Primrose Lodge,

Wildlife Audit Report

April 2019

Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Control sheet

2 York Street, Offices Level 1, Clitheroe, Robert Owen School, , New Lanark, BB7 2DL. ML11 9DB.

www.bowlandecology.co.uk 01200 446777 01555 438880

Job number: BOW17/870

Title: Primrose Lodge Wildlife Audit Report

Client: Borough Council

Sarah Birtley, Ecologist Prepared by: Jack Driver, Assistant Ecologist

Checked by: Jeremy James, Director and Principal Ecologist

Date of Issue: 02/04/2019

Version: 1

Revisions: N/a

Status: FINAL

This report is prepared by Bowland Ecology Ltd for the sole and exclusive use of Ribble Valley Borough Council in response to their particular instructions. No liability is accepted for any costs, claims or losses arising from the use of this report or any part thereof for any purpose other than that for which it was specifically prepared or by any party other than Ribble Valley Borough Council.

This report has been prepared by an ecological specialist and does not purport to provide legal advice. You may wish to take separate legal advice.

The information which we have prepared and provided is true, and has been prepared and provided in accordance with the BS42020:2013 and the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Code of Professional Conduct. We confirm that the opinions expressed are our true and professional bona fide opinions.

Bowland Ecology is accredited to Quality Guild (QG) standards in respect of our Quality, Environmental and Health and Safety procedures. The QG is an independent externally audited and accredited system that has been developed according to the principles of ISO9001, ISO14001 and OHAS18001.

Signed (Author) Signed (QA)

Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Contents

1. Introduction ...... 1

2. Methodology ...... 2

3. Results ...... 4

4. Evaluation and Recommendations for Enhancement ...... 10

References ...... 14

Appendix A – Ecological Features Plan ...... 15

Appendix B – Location Plan of Trail Cameras and Static Bat Detectors ...... 16

Appendix C – Static Detector Results ...... 17

Appendix D – Japanese Knotweed Guidance for Contractors ...... 19

Appendix E – Himalayan Balsam Guidance for Contractors ...... 20

Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

1. Introduction

1.1 Bowland Ecology Ltd was commissioned by Ribble Valley Borough Council (RVBC) to complete a wildlife audit at Primrose Lodge, Clitheroe, Lancashire (central NGR: SD 73918 40975). RVBC, together with landowners Beck Developments and the Ribble Rivers Trust will launch the Primrose Lodge Blue and Greenway Project, which has recently been granted funding from the European Regional Development Fund. The project aims to restore the former mill lodge and surrounding semi-natural habitats. This will involve initial de-silting works; in addition to and re-landscaping and planting to increase the wildlife value and improve the hydrology of the site. Public access will also be created, providing opportunities for leisure and education for the local community and a long-term management plan will be established.

1.2 Primrose Lodge comprises a former mill lodge, Mearley Brook and semi-natural broadleaved woodland situated south of Clitheroe town centre (Figure 1). Within the surrounding landscape, built up urban areas are located adjacent to the site boundaries and extending west and north-east of the site. To the south, open agricultural land features pockets of woodland and hedgerows along field boundaries. The is situated approximately 1.05 km west of the site. The lodge was originally constructed to generate power for Clitheroe’s Primrose Works and is currently designated a non-statutory Biological Heritage Site (BHS). However, to date the site has suffered from a lack of management and extensive fly tipping.

Figure 1: Site Location

1.3 Existing ecological assessments of the site comprise an ecological assessment report by TEP (2011) and an initial review report issued by Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Wildlife Trust (2012). These reports provided an assessment of the potential wildlife interests within the site; the need for further ecological survey and/or mitigation prior to works; and advice on the long-term habitat management.

1.4 This wildlife audit aims to supplement and update the existing wildlife information with data collected over several surveys, undertaken during October/November 2017; throughout the 2018 survey season; and during March 2019. Surveys comprised habitat walkovers; otter (Lutra lutra) and water vole (Arvicola amphibius) surveys of the Mearley Brook; invasive species mapping; and the deployment of bat static detectors and trail cameras. This report includes a description of survey methods, a detailed description of habitats and fauna and outlines species-specific recommendations to provide protection and enhancements for biodiversity and protected species.

