PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL

Land at Felindre Road, ,

March 2019 (updated October 2019)

Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Contents

1. Introduction 2. Methodology 3. Results 4. Assessment 5. Recommendations 6. Conclusions 7. References

Appendix 1: Species lists complied on site Appendix 2: Habitats Regulations Assessment Stage 1 matrix for SACs Appendix 3: Photographs

Summary

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) has been requested to inform a planning application for a reserve gas power generator system. The nine 4.5MW gas generators will be housed in containers with associated switching gear and equipment, all within fenced enclosures. The generators, in a worst-case scenario, are projected to operate for approximately 2,500 hours per annum.

The site consists of small areas of two relatively flat fields next to an electricity sub-station. The generators will be enclosed in a compound in the western field and the ancillary equipment in a compound in the eastern field. The existing gateways will be blocked and reinstated as hedgerow using translocated hedge from a new access to the western field. No total length of hedgerow will be lost and connectivity will be retained.

There are no notable habitats or species within the proposed development area.

Five of the six hedgerows surrounding the site have Bluebell present and qualify for Hedgerows of Importance under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. No hedges or hedgerow trees will be impacted by the development save for a small length of H3 to create a new access.

Dormouse are to be found nearby and timing of works is recommended to avoid impacts on this species.

It is considered that the proposed development will have a minimal impact on biodiversity of the area if the recommendations in this report are followed.

The results of the survey and assessment work undertaken by Amber Environmental Consultancy Ltd are representative at the time of surveying. Every effort has been made to identify the presence of protected species on site, where this falls within the agreed scope of works. The flora and fauna detailed within this report are those noted during the field survey, records obtained from local record centres (where available) and from anecdotal evidence. It should not be viewed as a complete list of flora and fauna species that may frequent or exist on site at other times of the year. Up to date standard methodologies have been used, which are accepted by Natural Resources and other statutory conservation bodies. No responsibility will be accepted where these methodologies fail to identify all species on site. Amber Environmental Consultancy Ltd cannot accept responsibility for data collected from third parties. Reference to sections or particular paragraphs of this document taken out of context may lead to misrepresentation. This document remains the property of Amber Environmental Consultancy Ltd until full payment has been received.

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1. Introduction

1.1 Amber Environmental Consultancy Ltd was commissioned by Energion Ltd in March 2019 to undertake a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of land at Felindre Road, Pencoed, Bridgend, to help inform a planning application for a reserve gas power generator system. The proposed development is for nine 4.5MW gas generators housed in containers with associated cabinets and switch gear, all of which will be located within two fenced enclosures on the development site. The generators will only be used if the mains power supply fails, assuming a worst- case scenario of 2500 operational hours.

1.2. The following survey was commissioned: • Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, which pays particular attention to: o Species protected through UK law, species and habitats appearing on the section 7 list of species and habitats of principal importance for the purpose of maintaining and enhancing biodiversity in Wales o Proposals for mitigation to any impacts on any of the above.

1.3 This report assesses the ecological features identified during the survey, which was undertaken on 18th March 2019 in suitable weather conditions.

1.4 The proposed development site is situated between the residential area of Pencoed to the west, the Sony factory and M4 to the south, Pencoed college to the north and agricultural fields to the east.

1.5 The proposed development site consists of parts of two relatively flat grass fields which form part of a larger agricultural holding. The western field is directly adjacent to an electricity sub-station and both fields are bounded by Felindre Road to the south and agricultural fields on the northern and eastern boundaries. The fields are enclosed by hedgerows and stock fencing.

1.6 The proposed access track is via the existing gateway on Felindre Road and a track will be constructed across the field to gateways into the site. The site is currently grazed by sheep.

1.7 The site has a central grid reference of SS968814 and lies within the administrative authority area of Bridgend. Figure 1 shows the site in its wider context and Figure 2 the site plan.

Figure 1: The area containing the site in its wider context outlined in red (Google Earth Image /Getmapping plc 2017).

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Figure 2: Site Plan

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2. Methodology

Aims and Objectives 2.1 The aims and objectives of this survey were: • To identify the habitat, vegetation types and species occurring within the survey site • To assess the potential impact of the proposals on these habitats, vegetation types and species • To identify constraints which might be imposed upon the proposals in order to retain and conserve habitats and species of significance Desk Study 2.2 In order to compile background information on the site and its immediate surroundings, South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre (SEWBReC) supplied information for the site and a 2km surrounding buffer, including • Sites with statutory designations • Sites with local designations • Records of notable and protected species

Habitat survey 2.3 The vegetation types present within the site were assessed by Siân Musgrave BSc (Hons) MCIEEM using methodology based on that described in the Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey – a technique for environmental audit (Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2010). This technique provides an inventory of the basic habitat types present and allows identification of areas of greater potential that might warrant further study. The methodology includes systematically walking over the site and classifying each habitat. Target Notes (TN) identify areas of particular interest. A search for any invasive non-native species (INNS) such as Japanese Knotweed was included.

