Mick George Ltd.
Wakerley Quarry
ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL & MITIGATION STRATEGY
June 2016
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Registered Office: Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby DE74 2RH Company No. 07128076. [T] 01509 672772 [F] 01509 674565 [E] [email protected] [W] www.fpcr.co.uk
This report is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Ordnance Survey material is used with permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896.
Rev Issue Status Prepared / Date Approved/Date - Draft 1 MWH / 27.06.16 MWH / 27.06.16 Final MWH / 28.06.16 MWH / 30.06.16
Wakerley Quarry – Ecological Appraisal & Mitigation Strategy fpcr
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2
2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 4
3.0 RESULTS...... 13
4.0 ASSESSMENT & MITIGATION ...... 23
FIGURES
Figure 1: Designated Sites & Protected / Notable Species
Figure 2: Phase-1 Habitat Plan
Figure 3: Pond Location Plan
Figure 4: Reptile Survey Results
Figure 5: Mitigation Strategy
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Site Citations
Appendix B: Botanical Species List
Appendix C: Hedgerow Survey Results
Appendix D: Photographs
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Lorem FPCR Environment and Design Ltd was commissioned by Mick George Ltd1. to undertake an ecological appraisal of an area of land situated to the south-west of Wakerley, Northamptonshire (referred to herein as ‘the site’).
Site Context
1.2 The site is located to the south-west of the village of Wakerley, Northamptonshire; post code NN17 3AZ and central grid reference SP 945 978 (Figure 1). The existing site consists of arable farmland with boundary hedgerows and trees, with some grassland areas. Habitats in the surrounding landscape comprise arable fields, pasture, woodland and scattered urban areas.
Development Proposals & Planning Background
1.3 Northamptonshire County Council approved the Wakerley quarry development (Consent Ref 08/00026/MIN). That consent sought to rationalise the historic mining consent on the land in question rescinding permission on land closer to Wakerley village and allowing further mineral extraction to the south of the area. That consent clearly defines the extent of permitted mineral extraction and storage mound locations. The permitted area will be extracted and progressively restored over a 45 year period, working generally west to east in five broad phases.
1.4 Conditions 27 and 28 of the consent which relate to ecology and biodiversity state:
‘27. No development, including soil stripping or vegetation clearance, shall take place until an ecological mitigation plan for the development and aftercare phases has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Mineral Planning Authority. The ecological mitigation plan shall be informed by up-to-date Extended Phase One and desktop surveys. The development shall be implemented in accordance with the approved plans and details for the lifetime of the development
‘28. Six months prior to the commencement of development, including soil stripping or vegetation clearance, within any individual phase of working shall take place until a survey has been submitted to the Mineral Planning Authority establishing the presence or otherwise of any protected species or species of principal importance within that phase. Should a survey reveal that notable protected species may be affected by the development of that phase, a scheme of measures to mitigate and compensate for the impact of the development upon the identified notable or protected species shall be provided for that phase prior to the commencement of soil stripping or vegetation clearance. These measures shall be implemented in accordance with findings and conclusions to be approved in writing by the Minerals Planning Authority. If the operations in the respective phase do not commence within one year of the approval, the phase shall be re-surveyed in accordance with the requirements of this condition.
1 Postal address: Mick George Ltd, 6 Lancaster Way, Ermine Business Park, Huntingdon, PE29 6XU
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1.5 This report provides an appraisal of the wider site, including the construction of a 2km long access road and the first two phases of mineral extraction, which are envisaged will take approximately 20 to 25 years to complete. The mineral extraction operations require the careful separation and storage of top and sub-soils which are strategically located to provide landscaped visual and acoustic screening mounds around the periphery of the mineral extraction activities. In preparing this report reference has been made to the following drawings and plans:
W4/16/601;
Plan 3b WK1050-D1v8;
Plan 4b WK1050-D1v8;
Plan 5b WK1050-D1v8;
Plan 6b WK1050-D1v8;
Plan 7b WK1050-D1v8; and
Plan 8 WK530-D12v8.
1.6 Restoration shall be progressive and will include the creation of woodland, hedgerows, calcareous grassland, wetland habitats and arable fields.
Survey Objectives
1.7 In accordance with the requirements of the planning conditions, the objectives of this report are as follows:
To update the existing ecological baseline and assessment;
To provide a mitigation plan for the proposals as required by Condition 27; and
To provide detailed mitigation for ecological features within the first two phases of extraction as required by Conditions 28
1.8 The report includes details of the survey method, survey results, assessment and recommendations for mitigation and compensation, as appropriate.
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2.0 METHODOLOGY
Desktop Study
2.1 In order to compile existing baseline information, relevant ecological information was requested in January 2016 from both statutory and non-statutory nature conservation organisations for the purposes of this appraisal, including:
North Northants Badger Group
Northamptonshire Bat Group
Northamptonshire Bird Recorder
Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre
Northamptonshire Dormouse Group
Multi Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) website2; and
2.2 The search area for biodiversity information was related to the significance of sites and species and potential zones of influence, as follows:
5km around the subject site for sites of International Importance, e.g. Special Area of Conservation (SAC) & Ramsar sites
2km around the subject site for sites of National importance e.g. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)
1km around the subject site for sites of County Importance, e.g. Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs) and potential LWSs (pLWSs), and protected and notable species records
2.3 Further inspection, using colour 1:25,000 OS base maps (www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk) and aerial photographs from Google Earth (www.maps.google.co.uk) was also undertaken in order to provide additional context and identify any features of potential importance for nature conservation in the wider countryside.
Field Survey
Extended Phase-1 Survey
2.4 The site was surveyed on 1st & 3rd February 2016 using the standard Extended Phase 1 habitat assessment methodology (Joint Nature Conservation Committee 2010) as recommended by Natural England. The survey involved systematic walk overs of the site to classify the habitat types present and marking them on a base map. Target notes were used to record features or habitats of particular interest, as well as any sightings or evidence of protected or notable species. Whilst the plant species lists obtained should not be regarded as exhaustive, sufficient information was obtained to determine broad habitat types.
2 http://www.magic.defra.gov.uk/
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Hedgerows
2.5 Hedgerows were also surveyed using the Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading System (HEGS) (Clements and Toft 1993). The aim of the assessment is to allow the rapid recording and ecological appraisal of any given site in the UK, and to allow the grading of the individual hedges present, in order to identify those which are likely to be of greatest significance for wildlife. This method of assessment includes noting down: canopy species composition, associated ground flora and climbers; structure of the hedgerow including height, width and gaps and associated features including number and species of mature tree and the presence of banks, ditches and grass verges.
2.6 Using the HEGS methodology each hedgerow can then be given a grade. These grades are used to assign a nature conservation value to each hedgerow as follows:
Grade -1, 1, 1+ High to Very High Value Grade -2, 2, 2+ Moderately High to High Value Grade -3, 3, 3+ Moderate Value Grade -4, 4, 4+ Low Value
2.7 Hedgerows graded -2 or above are suggested as being a nature conservation priority.
2.8 The hedgerows were also assessed for their potential ecological value under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 (Statutory Instrument No: 1160). Hedgerow diversity is evaluated by determining both the average number of woody native species present per 100m and the number of hedgerow associated features. These results are compared against the nature conservation criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations to ascertain whether a hedgerow is classed as ‘Important’ under these regulations.
2.9 All hedgerows were also assessed as to whether they qualified as Habitats of Principle importance under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 habitat (i.e. they consisted of 80% or more native species), Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitat [Five or more woody species per 30m section, fewer woody species but a rich basal flora or predate the Enclosure Acts (1720, 1870)3] or Northamptonshire Local Wildlife Site habitat.
Fauna
2.10 During the survey, observations, signs of, or suitable habitat for, any species protected under Part 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Protection of Badgers Act (1992) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) was also noted. Throughout the survey, consideration was also given to the existence and use of the site by other notable fauna such as those of principle importance as listed under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006, Northamptonshire BAP or Red Data Book (RDB) species. The following provides further detail of the survey methodology for specific fana.
3 http://www.northamptonshirebiodiversity.org/default.asp_PageID=44.html
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Badgers
2.11 Surveys of the site were carried out on 1s & 3rd January, 18th April & 4th May 2016. The standard methodology as recommended by Harris, Creswell and Jefferies (1989) was followed to complete a thorough search for evidence which would indicate the presence of badgers both on the site and locally. Evidence of badger occupation and activity sought included:
Setts: including earth mounds, evidence of bedding and runways between setts;
Latrines: often located close to setts, at territory boundaries or adjacent to favoured feeding areas;
Prints and paths or trackways;
Hairs caught on rough wood or fencing;
Other evidence: including snuffle holes, feeding and playing areas and scratching posts.
2.12 If no specific badger activity was recorded, paths were marked as general animal paths (i.e. could be used by deer, fox, as well as badger).
2.13 If a sett was located, their status and activity level were also noted. Sett status is broadly noted as follows:
Main sett – usually continuously used with many signs of activity around, a large number of holes and conspicuous spoil mounds
Annexe sett – usually located close to a main sett and connected to it by well used paths. Annexe’s may not be continuously occupied
Subsidiary sett – lesser used setts comprising a few holes and without associated well used paths. Subsidiary setts are not continuously occupied
Outlier sett – one or two holes without obvious paths. These are used sporadically
2.14 Activity level is described as:
Well used – clear of debris, trampled soil mounds and obviously active, with signs of activity such as presence of prints, dislodged guard hairs around the entrances
Partially used – some associated debris or plants at the entrance. Could be used with minimal excavation and usually with signs of activity within the vicinity, for example, badger pathways
Disused – partially or completely blocked entrances
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Bats
Ground-Based Assessment of Trees
2.1 The trees on site were assessed for their potential to support roosting bats in January 2016 by experienced ecologists from FPCR. Tree assessments were undertaken from ground level, with the aid of a torch and binoculars where required.
2.2 During the survey features considered to provide suitable roost sites for bats, such as the following were sought4:
Natural holes (e.g. knot holes) arising from naturally shed branches or branches previously pruned back to a branch collar;
Man-made holes (e.g. cavities that have developed from flush cuts or cavities created by branches tearing out from parent stems);
Woodpecker holes;
Cracks/splits in stems or braches (horizontal and vertical);
Partially detached, loose or bark plates;
Cankers (caused by localised bark death) in which cavities have developed;
Other hollows or cavities, including butt rots;
Compression of forks with included bark, forming potential cavities;
Crossing stems or branches with suitable roosting space between;
Ivy stems with diameters in excess of 50mm with suitable roosting space behind (or where roosting space can be seen where a mat of thinner stems has left a gap between the mat and the trunk);
Bat or bird boxes; and
Other suitable places of rest or shelter.
2.3 Certain factors such as orientation of the feature, its height from the ground, the direct surroundings and its location in respect to other features may enhance or reduce the potential value
2.4 The trees were then classified into general bat roost potential groups (high, medium, low or negligible) based on the presence of features listed above. Table 1 (below) broadly classifies the potential categories as accurately as possible as well as discussing the relevance of the features. This table is based upon Table 4.1 and Chapter 6 in Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (Collins 2016)5.
4 Description based on P16, British Standard 8596:2015 Surveying for bats in trees and woodland, October 2015 5 Although the British Standard 8596:2015 document groups trees with moderate and high potential, these have been separated below (as per Table 4.1 in The Bat Conversation Trust Guidelines) to allow more specific survey criteria to be applied.
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Table 1: Classification and Survey Requirements for Bats in Trees
Classification of Description of Category and Associated Likely Further Survey Work / Actions Tree Features (based on Potential Roosting Features listed above)
Confirmed Roost Evidence of roosting bats in the form of live / dead A Natural England derogation licence application will be required if the tree or roost site bats, droppings, urine staining, mammalian fur oil is affected by the development or proposed arboricultural works. This will require a staining, etc. combination of aerial assessment by roped access bat workers (where possible, health and safety constraints allowing) and nocturnal survey during appropriate periods (e.g. nocturnal survey - May to August) to inform on the licence.
Works to tree undertaken under supervision in accordance with the approved good practice method statement provided within the licence.
However, where confirmed roost site(s) are not affected by works, work under a precautionary good practice method statement may be possible.
High Potential A tree with one or more Potential Roosting Aerial assessment by roped access bat workers (if appropriate) and / or nocturnal Features that are obviously suitable for larger survey during appropriate period (May to August). numbers of bats on a more regular basis and potentially for longer periods of time due to their Following additional assessments, tree may be upgraded or downgraded based on size, shelter protection, conditions (height above findings. ground level, light levels, etc) and surrounding habitat. If roost sites are confirmed and the tree or roost is to be affected by proposals a licence Examples include (but are not limited to); from Natural England will be required. woodpecker holes, larger cavities, hollow trunks, hazard beams, etc. After completion of survey work (and the presence of a bat roost is discounted), a precautionary working method statement may still be appropriate.
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Classification of Description of Category and Associated Likely Further Survey Work / Actions Tree Features (based on Potential Roosting Features listed above)
Moderate Potential A tree with Potential Roosting Features which A combination of aerial assessment by roped access bat workers and / or nocturnal could support one or more potential roost sites survey during appropriate period (May to August). due to their size, shelter protection, conditions (height above ground level, light levels, etc) and Following additional assessments, tree may be upgraded or downgraded based on surrounding habitat but unlikely to support a roost findings. of high conservation status (i.e. larger roost, irrespective of wider conservation status). After completion of survey work (and the presence of a bat roost is discounted), a Examples include (but are not limited to); precautionary working method statement may still be appropriate. woodpecker holes, rot cavities, branch socket cavities, etc. If a roost site/s is confirmed a licence from Natural England will be required.
Low Potential A tree of sufficient size and age to contain No further survey required but a precautionary working method statement may be Potential Roosting Features but with none seen appropriate. from ground or features seen only very limited potential. Examples include (but are not limited to); loose/lifted bark, shallow splits exposed to elements or upward facing holes.
Negligible/No Negligible/no habitat features likely to be used by None. potential roosting bats
* The Conservation of Habitats & Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) affords protection to “breeding sites” and “resting places” of bats. The EU Commission’s Guidance document on the strict protection of animal species of Community interest under the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, February 2007 states that these are places “where there is a reasonably high probability that the species concerned will return”.
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Great Crested Newts
Aquatic Presence / Absence Surveys
2.5 The surveys followed the methods recommended by Natural England as detailed in the Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines (English Nature, 2001) (GCNMG). To determine the presence or absence of great crested newts Triturus cristatus (GCNs), four individual survey visits were performed. A further two surveys were conducted on ponds with confirmed presence of GCN to determine a population size class estimate. Appropriately licensed ecologists completed all of these surveys during suitable conditions i.e. when the ambient air temperature exceeded 5oC, with little / no wind and no rain (Table 2).
Table 2: Survey Conditions
Survey Conditions
Survey Date Evening Temp. Morning Temp. Occasion Rain Wind Air Water Air Water 1 12/04/2016 11 10 11 10 Drizzle Calm 2 19/04/2016 11 10 0 8 None Calm 3 03/05/2016 15 11 11 9 None Light air 4 09/05/2016 20 13 12 13 None Light air 5 24/05/2016 13 12 8 11 None Gentle breeze 6 31/05/2016 14 13 12 11 None Light air
2.6 On each survey occasion, three of a possible four different techniques (egg search, sweep net, bottle-trap and torch) were used where possible. The following provides details of the methodologies which were applied over the survey period.
Bottle Trapping
2.7 Bottle traps were set within the water body in the evening at densities of one trap per two metres of shoreline (where feasible) and left overnight for inspection in the morning. Traps were partially submerged in the water leaving an air bubble in the bottle and secured by a cane marked with a high visibility tape to ensure relocation the following day. Care was taken to ensure that trapping did not occur during excessively warm weather, when the temperature inside the trap could rise considerably, reducing oxygen levels and potentially suffocating the newts.
Sweep Netting
2.8 Long handled sweep-nets were used to sample the margins of the pond for GCNs, with approximately 15 minutes of netting per 50m of shoreline.
Torch Light Survey
2.9 Torching involved searching the water body after dusk using high-powered torches to scan the margins and potential display areas for newts. The perimeter of the pond was walked slowly recording any newts observed. Torch surveys are unsuitable within heavily vegetated and/or turbid ponds or after periods of heavy rain as visibility is diminished.
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Egg Searching
2.10 Newts lay single eggs on leaves of aquatic plants or other suitable pliable material, after which the material is folded over the egg to protect it. GCN eggs can be distinguished from those of the other newts by their size, shape and colour. Submerged vegetation was examined for newt eggs and folded leaves gently opened to check for eggs. If a GCN egg was identified, no further leaves were examined thereby minimising any further potential disturbance.
2.11 Appropriately licensed ecologists from FPCR completed all surveys during suitable conditions i.e. when the ambient air temperature exceeded 5oc, with little/no wind and no rain.
Population Size Class Assessment
3.11 If a population of GCNs is confirmed, a population size class assessment is completed in accordance with Natural England’s standard guidance. The population size class assessment is based on the highest maximum count of GCN observed on any one survey occasion (Table 3).