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2. Methodology

2.1 Site surveys were carried out by Sarah Birtley MBiolSci (Hons), ACIEEM (SB), Jodie Marks BSc (Hons) (JM), Mark Breaks MSc, BSc (Hons) (MB), Jack Driver BSc (Hons) (JD), Jack Taylor (JT) and Heather Whalley (HW). Table 1 below provides a summary of the survey type, date and surveyors.

Table 1: Dates, surveyors and surveys undertaken Date Surveyors Survey type 24/10/17 SB, JM Deployment of trail cameras and bat detectors, habitat survey 31/10/17 SB, MB Collection of bat detectors, relocating trail cameras, wintering bird survey 09/11/17 SB Collection of trail cameras 10/04/18 SB, JT Spring woodland ground flora survey and otter/water vole survey 15/05/18 SB Deployment of trail cameras and bat detectors 31/05/18 JT Collection of trail cameras and bat detectors 23/08/18 JD, JT Deployment of trail cameras 07/09/18 JD Collection of trail cameras 18/03/19 JD, HW Breeding bird survey

Habitat survey

2.2 Habitat surveys comprised an initial assessment of habitat types during 2017, followed by a spring woodland ground flora survey on the 10th of April 2018. Surveys were undertaken broadly in line with the extended Phase 1 Habitat survey standard methodology (JNCC, 2010). In addition to assessing botanical interest, any evidence of, or potential for legally protected and notable wildlife was also noted during the surveys, in particular: • potential for roosting sites for bats within trees; • assessing for the presence of notable and protected species such as water vole, otter, great crested newt (Triturus cristatus), badger (Meles meles) and invertebrates; • checking for the most common invasive plant species subject to strict legal control including Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), giant knotweed (F. sachalinensis), hybrid knotweed (F. x bohemica), giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), rhododendron (R. ponticum, R. ponticum x R. maximum and R. luteum) and Indian balsam (Impatiens glandulifera).

Otter and Water Vole Survey

2.3 An otter and water vole survey was conducted in April 2018 by Sarah Birtley and Jack Taylor. The water vole survey followed methodology detailed within the Water Vole Mitigation Handbook (Dean et al 2016). During the survey the following evidence of water voles was searched for: sounds of water voles entering the water (a distinctive ‘plopping’ noise), burrow entrances, feeding stations, latrines or droppings, waterside paths, runs in vegetation and footprints. Signs of brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus) and field vole (Microtus agrestis) were also searched for, as these may be confused with those of water vole.

2.4 The method for the otter survey followed a modified method described in Chanin (2003). During the survey, the following evidence was searched for: spraints, footprints, holts, couches, slides, feeding remains, lay-ups and sightings of otter.

Wintering and Spring Bird Surveys

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2.5 Bird surveys comprised a visit to record wintering species, conducted on the 31st of October 2017 and a second visit to record species in Spring 2019, which may potentially nest within the site. Methods broadly followed standard guidelines issued by the British Trust for Ornithology (Gilbert et al. 1998), and involved walking a transect of the site and recording all bird species encountered. The surveys were undertaken in suitable weather conditions, avoiding heavy rain or strong winds.

Trail Camera Deployment

2.6 Nine Browning trail cameras, triggered to take photos on sensing movement, were deployed within the site at a range of locations, sampling various habitats present within the site (Table 2; Appendix B). Camera locations included the watercourse (Mearley Brook), the former mill pond, and various areas of woodland. On collection of the cameras, the data was downloaded and all photos checked for the presence of fauna.

Table 2: Dates of deployment and locations of cameras Camera Date Location Situated along northern edge of Mearley brook, facing 1 24/10/17- 31/10/17 protruding branch 2 24/10/17- 31/10/17 Facing mature trees submerged in mill pond 3 24/10/17- 31/10/17 Area of young trees near to mill pond 4 24/10/17- 09/11/17 At water’s edge facing north of site (St. James’ school) 5 24/10/17- 09/11/17 Facing water’s edge 6 15/05/18- 31/05/18 Willow by pond 7 15/05/18- 31/05/18 Willow along Mearley Brook bank 8 23/08/18- 07/09/18 West of Mearley Brook on slope, within woodland 9 23/08/18- 07/09/18 Mearley Brook

Bat Static Detector Survey

2.7 Six Anabat Express static recording detectors were deployed on two occasions during October 2017 and May 2018, recording bat activity between sunset and sunrise. Locations were selected to sample activity from a range of habitats present within the site, in order to further assess the bat species present, bat activity levels and the spatial distribution of bats. The locations are displayed within Appendix B.