2.4 The abundance of species within each habitat type was determined using the DAFOR scale where D = Dominant, A = Abundant, F = Frequent, O = Occasional and R = Rare. The prefix L indicates ‘Locally’ e.g. LF = Locally Frequent.

2.5 All hedgerows within the survey area were surveyed with regard to the Hedgerow Regulations 1997, to see if they qualified as Important Hedgerows. Hedgerows that qualify for protection under the Regulations must include core criteria with additional features being added where necessary. It must be noted that if Bluebell is present, due to its partially protected status in Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the hedgerow automatically qualifies as an Important Hedgerow under the Regulations. Hedgerows are also a Section 7 Priority Habitat of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016.

2.6 The survey was carried out in fine weather on 18th March 2019. Some summer flowering species may not be evident at this time of year.

Species 2.7 All habitats present on the site were searched for signs of any faunal activity e.g. the presence of badger setts, mammal tracks and holes, herpetofauna basking or under refugia, waterbodies suitable for amphibians etc. Mature trees were visually examined from the ground to identify features with the potential to support birds, roosting bats, deadwood invertebrates, bryophytes, etc. Birds, reptiles and invertebrates were recorded whilst undertaking the habitat survey.

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3. Results

Desk Study 3.1 SEWBReC provided the following records for the site and a 2km buffer: • There are two statutory designated sites within 2 km of the site: Brynna A Wern Tarw SSSI and Coed y Mwstwr Woodlands SSSI. • A 2km radius around the site covers the counties of Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan and Rhondda Cynon Taff. Council has identified 7 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) comprising Brynau Gwynian; Bryngwenith and Ty-Chwith; Coed Iestyn; Fields; Hendir-Uchaf; Hirwaun Common; and Nant Crymlyn. Vale of Glamorgan County Borough Council have identified 15 SINCs comprising Cae Coed; Coed Breigam; Coed Mawr; Coed Pant-Llwydd; Coed y Brynau; Craig Tan-y-Lan; Ffynnon y Dera; Land south of Mynydd Ruthin; Land to east of Mynydd Ruthin; Mynydd Ruthin; North of Cae Coed; Nort west of Pant-y-Lliwydd Farm; Penymynydd; Ruthin Fach Farm and South of Tyla Gwyn. Rhondda Cynon Taff have identified 2 SINCs comprising Ewenny Fach and associated woodlands; and Llanilid. • There is one Regionally Important Geological Site (RIGS): Coed y Mwstwr Cave • 340 Records of Protected and Priority Species within 2km of the site include: Birds: Lesser Redpoll, Goshawk, Skylark, Kingfisher, Garganey, Tree Pipit, Little Ringed Plover, Hen Harrier, Quail, Cuckoo, Reed Bunting, Peregrine, Hobby, Kestrel, Linnet, Red Kite, Spotted Flycatcher, House Sparrow, Golden Plover, Dunnock, Bullfinch, Starling, Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank, Green Sandpiper, Redwing, Song Thrush, Fieldfare, Loxia, Barn Owl, and Lapwing. Nearest record is 105m from site. Plants: Small-flowered Sticky Eyebright, and Bluebell. Mammals: 6 species of Bat, Water Vole, Otter, Badger, Hedgehog, Hazel Dormouse, Polecat, and Weasel. Reptiles: Slow-worm, Grass Snake, Adder and Common Lizard. Amphibians: Common Toad, Palmate Newt, and Common Frog. Invertebrates: Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Small Blue, Dingy Skipper, and Grass Rivulet. • 182 Records of other species of conservation concern include: Birds: Common Sandpiper, Long-tailed Tit, Teal, Mallard, Meadow Pipit, Swift, Short-eared Owl, Tufted Duck, Dipper, Mute Swan, House Martin, Snipe, Swallow, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Jack Snipe, Wheatear, Coal Tit, Cormorant, Redstart, Willow Warbler, Green Woodpecker, Goldcrest, Sand Martin, Woodcock, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat and Spotted Redshank. Plants: Rock Stonecrop • 140 Records of species of local conservation concern include: Birds: Reed Warbler, Grey Heron, Goldfinch, Raven, Coot, Greenland Wheatear, Chiffchaff, Siskin, Lesser Whitethroat, Little Grebe and Blackbird. Plants: Yellow-wort, Upright Brome, Wood Small-reed, Long-stalked Yellow-sedge, Heath Spotted-orchid, Pointed Lattice-moss, Rusty Beard-moss, Viper’s-bugloss, Dropwort, Fen Bedstraw, Hedgerow Crane’s-bill, Luisier’s Tufa-moss, Common Rock-rose, Hairy St John’s- wort, Stinking Iris, Blunt-flowered Rush, Toothwort, Bee Orchid, Slender Bristle-moss, Hawkweed Oxtongue, Wayfaring-tree and Hairy Violet. Mammals: Eurasian Water Shrew. Invertebrates: Black-tailed Skimmer, and Slender Ground-hopper.