Table 3: Determining Population Size Class (Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines, 2001)
Population size class Highest number of observations for one night Low population 0-10 adults Medium population 11-100 adults High population >101 adults
Reptiles
2.12 A strategic reptile presence / absence survey was undertaken at specific locations identified as offering potential habitat within the area of survey. The survey was undertaken based on methodology detailed in the Herpetofauna Workers Manual (Gent and Gibson, 1998) and the Froglife Advice Sheet 10 - Reptile Survey (Froglife 1999). Methods involved a search for basking reptiles on / under naturally occurring and strategically positioned artificial refugia. These were placed in locations that offered the most suitable habitat for common reptiles, i.e. structurally diverse grassland habitats with areas of bare ground/short vegetation, cleared woodland areas.
2.13 The refugia were set up in three separate areas of the site; A, B &C (Figure 5). These areas were:
A – Main site (11th – 12th April 2016)
B – Access road (1st June 2016)
C – Proposed receptor area (14th June 2016)
2.1 All of the surveys have been undertaken in three between April and June 2016 by suitably experienced FPCR ecologists. The prevailing weather conditions, including relative wind speed, cloud cover, ambient temperature and any other notable weather, are provided in Table 3.
2.2 Guidelines recommend that reptile surveys be undertaken during the following periods:
At temperatures of between 9°C – 18°C
On sunny / cloudy days with little or no wind;
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2.3 In addition, the surveys also followed the guidelines’ recommendations by:
Using regularly spaced corrugated tin sheeting / roofing felt (0.5m2) as artificial refugia, with a black upper side;
Approaching refugia from downwind and avoiding casting a shadow and with care so as to not disturb basking animals when checking;
That lifting and replacing tins, to check for the presence of reptiles underneath in hot weather is undertaken with care, to avoid potential harm to any animals underneath
Table 4: Date and Weather Conditions during Reptile Surveys
Area & Survey Date Weather Time
o o th 11 C – 18 C, sunny, light breeze A(1) 4 May 2016 07:30 – 10:30 (rain prior to survey) A(2) 12th May 2016 11oC – 18oC, sunny, light breeze 08:00 – 11:00 A(3) 24th May 2016 11oC, sunny, light breeze 09:00 -12:00 A(4) 6th June 2016 12oC – 18oC, sunny – light breeze 09:00 – 12:00 A(5), B(1) 9th June 2016 12oC, some cloud cover, light breeze 08:30 – 11:30 A(6), B(2) 21st June 2016 16oC, sunny spells, light breeze 08:30 – 11:30 A(7), B(3), C(1) 24th June 2016 14oC, sunny spells, light breeze 07:00 – 11:00 B(4), C(2) 28th June 2016 12 oC - 15 oC, sunny spells, light breeze 6:30 – 8:30
1 The area surveyed (A, B or C) and survey occasion shown in brackets (up to total of 7 for each area)
Assessment
2.4 Reptile populations were assessed in accordance with population level criteria as stated in the Key Reptile Site Register (HGBI, 1998). This system classifies populations of individual reptile species into three population categories assessing the importance of the population (Table 5). These categories are based on the total number of animals observed during individual survey occasions.
Table 5: Key Reptile Site Survey Assessment Categories (HGBI 1998)
Exceptional Low Population (No. Good Population (No. Species Population (No. of of individuals) of individuals) individuals)
Adder <5 5 - 10 >10
Common lizard <5 5 - 20 >20
Grass snake <5 5 - 10 >10
Slow worm <5 5 - 20 >20
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Survey Limitations
Phase-1 Habitat Survey
2.5 The habitats were not surveyed at the optimal time of year for Phase 1 survey, i.e. April – September, inclusive. Although survey at this time is sufficient for the classification of most Phase 1 habitat types, a number of plant species usually evident during the optimum survey period may otherwise be missed. However, due to the nature of the habitats present the survey was considered sufficient for the correct Phase 1 classification.
Great Crested Newt Surveys
2.6 It is acknowledged that on a single survey occasion (19th April 2016) the morning air temperature was below 5oC, although on this occasion the recorded water temperature was 8oC. It is also relevant that the peak count of adults was recorded on 12th April 2016, with similar peak numbers recorded on all other survey occasions. Therefore, although survey conditions were not optimal on a single occasion, it is considered that the survey effort is sufficiently accurate to establish the population size class assessment and evaluate potential impacts to this species.
2.7 Pond 2 (off-site) was not accessible to direct survey.
3.0 RESULTS
Desk Study
3.1 The locations of designated sites and faunal records discussed in the following section are illustrated in Figure 1.
Designated Nature Conservation Sites
3.2 The citations for the each of the designated sites of nature conservation interest described below are provided in Appendix A.
Statutory Sites
3.3 There were no statutory sites of international conservation importance (SAC, SPA, Ramsar) located within 5km radius of the site.
3.4 There were two SSSIs located within 2km radius of the site (Table 6).
Table 6: Sites of Special Scientific Interest
Site Location Description Wakerley Spinney SSSI 300m south of Ancient wet ash-maple woodland and access road grassland
Seaton Meadows SSSI 2km west of site Alluvial flood meadow with rich floral diversity
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Non-statutory Designations
3.5 The non-statutorily designated LWSs within the search area are described in Table 7.
Table 7: Non-statutory Sites of Nature Conservation Interest
Site Location Description Fineshade Disused railway (West) 480m south Woodland, scrub and calcareous grassland LWS (SP 976 984) that provides habitat for adder Vipera berus
Fineshade Woods LWS 450m south-west Large area of replanted and semi-natural (SP 990 985) Ancient woodland
Hill Side Spinney LWS 400m south Projection of Wakerley Spinney SSSI with (SP 969 987) scrub and species-rich groundflora
Long Wood LWS Immediately adjacent Ancient semi-natural woodland (SP 952 983)
Short Wood (Harringworth) LWS Immediately adjacent Remnant semi-natural Ancient woodland (SP 940 974)
Wakerley Great Wood Road Immediately adjacent Species-rich grassland road verge Verge LWS (SP 964 985)
Wakerley Oaks LWS Immediately adjacent Ancient semi-natural woodland (SP 966 991)
Wakerley Oaks Disused Railway Within and Scrub and calcareous grassland habitat Line LWS immediately adjacent (SP 969 499)
Wakerley Railway Line LWS 360 m north Scrub and species-rich calcareous (SP 963 995) grassland
Wakerley Verge (A43) LWS 800m south Species-rich calcareous grassland verges (SP 973 987)
Wakerley Verge North LWS Within and Calcareous grassland verge (glow worm immediately adjacent Lampyris noctiluca recorded here (SP 972 995) historically)
Wakerley Woods LWS Immediately adjacent Replanted Ancient woodland (SP 955 976)
Wakerley Spinney LWS 300m south Mix of ancient semi-natural and replanted (SP 966 986) ancient woodland
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Fauna
Amphibians
3.6 There was a single GCN recorded from 1983 in Fineshade Woods (SP 97 98), which is c. 500 south-east of the site (the access road) at its closest point.
Bats
3.9 The records of bast and bat roosts recorded in the surrounding area comprised brown long-eared Plecotus auritus, common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus and whiskered / Brandt’s bat Myostis sp. The majority of these recordes were associated with Fineshade Woods, the closest of which is c. 500m soith of the site (the access road). The bat group also advised that barbastelle Barbastella barbastellus bat are likely to occur in the surrounding area, although no specific records were avilable.
Birds
3.10 Numerous bird records were recorded from the surrounding area and these are listed together in Appendix A..
Dormouse
3.11 There was a single record for hazel dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius from Wakerley Great Wood in 1994 at a location c. 450m south the site boundary (recorded as a ‘live specimen’). There are no further records from Wakerley Great Wood after 1994.
3.12 There were also records from Fineshade Woods (SP 990 985) over the period 1995 – 1999 and also in 2006 (4 adults found) and 2014 (pair of juveniles).
Invertebrates
3.13 Four notable moth species had been recoded within the site boundary; six belted clearwing Bemvecia ichneumoniformis, shaded broadbar, Scotopteryx chenopodiata, currant clearwing, Syanthedon tipuliformis and four spotted Tyta luctuosa
3.14 There were a number of notable invertebrate records from the surrounding area, and the majority of these had been recorded at Fineshade Woods and included the feathered gothic moth Tholera decimalis, grizzled skipper Pyrgus malvae and cinnabar moth Tyria jacobaeae.
3.15 There were also anecdotal records of glow worm Lampyris noctiluca from suitable habitat in the surrounding area, with emphasis on nearby road verges and Wakerley village.
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Otter
3.16 There were a number of records for otter Lutra lutra in the surrounding area, the majority of which were associated with the catchment of the River Welland. The closest of which was recorded approximately 0.7 km away from the north east point of the site boundary (SP 955 977),.
Reptiles
3.17 There were numerous records for reptiles in the surrounding area, the majority of which were located around Fineshade Woods. The closest of the records were as follows:
Adder Vipera berus – at 600m south from the access road boundary to the east of the site (SP 973 987);
Slow worm Anguis fragilis - 600m south from the access road boundary to the east of the site (SP 973 987);
Common lizard Zootoca vivipara – 400m north from the access road to the east of the site (SP 959 995); and
Grass snake Natrix natrix –600m south from the access road boundary to the east of the site (SP 973 987).
Field Survey
Habitats
3.18 The site is dominated by heavily cultivated arable fields bound largely by native hedgerows. Grassland, scrub and small blocks of woodland occur within the site boundary, with connectivity to larger stands of semi-natural broadleaved woodland in the surrounding area. The surrounding area is dominated by arable farmland and woodland.
3.19 The location of habitats and Target Notes are illustrated in Figure 2.
Target Notes
1) The remains of demolished or derelict buildings. The structures were small, former operational buildings that either lacked a roof or had been reduced to piles of rubble;
2) Large piles of rubble covered by stands of dense scrub, and surrounded by wet grassland. The piles of rubble offered suitable hibernation habitat for reptiles;
3) Area of swamp on the eastern edge of the former airfield;
4) A port-a-cabin;
5) Herb-rich section on the north of Wakerley Great Wood Road Verge LWS. The flora here included common bird’s-foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus, devil’s-bit scabious Succisa pratensis ad meadow vetchling Lathyrus pratensis;
6) Field margin (c. 8m in width) of semi-improved grassland on the south boundary of Wakerley Oaks LWS; and
7) Grassland on south side of Wakerley Verge North LWS. The sward here included common knapweed Centaurea nigra, greater knapweed Centaurea scabiosa, hedge bedstraw Gallium mallugo, primrose Primula sp. and salad burnet Sanguisorba minor.
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8) A stone wall amongst hedgerow H22 that supplied suitable hibernation habitat for reptiles
Woodland, Trees & Scrub
3.20 Woodland canopy in the central sections of the survey area included mature examples of pedunculated oak Quercus robur and ash Fraxinus excelsior, with an understory of hawthorn Crataegus monogyna and elder Sambucus nigra. Some derelict hazel Corylus avelana coppice was evident on the edge of Wakerley Woods LWS. The groundflora comprised occasional bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta, common nettle Urtica dioica, dog’s mercury Mercurialis perennis, lords and ladies Arum maculatum and wood false-brome Brachypodium sylvaticum.
3.21 Woodland at the south boundary of the survey area consisted of a canopy of mature pedunculated oak and silver birch Betula pendula. Blackthorn Prunus spinose was locally abundant in the understory, with occasional bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and hawthorn. The groundflora at the edges of this woodland included bush vetch Vicia sepium, sedge Carex sp., tufted hair-grass Deschampsia cespitosa and wood false-brome. Centrally the woodland was shaded and the groundflora relatively sparse, with male fern Dryopteris filix-mas and common nettle being occasional to locally abundant.
3.22 There were only a small number of individual mature trees within the survey area, and these consisted of pedunculated oak and ash. None of the trees were of sufficient girth or included a sufficient number of features, such as deadwood, rot holes or epiphytes, to be considered Veterans.
3.23 Scrub within the survey area was dominated locally by either hawthorn, blackthorn or crack willow Salix fragilis. Individual stands of bramble and goat willow Salix caprea scrub occurred only occasionally. Scattered willow Salix sp. and bramble scrub was located around the southern edge of the former arfield.
Grassland
3.24 Several areas of semi-improved grassland were located across the survey area. The grasslands appeared to lack management and a reasonable proportion of the grassland was damp in character. In the majority of these damp locations, particularly on the boundary with nearby woodland, the dominant species was wood small-reed Calamagrostis epigejos. These areas graded into grassland comprising abundant meadow-grass Poa sp. and Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus, with occasional tufted hair-grass. Herbs in these grasslands included locally abundant black knapweed, with occasional creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, meadow vetchling, ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolate and wild carrot Daucus carota. Marshy grassland with abundant sedges Carex sp. occurred occasionally on the edge of these wet areas. There was also a central area of swamp habitat (Target Note 3), where a mix of silver birch and goat willow scrub occurred amongst a bed of locally abundant sedge Carex sp. and wood small-reed.
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3.25 Some species-rich swards of semi-improved grassland were also associated with road verges (Target Notes 5 & 7). Some wider field margins and uncultivated edges of fields in the central and eastern areas of the survey area also supported semi-improved grassland. Here the sward included brome Bromus sp., smooth meadow-grass Poa pratensis and meadow fox-tail Alopecurus pratensis. Herbs were relatively infrequent, and included occasional dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg., common vetch Vicia sativa, red clover Trifolium pratense and hoary ragwort Senecio erucifolius. Species-poor semi-improved grassland was also associated with the remaining field margins, which generally comprised cross-compliance strips of c. 2m width and were dominated by coarse grass species.
3.26 There were some small areas of shortly mown amenity grassland at the western extent of the former airfield. Although regularly managed these grasslands were of similar composition to the semi-improved swards found elsewhere within the survey area (described above)
Hedgerows
3.27 Twenty two hedgerows were surveyed; H1 – H22 (Appendix C). All of the hedgerows formed the boundaries of arable fields and the majority appeared to be subject to regular management. Most of the hedges were dominated by hawthorn, with blackthorn being frequent and dog rose Rosa canina, elder and field maple Acer campestre occurring at least occasionally. The hedge H18 was dominated by elm Ulmus sp. and spindle Euonymus europaea was frequent in hedgerows H7, H8 and H13. The hedges H16 and H17 were species-rich, with at least 6 species per average 30m section.
3.28 Standard trees were absent from the vast majority hedgerows in the survey area. The only exception was H15, which included a number of mature to semi-mature ash trees.
3.29 The occurrence of woodland indicators in the hedgerow grounflora was more frequent in those sections closest to the off-site woodlands. Here the species included dog’s mercury, garlic mustard Alliaria petiolata, lords and ladies and wood avens Geum urbanum. The groundflora of the remaining hedgerows was either continuous with the field margins or dominated by ivy Hedera helix and bare ground.
3.30 Assessment demonstrated that the majority of hedgerows were of Moderately High to High importance according to HEGS. This was mainly due to the number of interconnections between hedgerows and / or their structure. A smaller number of hedgerows (H7, H8, H14, H19, H20 & H21) that lacked these features were only of Low to Moderate importance according to HEGS.
3.31 Only hedgerow H17 was considered Important according to the wildlife and landscape criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. This hedgerow qualified as a result of its species diversity an good structure. The remaining hedgerows did not qualify under these criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997.
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Pond
3.32 There was a single pond within the boundary of the survey area; Pond 1. This pond was c. 10m x 8m, had steep-sided banks no more than 40cm in height and was of unknown depth. Vegetation included frequent water-weed Elodea sp., with occasional sweet-grass Glyceria sp., water- plantain Alisma sp. and reed mace Typha latifolia.
Arable
3.33 This was the dominant habit type within the survey area and consisted of intensively managed arable fields. No rare or scarce arable weeds were recorded.
Other Habitats
3.34 Unmanaged areas of the site were dominated by tall herbs, including common nettle and hogweed Heracleum sphondylium.
3.35 The roads and former operational areas of airfield consisted of hardstanding surface. In some areas the edges of the hardstanding were colonised by moss and Sedum sp.
Fauna
3.36 Due to the absence of suitable habitat or features it is considered that the site is of negligible interest to otters Lutra lutra, water vole Arvicola amphibious and white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes, and therefore these groups are not considered further.
Bats
3.37 There were no buildings within the site boundary that were considered to support features suitable for roosting bats.
3.38 A small number of mature trees within the woodland that is located within the site boundary were considered to provide low bat roosting potential, due to the presence of flaking bark and a small number of isolated crevices. Due to an absence of suitable features the remainder of trees were considered to be of negligible interest for roosting bats.
3.39 The open areas of the arable fields were considered to offer very few opportunities for foraging and commuting bats. Suitable habitat for foraging and commuting bats was provided by the hedgerows and woodland within the site boundary. The most suitable areas of foraging and commuting habitat consisted of the ‘edge’ habitat of the mature woodland and more established hedgerows. The hedgerows and woodland within the site did form linkages with similar areas of suitable habitat in the surrounding landscape.