2.8 On collection of the detectors, sonogram analysis of zero-crossing recordings was performed using Analook software (Titley Scientific). Recordings were analysed manually, identifying the species present and calculating the number of passes by each species on each recording date.

Survey Limitations

2.9 Ecological surveys are limited by factors which affect the presence of plants and animals such as the time of year, migration patterns and behaviour. The surveys have not produced a complete list of plants and animals, however were undertaken in across a range of months, providing good seasonal coverage of the site.

2.10 Due to unexpected technical faults with the recording equipment, not every bat static detector recorded constantly over each period of deployment. However, data were available for all locations and the variable amount of data is not considered to be a major limiting factor for the main focus of the survey, to assess presence/absence of species.

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3. Results

Habitat Survey

Semi-natural broadleaved woodland 3.1 Semi-natural broadleaved woodland is the dominant habitat within the site, extending west and east of Mearley Brook and surrounding the former mill lodge at the southern end of the site. The habitat/woodland survey undertaken in April 2018 divides this area in seven blocks, which are described in detail within Table 3 below and presented in Appendix A.

3.2 In general, the woodland is variable in age and structure, with the most mature areas located north-west of Mearley Brook, extending over sloping ground descending from Woone Lane. Occasional native ancient woodland indicator species are scattered in this area, however dense ivy and bramble have become the dominant scrub/ground flora species and the habitat has been degraded by fly tipping and littering. Woodland areas to the north of the site and north-west of the brook have been subject to disturbance and clearance following planned development in this area, whilst the northern section located east of the brook has been adopted by the adjacent school, creating a school wildlife garden and short footpath along the top of the bank.

Table 3: Woodland blocks, description and photographs Woodland Description Photographs area W1 Woodland over sloping ground immediately north-west of the former mill lodge and Mearley Brook comprises predominantly young and semi-mature sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), occasional hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), holly (Ilex aquifolium), wych elm (Ulmus glabra), horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and hazel (Corylus avellana).

The ground flora was found to be dominated by ivy (Hedera helix), with frequent lords and ladies (Arum maculatum), lesser celandine (Ficaria verna), occasional bramble (Rubus fructicosus) and broadleaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius). Areas of bramble have been strimmed back, and a few ivy clad trees have been felled, leaving partially fallen deadwood. Ivy cover over the ground is less frequent to the north, with more abundant lords and ladies, bramble, false brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) and lesser celandine.

W2 Ground flora to the west of the former mill lodge comprises soft shield fern (Polystichum setiferum), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria) and common nettle (Urtica dioica). Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is dominant over flat earth/exposed mud at the perimeter of the pond where water levels fluctuate regularly. Frequent willow scrub also occurs within this zone.

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W3 An open area at the top of the bank, adjacent to Woone Lane features lords and ladies (Arum maculatum), alongside frequent false brome. A stand of dog rose (Rosa canina) is also present. Dog’s mercury (Mercurialis perennis), an ancient woodland indicator, is frequent in shaded areas. Frequent rubbish is dumped in this area alongside the stone wall making the site boundary.

W4 The central block of woodland west of the brook is characterised by mature trees, including sycamore, beech (Fagus sylvatica), ash (Fraxinus excelsior), silver birch (Betula pendula) and poplar (Populus sp.). This area of woodland also appears to have also been thinned. The ground flora is dominated by ivy, alongside occasional cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris). Bugle (Ajuga reptans) is also locally abundant.

W5 An area formerly occupied by sycamore trees which have been recently thinned. Bramble has also been cut back in this area. Ground flora here comprises frequent dog’s mercury, herb bennet (Geum urbanum), lords and ladies, lesser celandine and Spanish bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica).

W6 Moving north-east, the woodland becomes less dense and the ground flora comprises dense ivy and frequent tall ruderals dominated by rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium) and common nettle. The canopy is dominated by sycamore. More open and damper areas support occasional butterbur (Petasites hybridus) and cleavers (Galium aparine). Bramble is present over sloping ground and dense Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is located at the base of the slope, surrounding Mearley Brook.

