane, Tollerton SE513643 02-Apr-87 Unknown Appletrees, Back Lane, Tollerton SE513643 11-Sep-86 Unknown Alne Road, Tollerton SE508644 12-Aug-85 Unknown 13 Kyle Close, Tollerton SE515643 1983 Roost Unknown Evergreen Farm, Alne SE499657 1 13-Apr-17 In flight

22 Copyright:

This drawing is the sole copyright of Vincent & Brown any reproduction in any form is forbidden unless permission is granted in writing.

Do not scale from this drawing, any discrepancies on site should be brought too the attention of Vincent & Brown.

Work and materials must comply with the current building regulations and any relevant codes of practice, and must be read in conjunction with the building specification and any other consultants or sub-contractor information.

Plot 02

New boundary treatment - timber fencing Plot 02

New boundary treatment - timber fencing

New boundary treatment Plot 01 GP Surgery

Plot 03 v

Plot 04

Tarmac Passing

P00 27/11/20 PLANNING ISSUE

Refuse collection revision date description point

Tennis Court Lane Vincent & Brown

Studio 12, Middlethorpe Business Park Sim Balk Lane, Bishopthorpe, York. YO23 2BD Manor House t: 01904 700941 e: [email protected]

project: Land at Tennis Court Lane Tollerton

drawing: Proposed Site Plan Japonica House

date: status: drawn by: checked by: 27/11/2020 Planning RJS RJS Chapel Lane Eastwood scale: Sheet size: 1:500 A3 10 20 30 N

job number originator zone level type role drawing number revision PROPOSED SITE PLAN 1:500 at A3 20092- VB- XX- XX- DR- A- (03)105 P00