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Birds
3.40 The notable bird species noted within or immediately adjacent to the site boundary are listed in Table 8.
3.41 In addition to common tit and finch species, other species recorded included blackbird Turdus merula, blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, buzzard Buteo buteo, carrion crow Corvus corone, chiff chaff Phylloscopus collybita, garden warbler Sylvia borin, green woodpecker Picus viridis, lesser whitethroat Sylvia curruca, rook Corvus frugilegus, Whitethroat Sylvia communis and woodpigeon Columba palumbus.
Table 8: Notable Bird Species Recorded within the Site Boundary
Species WCA1 NERC2 Red List3 Grasshoppper warbler Locustella naevia + Linnet Carduelis cannabina + Mistle thrush Turdus viscivorus Skylark Alauda arvensis + Song thrush Turdus philomelos + Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella + Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Amber List3 Bullfinch Dunnock Prunella modularis + Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus + Snipe Gallinago gallinago Stock dove Columba oenas Tawny owl Strix aluco Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Green List3 Red kite Milvus milvus +
1 Species listed on Schedule-1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
2 Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006
3 Birds listed as Red or Amber Birds of Conservation Concern (Eaton et al 2016)
3.42 The arable fields and hedgerows within the site provided suitable nesting habitat for farmland birds, including ground nesting species, such as skylark Alauda arvensis. Individual mature trees, patches of scrub and the woodland also provided potential nesting habitat for birds. The mix of damp grassland, scrub and woodland edge supplied suitable habitat for species that favour wetland habitats, such as reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus and grasshopper warbler Locustella naevia. The adjacent areas of mature woodland, which were of varied composition and structure, also supplied potential breeding opportunities for woodland specialists.
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3.43 The arable fields, grassland, hedgerows and woodland also provided potential foraging and shelter for local breeding and wintering bird populations. A flock of c. 200 lapwing vanellus vanellus was observed roosting on fields immediately north of the site boundary in January 2016.
Dormice
3.44 The intensively managed arable land that dominated the site, with species-poor and / or heavily managed hedgerows was considered to be completely unsuitable for dormouse. Dense hedgerows and the understory of semi-natural woodlands offered suitable foraging habitat for dormouse, including hazel coppice and bramble. Nesting opportunities were supplied by occasional cavities in trees and mature shrubs, and denser areas of leaf litter supplied potential hibernation habitat. However, the relatively open understory and grass-dominated ground layer of the more open areas of plantation woodland (Short Wood) were considered to offer few opportunities for dormouse. Although, habitat connectivity did occur between hedgerows and woodland on the site boundary of the site, some areas of suitable dormouse habitat within the site were somewhat fragmented by poor quality habitat, such as intensively managed hedgerows and arable fields.
Great Crested Newts
3.45 There was a single pond within the site boundary (Pond 1) and a second pond located within 500m of the site boundary (Pond 2) (Figure 3). Pond 2 was separated from the site by a distance of over 250m, which exceeds the typical dispersal distance of GCN. Furthermore, although Pond 2 was not accessible to direct survey, investigation of aerial photographs indicated that it was isolated in an arable field and separated from the site by the same habitat. On this basis it was considered reasonably likely that any GCN that may be present in Pond 2 would not make regular use of the sites habitats and this pond was not considered further.
3.46 The results of GCN aquatic surveys of pond 1 are presented in Table 9. A peak count of 3 adults was recorded from pond 1 on 9th May 2016, and GCN eggs were also confirmed to be present. Smooth newt Lissotriton vulgaris (peak 21 adults) and palmate newt Lissotriton helveticus (peak 3 adults) were also confirmed to be present.
Table 9: Great Crested Newt Survey Results
Highest count2 Survey Methodology GCN Smooth Newt Palmate Newt Toad Frog Date Employed1 Num Eggs Num Eggs Num Eggs Num Eggs Num Eggs
12/04/2016 B,T,E 2 - 21 Y - - - - 1 -
19/04/2016 B,T,E 1 - 4 - 3 - - - - -
03/05/2016 B,T,E 2 Y 2 - 2 - - - - -
09/05/2016 B,T 3 n/a 6 - 3 - - - - -
24/05/2016 B,T 1 n/a 12 - 3 - - - - -
31/05/2016 B,T 1 n/a 3 - 2 - - - - -
1 B, bottle trapping; T, torching; E, egg searching
2 Highest count of adult amphibians recorded by any of the methods on each survey occasion
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3.47 The open arable fields that dominated the site were intensively managed and considered to represent unsuitable terrestrial habitat for GCN and other amphibians. Hedgerows and tussocky grassland around the arable field margins did represent suitable terrestrial GCN habitat. The blocks of woodland provided optimal terrestrial habitat for GCN, with accumulated leaf litter, tussocky vegetation, log piles and scattered debris providing potential opportunities for refuge and hibernation. Animal holes, debris and the root systems of mature trees and shrubs within the site also provided potential opportunities for amphibians to hibernate. The areas of suitable terrestrial habitat were also well-connected to similar suitable habitat within the surrounding area.
Invertebrates
3.48 The cultivated parts of the site provided poor habitat for invertebrates. The tussocky grassland, ruderal vegetation and more mature shrubs and trees provided food plants, nectar sources or breeding opportunities, which were suitable for invertebrates. The diversity of structure associated with some areas of 'edge' habitat, most particularly on the margins of mature woodland and hedgerows, offered a range of micro-habitats for invertebrates. Standing and fallen deadwood was associated with the hedgerows, mature trees and / or woodland, and this provided opportunities for saproxylic invertebrates. The vegetation of the ponds provided habitat for the aquatic phase of some invertebrate lifecycles.
Reptiles
3.49 The majority of the site consisted of intensively managed arable habitat lacking in vegetation structure or areas of heavily over-shaded woodland, and was therefore considered to represent unsuitable habitat for reptiles. The hard boundaries on the interface of many habitats within the site, such as between hedgerows or woodland and the grassy field margins, also lacked the diversity of structure that is preferred by reptiles, and was considered to provide poor habitat. The areas of grassland supported tussocks and scrub with a diversity of structure that provided opportunities for reptiles to shelter and forage, and included more open areas for reptiles to bask.
3.50 The results of reptile surveys are presented in Figure 5 and Table 10. This confirmed the presence of adder, slow worm, common lizard and grass snake. At the time of writing surveys is area B and C remain on-going.
3.51 The following summarises the survey results across the main site (area A):
A peak count of 9 adult common lizard has been recorded across the main site (area A). The following peak numbers of adults were recorded in different locations of this area; 6 (north), 3 (south) and 2 (central)
A peak count of 6 adult slow worm were recorded in the south of the main site only
An individual juvenile grass snake was recorded on a single survey occasion
3.52 Common lizard have been recorded only on the road verge at the east end of the survey area (i.e. within Wakerley Verge North LWS). Adder (peak of 6 adults) have also been recorded in this location, with a juvenile also noted to the south of Wakerley Oaks LWS. Adder were regularly recorded in the same location basking amongst piles of stone on the road verge.
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Table 10: Results of Reptile Survey
Number Recorded1 Survey Date Adder Slow worm Common lizard Grass snake Area A (Main site) 4th May 2016 - 2 - - 12th May 2016 - 2 juv 5 - 24th May 2016 - 1 9 & 2 juvs - 6th June 2016 - 1 - 1 juv 9th June 2016 - 4 & 1 juv 9 & 2 juv - 21st June 2016 - 6 & 2 juv 5 & 1 juv 24th June 2016 - 3 4 - Area B (Access Road) 9th June 2016 1 - 1 - 21st June 2016 2 - - - 24th June 2016 3 - - - 28th June 2016 6 & 1 juv - - - Area C (proposed receptor area) 24th June 2016 - - 1 - 28th June 2016 - - - -
1 The number of adult and juvenile (juv) reptiles recorded on each survey occasion. Peak adult counts across each survey area are underlined bold
4.0 MITIGATION PLAN
4.1 The following section provides an evaluation and proposals for mitigation that take account of the likely ecological effects as required by conditions 27 and 28. As required by the existing consent the recommendations include an outline strategy for the proposals (condition 27), with additional detail provided for the first two phases where appropriate (condition 28). In each case the specific phase(s) that recommendations apply to have been clearly indicated.
4.2 All recommendations have been made in the context of relevant statutory and policy protection, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and relevant planning policy of Northamptonshire County Council.
4.3 The potential effects arising as a result of extraction have previously been considered by Northamptonshire County Council prior to determination of the application to allow mineral extraction. That being said, where possible potential impacts have be avoided through mitigation. As a result the project design ensures that ecological features identified in the site shall be protected, with the measures that take account of the ecological features including:
Avoidance of direct effects upon designated sites of nature conservation interest, and the areas of woodland;
Retention of boundary hedgerows that provide ecological connectivity across the site and to the surrounding area; and
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Enhancement of the sites habitats through a phased programme of restoration.
4.4 Progressive restoration of the site will include the replacement of the arable fields, together with the creation of additional woodland, hedgerows and wetland areas.
Designated Sites of Nature Conservation Interest
Statutory Sites
4.5 No statutory sites of international importance (SAC, SPA & Ramsar) will be affected by the proposals.
4.6 Given the magnitude of the distance that separates from the proposals it is considered that none of the nearby sites of national (SSSI) importance will be directly or indirectly affected by the proposals.
Non-statutory Sites
4.7 The following section evaluates the potential impacts upon non-statutory sites and provides recommendations for mitigation and compensation as appropriate.
Wakerley Oaks Disused Railway Line LWS, Wakerley Verge North LWS & Wakerley Great Wood Road Verge LWS
4.8 Construction of the access road will result in the direct loss of habitat from Wakerley Oaks Disused Railway Line LWS, Wakerley Verge North LWS & Wakerley Great Wood Road Verge LWS. In each case the extent of habitat loss represents a very small fraction of the overall area / length of the existing LWSs and these minor losses are unlikely to affect the conservation status of these sites.
4.9 The following measures are recommended to ensure that disturbance of habitats within these designated LWSs is minimised during operation of the access road;
During construction of the access road the area of species-rich, road verge grassland affected by works should be minimised;
Clear delineation and appropriate fencing of the working area / buffer strips should be adopted to prevent inadvertent damage / disturbance of retained areas during construction;
Signage should be installed prohibiting the dumping or storage of material, vehicles, machinery or equipment on the sensitive habitats;
Where appropriate, the use of fencing and / or bollards to ensure that vehicles do not encroach onto the sensitive habitats during operation; and
The implementation of a Dust Action Plan to ensure that levels of dust from operation of the quarry and vehicles are adequately controlled.
4.10 These measures are considered more than sufficient to mitigate the potential effects of disturbance to designated site and are in accordance with the requirements of Condition 29 of the existing permission. This will ensure that the conservation status of these designated sites is maintained as part of the proposals.
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Ancient Woodlands
4.11 A number of areas of ancient woodland that have been designated as statutory or non-statutory sites of nature conservation interest lie within or in close proximity to the proposed development.
4.12 Ancient woodlands lie immediately adjacent to the south and west of the boundary of the main site, and also to the north of the proposed access road. There will be no direct loss of Ancient woodland as a result of the proposals. As described in Natural England’s (2014) Standing Advice for Ancient Woodland and Veteran Trees, ancient woodland is likely to be sensitive to the following potential indirect impacts:
Alterations in nutrient status, for example, as a result of dust deposition
Altered hydrology and water quality
Physical damage to trees
Loss of supporting habitat, such as hedgerows
4.13 The following is recommended to address the potential impacts as a result of altered nutrient status, hydrology and water quality:
Prevention and control of dust emissions in accordance with a Dust Action Plan
A drainage strategy and best practice control of accidental pollution
4.14 To avoid damage to trees a minimum 15m stand-off will also be maintained between the limit of works and the designated boundary of the ancient woodland wherever it is practical to do so, and this shall include the storage of soils and minerals.
4.15 The arable fields, which will be temporarily lost to the proposals, are intensively managed habitats that are highly unlikely to play a supporting role for the adjacent woodland habitats. The hedgerows and trees are likely to support the ancient woodland habitats by providing an additional resource for dependant flora and fauna. The majority of hedges that lie closest to woodland or are directly connected to it are retained by the proposals. The hedges that will be temporarily lost during extraction are considered to represent poor supporting habitat as they are intensively managed and have poor structure. Furthermore, these hedges will be replaced during the progressive site restoration. Therefore, these temporary hedgerow losses are unlikely to affect the function of the supporting habitat, and the impact to all Ancient woodlands in the lcal area is considered to be negligible.
Habitats
4.16 This section considers those habitats that lie outside the boundary of designated sites of nature conservation interest (which are discussed separately above).
4.17 The degree to which habitats receive consideration within the planning system relies on a number of mechanisms, including:
Inclusion within specific policy, e.g. veteran trees, ancient woodland and linear habitats in NPPF, or non-statutory site designation,
Identification as a habitat of principal importance for biodiversity under the NERC Act 2006 and identification as a Priority Habitat within the Shropshire BAP.
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4.18 The initial appraisal indicates that most of the habitats within the site boundary are likely to be of limited ecological value. In particular the arable fields dominating the site are widespread habitats that are of low interest. The woodland, grassland, hedgerows and pond are considered to be of higher ecological importance.
4.19 The woodland and scrub communities within the site are not typical of any semi-natural woodland community, and are considered to represent secondary woodlands. They are therefore unlikely to qualify as Habitat of Principal Importance or Priority Habitat of the Northamptonshire BAP. They do however add to the diversity of available habitats and provide some connectivity to similar habitat in the surrounding area. The woodland and scrub are therefore considered to be of Local importance.
4.20 The floral diversity of the majority of grasslands within the site appear to have declined since previous survey of the site in 2005, most likely due to an absence of management. Some areas of wet grassland and swamp have greater species diversity, although these are limited in overall extent. Overall the grassland communities are considered to be typical of such unmanaged swards and are unlikely to qualify as either Habitat of Principal Importance or Priority Habitat of the Northamptonshire BAP. As they represent a widespread and unremarkable habitat type the grassland are considered to be of no more than local importance.
4.21 The pond 1 supports populations of GCN and palmate newt and is therefore considered to represent Habitat of Principal Importance. All ponds in the county represent Northamptonshire BAP Priority Habitat. As the diversity of its associated plants is low, the pond 1 is considered to be of only Local importance.
4.22 All hedgerows within the site boundary are dominated by native shrubs species, and therefore represent Habitat of Principal Importance under Section 41 of NERC Act 2006. The species-rich hedgerows H16 and H17 represent Priority Habitat of the Northamptonshire BAP. The hedgerows H17 also qualifies as Important under the Wildlife and Landscape criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. The species-rich and Important hedgerows are considered to be of local ecological importance. The hedges with more diverse structure (H1 – H6, H9 – H11, H13, H15 – H17, & H22) as evaluated by HEGS assessment, are also considered to be of local importance. The remaining hedgerows (H7, H8, H12, H14 & H18 – H21), which have relatively poor structure, are considered to be of only site value.
4.23 The arable fields, which were intensively managed and species-poor in character, were unlikely to qualify as Habitat of Principal Importance or BAP Priority Habitat. Therefore, as it is unremarkable and typical of the surrounding landscape, the arable habitat is considered to be of only site ecological importance.
4.24 The species-poor nature and / or unremarkable nature of the remaining habitats within the site, including scrub and ruderal vegetation, means that they do not meet the criteria for selection as Habitats of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 or BAP Priority Habitat. Consequently these habitats are also considered to be of low intrinsic ecological value.
4.25 The loss of some habitats, in particular woodland, hedgerows and pond, is likely to require specific mitigation as they qualify as either a habitat of principal importance under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and / or a Priority Habitat of the Northamptonshire BAP.
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Mitigation (Phase A & B)
4.26 As a general measure clear delineation and appropriate fencing of the working area should be adopted to prevent inadvertent damage / disturbance of retained areas.
4.27 The boundary hedgerows have been are retained where possible. Phase A & B will result in the loss of some short sections of hedgerow to establish the access road and also the loss of hedgerows H9, H10 & H11 to accommodate screening bunds. The phased removal of hedgerows will be compensated for through either their translocation to restored habitats or the replanting of species-rich hedgerows. The planting scheme should seek to maximise connectivity by creating additional linkages between both the newly created and retained hedgerows.
4.28 It is recommended that the protection measures for all retained trees and hedges retained within the layout should include consideration of BS5837:2012 Trees in relation to Design, Demolition and Construction – Recommendations.
4.29 It is recommended that all operations should aim to reduce the risk of accidental potential impacts by adhering to best practice. This includes following the recommendations of the Environment Agency’s Pollution Prevention Guidelines 5: Works or Maintenance in or Near Water and Pollution Prevention Guideline 6: Working at Construction and Demolition Sites.
4.30 The loss of pond 1 during phase B (c. 15 years after the commencement of extraction) will be mitigated through the creation of replacement ponds within the restored site (also refer to GCN mitigation strategy below).
4.31 The losses of woodland and grassland habitat during phase A & B will also be compensated through the establishment and management of new woodland and grassland habitats as part of the restored site.