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W7 The south-eastern side of the brook comprises semi-mature woodland and scrub, with a school garden and footpath at the northernmost section. Outside of these managed areas, the habitat is very dense and the ground flora is dominated by bramble and Himalayan balsam.

Tall ruderal and scattered scrub 3.3 Existing woodland habitat has been partially cleared in the northern section of the site, likely associated with previous plans for residential development in this area, located off Woone Lane. Tall ruderal vegetation, dominated by common nettle and rosebay willowherb, is regenerating in this area, alongside scattered bramble and willow scrub.

Running water 3.4 Mearley Brook runs north-east to south-west through the centre of the site. Entering the site from St James C of E Primary School, the channel has stone walls forming the banks, which are soon replaced by low natural earth banking (Plate 1). Grasses, tall ruderal vegetation and young to semi-mature trees, primarily sycamore and willow, are present along the banking. This northernmost stretch of the Brook is shallow with a stone and pebble substrate, becoming deeper towards a small weir. A narrow overflow channel is located to the east of the Brook, which is lined with brick walls and features a number of historic sluice gates. The bypass channel was found to only hold water after heavy rainfall and dried completely during the summer months.

3.5 Towards the centre of the site, Mearley Brook has low earth/silt banks, and meanders through low lying swamp (dominated by reed canary grass and Himalayan balsam). The channel is shaded by dense willow scrub until it widens and meets the former mill lodge. The depth and flow of Mearley Brook was found to vary significantly between survey visits. After heavy rainfall, the watercourse tops the low banks and creates a large area of slow flowing water amongst the willow scrub, extending to approximately 30 m in width at the widest point (Plate 1). After a period of dry weather, the low banks are often free of water, exposing bare silt. The frequently flooded area captures a large amount of discarded rubbish and waste (Plate 2).

Plates 1 and 2: Mearley Brook, northern section of site and frequently flooded southern section

Standing/ephemeral water 3.6 Mearley Brook feeds into the former mill lodge, which is surrounded by locally abundant reed canary grass and frequent common nettle and willow scrub (Plates 3 and 4). As with the brook, levels were found to fluctuate extensively depending on recent rainfall. During Summer 2018, the waterbody was seen to almost dry up completely, leaving large areas of exposed silt surrounding a narrow channel flowing south-west through the area. The

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outflow from the pond passes over a weir and continues beneath the Primrose Mill access road.

Plates 3 and 4: Primrose Lodge mill pond

Introduced shrub/invasive species 3.7 Invasive plant species present on site includes abundant Himalayan balsam, surrounding both banks of Mearley Brook and extending into the broadleaved woodland. The species is particularly abundant along the central section of the brook, forming tall dense stands, which block out other plant species.

3.8 Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) has been recorded within the site, at the top of banking to the north-west of Mearley Brook, below the previously cleared area proposed for residential development. Japanese knotweed was not noted during subsequent survey visits and may have been subject to control measures.

Species

Amphibians 3.9 No amphibians were recorded during the survey visits. The ephemeral nature of the mill pond is likely to reduce the suitability for breeding amphibians, and the presence of protected great crested newts in particular is considered to be highly unlikely. Common frog (Rana temporaria) and common toad (Bufo bufo) are more adaptable species which may use available aquatic and terrestrial habitats within the site.

Birds 3.10 The following birds were recorded during two site visits, undertaken in October 2017 and March 2019 (Table 4).

Table 4: Bird species observed/heard on site Species recorded 31st October 2017 Species recorded 18th March 2019 Blackbird (Turdus merula) Wood pigeon (Columba palumbus) Blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) Blackbird (Turdus merula) Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) Carrion crow (Corvus corone) Dunnock (Prunella modularis) House sparrow (Passer domesticus) Goldcrest (Regulus regulus) Song thrush (Turdus philomelos) Great tit (Parus major) Great tit (Parus major) Grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) Robin (Erithacus rubecula) Jackdaw (Corvus monedula) Grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) Long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Magpie (Pica pica) Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) Robin (Erithacus rubecula) Redwing (Turdus iliacus) Song thrush (Turdus philomelos) Teal (Anas crecca)

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3.11 Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), a Schedule 1 listed species under the Wildlife and Countryside act 1981, was initially observed in flight on the 24th October 2017. Trail Camera 1, located along the northern section of Mearley Brook, was triggered by a kingfisher perching on a branch on five occasions between the 26th and the 28th October 2017 (Plates 5 and 6; Appendix A and B). Images were captured during the evening and at sunrise and show the kingfisher foraging on small fish. No kingfisher nest sites were identified during the subsequent survey visits.