The majority of these records are on Mynydd Ruthin, Pencoed College campus, watercourses, Llanilid Pools and within the SINCs and SSSIs. The closest record is for Common Frog at 250m distance and Grass Rivulet (moth) at the Travel Lodge some 350 m away.

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Survey results: habitats 3.2 The following habitats or vegetation types (‘Phase 1 categories’) were identified: • B4 Improved grassland • J2.2 Intact Hedge – species poor • J2.3.2 Hedges with trees –species poor

A map of the site showing habitat types is shown in Figure 3 below. Species lists can be found in Appendix 1.

Figure 3: Habitat Survey Plan

B4 Improved grassland The site consists of parts of two relatively flat fields of improved grassland surrounded by hedges, fences and other fields to the north and east, with scrub and an electricity sub-station to the west and Felindre Road and verge to the south. They are heavily grazed with a short sward. The grassland is dominated by Perennial Rye Grass Lolium perenne, Annual Meadow grass Poa annua, Yorkshire- fog Holcus lanatus, and Creeping Bent Agrostis stolonifera, with locally frequent White Clover

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Trifolium repens, Sheep’s Sorrel Rumex acetosella and Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens, with the occasional Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata, Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolium and Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris.

J2.2 Intact hedge – species poor The hedge on the southern boundary (H2 and H6) does not have any hedgerow trees. H2 has been trimmed to around 1.5m high and is on a small bank with the road verge beyond. It consists of Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna with Bracken Pteridium aquilinum and Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. coming through. The understorey consists of Arum Arum maculatum, Nettle Urtica dioica, Cleavers Galium aparine, Red Campion Silene dioica, Ivy Hedera helix and Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta. H6 which adjoins it consists of the same species with the addition of Dog’s Mercury Mercurialis perennis. All hedges can be seen through, although are not particularly gappy.

J2.3.2 Hedges with trees - species poor The hedge on the western side of the western field next to the sub-station (H1) consists of a small piece of hedge adjacent to H4, and then a larger area of hedgerow screening the sub-station adjoining H2. The northern part of the hedge consists of Hawthorn and Blackthorn, with an understorey of Bramble, Nettle, Arum, Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus and Cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata. The southern area around the substation consists of planted trees on a bank with Oak Quercus robur, Field Maple Acer Campestre, Hawthorn, Elder Sambucus nigra, Hazel Corylus avellana and Ash Fraxinus excelsior. The understorey consists of Bramble, Nettle, Cleavers, Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria, Arum and Red Campion.

The hedge dividing the two fields (H3) is a wide low Blackthorn hedge trimmed to around 1.5m on a low stony earth bank. Large hedgerow trees are present consisting of three Ivy-covered Oaks, one of which has undergone tree surgery. The understory consists of Ivy, Arum, Nettle, Cleavers, Lesser Celandine, Bramble, Bracken, Foxglove Digitalis purpurea, Yorkshire-fog, Ground-ivy Glechoma hederacea, Red Campion and Bluebell. The hedge on the northern boundary of both fields (H4) is a scrubby gappy hedge approximately 3- 4 metres high on an earth bank. It is entirely Bramble in some parts and is trimmed on the field side, with a post and wire fence. It can be seen through and the hedge bottom is visible. It consists of Hawthorn, Field Maple, Holly, Blackthorn, Bramble, with an understorey of Ivy, Nettle, Cleavers, Arum, Male Fern Dryopteris felix-mas, Red Campion, Yorkshire-fog, Ground-ivy and Bluebell. There is also an active fox earth with two active entrances and other abandoned holes in the eastern part of the bank. Rabbit burrows are also present. The hedge on the eastern boundary of the eastern field (H5) is a gappy trimmed to 1.5m high hedge on a small earth and stone bank with post and wire fencing in poor repair. There are two large Ash hedgerow trees and a smaller Hawthorn by the telegraph pole. The hedge consists of Hawthorn, Blackthorn and the occasional Hazel, with an understorey of Broad-leaved Dock, Nettle, Arum, Bramble, Lesser Celandine, Ivy, Foxglove, Cleavers, Herb-robert Geranium robertianum, Red Campion and Bluebell. Other species may occur later in the season.