Subsequent Phases
4.32 The habitat mitigation measures detailed above would also apply for all subsequent phases of extraction.
Fauna
4.33 Principal pieces of legislation protecting wild species are Part 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981(as amended) (WCA) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). Some species, for example badgers, also have their own protective legislation (Protection of Badgers Act 1992). The impact that this legislation has on the Planning system is outlined in ODPM 06/2005 Government Circular: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation – Statutory obligations and their Impact within the Planning System.
4.34 In addition to protected species, there are those that are otherwise of conservation merit, such as those listed as species of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity under the NERC Act 2006. These are recognised in the NPPF which advises that when determining planning applications, LPA’s should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity.
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Badgers
4.35 Badgers are protected from harm and cruelty by the Protection of Badgers Act 1992.
Bats
4.39 All species of bats are fully protected by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Some bat species, including barbastelle, brown long-eared and soprano pipistrelle, are recognised as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006.
4.40 There are no confirmed roosts within the boundary of the working area. A small number of trees on the boundary of the site have features with low potential to support roosting bats. Tree roosts are often used in a transitory manner by bats and can potentially become occupied, particularly where development does not occur immediately. Therefore, although there is a low risk of bats being present some precautionary mitigation is recommended to ensure the adequately protection of bats during operations that directly affect trees, such as pruning or felling.
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4.41 The local assemblage of bat species comprises widespread species that are characteristic of the habitats present in the surrounding area, particularly the off-site areas of ancient woodland. Although the intensively managed arable habitats that dominate the site are of limited interest to bats, it is reasonable to expect that this group will make use of the boundary habitats, including woodland and hedgerows, and also the areas of grassland and scrub for foraging and commuting. It is considered that the following factors will limited the magnitude of any potential impact upon foraging and commuting bats:
The poor suitability and / or limited extent of habitat that is likely to be affected by any particular phase;
The retention of boundary habitat, particularly mature woodland that is well-connected to similar habitat in the surrounding landscape;
The long timescale of the proposed extraction (anticipated 45 years); and
The progressive restoration of the proposals, which includes the creation of a mix of inter- connected habitats, such as hedgerows, woodland, grassland and wetland.
4.42 In this context it is considered reasonable to assume that the losses of foraging and commuting habitat in any particular phase are unlikely to have a significant effect upon the local bat population.
4.43 Inappropriate lighting can have a negative impact upon the use of habitats by bats and other faunal species. Therefore, on order to minimise disturbance to bats (and other fauna) it is recommended the lighting of retained or created habitats should be designed to minimise impact to sensitive bat species.
Mitigation (Phases A & B)
Trees
4.44 The following methodology best practice measures are recommended for any works affecting trees that have potential as bat roosts:
Prior to the felling the suitability of trees for bats should be re-assessed by a licenced bat worker;
Where appropriate holes, cracks, cavities or other features should be inspected prior to removal of the identified trees with bat potential;
Where appropriate, the sectional felling of trees in 1.5m sections with sections being lowered to the ground and any features uncovered being checked continually during works;
Wood being retained on site for at least 24 hours, prior to chipping or felling; and
In the unlikely event a roost is recorded during works, works will cease and further advice sought from an ecologist.
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4.45 In the event that bats are confirmed to be present then works will be halted until an appropriate Natural England European Protected Species derogation licence is put in place. This licence would detail the appropriate timing and safe working practices necessary to ensure that the risk to bats is minimised and that suitable alternative roosting sites are provided. Full planning permission and the discharge of any relevant nature conservation conditions must be in place prior to any EPS license applications. Natural England requires at least 30 working days to process EPS license applications. These measures would be sufficient to ensure that the Favourable Conservation Status of local bat populations is not altered.
Lighting
4.46 Inappropriate lighting can have a negative impact upon the use of habitats by bats and other faunal species. Therefore, the lighting of retained habitats should also be designed to minimise impact to sensitive bat species. This will involve minimising light spill onto existing and newly created foraging habitat. These measures should also be implemented where habitat provides commuting habitat that connects with the wider countryside. This will be achieved by ensuring that the design of lighting is based upon guidelines presented in the Bat Conservation Trust & Institute of Lighting Engineers ‘Bats and Lighting in the UK – Bats and Built Environment Series’ and the Bat Conservation Trust ‘Statement on the impact and design of artificial light on bats’. Suitable measures may include a combination of the following steps:
Avoiding unnecessary lighting;
The use of low-intensity lighting (sodium lamps or similar), where possible;
Where possible the use of low level and / or hooded lamps to minimise light-spill; and
Minimising light spill with the use of directed lighting or use of screening to shield sensitive areas.
Subsequent Phases
4.47 The mitigation measures detailed above for bats would also apply for all subsequent phases of extraction.
Birds
4.48 All birds are protected while nesting by the WCA 1981 (as amended). Specially protected Schedule-1 bird species are afforded additional protection from disturbance while nesting.
4.49 Surveys have highlighted that the site supports a number of notable birds, including a range of notable farmland and woodland species, such as skylark, lapwing, reed bunting and grasshopper warbler. No significant flocks of birds or individual species have been noted and the assemblage of recorded birds is consistent with that noted previously in 2006. This assemblage is therefore considered to be typical of the habitats present on site, which are dominated by heavily managed arable habitats and woodland, and are also a common feature of the surrounding landscape.
4.50 The loss of suitable breeding habitat will occur during each phase of extraction. However, given the timescale of extraction, the availability of similar habitat in the surrounding area and also the progressive restoration of the site, it is considered that there are unlikely to be any significant adverse impacts to birds. Mitigation is recommended to ensure that nesting birds are not disturbed during extraction.
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Mitigation (Phases A & B)
4.51 To avoid disturbance to all breeding birds, including ground-nesting species, and to ensure legal compliance, suitable nesting habitat will be removed outside the bird-breeding season (March to August, inclusive). If this is not possible, an experienced ecologist will complete a nesting birds check prior to removal of any suitable habitat. If active nests are found, the area will be left untouched and suitably buffered from works until all birds have fledged. Specific advice will be provided prior to undertaking the clearance.
4.52 A periodic check should also be carried out during the life of the scheme both within the site and outside of the site boundary as appropriate, to locate the presence of species listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) 1981. Any nests discovered should be protected by a ‘buffer’ zone, of an appropriate distance considered necessary at the time of survey.
Subsequent Phases
4.53 The mitigation measures detailed above for bats birds would also apply for all subsequent phases of extraction.
Dormice
4.54 Dormice and their habitats are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). In summary this makes it an offence to damage destroy or obstruct any place used by dormice for breeding and shelter, disturb dormice, or kill, injure or take dormice. Dormice are also listed as Species of Principal Importance under the provisions of the NERC Act 2006.
4.55 There are historical records of dormice populations in the woodlands surrounding the proposed Wakerley Quarry. Based on the availability of suitable habitat, particularly within the areas of mature woodland and along well-established hedgerows, the presence of dormice cannot be ruled out. Further surveys are being undertaken to confirm the likely presence / absence of dormice. In accordance with the Dormouse Conservation Handbook (2nd Edition) (English Nature 2006) and advice from Natural England6, the following surveys are recommended:
Nut search – Sampling of suitable habitat to identify dormouse foraging remains within the period September – December, inclusive; and
Nest tube survey – Sample tubes spaced at 20m intervals and monitored for the presence of dormice over the period April – November, inclusive7.
4.56 A separate report will be provided detailing the outcome of the dormice presence / absence surveys. The following provides an outline of anticipated mitigation measures that would be sufficient to ensure that the FCS of dormice is maintained.
6 Natural England Interim Natural England Advice Note – Dormouse Survey for Mitigation Licensing – best practice and common misconceptions 7 Monitoring should achieve a score of 20 or more as defined by Table 5 of the Dormouse Conservation Handbook (2nd Edition) (English Nature 2006)
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4.57 If dormice are confirmed to be present within an area of affected habitat then mitigation and compensation may be required. Some highly localised areas of work may only affect small patches of scrub (<100m28) or short, isolated sections of any individual hedgerow (less than 20m of total length). In this situation it is considered that the risk of committing an offence may be minimised through best working practices, and a licence is unlikely to be required. Any work that requires the clearance of more habitat than this would need to be completed under an appropriate Natural England EPS derogation licence.
Precautionary Mitigation
4.58 The following precautionary mitigation measures will only be applied to highly localised works that will affect potentially suitable dormouse habitat. As above this is defined as small patches of scrub (<100m29) or short, isolated sections of hedgerows (lees than 20m of the total length of any hedgerows).
All vegetation removal will be completed under the supervision of an ecologist who holds a dormouse licence;
Works, including vegetation clearance, storage of materials and access routes, will be planned to avoid:
o Suitable dormouse hibernation habitat (deep leaf litter and tree / shrub stumps) in the period November – March, inclusive; and
o The period June to September when dependant young are present
Immediately prior to any operations the entire working area and surrounding 10m will be carefully inspected by the supervising ecologist to ensure that no dormouse nests are present. Operations will only be proceed once the ecologist has confirmed this area to be free of dormouse nests;
Once dormice have been confirmed to be absent vegetation will then be undertaken in a phased and controlled manner using only hand tools;
The woody vegetation removed each day will be retained in situ overnight and next to the closest adjacent dormouse habitat. This vegetation will then be disposed of appropriately the following day
In the event that dormice or dormice nests are confirmed to be present at any time then works will cease in the immediate area until further advice has been sought.
4.59 This method statement is considered sufficient to ensure legal compliance with respect to dormice for the localised works defined above.
8 9
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Mitigation under Natural England EPS Licence (Subject to confirming dormouse presence) (All Phases)
4.60 Mitigation for work that are likely to result in an offence would need to be covered by a Natural England EPS licence. Mitigation for dormice should follow the recommendations of the Dormouse Conservation Handbook (2nd Edition) (English Nature 2006). The following provides a summary of the mitigation measures that would need to be completed under an EPS licence should dormice be confirmed to be present:
Minimising the amount of any affected dormouse habitat where possible;
The appropriate timing of any vegetation removal, which includes; (i) avoiding works that affect hibernation habitat (such as deep leaf litter and tree stumps) in the period November – March, inclusive, and (ii) avoiding the period early-June – September when females may potentially be separated from dependant young
Persuasion10 and / or translocation11 of dormice into areas of suitable habitat; and
Avoiding fragmentation by maintaining habitat connectivity between areas of retained dormouse habitat.
4.61 The loss of any dormouse habitat would be completed using hand tools under the supervision of an appropriately licenced ecologist.
4.62 It is considered that there is more than sufficient habitat available within the areas of off-site woodland to achieve the necessary level of compensation for the loss of dormouse habitat within the scheme (should they be present). Compensation would aim to enhance the carrying capacity of retained habitats, and may include:
Provision of a scheme of nest boxes in retained woodland;
Introduction of coppice management in the retained woodland; and
Transplanting mature hazel and the planting of food plants, such as bramble.
4.63 Although the retained areas of mature woodland are likely to represent important connecting habitat for dormice, should they be present it is reasonable to expect that they may also make use of the hedgerows for dispersal. Therefore, the early establishment of hedgerow planting may also be considered in order to maintain connectivity around the site and to areas of suitable off- site habitat. These hedgerows would be managed to maximise their structure for the benefit of dormice.
10 Persuasion is appropriate where the area / length affected is no more than the equivalent of one dormouse home range (c. 1 – 1.5ha of woodland or 300m of hedge). Where the amount removed exceeds a 50m wide strip or 100m of hedgerow, then persuasion may need to be completed over more than one season 11 Trapping dormice using a combination of nest boxes and nest tubes that are sited in affectedhabitat and in place from at least early-May until late-October. Capture should continue until no more dormice appear.
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Great Crested Newts (and other amphibians)
4.64 GCNs and their habitats in water and on land are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). These make it an offence to damage, destroy or obstruct any place used by GCNs for breeding or shelter, disturb a GCN, or kill, injure or take any GCN. GCN are also listed as a Species of Principal Importance under the provisions of the NERC Act 2006.
4.65 Survey has confirmed the presence of a Low GCN population in pond 1. GCN are widespread within Northamptonshire and this isolated breeding population is considered to be of no more than Local importance.
4.66 Research conducted by English Nature (now Natural England) to assess the value of different habitats for GCN states (Cresswell & Whitworth 200412).
‘By far the most captures were recorded within 50 m of ponds and few animals were captured at distances greater than 100 m.’
‘Captures on fences (and by other methods) at distances between 100 m and 200 – 250 m from breeding ponds tended to be so low as to raise serious doubts about the efficacy of this as an approach, although a small number of projects did report captures on significant linear features at distances approximately 150 – 200 m from ponds.’
4.67 Based upon this information it is considered reasonable to expect that the Low GCN population will only make regular use of suitable terrestrial habitats up to 250m from pond 1. Pond 1 and the terrestrial habitat of the breeding GCN population it supports will be lost during phase B of the proposals (i.e. c. 15 years after the start of extraction). These habitat losses, and increases in disturbance to GCN or their rate of mortality, can have a detrimental effect upon the FCS of GCN. Mitigation for GCN should therefore be implemented under a Natural England EPS derogation licence during phase B. This licence application will detail the measures necessary to ensure the FCS of this species is maintained. An outline of the proposed mitigation strategy for the licence application is provided below.
4.68 It is relevant also that the proposals are expected to be delivered over a number of years and a number of ponds and suitable terrestrial habitat will be created during construction. Given sufficient time it is acknowledged that there is a risk that the creation of habitat suitable for GCN may result in its colonisation by this species. Therefore, it is recommended that precautionary measures should be put in place to avoid the risk of ponds being colonised by GCN and ensure legal compliance.
12 Cresswell & Whitworth (2004) English Nature Research Report 576 – An assessment of the efficiency of capture techniques and the value of different habitats for the great crested newt Triturus cristatus English Nature
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Precautionary Mitigation (All Phases)
4.69 As a precaution and only where appropriate, Temporary Amphibian Fencing (TAF) will be installed prior to the creation of any suitable habitat during any phase of extraction in order to prevent colonisation by GCN. The layout of TAF shall ensure that it does not obstruct access by GCN to their regularly used habitats. TAF will be removed under ecological supervision following the completion of that phase of restoration, thereby permitting amphibians to access the newly created habitat.
GCN Mitigation under EPS Licence (Phase B only)
4.70 These measures detailed below are considered sufficient to ensure that the Favourable Conservation Status (FCS) of GCN is both maintained and enhanced.
Receptor Site
4.71 At least twelve months in advance of the loss of pond 1 (15 years after the commencement of extraction) a receptor area of will be established within the area of Phase A. This will ensure that prior to trapping the proposed there is sufficient time to ensure that the receptor area may be enhanced to receive any GCN from the site as part of the translocation proposals. The receptor shall consist of two GCN breeding ponds and associated areas of GCN-suitable terrestrial habitat, comprising woodland, scrub and / or tussocky grassland. TAF will be installed around the boundary of the receptor to ensure that there is no risk that GCN will stray into the working area, while also maintaining connectivity to sufficient area of suitable terrestrial habitat.
4.72 The ponds will be located so that they are not separated by more than 50m and shall each be connected to sufficient area of suitable terrestrial habitat. Each pond shall cover at least 100m2 and shall be lined with clay or a geotextile membrane. The design will provide varied depth, submerged/marginal vegetation and a deeper central area with open water for GCN display. Shallow margins will facilitate amphibians entry / exit from the ponds and access to terrestrial habitat. Scrub planting will reduce any suitability for wildfowl by limiting the available line-of-sight. Further detail of pond and wetland creation is provided below.
4.73 The management of the receptor area will be specifically designed to improve both the botanical and structural diversity of vegetation in order to benefit GCN. These will include a low intensity management regime to rapidly establish either a mosaic of tussocky grassland, woodland and scrub.
4.74 To improve the overall provision of areas of shelter and rest, and also to increase stepping-stone habitats throughout the site, purpose-built hibernacula and log-pile refugia will be provided. These enhancements will be created by hand under ecological supervision during suitable weather conditions and will provide additional areas of rest and / or shelter in close association and well-connected to the off-site areas of GCN-suitable terrestrial habitat.
4.75 Hibernacula may be constructed from buried stone / rubble / logs (indicative construction shown In Appendix A):
Construction involves the excavation of a trench to a depth of 300mm that is then filled with stone, demolition rubble, logs or brash to a height of 700mm above ground level;
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The hibernacula will be capped using topsoil to a maximum depth of 250mm on top and 200mm toward the sides. The soil will be seeded with a grassland mix or planted with trees and scrub;
Where appropriate the hibernacula construction may be profiled to match the landscaping;
The margins of the hibernacula are to be left open to allow access to amphibians and other fauna, including reptiles. Grassland habitat adjacent to hibernacula edges should also be managed periodically by strimming to allow continued access by amphibians / reptiles to the substrate beneath
4.76 Log pile refugia consist of logs and brash at separate locations around the receptor and wider site. Where necessary the log piles will be part-buried or secured to the ground to prevent their removal.