Plates 5 and 6: Kingfisher capture on the 27/10/2017 and early morning of the 26/10/2017

3.12 Other bird species were captured by trail cameras. Grey heron (Ardea cinerea) repeatedly visited Camera 7 on the 15th and 17th of May 2018 (Plate 7). Two grey wagtails (Motacilla cinerea) captured at Camera 6 on the 23rd of May 2018. Mallards and ducklings were recorded at Camera 7 on the 17th of May 2018 (Plate 8).

Plates 7 and 8: Grey heron on 15/05/18 and mallard ducklings 17/05/2018

Bats 3.13 Broadleaved woodland and standing/running water within the Primrose Lodge site provide highly suitable foraging habitats for local bat populations. In July 2018, Bowland Ecology and the East Lancashire Bat Group surveyed a large maternity roost within close proximity to the site (approximately 10 m west, shown in Appendix A and Appendix B). The roost is located within a terraced roof void of a property located on Woone Lane. A total of 144 soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus) bats were recorded emerging from the roost. All bats were observed crossing Woone Lane and flying directly into the cover of broadleaved woodland.

3.14 In addition to known roost records, static detectors deployed during October 2017 and May 2018 provide an overview of bat activity and species on site. Anabat express static bat detectors are triggered by bat ‘passes’, produced by one or more echolocating bats, flying within detection range of the microphone. Appendix C presents data for each successful night of recording for statics deployed in October 2017 and May 2018. Overall, the highest number of bat echolocation passes was recorded on the 26th of October 2017, totalling 868 Myotis sp. passes. Other species recorded included common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), Nathusius' pipistrelle (Pipistrellus nathusii) and noctule (Nyctalus noctula). Myotis bats were consistently the highest recorded bats throughout the October 2017 recording period and recordings indicate that Myotis activity was concentrated along the northern section of Mearley Brook.

3.15 In contrast, the most recorded species across both detectors in May 2018 was soprano pipistrelle. Other species recorded during 2018 included common pipistrelle, Nathusius'

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pipistrelle, noctule, brown long-eared (Plecotus auritus) and Myotis bats. Brown long-eared bats, typically associated with woodland habitats and dense tree cover, were only detected on two occasions during one night, at the detector located south-west of the former mill lodge. Nathusius' pipistrelle was recorded in low numbers both in Autumn 2017 and May 2018. Bat social calls (primarily Pipistrelle spp.) were also recorded during May 2018 only, with the highest proportion of social calls recorded by detectors located west of Mearley Brook and the former mill lodge.

Otter and water vole 3.16 No evidence of otter was recorded along Mearley Brook or the former mill pond. Previous surveys at the site identified a single water vole burrow along the northern stretch of the Brook (TEP, 2011). Whilst this section of the watercourse remains suitable for water vole, no evidence of burrows or other water vole signs was found following the current survey.

Other mammals 3.17 Walkover surveys and trail cameras did not confirm the presence of any other mammals within the site. However, the site does provide suitable habitat for hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), designated a Species of Principal Importance (NERC Act 2006). In particular, broadleaved woodland, brash piles and dead wood offer suitable sheltering and hibernation opportunities. Hedgehogs are known to use urban areas in order to forage within residential gardens and are attracted by the availability of warmer nesting sites. In addition to hedgehog, small commonly occurring mammal species, such as wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) and common shrew (Sorex araneus) are also likely to be present.

Invertebrates 3.18 Invertebrates recorded during the survey visits comprise common flower bug (Anthocoris nemorum), door snail (Clausilia sp.), red admiral (Vanessa atalanta), orange tip (Anthocharis cardamines) and peacock butterfly (Pavo cristatus). A wide assemblage of invertebrates is likely to use habitats present on site, such as the tall ruderals, scrub and riparian/aquatic habitat. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland and areas of standing and fallen dead wood also provide valuable habitat for invertebrates.