3.3 Hedgerows H2, H3, H4, H5 and H6 qualify as Important Hedgerows under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 due to the presence of Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta.

3.4 The area of scrub adjacent to the electricity sub-station was also inspected, and consists of scrub and tall ruderals as well as a patch of Bracken in the north western corner. Bramble was abundant, with locally frequent Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock, Willowherb species Epilobium spp., Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense, and Cock’s-foot, with occasional Lesser Celandine, Sheep’s Sorrel, Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, Bracken, Ragwort Senecio jacobaea and Foxglove. A

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Page 8 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019) few small scrub trees were also present consisting of Elder, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Hazel. An active fox earth was present in the northern hedge bank together with scat and scent marking.

3.5 The site will be accessed using the existing field gate from Felindre Road. This may need to be widened, and the patch of Bramble to the west of the gate could be removed for this purpose. The track then proceeds across the eastern field to the compound in the north western corner. There are two existing gateways in the hedge to access the western field. It is understood that these will be blocked and a new access created further down the hedge which will be used to access the western compound. The hedge removed for the creation of the new access can be translocated to the current gateways to maintain connectivity and retain hedgerow integrity.

Survey results: species 3.6 Bats: SEWBReC Records show that six species of bat are present in the area, the nearest record being some 213 metres away from the development site in the village of Pencoed. All bats and their roosts are European Protected Species (EPS) and are fully protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. It is likely that bats are using the area as part of their commuting/foraging behaviour. Foraging areas are available on adjacent fields, along hedgerows and lanes. There are no buildings on the site. Larger trees within the hedgerows may be used by bats as temporary roosts, as some are covered in ivy which may in turn cover splits and cracks suitable for use by bats. However, these trees are within the hedgerows, situated away from the compounds and it is unlikely that any work such as trimming and lopping of limbs of these trees will be required by the proposed development.

3.7 Badger: SEWBReC have six records for Badger within a 2km radius of the development, the nearest at Pencoed College campus, others as fatalities on the M4. Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (as amended) and other UK legislation. The area was searched for badger field signs including setts, well worn paths and run throughs, snagged hair, footprints, day nests, balled up bedding vegetation, foraging signs, dung pits and latrines. No signs were observed during the survey within the development area or within a 50m buffer.

3.8 Dormouse: SEWBReC have seven records of Dormouse within a 2km radius of the development site. Dormice are protected under the Habitats Regulations as a European Protected Species (EPS), and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). The nearest record for Dormouse is around Llanilid and the SINC is partly designated for a network of Dormouse habitat of hedges and woodland. There is Hazel within H4 on the northern boundary and nuts were inspected, although none were opened by Dormice. All hedges contained Bramble which provide a food source for Dormouse. All hedges were see through and could be inspected for nests.

3.9 Otter: SEWBReC holds one record for Otter near Pencoed College campus. Otter are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and designated a European Protected Species under the Habitats Regulations. The development site holds no water bodies or streams/ditches or habitat suitable for Otter such as areas for maternity sites, laying up or feeding grounds.

3.10 Other mammals: Rabbits were present in the hedgerows as evidenced by holes with droppings and scrapes in the base of the hedgerows. Animals were also seen near the field entrance.

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Mole hills were also present in both fields. Two fox earths in use were noted at SS9691681466 and SS9676481395 along with scat and scent marking.

3.11 Birds: SEWBReC holds many records for birds within a 2km radius of the development site. The majority of records are from the detailed bird surveys at Llanilid open cast site/film studios site. Others are from the Pencoed College campus and also from the SSSIs/SINCs surrounding the area. The nearest record was 146 metres from the development site on the Ewenny Fach Stream. There were a few birds recorded around the site (see Table 1 below). Birds were noted visually and/or by song whilst undertaking the habitat survey. Some disused nests were present within the larger hedgerow trees in H4.