Trapping and Translocation
4.77 Prior to the commencement of works affecting GCN habitat (phase B only) and upon receipt of the Licence, temporary amphibian fencing (TAF) would be installed around all site areas within 250 m of pond 1 considered likely to provide a place of rest or shelter for GCN. Pond 1 will be ring-fenced and drift fencing located across the site where appropriate to ensure efficient capture of GCN. The traps will be installed on both sides of the ring-fence surrounding pond 1 and drift fence, and also on the ‘site-side’ of the boundary fence at a density of at least 50 traps / ha.
4.78 The installation of the TAF will take place only during suitable weather conditions (likely to be between April and October).
4.79 All of the fenced terrestrial habitat will be trapped out for a period of 30 days during suitable conditions, i.e. when night time temperatures are no less than 5oC, within the newt active season, which is likely to be mid-March – October, inclusive. The total final period should include 5 days clear trapping. Any captured GCN will be translocated to the receptor area.
4.80 Following the completion of trapping pond 1 will be drained down during suitable conditions. A pump with a fine mesh filter will be used during the drain down to protect / collect amphibians. Once it has been drained down the pond will be hand-searched.
4.81 Hand searches will be made of the existing piles of brash and rubbish. Upon completion of the trapping period destructive searches will only be made of animal holes and the root system of any mature trees that will be removed.
4.82 The strategy will seek to ensure that any translocated GCN are able to utilise suitable habitat within the reinstated habitats at the earliest possible stage. Therefore, wherever possible the biodiversity enhancements within these areas will be undertaken by hand under ecological supervision. However, where this is not possible the enhanced areas shall be included in the ‘trapping-out’ zone until landscaping is complete. Upon completion of clearance and landscaping, any fencing would be systematically relocated to the boundary between these areas and construction areas. This would be conducted in a fashion that ensures a suitable barrier is retained between the areas containing GCN and the construction areas at all possible times.
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Compensation & Enhancement for GCN
4.83 The proposals include extensive landscaping of all areas of site in closest proximity to the newly created GCN ponds. This will result in the enhancement of currently poor GCN habitat, in the form of arable, with areas of newly created GCN-optimal habitat, i.e. tussocky grassland, hedgerow, woodland, shrub planting, wetland areas, hibernacula and log piles. Post-construction the TAF will be removed and GCN will be able to re-enter the site as part of their natural dispersal.
4.84 The extent of the retained, newly created and enhanced habitats will ensure that the carrying capacity of the receptors is of sufficient magnitude to support the translocated GCN populations. Overall these protection measures and the extent of habitat creation is considered to maintain and enhance the FCS of the local GCN population.
Post-development Monitoring of GCN
4.85 Post-development monitoring plays an important role in ensuring that mitigation proposals have worked. Where development are likely to result in High impacts upon a Low population prior to the implementation of appropriate measure the GCNMG (and hence any Licence application) requires population size-class surveys be completed post development for a period of two years.
Other Amphibians
4.86 Survey also recorded a low population of palmate newt within pond 1. Palmate newt are a Species of Principal Importance and a Priority Species of the Northamptonshire BAP due to their limited range. The mitigation measures for GCN described above, in particular the creation of replacement breeding ponds, are also considered to be in line with local conservation targets and sufficient to maintain the status of local populations of palmate newt and other amphibians.
Invertebrates
4.87 Consistent with previous records some selected areas of the site provide suitable habitat for invertebrates. The most suitable habitat for invertebrates comprises the grassland, scrub and woodland edge. It is considered that the ecological importance of these habitats for invertebrates is likely to be limited by their extent and / or their unremarkable character. Therefore, it is considered reasonable to expect that the phased loss of these habitats is unlikely to significantly affect the status of existing invertebrates population.
4.88 It is recommended that in order to minimise the magnitude of any potential impact upon invertebrates during any phase of extraction, the deadwood habitat created from the clearance of trees, hedgerows or shrubs during any phase of extraction should be retained within an appropriate area of the site, such as unaffected woodland or grassland.
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Reptiles
4.89 All common reptile species, including adder, slow worm Anguis fragilis, common lizard Zootoca vivipara and grass snake Natrix natrix, are partially protected under Sections 9(1) and 9(5) of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation protects these animals from killing and injury and sale. The partial protection does not directly protect the habitat of these reptile species. Where these animals are present on land that is to be affected by development, the implications of legislation are that providing that killing can reasonably be avoided then an operation is legal. All common reptile species are Species of Principle Importance under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006).
4.90 Consistent with local records survey has confirmed the presence of populations of adder, slow worm, common lizard and grass snake. The available survey data indicates that both the adder and slow worm populations have restricted distributions. Grass snake appear to make only occasional use of the available habitats. Common lizard are widespread across the site, and based on the mobility of this species and the availability of habitat connectivity, it is considered that these are likely to each represent a single population.
4.91 The number of adult adders recorded within Wakerley Verge LWS, which comprised males and fames, are consistent with the presence of a breeding population. Breeding adder populations meet the criteria for LWS selection (Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership 201413) and are therefore considered to be of County importance. The recorded population of the remaining reptile species are not large enough to meet the threshold for LWS selection, and these are therefore considered to be of only Local importance.
4.92 Based on the existing baseline information it is considered that reptiles are present in phases A and B of the extraction, including the construction of the access road.
Mitigation (Phases A & B)
4.93 The following provides details the plan of mitigation that will ensure that the conservation status of the reptile populations will be maintained. This comprises the establishment of suitable receptor areas and displacement or translocation of reptiles from areas of affected habitat. The design of this strategy should be based upon the following elements, as appropriate:
Protection of retained reptile habitat during extraction; and
Displacement and / or translocation of reptiles from areas of affected habitat
4.94 Displacement would be achieved through the sensitive management of vegetation. It will only be applied in those areas where impacts are very localised or only infrequent use of the available habitat has been observed. In particular this applies to the localised effects upon reptile habitat along the route of the proposed access road.
13 Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership 2014 Wildlife Selection Criteria Northamptonshire 2007 (last updated 05/02/2014)
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4.95 Translocation would involve hand capture of individuals through the use of artificial refugia and a combination of fencing and vegetation management, with the reptiles moved to pre-prepared receptor areas. This will apply only to areas where it is anticipated that the loss or damage of reptile habitat will affect either the entirety or vast majority of available habitat. Although translocation from each area of occupied habitat will necessarily be completed in phases, the strategy will be planned to avoid that the unnecessary fragmentation or isolation of existing populations.
4.96 An important element of the overall strategy to ensure the security of the translocated reptile populations requires that they have access to sufficient extent of habitat. This is achieved through enhancement and long-term management aimed at optimizing the suitability of the available habitat for reptiles. The retained and newly created habitat available within the restored site is considered to be sufficiently well connected and of adequate size to ensure maintenance of the local conservation status of all reptile species present.
Displacement
4.97 Displacement requires the sensitive management of vegetation to encourage reptiles towards areas of retained habitat. This approach will involve the following key steps:
Passive displacement shall only be undertaken during suitable weather conditions, i.e. daytime temperature 9oC or higher, within the reptile active season (mid-March - mid-October)
Grassland will first be strimmed directionally to a height of 100mm and 1-2 hours later it will be reduced to 50mm. All strimming will be carried out from the centre of the working areas towards the retained areas of habitat
All arisings will be completely removed from the working area to prevent potential areas of refugia from being used by reptiles moving across the area
A fingertip search of the working area will be made immediately prior to any ground works to ensure that all common reptiles are absent from the area of work. Further operations will only continue once common reptile species have been confirmed to be absent from the working area
Receptor Areas
4.98 Two separate receptor areas will be incorporated into the design of the site:
Receptors 1 (Centred on SP 953 982) – comprises c. 4.4ha of existing tussocky grassland. This area already supports a common lizard population
Receptor 2 (Centred on SP 949 975) – comprising c. 3.5ha of existing tussocky grassland and scrub. This area already supports common lizard and is contiguous with the habitat that supports the sites slow worm population
4.99 Each of these receptors is considered to provide a suitably structured habitat, including a combination of tussocky grassland and basking areas. The diversity of vegetation structure within each receptor will be improved through the careful management of scrub, aimed at increasing the overall availability of ‘edge’ habitat that is preferred by reptiles (see below). Each receptor will also be further enhanced through the provision of purpose-built hibernacula (4 per receptor) and log piles (5 per receptor), which will increase the availability of hibernation and basking habitat.
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Under the approved restoration detail, receptor area 1 is proposed as broadleaf woodland. This proposal will have to be amended to accommodate the reptiles.
4.100 These receptor areas are considered suitable for the proposed translocation for the following reasons:
The receptors are located nearby to each donor, i.e. it is local to the proposed development;
The receptors will not be affected by proposals and therefore represents a secure area of habitat;
The habitats of the proposed receptor lie in close proximity to other areas of suitable habitat in the surrounding area, with connectivity maintained in the restoration scheme;
The receptors are of sufficient size to accommodate additional management that would further enhance their overall carrying capacity.
Reptile Hibernacula
4.101 The creation of reptile hibernacula will be based upon a modification of those described by Stebbings (2000) and Aldus et al. (2005)14. These features would be sited to maximise the availability of basking habitat they provide.Each hibernacula will be c. 5m in length, 1.5m wide and 0.5m deep. Ideally each hibernacula will be constructed in a horseshoe shape, however, the final construction is likely to be influenced by local conditions. Construction will involve the following key steps:
Prior to construction the vegetation management and fingertip search for reptiles will be carried out;
Where appropriate, the use of a mini-digger to create a trench of appropriate dimensions;
Laying a 100mm diameter perforated drain pipe to facilitate adequate drainage. The pipe will be embedded in gravel at the base of the hibernacula;
In-filling with inert rubble (that is contamination free) and mulch, to create a range of crevices with a humid microclimate;
Access into the hibernacula interior will be facilitated with 50mm diameter pipes. Where necessary the pipe will be partly blocked with a nail to exclude the access of any predatory mammal species present;
Back-filling with earth and capping with turf and brash; and
The hibernacula will be left to vegetate naturally.
4.102 To minimise potential impact of ground compaction low ground pressure vehicles will be used throughout the operations. The integrity of all retained trees will be maintained in accordance with best working practices, including the avoidance of ground works within the root protection areas of retained trees.
14 Aldus N., Parmenter J. & Showler D. (2005) Creating hibernacula for common lizards Lacerta vivipara, The Ham, Suffolk, England. ConservationEvidence.com, Case 180. Stebbings R. (2000) Reptile hibernacula - providing a winter refuge. Enact, English Nature (England), 8, 2, 4-7
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Trapping
4.103 Translocation from the proposed development area will be undertaken during suitable weather conditions (i.e. days with little or no wind when daytime temperature fall between 9 - 18 ˚C) within the reptile active period March to October.
4.104 Prior to the commencement of any trapping the boundary of affected habitat and receptor areas will be surrounded by temporary herptile fencing. The fencing construction would follow the design described in the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges. Installation of the fencing will be carried out by a suitably experience sub-contractor under the guidance of the supervising ecologist. The working method for installation of the fencing will involve the following:
Where possible the fence line will be adjusted to minimise any clearance of vegetation that is suitable for protected fauna
Passive displacement will be used to clear the fence line in advance of installation
Consideration will be given to the mitigation measures that may be required for other fauna, including badgers, birds, dormice and reptiles
As required by the on the ground conditions, some of which is hardstanding, the fence will be fixed to the ground with wooden batons.
4.105 Trapping will make use of artificial refuges, i.e. corrugated tin sheets and felt tiles (approximately 50cm x 50cm). In order to maximise the capture rate refugia will be laid at a density of 200 / hectare, which is twice that normally recommended for a population survey (HGBI, 1998). Refugia will be laid in an ordered grid pattern throughout the site, according to the prevailing topography and vegetation. The refugia will be given a period of 5 days to 'bed in' before the start of trapping.
4.106 Suitably qualified ecologists will make daily checks of the refugia during suitable weather conditions in the reptile active period. Although considered unlikely, there is some possibility that trapping will be required during October. In order to ensure the welfare of common lizard it would be necessary to ensure that any trapping conducted during October is only be carried out under specific weather conditions. Therefore, trapping will only be conducted in October on days when the nighttime and daytime ground temperatures at both the donor and receptor site exceed 10oC. Furthermore, should any number of torpid individuals be identified at the donor site then the trapping would cease immediately.
4.107 Any reptiles caught during suitable weather conditions will be hand-caught, recorded and swiftly transferred into buckets or clean, cloth bags. They will then be released directly onto the prepared hibernacula in the receptor site so that stress to the individuals is minimised.
4.108 Vegetation management will also be employed to enhance the rate of capture during the reptile active season. Throughout the trapping period vegetation will be gradually strimmed in order to make it less suitable for reptiles. Strimming shall start from those areas that are already unsuitable for reptiles and move towards the areas of suitable reptile habitat. Examples of unsuitable areas would include include those known to be clear of common lizard or areas with little or no sward that provide limited opportunities for reptiles to shelter. Vegetation clearance will employ the method for passive displacement described above. This method aims to focus capture into relatively smaller areas, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of capture.
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4.109 The rate of capture at each artificial refugia will be continually monitored. In order to maximise the efficiency of capture, once reptiles have been absent from a particular refuge for a full 5 clear days it will be removed and the surrounding vegetation will be made completely unsuitable for reptiles. This will also be completed by directional strimming towards the retained vegetation.
4.110 Trapping within the whole site will continue until a reasonable capture effort has been achieved. Given the observed peak counts in each area of the site it is considered that this will require approximately 30 suitable days of trapping. Translocation will cease when (i) within 30 days of trapping reptiles have been shown to be absent from the entire site for a full 5 clear days, or (ii) if following 30 days of trapping, a reasonable rate of capture has been achieved (English Nature 2004).
Destructive Search
4.111 A destructive search will be made following of the completion of translocation. This will only be carried out during suitable weather conditions. Therefore, in the event ground conditions fall below the minimum temperature of 9°C or torpid animals are found during this exercise all destructive operations will be stopped immediately and completed when suitable conditions recommence.
4.112 Where appropriate, the search will involve the supervised stripping of topsoil and hand dismantling of any suitable hibernation features, such as piles of brash and / or rubble. Development will proceed once the appropriate areas have been made unsuitable by a complete destructive search.
4.113 In the unlikely event that clearance of area of the site are not achieved during the trapping period the LPA will be consulted and it is likely that uncleared areas will be fenced off and retained until suitable conditions recommence. Following fencing of uncleared areas development operations will commence in cleared areas of the site.
Population Size
4.114 In the highly unlikely event that the number of common lizard significantly exceeds that reasonably expected for the reptile populations present then then translocation will cease. This is required to ensure that the carrying capacity of the receiving site is not exceeded, which could result in a negative impact upon the local conservation status of the local reptile populations. In this situation it is likely that additional provision for the reptiles would have to be secured before translocation could re-commence.
Monitoring
4.115 Monitoring will provide an indication of the success of the translocation of reptiles to the receptor area. It is recommended that monitoring should be carried out for a period of up to 5 years as recommended by the Herptofaunal Groups of Britain and Ireland guidelines. It is considered that this will provide a robust dataset and sufficient information to assess the success of the translocation exercise.
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4.116 The monitoring exercise will be undertaken in accordance with methodologies stated within the Herpetofauna Workers' Manual (JNCC, 2003) and Froglife Advice Sheet 10. This requires refuges comprising 50cm² laid within the reserve areas at a rate of ten per hectare. To provide a robust assessment of the population within the reserve a total of twenty refuges will be laid within the reserve at habitat interfaces and in open areas of grassland. On each year of the monitoring exercise the location of the refuges will be recorded and each of the refuges will be numbered.
4.117 Refuges will be checked on seven suitable occasions during the period of April - May or September. Suitable conditions will comprise air temperature ranging between 10 - 17°C with intermittent or hazy sunshine and little or no wind. The refuges will be checked between the hours of 09.00 - 11.00 or 16.00 - 19.00, when the animals are likely to be using the refuges. When animals are found the location, sex and age will be recorded.
4.118 A short report should be produced after each monitoring occasion and shall evaluate the results with an emphasis on the conservation status of the reptile populations and the success of receptor site establishment. Where appropriate recommendations may also be made as required for the continued aftercare of the receptor site. Overall the scheme is also likely to provide useful information on the potential success of other similar translocation schemes.