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4. Evaluation and Recommendations for Enhancement

Habitats

4.1 Proposals at Primrose Lodge involve a phased project to improve the natural environment and facilitate public access within the site. Central to the proposals is the extensive removal of silt from the former mill pond, which will benefit the aquatic and wetland habitats by creating an area of permanent open water. Clearing fly tipped materials and dumped rubbish will make the area safe for the public and wildlife, as well as improving the water quality within Mearley Brook.

4.2 Broadleaved woodland comprises the dominant habitat within the site and is designated a Habitat of Principal Importance under the NERC Act 2006. Some thinning is required in order to enable access to the Brook and mill pond and allow for the creation of footpaths. Felling of trees should be minimised to only those areas necessary and the wood used to create habitat piles, benefiting a range of fauna. It is recommended that disturbance of the woodland ground flora is kept to a minimum in Woodland Areas W3, W4 and W5, which were found to support the occasional to locally abundant remnant patches of native ground flora, including semi-natural woodland indicator species, comprising lords and ladies, bugle, herb Bennett and dog's mercury.

4.3 Future management and maintenance of the site should aim to prevent littering. Selective removal of areas of willow scrub along Mearley Brook and around the former mill pond will encourage the growth of wetland plant species. Where practical and feasible, control of invasive species should undertaken with the aim of eradicating Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam, which are both present on site. Works undertaken in these areas should implement biosecurity measures to ensure that non-native invasive species are not spread off-site (Appendices D and E).

Species

Amphibians 4.4 The availability of a more permanent area of standing water will benefit common amphibians likely to use the site, including common toad, a Species of Principal Importance and Lancashire BAP long list species. Varied width and depth of marginal zones will also benefit amphibians though improved aquatic foraging opportunities and refuge areas.

4.5 Within the woodland, creation of brash/log piles and rock/stone piles would enhance the terrestrial habitat for amphibians and provide suitable hibernation opportunities located close to breeding habitat. Habitat piles can be created from felled trees and removed sections of stone wall along Woone Lane.

Bats 4.6 Analysis of static bat detector recordings indicates that a range of bat species use Primrose Lodge and that activity levels of different species vary throughout the year. Species presence and usage is evaluated below and Table 5 provides species-specific recommendations which would deliver roosting and/or foraging enhancements for local bat populations. Bats are protected under UK and European law, and a number of species are featured within the Lancashire BAP, which includes objectives to safeguard roosts in trees, retain deadwood and create new potential roost sites. Mature trees to be removed within the woodland should be inspected by an ecologist to ensure no bat roosts are lost as a result of the works.

4.7 Common and soprano pipistrelle bats were recorded in high numbers, and a known soprano pipistrelle maternity roost is located adjacent to the site. These species, particularly common pipistrelle, are adaptable and commonly occur in urban environments. However,

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it is likely that habitats within the site provide valuable foraging resources, enabling bats to form larger roosts than are typically associated with built up surroundings. Soprano pipistrelle bats are also frequently associated with aquatic habitats; therefore, the former mill lodge is likely to represent a locally valuable resource for this species. The rarer Nathusius pipistrelle was also recorded on site, and is also known to favour water bodies for foraging. Hydrological improvements are anticipated to benefit soprano and Nathusius pipistrelle, by creating a more permanent area of standing water available throughout the year. In additional, general habitat management that promotes invertebrates will benefit all three species of pipistrelle recorded using the site.

4.8 A high number of Myotis bat passes were recorded in Autumn 2017. Myotis calls cannot be confidently identified to species level due to the high degree of variation and overlap in echolocation calls of bats belonging to the Myotis genus. However, considering the location of the site within a built-up area and the woodland and standing/flowing water, it is considered likely that common Myotis species are present, such as Daubenton's bats (Myotis daubentonii) and whiskered bats (Myotis mystacinus). Lancashire is also known to be a stronghold for Brandt’s bats (Myotis brandtii), which may also be present. These species would benefit from the provision of suitable roosting sites within the woodland and surrounding the mill pond, in the form of bat boxes installed on mature trees.

4.9 Noctule bats were recorded in moderate numbers, however are less associated with woodland, preferring to forage over open habitats. Noctule were most likely detected commuting over the site. In contrast, brown long-eared bats (BLE) are a woodland species typically associated with dense tree cover, preferring to forage in and around deciduous woodland close to roosting sites. Whilst only a low number of brown long-eared passes were detected, this species is likely to be under-recorded due to its very short range and low amplitude echolocation calls. Brown long-eared bats are known to use tree roosts and would benefit from the installation of suitable bat boxes (Table 5).