Table 1: Birds recorded during survey

Vernacular Taxon Quantity Comment Blackbird Turdus merula in hedges Jackdaw Corvus monedula In trees Wren Troglodytes troglodytes in scrub Robin Erithacus rubecula in hedges Buzzard Buteo buteo 1 mobbed by jackdaws overhead Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus in hedges Magpie Pica pica overhead Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus in trees Coal Tit Periparus ater in scrub Dunnock Prunella modularis in hedges Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs in scrub Grey Heron Ardea cinerea flying to water overhead Great Tit Parus major in hedges Gulls Laridae wheeling overhead overhead

3.12 Reptiles: SEWBReC hold records for Slow-worm, Common Lizard, Adder and Grass Snake, the nearest some 546m away from the development site. All reptiles in the UK are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). No reptiles were seen during the survey. The pasture is too closely cropped and uniform to provide potentially suitable habitat for reptiles such as Viviparous Lizard and Slow-worm. There is no water or ditch habitat for Grass Snake. The only potential habitat for reptiles is within the base of the hedges where there is cover. It is unlikely that the site will hold any significant reptile populations due to lack of habitat, vegetation mosaic and structure.

3.13 Amphibians: SEWBReC holds records for Palmate Newt, Common Frog and Common Toad, the nearest some 250m away from the development site. Great Crested Newts are protected under the Habitats Regulations as a European Protected Species. No amphibians were seen during the survey and there are no waterbodies nearby or ditches on site for breeding. Although amphibians require terrestrial habitat as well as aquatic, the site is generally unsuitable for amphibians, due to its lack of structure. It is unlikely that amphibians in general are using the site.

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3.14 Invertebrates: SEWBReC holds records of dragonfly, butterfly and moth species within 2 km of the development site, the nearest record being Grass Rivulet 350m from the site at the Travel Lodge. No large insects such as butterflies or bees were recorded during the survey and other invertebrates such as beetles and flies were not searched for/identified.

3.15 INNS: No Invasive Non-Native Species were found on the site.

4. Assessment

4.1 The proposed development is for nine 4.5MW gas generators to provide backup power to the grid. The generators are enclosed within containers with ancillary equipment in cabinets, all of which will be located within two fenced enclosures on the development site – the generators in the western field and the ancillary equipment in the eastern field. The generators will run only when the mains supply fails, a projected worst-case scenario of 2500 hours. Figure 4 shows the proposed layout.

Figure 4: Proposed layout

Protected Sites 4.2 There are two European statutory sites (SACs namely Blackmill Woods and Grasslands) within 10km of the site. There are two UK statutory designated sites within 2km of the

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Page 11 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019) development site. Due to the distance and separation from the development, the only potential impact will be from emissions.

The Air Quality Assessment report by Kairus accompanying the planning application sets this out in detail, including an additional Technical Note providing in-combination assessments for the SAC sites. A Stage 1 Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) matrix has been undertaken to assess the impact of the development on the two SACs of Blackmill Woods and Cefn Cribwr grasslands. This matrix can be found in Appendix 2. No further HRA work has been undertaken as the development is classed as having no likely significant effect.

Brynna a Wern Tarw SSSI is grassland with Marsh Fritillary butterfly interest. However, it is not thought that given the levels of NOx predicted that these emissions will have a significant impact on the SSSI, particularly as the plant will be running only intermittently. Coed y Mwstwr SSSI is a group of deciduous woodlands with a rare bat population living in limestone caves. Woodlands are susceptible to NOx emissions as they usually have a large area of rough surfaces for deposition. However, given its proximity to the M4, it is already in a risk area and is not in the prevailing wind pattern from the development. It is unlikely that there will be a significant effect on the SSSI given the intermittent use of the plant.

4.3 Other designated sites within a 2km radius include one RIGS and 24 SINCs. Due to the nature of the development and separation distance, it is unlikely that there will be any adverse effects on these sites.

Habitats 4.4 Improved grassland: There are no species of note within the site. The habitat and species can be found within the rest of the fields adjacent to the development site, and in other fields nearby. The proposed development will result in no significant loss of grassland habitat.

4.5 J2.2 Intact hedge – species poor: There are two hedges H2 and H6 within this category. H6 has Bluebell present, thus qualifying as a Hedgerow of Importance under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. The generator compounds will be situated away from the base of the hedgerows to avoid any compaction and damage to root protection areas (RPAs).

4.6 Hedges with trees - species poor: Hedges H1, H3, H4, and H5 have Bluebell present and thus qualify as Hedgerows of Importance as defined by the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. The generator compound will be situated away from the base of the hedges and any hedgerow trees to avoid any compaction and damage to root protection areas (RPAs). The compounds will require a new access into the western field crossing H3. There are two existing gateways in the northern part of H3 which will be blocked using translocated hedgerow from the new access. It is likely that a double field gate will be needed, thus using the hedgerow from the new access to reinstate both single current gateways. Any Bluebells within the hedge will be retained as the hedge should be translocated as large blocks of hedge. The translocation should ideally take place outside the bird nesting season of 1st March – 31st August, and be searched and then supervised by a suitably qualified licensed (Dormouse) ecologist. The translocation should take place when the trees are becoming/dormant for the winter between September and February/March for optimal success. All tree works will conform to British Standards BS5837:2012 Trees in relation to Design, Demolition and Construction and BS3998:2010 Tree Work.