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issused on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd
Ordinance Survey material is used with the permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896
Imagery © 2016 Bluesky, Infoterra Ltd & Bluesky, Map data © 2016 Google
H22 7 Disu sed rai A lwa H21 Wakerley y L Site Boundary ne Phase A & B Boundary
A Semi-natural Woodland Wakerley Oaks Plantation Woodland Pasture H15 SI Scrub - scattered H14 H17 H19 / H20 Plantation 6 SI Marshy Grassland 5 H16 H18 SI Semi-improved grassland A n tio Amenity ta n A Arable & Hedgerows a A Cultivated/disturbed land - arable l H4 H5 P H6 H2 H8 Tall Ruderal A A Built Environment: Buildings/hardstanding H7 H1 A H3 Hedgerow A A 1 Target note H13 H1 Scrub - scattered A
Long Wood SI H9 1 Wakerley Great Wood SI H10 H11 A A A 3
4 H12 A
Pasture SI 2
SI Mick George Ltd. Greenwood Sale Wakerley Quarry, Northamptonshire
fpcr PHASE-1 HABITAT PLAN
NTS @ A3 MWH 28.06.16 0 0.25 0.5 1 Kilometers Figure 2 FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\7100\7127\Ecoloy\Phase-1 This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issused on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd
Ordinance Survey material is used with the permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896
Imagery © 2016 Bluesky, Infoterra Ltd & Bluesky, Map data © 2016 Google
Site Boundary 500m from Site
Pond 2 (off-site)
Pond 1 (on-site)
Mick George Ltd.
Wakerley Quarry, Northamptonshire
fpcr POND LOCATION PLAN
NTS @ A3 MWH 28.06.16 0 0.25 0.5 1 Kilometers Figure 3 FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\7100\7127\Ecoloy\Phase-1 This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issused on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd
Ordinance Survey material is used with the permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896
Peak 6 A & 1 CL (to date)
Survey Area B (Acess Road) Site Boundary Phase A & B Boundary Adder (A) Common Lizard (CL) 1 A (juv) Grass Snake (GS) Slow Worm (SW) Refugia Location,
Peak counts of adult reptiles are shown for each area of the site. juv = juvenile observed
Peak of 6 CL Survey Area C Survey Area A (Potential Receptor) (Main Site) Peak 1 CL (to date)
Peak of 2 CL
Mick George Limited.
Peak 6 SW, 3 CL & 1 GS (juv) Wakerley Quarry, Northamptonshire fpcr REPTILE SURVEY RESULTS NTS @ A3 MWH 29.06.16 0 0.25 0.5 1 Kilometers Figure 4 FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\7100\7127\Ecoloby\Constraints This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issused on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd
Ordinance Survey material is used with the permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896
Site Boundary Phase A & B Boundary Potential Receptor Area (numbered) Pond 250m deom Pond Reptile Receptor 1
GCN mitigation within 250m of Low population in Pond 1
Reptile Receptor 2
Mick George Limited.
Wakerley Quarry, Northamptonshire fpcr MITIGATION STRATEGY (MAIN SITE) NTS @ A3 MWH 29.06.16 0 0.175 0.35 0.7 Kilometers Figure 5 FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\7100\7127\Ecoloby\Constraints Wakerley Quarry – Ecological Appraisal & Mitigation Strategy fpcr
Appendix A: Site Citations & Desk Study Information
J:\7100\7127\ECO\Eco App\7127 Wakerley Ecological Assessment.docx 45 File ref:
County: Leicestershire Site name: Seaton Meadows
District: Rutland
Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Local Planning Authority: Rutland District Council
National Grid Reference: SP 915979 Area: 11.43 (ha) 28.24 (ac)
Ordnance Survey Sheet 1: 50 000: 141 1: 10 000: SP 99 NW
Date Notified (Under 1949 Act): Date of Last Revision:
Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1991 Date of Last Revision: -
Other Information:
This is a new site.
Description and Reasons for Notification:
Lying on alluvial soils close to the River Welland, Seaton Meadows comprise one of the few remaining examples of unimproved alluvial flood meadows in Leicestershire. This habitat has become very scarce as a result of agricultural improvement and river improvement schemes.
Unlike the majority of the surrounding land, these two meadows have not been subjected to drainage or improvement despite past flood protection and deepening of the River Welland. They are traditionally managed as hay meadows.
A wide range of grasses occur within the site, including meadow foxtail Alopecurus pratensis, crested dog's tail Cynosurus cristatus, red fescue Festuca rubra, Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus and sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum. Associated herbs include great burnet Sanguisorba officinalis, meadow vetchling Lathyrus pratensis, meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, common sorrel Rumex acetosa, meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris and autumn hawkbit Leontodon autumnalis.
The drier slopes are characterised by herbs such as pignut Conopodium majus, yellow-rattle Rhinanthus minor, common knapweed Centaurea nigra, lady's bedstraw Galium verum and oxeye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare.
Large wet flushes and small wet hollows increase the diversity of the site and support a range of species including ragged robin Lychnis flos-cuculi, creeping jenny Lysimachia nummularia, marsh marigold Caltha palustris, cuckoo flower Cardamine pratensis, water horsetail cont...... Seaton Meadows (cont...)
Equisetum fluviatile, common spike-rush Eleocharis palustris, carnation sedge Carex panicea and brown sedge Carex disticha.
Other locally scarce plants which occur in the meadows include pepper-saxifrage Silaum silaus, common meadow-rue Thalictrum flavum, blunt flowered rush Juncus subnodulosus, and nine species of sedge including slender tufted-sedge Carex acuta, and spike sedge Carex spicata. COUNTY: NORTHAMPTONSHIRE SITE NAME: WAKERLEY SPINNEY
District: East Northamptonshire
Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Local Planning Authority: East Northamptonshire District Council
National Grid Reference: SP 966986
Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 141 1:10,000: SP 99 NE
Date Notified (Under 1949 Act): 1970 Date of Last Revision: 1970
Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1983 Date of Last Revision:
Area: 3.7 ha 9.2 ac
Description and Reasons for Notification
A small strip of native broadleaved woodland and semi-natural grassland among extensive softwood plantations. The site is part ancient - a relic of the Royal Forest of Rockingham, and part secondary, where woodland has developed on old limestone workings.
The canopy represents a modified example of wet ash-maple woodland - the commonest stand type in the East Midlands, and is notable for the presence of wild service tree Sorbus torminalis - a species of very localised and southern distribution.
The woodland ground flora contains several species which, in a Northamptonshire context, are mainly restricted to the north-east of the county. The grassland is of a type which is rare and declining nationally.
The canopy is mainly dominated by pedunculate oak Quercus robur, ash Fraxinus excelsior and sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, with downy birch Betula pubescens an important constituent. The shrub layer is varied with both common and Midland hawthorn Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus oxyacanthoides, hazel Corylus avellana, field maple Acer campestre, dogwood Thelycrania sanguinea, and crab apple Malus sylvestris. The herb layer is typically bramble Rubus fruticosus, dog’s mercury Mercurialis perennis and grasses such as wood meadow-grass Poa nemoralis, and wood melick Melica uniflora. Locally uncommon species include woodruff Galium odoratum, violet helleborine Epipactis purpurata, fly orchid Ophrys insectifera and wood spurge Euphorbia amygdaloides.
The value of the site is enhanced by a glade and roadside verges with species-rich grassland of a Jurassic Oolitic limestone type. The sward is dominated by tor grass Brachypodium pinnatum and other grasses and includes the following herbs, salad burnet Poterium sanguisorba, rock rose Helianthemum chamaecistus, wild liquorice Astragalus glycyphyllos, restharrow Ononis repens and marjoram Origanum vulgare.
These grassland areas are also attractive to butterflies and other insects. Re-presentation of details approved by Council. Re-typed October 1999.
Re-presentation of details approved by Council. Re-typed October 1999. Site Name: Fineshade Woods
Site Code: E65
Status: LWS
Other Designations: Ancient semi-natural woodland, Plantation on ancient woodland site, Nene Valley NIA, Protected Wildflower Verge
Grid Reference: SP990985
Area (ha): 545
District: East Northamptonshire
Site History: 04/10/1990 LWS 11/06/2002 LWS
Habitats present Broad Habitat: Woodland BAP Habitat: Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland
Reason for Designation: Fineshade Wood is a large woodland site containing areas of replanted and existing ancient woodland. It is an important woodland habitat for a range of wildlife and qualifies as a Wildlife Site due to its areas of ancient woodland and 12 ancient woodland indicators being recorded.
Site Description:
11/06/2002 The lower part of the wood is ancient woodland either semi-natural or replanted. Overall this is a large complex of various habitats including dense coniferous wood, beech - dog's mercury - ash - sycamore woodland, large grassy areas and plantations (broadleaved and spruce/oak).
04/10/1990 This very large area of woodland offers one of the widest diversities of compartment types of all the woods in the county. The majority of the area covered lies on ancient woodland which has been replanted, largely with a mixture of conifers and broadleaved species. The best example of natural remaining woodland was probably Lynn Wood (southwest of the site), which was once a SSSI along with the nearby pool. Some of the conifer plantations have already been felled and replaced, leaving extensive areas of young, broadleaf-dominated planting. Compartments include Corsican pine, oak/Scots pine, Norway spruce/oak, hemlock/red cedar, Norway spruce/poplar, oak/ash/elm, Douglas fir, elm, larch/beech, larch, Corsican pine/alder and sycamore, amongst other combinations.
The potential for wildlife here, on the grounds of size of habitat and diversity, is correspondingly good. Birds of note include nightingale, woodcock, hen harrier, sparrowhawk and long-eared owl. Nightjars have also been recorded (as visitors ?) and ride management is aimed at providing suitable habitats for them in certain areas of the wood. Rare plants, amongst many ancient woodland indicators recorded on the site, include orpine, small teasel, yellow star of Bethlehem, southern marsh orchid and small-flowered buttercup. All the reptile species found in the county occur in this wood.
Because the majority of the species of interest (in all groups) are associated with the rides and glades, management centres upon mowing regimes. None of the rides are grazed. Grassland species include Alopecurus pratensis, Festuca rubra, F. pratensis, Agrostis capillaris, Elymus repens, Deschampsia cespitosa, Brachypodium pinnatum, Angelica sylvestris, Achillea ptarmica, Agrimonia eupatoria, Campanula trachelium, Carex otrubae, C. remota, Platanthera chlorantha, Orchis mascula, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Eupatoria cannabinensis, Hypericum tetrapterum, H. pulchrum, Hypochaeris
05/11/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre radicata, Linum catharticum, Juncus conglomeratus, J. effusus, J. inflexus and many other damp meadow species typical of neutral-calcareous soils.
The tree and scrub species present are correspondingly diverse, although in the case of the conifer compartments only the edges reveal this diversity. Species include hazel, field maple, dogwood, English elm, oak, ash, beech, silver birch, rowan, wild service tree, spindle, Oregon grape, white willow, goat willow, elder, bramble, dewberry, field rose, dogrose, gorse, wych elm, wayfaring tree and guelder rose, amongst others. Groundflora species of note (see also the rare plants noted above) include Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Bromopsis ramosus, Primula vulgaris, Ranunculus auricomus, Sanicula europaea, Iris foetidissima, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Luzula pilosa, Calamagrostis epigejos and Anemone nemorosa.
When the disused railway line through the wood is added (see subsite 49/2), the total list of vascular plants recorded in the 1986 FC/RSPB report numbers 289! These appear to be constant in diversity if not individual numbers, ie. the plant populations are in continuous and quite rapid flux according to the rates of succession of both the grassland on the railway line and the newly-planted compartments.
Boundary Changes 16/12/2010 Area reduced from 550.1ha to 547ha - Overlap with Fineshade Disused Railway removed.
05/11/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre Hill Side Spinney
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Duddington-with-Fineshade(Civil Parish) East Northamptonshire(E District (74-))
Status(es): County Wildlife Site Centroid: SP969987 (Site Centroid) Site type: Sub-site File code: (E/S/6.5.92) E94 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Spinney SSSI ....Hill Side Spinney
Description: A projection from Wakerley Spinney SSSI that has a more open canopy and less scrub layer. This well-lit spinney has a colourful groundflora with species such as Stellaria holostea, Hyacinthoides non-scriptus, Geranium robertianum, Milium effusum, Primula vulgaris and Anemone nemorosa. Urtica dioica, Galium aparine and Arum maculatum are occasional throughout the wood and might reflect a legacy of disturbance following clearance in the past. There is one very impressive old apple tree that marks what appears to be a derelict, once-managed, old hedgeline between this spinney and the main Wakerley Spinney. The situation of this little wood suggests that it would be a good bird of prey site. This site is not included in either the SSSI or AWI outlines, but seems to have a good diversity of groundflora species a some indicators that it is relic coppice.
2002: Remote survey carried out as access permission was not granted. Variance in composition compared with Wakerley Spinney with a vale of Wood melick and Wood millet carpeting an Ash, Field maple and Hawthorn woodland. To the west, the canopy is joined by Elms with more scrub.
Total number of records: 49 Total number of species: 38
Page 1 12/09/2013 Laxton and Spanhoe Verges
Administrative areas: Status(es): Protected roadside verge Centroid: SP938960 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: Site/Subsite hierarchy: Laxton and Spanhoe Verges ....Spanhoe Wood Road Verges ....Laxton Verges
Description: 2005 - Posts are in situ. The north side of the road from Laxton is very overgrown with stands of hawthorn and bracken and no flowering plants visible. The house (Beau Lodge?) has mown verges in front and this is the only place you can see the original vegetation ie. Plantago media and Cirsium acaule to name a couple of rosette plants. The south side is better with more variety with grassland species such as Centaurea nigra, Agrimonia eupatoria, Knautia arvensis etc. Both sides need urgent attention especially the north side with physical clearance of scrub and bracken. The mix of calcareous grassland types continue from the cross-roads down to the Spanhoe Wood. Neither the Campanula rotundifolia or Scabiosa columbaria were found, due no doubt to the coarse grasses which are becoming very evident. However, at the bottom of the hill on the left was a very large patch of the very rare, in the county, Agrimonia procera - Fragrant Agrimony. This may have spread in from the wood nearby. This was at SP937954.
2006 Laxton Verge - The stretch down to Loxton is badly in need of mowing on both sides. Unfortunately the north side has dense stands of hawthorn etc. which have been allowed to grow up into six foot shrubs and it may be too late to do anything here. The south side needs mowing to keep the diversity of species. Both posts are in situ.
2006 - Spanhoe verge. Both posts are in situ. The verge on both sides from the crossroads to Spanhoe Wood badly needs cutting and raking to improve the diversity of species. Special care needs to be exercised at the lower end on both sides around SP937954 where there are stands of Fragrant Agrimony (a very rare plant in Northamptonshire).
Total number of records: 96 Total number of species: 95
Page 1 04/02/2016 Site Name: Long Wood
Site Code: E123
Status: LWS
Other Designations: Ancient semi-natural woodland
Grid Reference: SP952983
Area (ha): 12.8
District: East Northamptonshire
Site History: 06/05/1992 LWS 07/06/2002 LWS 14/10/2014 LWS
Habitats present Broad Habitat: Woodland BAP Habitat: Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland
Reason for Designation: An oak-ash woodland that clearly qualifies as an Wildlife Site as an area of extant Ancient Semi- Natural Woodland and with sixteen ancient woodland indicator species recorded. Most were well distributed around the wood and many other typical woodland plants were found here.
Site Description:
15/05/2014 This was an extension of Wakerley Great Wood, which is joined by a narrow neck of woodland a short way south of the north-western corner of that much larger woodland.
The woodland was on level ground and from its junction with Wakerley Wood it widened out somewhat to the south-west. There was a small area of undulating ground in the north-east, producing some quite large hollows. In places the shrub layer was rather sparse and made of young trees rather than typical woodland shrubs.
This was a dry woodland overall with occasional shallow drains, all dry at this time.
Ash Fraxinus excelsior was the main tree of this woodland with locally frequent Oak Quercus robur. Field Maple Acer campestre was also quite frequent, Small-leaved Lime Tilia cordata locally frequent and Wild Service Sorbus torminalis very locally frequent. In some parts of the wood though, taller trees were rather sparse. Swarms of Ash saplings were locally frequent in the field layer here.
The shrub layer was rather variable. In places it was made up of Common Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna and young Field Maple Acer campestre, which often grew from multiple-stemmed coppice stools. In other parts of the wood there was rather derelict Hazel Corylus avellana coppice, or just an abundant regrowth of Ash from coppice stools. Midland Hawthorn Crataegus laevigata was scattered through the wood.
In the extreme north-east, the narrowest part of the wood had areas of abundant Nettle Urtica dioica, along with lesser amounts of Dog's Mercury Mercurialis Perennis and Yellow Archangel Lamiastrum galeobdolon.
This soon gave way to abundant low, sprawling Bramble Rubus fruticosus. This abundant Bramble covered roughly about half of the remaining woodland. There was scattered to very locally frequent Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta and Dog's Mercury Mercurialis perennis. Overall though, this part
11/03/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre of the wood had some of the character of W10 Quercus robur-Pteridium aquilinum-Rubus fruticosus woodland. Indeed, Bracken Pteridium aquilinum was present here in occasional patches.
To the south-west, abundant Bramble was replaced by abundant Dog's Mercury, and it was in this part of the wood that Wood Melick Melica uniflora was most abundant, similarly for Yellow Archangel. This was also where Early-purple Orchid Orchis mascula and Primrose Primula vulgaris were found.
Found in both parts of the wood where a little extra shade suppressed the Bramble or the Dog's Mercury, Sweet Woodruff Galium odoratum and Greater Stitchwort Stellaria holostea were more abundant.