Table 5: Species-specific enhancements for bats recorded at Primrose Lodge

Species Benefit Recommendation Schwegler 2F and 2FN boxes*; three groups of two-three Myotis bats Roosting habitat boxes fixed to mature trees 4-5 m high and varying orientations. BLE Roosting habitat Schwegler 1FS bat boxes*; two groups of two boxes fixed to mature trees 4-5 m high and varying orientations. BLE and Increased habitat Consider opportunities to improve habitat connections to Myotis bats connectivity the south, such as hedgerow planting along the western section of Woone Lane. Pipistrelle Increased foraging Further enhancement of woodland habitat through creating value habitat piles for invertebrates and marginal planting on the banks of the mill pond. All Roosting habitat Community projects could be used to construct and install varied timber bat/bird boxes within the site. All Roosting habitat Provision of bat boxes designed to be used by hibernating bats include timber boxes and the Schwegler 1FW. * Bat box selection is in line with findings from box preferences found during a population monitoring study of BLE and Myotis bats within woodland habitat (Dodds and Bilston 2013)

Birds 4.10 The range of birds recorded comprises garden and wetland species, attracted by the pond, watercourse and woodland on site. Bird boxes with access points that differ in diameter should be placed around the site making sure that they are positioned away from bat boxes (birds are recognised as competition for roosts). Species recorded of particular note comprise song thrush, house sparrow, dunnock and bullfinch, all listed on the Lancashire BAP long list and all UK Species of Principal Importance. The following recommendations would benefit these species:

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• The creation of hedgerows or patches of dense thorny understory will create nesting habitat for song thrush, dunnock and bullfinch. Dense scrub can also serve to prevent public access into some areas of the site, segregated for wildlife use only. • Working with local businesses and St James C of E Primary School, terraced nest boxes for house sparrows can be installed on buildings surrounding the site.

4.11 Surveys confirmed the presence of kingfisher on site; a Schedule 1 breeding bird and amber-listed BOCC species. Nesting boxes would be a positive installation on site to encourage breeding. Kingfisher nesting boxes usually comprise of a ‘woodstone’ tunnel connected to a larger nesting void, to be installed a minimum of one metre above the maximum water level.

Otter and water vole 4.12 No evidence of either species was discovered during walkover surveys or by the trail cameras. However, both species have previously been recorded within or immediately outside of the site (Lancashire Wildlife Trust, 2012) and there remains suitable habitats on site for both species. These species are listed within the Lancashire BAP (otter) and Lancashire BAP long list (water vole). A proposed fish pass is anticipated to improve foraging opportunities for otter within the site. In addition, habitat restoration following works to improve the hydrology of the site could incorporate the following benefits targeting otter and/or water vole:

• Control of non-native invasive Himalayan balsam along Mearley Brook. • Reprofiling works could incorporate resting places for otter through creating ledges on watercourse banking or under proposed footbridges. Varied bank structure and meandering channels also benefit water vole by varying the flow and providing refuge areas during flooding events. • The stability of natural earth banks can be improved using coir rolls secured using willow stakes, preventing erosion and maintaining a suitable burrowing substrate for water vole. Hard engineered solutions, such as piling along banks to increase stability should be avoided where possible. • Natural otter holts can be created by using felled trees and earth to create enclosed or partially enclosed shelters, within 10 m of the Brook in an area away from proposed public access. • Removal of overhanging branches or selective removal of willow along the banks of Mearley Brook to create unshaded gaps, encouraging diversity of marginal plants and improve foraging opportunities for water vole.

Other mammals 4.13 Hedgehog, designated a Species of Principal Importance and listed on the Lancashire BAP long list, is considered likely to use woodland habitat within the site. This species could be encouraged further by installing artificial or natural hedgehog boxes, placed in undisturbed areas with good understorey layer within the site. Hedgehog boxes provide opportunities and incorporated into a future monitoring programme.