Fauna 4.7 Bats: All bats and their roosts are European Protected Species (EPS) and are fully protected by British legislation. Bats may use the hedgerows as navigational flight lines and the fields for

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Page 12 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019) foraging. There is ample foraging habitat adjacent to the site including surrounding hedgerows, fields and woodlands. There are no buildings on site. Larger hedgerow trees may be used by bats as temporary roosts as some are covered in ivy which may cover up splits and cracks suitable for potential use by bats. However, these trees are within the hedgerow, situated away from the compound and it is unlikely that any work such as trimming and lopping of limbs of these trees will be required by the proposed development. There will be no external lighting on the proposed development. It is unlikely that the proposed development will have a significant effect on the bat population.

4.8 Dormouse: The Llanilid SINC contains a network of Dormouse habitat including hedgerows and woodland. The designated hedgerows connecting to the woodlands run alongside the Sony factory and towards/passing the Travel Lodge in Llanilid, moving up towards the opencast site and adjacent woodlands. The hedges surrounding the development site are for the most part trimmed annually to a height of 1.5m and can be seen through. The hedge on the northern boundary (H4) is higher and provides more aerial habitat. All hedges on the site have connectivity to the designated dormouse habitat, although this may be via several hundred metres of tightly trimmed short hedge habitat. There is Hazel within H4 on the northern boundary and nuts were inspected, although none were opened by Dormice. All hedges were see through and could be inspected for nests. The only effect the development will have on the hedgerows will be the translocation of a small length of hedge in H3 to create a new access, using the hedge removed to block the existing gateways, which will retain the hedgerow habitat and connectivity. All other hedges will remain unaffected by the development. The hedge translocation area will be searched by a suitably experienced licensed ecologist for hibernation nests before translocation takes place, although it is recommended that the translocation takes place before the dormouse hibernation season and after young have left the nests (around late September).

4.9 Birds: The hedges may be used by small birds in the breeding season, but as the development is placed away from adjacent hedges it is unlikely that the development will impact on these species. The piece of hedge to be removed for the new gateway consists of tightly trimmed hedge and can be inspected prior to translocation. No larger hedgerow trees will be affected by the development.

Sustainability 4.10 The Welsh Government and other public authorities under the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) act 2015, Planning (Wales) Act 2015 and Environment (Wales) Act 2016 have to take into account sustainable development principles in all their functions. Section 6 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 states that ‘A public authority must seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity in the exercise of functions in relation to Wales, and in so doing promote the resilience of ecosystems…” The gas generators are part of a network of short term operating reserve. As electricity is generated by more renewables, to prevent fluctuations in demand and supply, the national grid has access to a number of reserve power sources to cover supply gaps. This generator scheme is part of that network allowing future generations to meet their own needs. No priority habitats will be lost and no protected species affected through this development.

5. Recommendations

5.1 Habitats: There are no specific recommendations for habitats or plants within the development site. A small length of hedgerow in H3 will need to be translocated in order to create new access to the development. The hedge can be used to block the existing gateways thus retaining the same amount of habitat and retaining connectivity. Translocation should be done outside the bird nesting season (March – August inclusive) and when the trees have become dormant (Sept-February).

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All tree works will conform to British Standards BS5837:2012 Trees in relation to Design, Demolition and Construction and BS3998:2010 Tree Work.

5.2 Dormouse: The hedges have potential to be used by Dormouse as there is connectivity with known Dormouse habitat networks nearby. The new access to be created and translocation to the existing gateways should be undertaken when Dormouse are active and young have left the nest, and preferably prior to hibernation in nests in hedge bottoms (late September /October), and the area searched by a suitably experienced licensed ecologist prior to works.

5.3 Habitat enhancement: A Landscape Plan including screening and tree planting will be developed separately in order to fulfill the requirement for biodiversity enhancement.

6. Conclusions

6.1 The survey has identified no habitats or species of particular significance on the proposed development site. The site is considered to be generally of low ecological value.

6.2 Provided the recommendations made in this report are followed, it is considered that the proposed development of the site for a nine 4.5MW generator back up gas generator scheme with associated structures will have a minimal impact on the biodiversity of the area.

7. References

Anon. (1981). The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). HMSO, London.

Anon. (2010). The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. (As Amended). HMSO, London.