Some plants, such as Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris, Wood False-brome Brachypodium sylvaticum and Wood Melick Melica uniflora were most abundant near the outer edge of the wood. The same was true of Hedge Garlic Alliaria petiolata and Hedge Woundwort Stachys sylvatica, but they did also occasionally appear in a few more open areas deeper into the wood.
* Note on Lime Trees; According to some authors, rusty hairs in the leaf vein axils on the lower side of the leaf are diagnostic of Small-leaved Lime, and in my experience this is usually the case.In Poland and Clement though, they do mention that these hairs can be pale brown to colourless, while Stace does not mention this character at all. The trees in Long Wood had off-white hairs in the vein axils below, but were Small-leaved Lime in other respects, and they have been recorded as such by this survey.
07/06/2002 A brief survey was carried out from the adjacent land. A more thorough survey is needed ASAP to asertain the actual SN cover, woodland condition and to gain a better idea of the species present.
06/05/1992 A strip of broadleaved woodland, isolated from the rest of Wakerley Wood but close enough to share the flora and fauna. A brief survey showed this to be a well-lit, oak-dominated wood with a thin scrub layer and well-developed but not overgrown groundflora, with species such as bluebells, dog's mercury and wood false brome. There is likely to be a good range of other groundflora species, but it was not possible to carry out a detailed search at the time of survey. Not managed by the Forestry Commission.
11/03/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre Short Wood (Harringworth)
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Harringworth(Civil Parish) Wakerley(Civil Parish)
Status(es): County Wildlife Site Seminatural Ancient Woodland Centroid: SP940974 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: E/6.5.92 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Short Wood (Harringworth)
Description: A strip of remnant seminatural ancient woodland now separated from the bulk of Wakerley Woods. There has not been a recent survey as the wood is rather awkward to reach and the land ownership is not known; however, there has been some re-application for use of the land for quarrying etc. in recent years, so this isolated wood could be threatened in the near future. It is plainly still made up of broadleaved species, with bluebells underneath and mixed scrub, so other species typical of the larger ancient woodland site nearby are likely to be present. This is also likely to be a glow-worm site, as it has some good hedge boundaries and is on limestone; it is very near to other known glow-worm sites in the Wakerley area. Not a great deal is known about this remant of woodland. It might be a significant glow-worm site if any of the ancient boundary hedge remains. 2002: Strip of woodland isolated between arable fields and separate from the large complex of Wakereley Woods. This strip contains relics of Ancient Woodland - dead wood and a high canopy of Ash and Oak with a range of Ancient woodland species. There has been coppicing works done in the past. The boundary needs revising.
Total number of records: 36 Total number of species: 35
Page 1 04/02/2016 Wakerley Great Wood Road Verge
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) East Northamptonshire(E District (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish)
Status(es): Local Wildlife Site Part of an SSSI Protected roadside verge
Centroid: SP964985 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: E1134 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Great Wood Road Verge
Description: The verge is 2-3m wide with both sides being species rich. It is bordered by the wood on one side and a hedge line on the other. Species of interest include black and greater knapweed, common toadflax, field scabious, hedge bedstraw and bird's foot trefoil. A small amount of wild liquorice was found also. The berge narrows towards the eastern end and is partially taken over by bracken and hedge.
2005 - Posts are in situ. Starting at the junction of this road with the A43 the stretch on both sides of the road affords a rich mix of mainly calcareous loving species - Linaria vulgaris - Common Toadflax, Centaurea scabiosa - Greater Knapweed, Centaurea nigra, Galium mollugo - Hedge Bedstraw and Centaurium erythraea - Common Centaury. Orobanche elatior is much in evidence on both sides of the road, upwards of 20 spikes being counted. This stretch could really benefit from cutting late in the season and the debris raking off, as it would appear to be becoming overgrown. As one approaches the wood the flora changes. On the left is an area of Nettle-leaved Bellflower - Campanula trachelium - there must be well over 30 plants in all. The rest of the verge right down to the far end is suffering from encroachment by Bracken in some quantity, coming from the adjoining woodland. In places the flora of Common Rockrose, Burnet Saxifrage and Salad Burnet is still around but sadly disappearing under the Bracken. The right-hand side presents a much better picture. Areas bordering the road have recently been cleared enabling some rare species to reappear. Carex divulsa - Grey Sedge and Hordelymus europaeus - Wood Barley and recently Fly Orchid occurred in the same area. Further on there are patches of Creeping Restharrow - Ononis vepens, Common Centaury - Cenuaria erythraea and in one place Dyer's Greenweed - Genista tinctoria has turned up. In places all along there are colonies of Hemp Agrimony and Meadow Cranesbill where it tends to be damp. This must be one of the richest verges in the county, being so diverse in species and really needs some form of management. The Bracken must be dealt with, but mowing would not be good on account of the glow-worms and other invertebrates present along this stretch.
2006 - Posts are in situ. This very long verge is complex in its flora and some areas need special attention as there are rare plants and also glow-worms occur. Area A-B is limestone grassland and this would benefit from mowing and raking at the appropriate time. The next area B - C on the north side has many scarce plants and needs special care and maybe the Forestry could advise on the right regime. Beyond that - C - cutting as usual would be right. C - D. The south side from E all along to the end of the verge needs serious attention. Bracken has been allowed to spread and dominate the whole verge and needs constant cutting to get the verge back to what it used to be.
Total number of records: 214 Total number of species: 172
Page 1 17/09/2013 Wakerley Oaks Disused Railway Line
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Duddington-with-Fineshade(Civil Parish) Wakerley(Civil Parish)
Status(es): County Wildlife Site Centroid: SP9692499211(Internal Map) Site type: Site File code: E/1979** Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Oaks Disused Railway Line
Description: A stretch of disused railway cutting with varied scrub and areas of calcareous grassland - including a small embankment of grassland that links with the species-rich road verges opposite Fineshade Woods. The site offers an extension of the Wakerley Railway Line habitat corridor, and provides cover for birds, mammals and invertebrates. It also adds to the habitat of Wakerley Oaks ancient woodland. Most of the east part of the line has been used for some time by Mr. Lack for access etc. This has not on the whole affected the small piece of embankment next to the main road. 2002: Two separate owners for this site west of the A43. Immediately adjacent to the A43, the site is restricted to the hedgerow and a bank of grass and scrub. The rest of the cutting has been turned into a yard and has machinery and waste dumps including asbestos. The end of the yard marks the start of separate ownership. The rest of the line consists of woodland and scrub that has generated from years of natural succession. Some patchy grassland areas can be found in any gaps including on a road bridge which marks the boundary to the next site.
Total number of records: 119 Total number of species: 118
Page 1 12/09/2013 Site Name: Wakerley Oaks
Site Code: E222
Status: LWS
Other Designations: Ancient semi-natural woodland
Grid Reference: SP966991
Area (ha): 7.2
District: East Northamptonshire
Site History: 06/01/1986 LWS 10/06/2002 LWS 16/10/2014 LWS
Habitats present Broad Habitat: Woodland BAP Habitat: Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland
Reason for Designation: A small Oak-Ash woodland with a good groundflora. The site comfortably qualifies as a Wildlife Site as an area of Semi-Natural Ancient Woodland, within which were recorded 14 ancient woodland indicator species, including abundant Early-purple orchid.
Site Description:
15/05/2014 A small and isolated area of woodland to the north of Wakerley Great Wood. The woodland sloped gently down from higher ground in the south to lower ground in the north, and the north-east corner was alongside a now disused railway track.
The shrub layer was sparse or absent in places, much better in others, while the trees were rather young/small and often growing from multiple-stemmed coppice stools.
The east-west ride shown on the map was not evident on the ground, but the north-south ride was wide and open.
Equipment associated with the rearing of game birds was present but apparently abandoned.
The main taller trees here were Ash Fraxinus excelsior and Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur. A single tall Wild Service Sorbus torminalis was found and the Field Maple Acer campestre here were often more associated with the shrub layer.
A shrub layer was often absent, or made up of young trees growing from coppice stools. In places Field Maple Acer campestre and Common Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna were the main components. The best structure of Hazel Corylus avellana coppice was found toward the northern edge of the wood, where Primrose Primula vulgaris and Early-purple Orchid Orchis mascula were occasional, and especially in the north-east corner where getting on for 100 flowering spikes of Early- purple Orchid were found.
In moderate shade it was Dogs Mercury Mercurialis perennis that was most abundant in the field layer, with much more scattered Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta.
More open parts of the wood were frequent and these were often with abundant Bramble or Nettle, or with locally abundant Rough Meadow-grass Poa trivialis.
11/03/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre A small damp area in the north-west had a little Wavy Bitter-cress Cardamine flexuosa, Soft Rush Juncus effusus and Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens.
A brace of Common Partridges seen on the outer edge of the wood. Speckled Wood butterflies were present.
10/06/2002 Appears to have declined in it's botanically interest since the previous survey in 1986 and could be said to be one of the less botanically diverse Ancient Semi Natural Woodlands in the Rockingham Forest Area.It however offers valuable habitat for birds, mammals and invertebrates due to it's structure - dense shrub layer and large amounts of fallen dead wood. The rides appear to be very overgrown and would benifit from some appropiate management.
06/01/1986 A patch of seminatural ancient woodland, apparently not replanted. Some coppice remains, including both ash and hazel stools. From the most recent survey (86), it appears that this site has a good diversity of scrub species including hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, field maple, travellers' joy, elder, crab apple, sallow and bramble. Some bluebells and dog's mercury remain in the groundflora, which had been affected by pheasant husbandry. This woodland complements the more diverse ancient woodlands nearby (including Wakerley Spinney SSSI, to the south) and adds to the habitat corridor of the disused railway line.
11/03/2015, Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre Wakerley Railway Line - Station
Administrative areas: East Northamptonshire(E District (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish) Status(es): PWS from 22/05/2007 Centroid: SP959995 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: E1341 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Railway Line - Station
Description: 2007 Survey
This site is to the west of the Wakerley Railway line CWS (288). It consists of the old station and sidings. The site was being excavated at the time of the visit. In general the botanical interest is not as great as found in the adjacent CWS. Ranker vegetation is more abundant here due to the disturbed nature of the site. There is some short rabbit-grazed grassland and common lizard Lacerta vivipara was noted during the survey.
This section of the Wakerley Railway line did not have sufficient grassland indicators to qualify as an LWS - it has 3 Strong calcareous indicators (threshold is 6) and 2 strong neutral indicators (threshold is 3). However it is directly adjacent to a species-rich section of the line. With some management alterations and given time, the calcareous grassland may improve in quality.
Total number of records: 38 Total number of species: 38
Page 1 04/02/2016 Wakerley Railway Line
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish) Status(es): County Wildlife Site Centroid: SP963995 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: (E/28.7.92) E250 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Railway Line
Description: This railway line incorporates the old Wakerley Station area (except for the converted house and garden). There is both cutting and embankment, with scrub cover and herb-rich grassland. The short grassland and the colonizing vegetation on the bare ground of the cutting offer excellent butterfly territory, with 25 species recorded there within the last few years including four unusual species. Other invertebrates also thrive, and the presence of anthills has encouraged green woodpeckers onto the site in recent years. In addition to housing a wide variety of birds and insects, this site also has at least seven unusual plant species.Divided into 2 parts: E end tenanted by mr Barnes, W end by Mrs Angela Twigg. Glow-worm site (three found 14/7/92). 2002: The Eastern section of grassland contains a number of calcareous grassland indicators and is complemented by scrub which has a variety of woody species, but this scrub is encroaching on the grassland to the far east of this section and is in need of management to control it's extent, so the grassland interest is not lost. The Western section includes the main railway cutting with species rich calcareous grassland at the base and mature scrub on the cutting slopes. In addition there is a raised area with a series of earth mounds on it, this adds niche habitats and variety to the sites topography. Unfortunately the far western half of this site is now a campsite and has lost most of it's original interest.
Original site centroid: SP9605499615
2007 Update
The steep south-facing slope close to the bridge on the eastern side has several areas of short rabbit-grazed grassland. There are patches of scrub along this section. The north-facing bank is dominated by dense scrub with large ash Fraxinus excelsior scattered along the length of the site. Overall this is a diverse habitat with reptiles observed during the visit.
Wakerley Railway line used to contain very diverse calcareous grassland. This site has declined over recent years but has good potential for restoration back to its former value. The site currently has 5 strong calcareous grassland indicators which is below the threshold for LWS.
2010 Update
A railway cutting running roughly east to west. There was a bridge across the cutting at its deepest point, near the western end of the site, with the cutting gradually receding to the east until the track bed ran on a low embankment.
More open parts of the south-facing cutting slopes held species-rich calcareous grassland, but a much larger area of the cutting slopes held often quite dense scrub succeeding to young woodland.
The track bed also had some young woodland in places, but most had a less rich neutral to calcareous grassland where mesotrophic plants grew together with some of the plants from the richer grassland. This vegetation was often partially shaded by the scrub and young woodland so some shade plants also grew here.
The distribution of the richer calcareous grassland is shown on the maps. The largest patch, on the northern slope of the cutting, immediately to the east of the bridge was also the richest. As well as sloping down from the north to the old track bed, there were various small terraces and undulations on the slope that provided extra well-drained slopes of various steepness.
Here grew a wide selection of calcareous indicator species including Centaurea scabiosa Greater Knapweed, Centaurium erythraea Common Centuary, Cirsium acaule Dwarf Thistle, Clinopodium vulgare Wild Basil, Euphrasia nemorosa Eyebright, Knautia arvensis Field Scabious and many more. A very small amount of the rare Centaureum pulchellum Lesser Centuary was also found.
Grasses were not very evident in this area, but there were small stands of Brachypodium pinnatum Heath False-brome, Briza media Quaking Grass, Bromopsis erecta Upright Brome, Festuca ovina Sheep's Fescue and Helictotrichon pubescens Downy Oat-grass, with Festuca rubra Red Fescue being more widespread but never very abundant. There were occasional patches of Cladonia spp. lichens in the short turf.
It was not clear what had kept this area free from scrub in the past, although there was evidence of quite heavy rabbit grazing. There were occasional moderately large old stumps at the edges but, despite there being the occasional Quercus robur Pedunculate Oak and Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn seedlings present, no remnants of larger scrub were seen here, which may, therefore, have remained open since the railway was abandoned.
Page 1 14/04/2015 Smaller species-rich areas contributed a few extra plants to the site list. Astragalus glycyphyllos Wild Liquorice was very locally frequent on the northern slope of the cutting, to the west of the bridge; Agrimonia eupatoria Agrimony and Ononis repens Common Restharrow were only found on the much lower cutting slopes toward the eastern end of the site, where some of the rich grassland had grown much taller and was clearly not recently grazed.
On the track bed a selection of neutral grassland species such as Trifolium pratense Red Clover and T. repens White Clover grew alongside some of the calcareous plants from the richer grassland. The track bed was often partially shaded by adjacent shrubs and trees and shade plants growing here included locally frequent Primula vulgaris Primrose. There was also a little Carex divulsa Grey Sedge.
Most of the site was occupied by scrub succeeding to young woodland. Hawthorn was abundant with less frequent Prunus spinosa Blackthorn, Ligustrum vulgare Wild Privet, Rhamnus catharticus Buckthorn and a few others. Acer campestre Field Maple was occasional but the most abundant tree was Fraxinus excelsior Ash, growing as seedlings, saplings and young trees, as well as there being much larger specimens on the higher slopes on the southern boundary. The future woodland is going to be some type of W8 Field Maple - Ash woodland.
The scrub and young woodland was often so dense that there was little or no vegetation on the ground below, but mostly a small variety of typical woodland plants were locally frequent, including Brachypodium sylvaticum False-brome, Glechoma hederacea Ground Ivy, Geum urbanum Wood Avens and rare Primrose.
In a few places small areas without rich grassland or scrub were occupied by a taller vegetation dominated by Chamerion angustifolium Rosebay Willowherb or Urtica dioica Common Nettle.
Scrub used by a variety of breeding birds, including Whitethroat and Turtle Dove, and likely to be a valuable roosting site for migrants and winter visitors.
There were areas of standing/fallen dead wood, tussocky vegetation and anthills across the site.
An excellent LWS, this section of disused railway holds areas of very species rich calcareous grassland along the sutting sides. With 30 calcareous indicator species (including 18 strong) it easily qualifies as a LWS.
Total number of records: 641 Total number of species: 240
Page 2 14/04/2015 Wakerley Spinney SSSI
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish) East Northamptonshire(E District (74-))
Status(es): Local Wildlife Site from 10/06/2002 SSSI Seminatural Ancient Woodland Replanted Ancient Woodland
Centroid: SP966986 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: (E/S/6.5.92) E224 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Spinney SSSI ....Hill Side Spinney
Description: An ancient spinney that now has part seminatural ancient woodland (within the SSSI area) and part mixed, replanted woodland into which the more diverse ancient woodland groundflora has spread. The habitat is further varied by the presence of an old limestone pit, and by the limestone grassland on the rides. This site is a very good example of a calcareous woodland with exceptionally diverse woodland groundflora including several county rarities. Ivy broomrape (a rare introduction from elsewhere in the country), frequent early purple orchids, and toothwort (a parasitic species) were encountered at the time of survey, amongst a good diversity of other groundflora and scrub species. Caper spurge and greater butterfly orchid have also been recorded. See the SSSI citation sheet for full details - and the subsite Hill Side Spinney, which is a small spur of woodland connected to the main spinney but rather different in character. Hill Side Spinney (see subsite) is not included in the AWI but certainly seems to show all the characteristics of an ancient woodland remnant.