Invertebrates 4.14 The retention of scattered scrub or the planting of additional shrubs, tall ruderals and scrub on site will ensure the continuation of foraging habitat for invertebrates. Proposed marginal planting along Mearley Brook and the former mill pond should comprise native rushes, sedges and grasses in addition to native wet meadows flowers to attract pollinating insects.

4.15 Additional measures to improve the habitat for invertebrates include the formation of butterfly banks on south-facing slopes; creating log piles from felled material; and providing areas of bare sloping ground for burrowing bees/wasps.

12 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Conclusion

4.16 Proposed improvements at Primrose Lodge will benefit a wide range of fauna, with many recommendations applicable to one or species. Management of the site should include maintenance of wildlife features, such as bat/bird boxes and hedgehog homes, repairing and replacing where necessary. Litter picking should be undertaken regularly, to prevent the build up of rubbish and fly tipping.

4.17 Furthermore, wildlife enhancements within the site create opportunities for local schools and businesses to contribute and value the site. Examples include assisting with building nest boxes; pond dipping activities to monitor aquatic fauna; mammal monitoring; Himalayan balsam pulling and tree/shrub planting.

13 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

References

Chani, P. (2003) Monitoring the otter Lutra lutra. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No. 10. English Nature, Peterborough.

Dean, M., Strachan, R., Gow, D. and Andrews, R. (2016) The Water Vole Mitigation Handbook (The Mammal Society Mitigation Guidance Series). Eds Fiona Mathews and Paul Chanin. The Mammal Society, London.

Dodds, M. and Bilston, H. (2013) A comparison of different bat box types by bat occupancy in deciduous woodland, Buckinghamshire, UK. Conservation Evidence.

Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D.W. and Evans, J. (1998) Bird Monitoring Methods – a manual of techniques for key UK species. RSPB, BTO, WWT, JNCC, ITE & The Seabird Group, Sandy, Bedfordshire.

JNCC (1993 revised 2010) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: A technique for environmental audit (reprint). Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough.

TEP (2011) Primrose Lodge Clitheroe Ecological Assessment 2011.

The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside (2012) Initial Review of the Primrose Lodge Site, Clitheroe.

14 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Appendix A – Ecological Features Plan

15 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Appendix B – Location Plan of Trail Cameras and Static Bat Detectors

16 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Appendix C – Static Detector Results Static Date Species and number of passes recorded detector number Noctule Soprano Common P50 (pipistrelle Nathusius' Brown Long Myotis Social calls (Nyctalus Pipistrelle Pipistrelle calls which are pipistrelle Eared noctula) (Pipistrellus (Pipistrellus not identifiable (Pipistrellus (Plecotus pygmaeus) pipistrellus) to species level) nathusii) auritus)

1 241017 1 252 1 251017 2 1 764 1 261017 3 15 9 868 1 271017 14 3 719 1 281017 2 32 5 13 1 291017 1 15 11 1 33 1 301017 12 334 1 311017 1 7 12 1 201 2 281017 1 0 5 3 311017 5 3 4 311017 1 6 11 3 52 4 11117 14 0 3 1 23 4 21117 0 1 6 2 79 4 31117 13 5 150518 36 167 27 5 160518 4 133 32 4 5 170518 19 166 43 5 180518 18 181 27 1 5 190518 23 164 29 4 5 200518 25 165 26 3 5 210518 40 156 28 1

17 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

5 220518 19 225 41 1 5 230518 44 218 60 2 5 240518 41 378 55 5 5 250518 113 216 35 5 260518 22 452 94 2 5 270518 15 393 137 74 5 280518 10 258 108 1 5 290518 66 284 213 1 5 300518 27 166 114 17 1 7 6 150518 2 314 78 13 4 4 6 160518 2 147 69 7 6 170518 1 126 49 6 6 180518 153 20 2 1 6 190518 4 173 62 2 11 6 200518 186 13 1 11 6 210518 288 25 13 6 220518 157 86 3 6 230518 1 182 28 4 6 240518 2 163 24 4 2 24 6 250518 1 143 11 22 6 260518 180 82 2 47 6 270518 3 93 23 26 6 280518 2 138 112 23 6 290518 2 111 128 6 8 6 300518 5 130 113 9 1 4

18 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Appendix D – Japanese Knotweed Guidance for Contractors

19 Primrose Lodge, Wildlife Audit Report

Appendix E – Himalayan Balsam Guidance for Contractors

20