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

Poland. J & Clement. E (2009) The Vegetative Key to the British Flora. BSBI, London.

Planning Inspectorate, The (2016) Developments of National Significance Appendix 3, 4, and 11. Procedural Guidance, London and Welsh Government.

Rose, F. (2006). The Wild Flower Key. Frederick Warne, London.

SEWBReC (2019) Records produced for Amber Environmental Consultancy.

Welsh Assembly Government (WAG 2016). Environment (Wales) Act 2016. Welsh Government, Cardiff.

Amber Environmental Consultancy Ltd Tel: 01792 371437 07794168624 [email protected]

Page 14 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Appendix 1: Species Lists compiled on site.

Vernacular Taxon Quantity Comment

Two mainly flat fields grazed by sheep. Hedges on all boundaries with a post and wire fence dividing a small section of the easternmost field Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne a Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus a Creeping Bent Agrostis stolonifera a Annual Meadow- grass Poa annua a White Clover Trifolium repens lf Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens lf Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceoloata o Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolium o Meadow Buttercup Ranuculus acris o Sheep's Sorrel Rumex acetosella lf H1 post and wire with scrub up to sub station, proper hedge beyond with post and wire on field side. northern part of hedge/fence Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. a adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna lf adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Blackthorn Prunus spinosa lf adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Nettle Urtica dioica o adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Arum Arum maculatum o adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus lf adjacent to scrubby area northern part of hedge/fence Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata lf adjacent to scrubby area Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Oak Quercus robur o present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Field Maple Acer campestre o present but not effective

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Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. a present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna lf present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Elder Sambucus nigra o present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Hazel Corylus avellana lf present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Ash Fraxinus excelsior o present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Nettle Urtica dioica lf present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Cleavers Galium aparine lf present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria o present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Arum Arum maculatum o present but not effective Part of hedge adjacent to substation, previously planted as screening, tree guards still Red Campion Silene dioica o present but not effective H2 hedge trimmed to 1.5m adjoining road and verge on small earth bank with post and wire fence on field side Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna a Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. a

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Arum Arum maculatum lf Nettle Urtica dioica o Cleavers Galium aparine lf Red Campion Silene dioica lf Ivy Hedera helix o Bracken Pteridium aquilinum lf Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta r H3 wide low hedge trimmed to 1.5m on stony earth bank with post and wire fencing intermittently. Large hedgerow trees present - ivy covered Oak x3 one lopped Blackthorn Prunus spinosa a Ivy Hedera helix a Arum Arum maculatum lf Nettle Urtica dioica lf Cleavers Galium aparine lf Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria o Bracken Pteridium aquilinum lf Bramble Rubus fruticosus lf Foxglove Digitalis purpurea o Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta o Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus o Ground-ivy Glechoma hederacea o Red Campion Silene dioica o H4 Scrubby gappy hedge 3-4m high, on earth bank, entirely bramble in parts, trimmed on field side, post and wire fence on field side. Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna a Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. a Field Maple Acer campestre o Holly Ilex aquifolium lf Blackthorn Prunus spinosa o Ivy Hedera helix a Nettle Urtica dioica o Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta lf Cleavers Galium aparine lf Arum Arum maculatum o Male Fern Dryopteris felix-mas o Red Campion Silene dioica lf Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus o Ground-ivy Glechoma hederacea lf H5 gappy 1.5m trimmed hedge on small earth and stone bank with post and wire in poor repair. Hedgerow trees x2 Ash and 1x hawthorn

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Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna lf Blackthorn Prunus spinosa lf Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolium o Nettle Urtica dioica lf Arum Arum maculatum lf Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. lf Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria o Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta o Ivy Hedera helix o Foxglove Digitalis purpurea o Cleavers Galium aparine lf Hazel Corylus avellana o Herb-robert Geranium robertianum r Red Campion Silene dioica o H6 Hedge next to entrance gateway running behind pylon and joining H2. Trimmed to 1.5m post and wire fence on field side, area by gateway entirely bramble Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna a Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. a Arum Arum maculatum lf Nettle Urtica dioica o Cleavers Galium aparine lf Red Campion Silene dioica lf Ivy Hedera helix o Bracken Pteridium aquilinum lf Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta o Dog's Mercury Mercurialis perennis lf TN1 Area of scrub adjacent to western field and sub station a Area of scrub adjacent to Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. western field and sub station lf Area of scrub adjacent to Nettle Urtica dioica western field and sub station lf Area of scrub adjacent to Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolium western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Lesser Celandine Ranunculus ficaria o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Sheep's Sorrel Rumex acetosella o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Willowherb spp. Epilobium spp. lf western field and sub station