2002: Surveyors description still stands. Some of the coniferous trees have fallen creating open areas. A very mature, large beech tree exists close to the road.
44 woodland plants, of which 12 are AWI species. Some rarities have been found in the past. Very mature trees present in wood. SSSI area within site. Close to a large complex of Semi-natural woodland (Wakereley Woods complex). This site is half Ancient Woodland and half Ancient Replanted Woodland according to the Inventory of Ancient Woodland.
2006 Update: This CWS is comprised of Wakerley Spinney SSSI and a sub-site, Hill Side Spinney. It qualifies as a CWS because it is also a SSSI.
2010: Area reduced from 13.01ha to 11.49ha - Overlap with Hill Side Spinney removed. Approved by Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership Panel
Total number of records: 122 Total number of species: 122
Page 1 14/04/2015 Wakerley Verge (A43)
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish) Status(es): Protected roadside verge County Wildlife Site Centroid: SP973987 (Internal Map) Site type: Site File code: E/7.6.94 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Verge (A43)
Description: These verges alongside the busy A43 have long been recognised as amongst the most important verge sites in the county; they have even been considered for SSSI status. Their main value lies in the fact that the broad, relatively undisturbed grassland on both sides of the road is on almost bare limestone, creating nutrient poor limestone grassland habitat that is very rare in the county. Plant species present include Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca rubra, Brachypodium pinnatum, Bromus erectus and lots of herb species associated with calcareous and/or rocky grassland - such as Ononis repens, O. spinosa, Linum catharticum, Dezmazeria rigida, Leucanthemum vulgare, Daucus carota, Astragalus glycyphyllos, Primula veris, Helianthemum nummularium, Knautia arvensis, Centaurea nigra, C. scabiosa and many other species (see spp. record cards). Grasshoppers were much in evidence at the time of survey, and lizards, adders and grass snakes have all been recorded. The verges link with the old railway embankments and thus form part of an important habitat corridor for reptiles and invertebrates, both of which thrive on the abundant rocks and warm turf, especially on the south side of the embankment. On the whole, the east side of the road has the best plant diversity, but both sides are very important. This is probably a good site on which to check for glow-worms, which are found on one or two other verges and hedgelines nearby.
2002: Previous surveyors description still stands - this survey found the county rarity - Common Broomrape (Orabanche minor) on site.
2005 - Posts are in situ. These verges have deteriorated during the past few years and are no longer as rich in species as formerly when the sward was more open. Large areas have become overgrown with Tor-grass - Brachypodium pinnatum, Bush Grass - Calamagrostis epigejos. When the sward has been rabbit-grazed there are still good areas where Rock Rose, Cowslips and others tpical of calcareous areas still occur. One small area had Clustered Bellflowers - Campanula glomerata growing there. The west side in contrast is rather dull and overgrown with a large lay-by and tea place towards the eastern end. When the A43 joins the Wakerley Wood road there is a rich assortment of plants on a bank. Primroses and Cowslips, Hairy Violet and a large area had Common Broomrape growing on White Clover. Grass snake and lizards were seen and in the past adders have also been seen. As with other verges a good cut and clear away would be very beneficial.
2006 - Posts are in situ. Although the verge on both sides of the road looks quite good and still has plenty of flowers it needs a good cut and raking off. The plant diveristy is much richer where the rabbits keep the vegetation down and if this could be replicated by mowing and raking it would benefit the flora on both sides. Rubbish is a bit of a problem due to the tea place in the right-hand side lay-by.
Total number of records: 289 Total number of species: 173
Page 1 12/09/2013 Wakerley Verge North
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Wakerley(Civil Parish) Status(es): Protected roadside verge County Wildlife Site Centroid: SP972995 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: E/14.6.92 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Verge North
Description: Grassy verges with a record of a glow-worm sighting in 1992. Also previously recorded as having some calcareous grassland of interest - but the most recent visits suggest this has been replaced by coarse grassland, probably through a change in management. This would be a good verge to try and manage sympathetically.
2002: Previous surveyors description still stands - a potential for expansion area has been identified on the same road near the junction with the A43.
2005 - Posts missing with one exception of the far post near the railway bridge. This has been placed with the logo facing inwards. In one place there has been disturbance with dumping of garden waste and road surfacing and there has been some scraping up of the roadside. There is interesting flora, the most important species here being the Tall Broomrape - Orobanche elatior and over 30 spikes were counted. There is a good range of calcareous species including Margorum, Agrimony and many other species. Again, as with most of the sites a good cut and debris raked off would benefit the more vulnerable flora.
2006 - Rubbish quite prolific near the junction with the A43. Otherwise quite a nice verge with many interesting species of plants but needs mowing and raking off to encourage these. Nearly 50 spikes of Tall Broomrape were encountered. Some attempt has been made with regards to mowing odd areas of verge (just for a yard or two).
Total number of records: 196 Total number of species: 138
Page 1 03/04/2013 Wakerley Woods
Administrative areas: Northamptonshire(E County (74-)) Duddington-with-Fineshade(Civil Parish) Laxton(Civil Parish) Wakerley(Civil Parish)
Status(es): County Wildlife Site Replanted Ancient Woodland Seminatural Ancient Woodland
Centroid: SP955976 (Site Centroid) Site type: Site File code: (E/6.5.92) E227 Site/Subsite hierarchy: Wakerley Woods ....St Marys Wood ....Adams Wood ....Laxton Wood ....Wood Hollow ....Town Wood ....Wakerley Great Wood
Description: A very large area of replanted ancient woodland, with lots of managed rides, a variety of conifer and broadleavedA very large areacompartments of replanted and ancient several woodland, FC trails, with walks lots etc. of managedThe car park rides, on athe variety north of edge conifer of the and site has a picnicbroadleaved area, and compartments is much visited. and severalThe chief FC value trails, of walks this site etc. is The as acar very park large on thepool north of ancient edge ofwoodland the site hasride aand groundpicnic area, flora, and including is much several visited. rarities. The chief It offers value a ofvaried this sitebird isand as butterflya very large habitat, pool and deerof ancient houses woodland b ride and rs,ground deer flora, including several rarities. It offers a varied bird and butterfly habitat, and houses eerbadgerdeerbadgers, deer and other mammals, possibly including dormice. Traditional wood compartment names are still in use (Adams Wood, Town Wood etc.). See the individual subsites for details. NB the FC has been gradually changing some of these compartments to broadleaved mixes, so the outlook for the groundflora - which suffered from conifer planting - is good. This is a very well-recorded site for more groups than most woodlands, with a fairly well- documented history including older Trust records than for most sites.
Oringinal site centroid: SP955975
2010 Update:
Long Wood (E123) is now a separate site due to different land ownership, the remaining sub-sites have been incorporated into this site.
Total number of records: 428 Total number of species: 269
Page 1 14/04/2015 Wakerley Quarry – Ecological Appraisal & Mitigation Strategy fpcr
Table 11: Protected & Notable Birds Recorded within the Local Area
Name Season1 WCA2 NERC3 Red List4 Cuckoo Cuculus canorus B + Curlew Numenius arquata B Fieldfare Turdus pilaris W B Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia B Grey Partridge Perdix perdix W B + Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea W B Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes W Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus W Herring Gull Larus argentatus W + House Sparrow Passer domesticus W B + Lapwing Vanellus vanellus W B + Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret W + Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor W B + Linnet Carduelis cannabina W B + Marsh Tit Poecile palustris W B + Merlin Falco columbarius W Mistle Thursh Turdus viscivorus W B Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos n/a Pochard Aythya ferina W B Redwing Turdus iliacus W Scaup Aythya marila n/a + Skylark Alauda arvensis W B + Song Thrush Turdus philomelos W B + Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata B Starling Sturnus vulgaris W B + Tree Pipit Anthus trivalis n/a + Tree Sparrow Passer montanus W B + Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur B White – fronted Goose Anser albifrons n/a Willow Tit Poecile montanus W B + Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava B + Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella W B + Amber List4 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis W + Berwick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus W B Black – headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus W B Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula W B + Common Gull Larus canus W Common Tern Sterna hirundo B Dunnock Prunella modularis W B Gadwall Anas strepera W B Garganey Anas querquedula B Goldeneye Bucephala clangula W Great Black – backed Gull Larus marinus W
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Greylag Goose Anser anser n/a House Martin Delichon urbica B Kestrel Falco tinnunculus W B Kingfisher Alcedo atthis W B Lesser Black – backed Gull Larus fucus W B Mallard Anas platyrhynchos W B Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus n/a Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis W B Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus n/a Mute Swan Cygnus olor W B Osprey Pandion haliaetus B Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus W B Pink – footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus W B Pintail Anas acuta W Quail Coturnix coturnix B Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus W B + Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos n/a Shelduck Tadorna tadorna W B Short – eared Owl Asio flammeus W Shoveler Anas clypeata W B Smew Mergus albellus W Snipe Gallinago gallinago W Stock Dove Columba oenas W B Swift Apus apus B Tawny Owl Strix aluco W B Teal Anas crecca W B Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula W B Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus n/a Wigeon Anas penelope W B Willow Warbler Phyloscopus trochilus B Woodcock Scoloplax rusticola W Green List4 Barn Owl Tyto alba W B + Goshawk Accipiter gentilis n/a + Red Kite Milvus milvus W B +
1 W, Birds recorded from November – February between 2007 – 2011; B, birds recorded from April – July between 2008 – 2011; n/a no data for record
2 Species listed on Schedule-1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
3 Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006
4 Birds listed as Red or Amber Birds of Conservation Concern (Eaton et al 2016)
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Appendix B: Botanical Species List
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TREE AND SHRUB SPECIES
Common Name Scientific Name
Ash Fraxinus excelsior
Blackthorn Prunus spinosa
Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg.
Crack Willow Salix fragilis
Dog Rose Rosa canina agg.
Dogwood Cornus sanguinea
Field Maple Acer campestre
Goat Willow Salix caprea
Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna
Hazel Corylus avellana
Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur
Silver Birch Betula pendula
Spindle Euonymus europaeus
Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus
Whitebeam Sorus aria
Wild Privet Ligustrum vulgare
Willow Salix sp.
GRASS AND HERB SPECIES
Common Name Scientific Name
Bedstraw Gallium sp.
Barren Brome Anisantha sterilis
Bent-grass Agrostis sp.
Betony Stachys officinalis
Bittersweet Solanum dulcamara
Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta
Brome Bromus sp.
Bush Vetch Vicia sepium
Cleavers Galium aparine
Cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata
Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil Lotus corniculatus
Common Cat’s-ear Hypochaeris radicata
Common Knapweed Centaurea nigra
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Common Name Scientific Name
Common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum
Common Nettle Urtica dioica
Common Reed Phragmites australis
Common Sorrel Rumex acetosa
Common Vetch Vicia sativa
Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris
Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens
Creeping Cinquefoil Potentilla reptans
Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense
Cut-leaved Crane’s-bill Geranium dissectum
Daisy Bellis perennis
Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg.
Devil’s-bit Scabious Succisa pratensis
Dog’s Mercury Mercurialis perennis
Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill Geranium molle
Dock Rumex sp.
False Oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius
False-brome Brachypodium sylvaticum
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata
Germander Speedwell Veronica chamaedrys
Glaucous Sedge Carex flacca
Greater Knapweed Centaurea scabiosa
Ground-ivy Glechoma hederacea
Groundsel Senecio vulgaris
Hard Rush Juncus inflexus
Hedge Bedstraw Galium mollugo
Hedge Woundwort Stachys sylvatica
Herb Bennet Geum urbanum
Hoary Ragwort Senecio erucifolius
Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium
Ivy Hedera helix
Lady’s Bedstraw Galium verum
Lords-and-ladies Arum maculatum
Male Fern Dryopteris filix-mas agg.
Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris
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Common Name Scientific Name
Meadow Foxtail Alopecurus pratensis
Meadow-grass 52o asp.
Meadow Vetchling Lathyrus pratensis
Oat-grass Arrhenatherum sp.
Primrose Primula sp.
Red Bartsia Odontites vernus
Red Fescue Festuca rubra agg.
Reed Mace Typha latifolia
Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata
Rough Hawkbit Leontodon hispidus
Salad Burnet Sanguisorba minor
Sedge Carex sp.
Smooth Meadow-grass Poa pratensis sens.lat.
Soft Rush Juncus effusus
Soft-brome Bromus hordeaceus
Sow-thistle Sonchus sp.
Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare
Stonecrop Sedum sp.
Sweet-grass Glyceria sp.
Sweet Violet Viola odorata
Thyme-leaved Speedwell Veronica serpyllifolia
Trefoil Trifolium sp.
Tufted Hair-grass Deschampsia caespitose
Vetch Vicia sp.
Violet Viola sp.
Water-weed Elodea sp.
Water-plantain Alisima sp.
White Clover Trifolium repens
White Dead-nettle Lamium album
Wild Carrot Daucus carota ssp. carota
Wild Strawberry Fragaria vesca
Wild Teasel Dipsacus fullonum
Willowherb Epilobium sp.
Wood Dock Rumex sanguineus
Wood Small-reed Calamagrostis epigejos
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Common Name Scientific Name
Yarrow Achillea millefolium
Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus
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Appendix C: Hedgerow Survey Results
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Table 12: Hedgerow Survey Results
Hedgerow Length Species1 Average No. Associated Features2 Species Rich Important4 Grade Number spp/30m Hedgerow3 under HEGS5 Ac, Ca, Cm, Ps, (Rf), H1 360m 3 <10% gaps No No 2 Sn H2 240m Cm 1 <10% Gaps, Connections No No -2 H3 385m Cm, Ps, Sn, Rc 2 <10% Gaps, Connections No No -2 H4 230m Cm 1 <10% Gaps, Connections No No -2 H5 110m Ca, Cm, Ps, Sn 3 <10% Gaps, Connections No No -2 H6 335m Cm, Ps, Rc, Sn 2 <10% Gaps, Connections No No -2 H7 250m Ac, Ca, Cm, Ee, Ps 3 <10% Gaps, Connections No No +3 Ac, Ca, Cm, Ee, Ps, H8 230m 3 <10% Gaps, Connections No No +3 Rc H9 350m Cm, Ps, Rc, (Rf) 3 <10 % Gaps No No -2 H10 70m Cm, Ps <10% Gaps H11 340m Cm, Ps <10% Gaps H12 (recently 400m Cm n/a - n/a n/a n/a planted) Ac, Ca, Cm, Ee, Ps, H13 550m 4 <10% Gaps, Bank, Connections No No -2 Rc, (Rf), Sn, Lv, Ul Ac, Cm, Cs, Ps, (Rf), H14 185m 4 <10% Gaps No No +4 Sn
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H15 60m Ca, Cm, Fx, Ps, Qr 3 <10% Gaps, Trees No No +2 Ca, Cm, Cs, Ps, (Rf), H16 100m 6 <10% Gaps Yes No -2 Sn Ac, Ca, Cs, Lv, Ps, H17 150m 6 <10% Gaps, Bank, Connections Yes Yes +2 Sa, Sn, Up H18 90m Ac, Ps, Sn, Ul 1 <10% Gaps No No -3 H19 35m Ac, Cm, Ps 3 <10% Gaps No No +4 H20 95m Ac, Ca, Cm, Ps, Sn 4 Bank, <10% Gaps No No +3 H21 210m Cm, Ps, Sn 3 <10% Gaps No No +3 Cm, Fx, Lv, Ps, Qr, H22 225m 3 Wall, <10% Gaps, Parallel Hedge No No -2 Rc, (Rf)
1 Ac, Acer campestre; Ca, Corylus avellana; Cm, Crataegus monogyna; Ee, Euonymus europaea, Fx, Fraxinus excelsior; Lv, Ligustrum vulgare; Ps, Prunus spinosa; ; Qr, Quercus robur; Rc, Rosa canina; Rf, Rubus fruitcosus; Sa, Sorbus aria; Sn, Sambucus nigra; Ul, Ulmus sp.
2 Bank or wall; gaps; Ditch along half its length; connections; >1 standard tree/50m; parallel hedge within 15m or public byway
3 Average species 5 or more per central 30m section
4 Hedgerow Important according to the ecological criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997
5 -2 or above is considered to be of conservation priority
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Appendix D: Photographs
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Photo 1: Typical Hedge & Field Margin
Photo 2: Semi-improved Grassland
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Photo 3: Wakerley North Verge LWS
Photo 4: View east towards Wakerley Oaks LWS
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Photo 5: Adders (Wakerley North Verge LWS)
Photo 6: Palmate Newt (Pond 1)
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