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Area of scrub adjacent to Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense lf western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Elder Sambucus nigra r western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Blackthorn Prunus spinosa o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata lf western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Hazel Corylus avellana o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Bracken Pteridium aquilinum o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Ragwort Senecio jacobaea o western field and sub station Area of scrub adjacent to Foxglove Digitalis purpurea o western field and sub station Mole Talpa talpa p Molehills throughout fields Holes in hedge banks and European Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus p scrub area, 1 animal seen Fresh earths at SS9691681466, and SS9676481395, scat also Fox Vulpes vulpes p present with scent marking

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Page 19 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Appendix 2: Stage 1 Habitats Regulations Assessment matrix for SACs of Blackmill Woods and Cefn Cribwr Grasslands.

This matrix has been prepared using advice laid down in the document produced by the Planning Inspectorate “Developments of National Significance Appendix 4: Habitats Regulations Assessment and Appendix 11: Habitats Regulations Assessments Matrices.” Only Stage 1 has been prepared as the development is considered to have no likely significant effect on the SACs.

HRA Stage 1 Matrices

Designation Impacts in submission Presented in screening information matrices as Blackmill Woods SAC • Air quality • Pollution

Cefn Cribwr grasslands • Air quality • Pollution SAC • Damage to • Species disturbance features /loss of habitat

Stage 1 Matrix 1: Blackmill Woods Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Name of European Site: Blackmill Woods Special Area of Conservation Distance to DNS: approx. 5.8km to north west of site European Site features Likely effects of DNS Effect 1: Pollution In combination effects Stage of development C O D C O D Feature 1: Old Sessile Oak x x x x x x woods with Ilex and Blechnum

✓ Likely significant effect cannot be excluded x Likely significant effect can be excluded

C Construction O Operation D Decommissioning

Evidence supporting conclusions:

The SAC is designated for the feature of old Sessile Oak woodland with Holly and Hard Fern. The SAC is approximately 5.8km away from the development to the north west and consists of two strips of woodland of around 71.1 ha, to the south west of the village of Blackmill.

As stated in the Air Quality Assessment the prevailing wind comes from the west and the gas generators are predicted to be operated at a maximum of 2,500 hours/year. The predicted levels of emissions lie outside the critical load for this habitat as laid down by the guidelines produced by APIS.

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Page 20 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

During construction and decommissioning dust levels are to be monitored and mitigation put in place to reduce levels produced by vehicular movements and on-site construction/decommissioning activities.

In combination effects were compiled by AQ consultants from planning information and were found to either have been included in the existing AQA or have no significant effect on air quality within the surrounding area.

Stage 1 Matrix 2: Cefn Cribwr Grasslands Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Name of European Site: Cefn Cribwr Grasslands SAC Distance to DNS: Approx. 10km to west of site (nearest designated parcel of grassland) European Site Likely effects of DNS Features Effect 1: Pollution Effect 2: Species In combination disturbance/ loss of effects habitat Stage of C O D C O D C O D Development Feature 1: x x x x x x x x x Marsh Fritillary butterfly Feature 2: x x x x x x x x x Purple Moor grass meadows

✓ Likely significant effect cannot be excluded x Likely significant effect can be excluded

C Construction O Operation D Decommissioning

Evidence supporting conclusions:

Cefn Cribwr Grasslands SAC consists of four Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designated primarily for the Molinia grassland habitat and for the occasional colonisation of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly. The SAC has five SSSI features (although the SAC was not designated for these) comprising Marshy grassland, neutral grassland, Viper’s Grass, Marsh Fern and Bog Myrtle. The site lies approx. 10km to the west of the DNS site and the M4 lies between.

Marsh fritillary butterfly are known for their poor dispersal and the separation distance between the DNS and the SAC at 10km is well outside their dispersal range of tens of metres. The habitat they depend upon consists of Devil’s-Bit Scabious, a component of

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Page 21 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019) marshy grassland. Management consists of grazing and controlling scrub to enable this habitat to survive in viable extents. No such habitat will be affected by the DNS.

As stated in the Air Quality Assessment the prevailing wind comes from the west and the gas generators are predicted to be operated at a maximum of 2,500 hours/year. Air quality at the range of 10km from point of source emissions will be very diluted and have a negligible effect.

During construction and decommissioning dust levels are to be monitored and mitigation put in place to reduce levels produced by vehicular movements and on-site construction/decommissioning activities.

In combination effects were compiled by AQ consultants from planning information and were found to either have been included in the existing AQA or have no significant effect on air quality within the surrounding area.

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Page 22 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Appendix 3: Photographs

Access from Felindre Road

View of western field towards development area

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Page 23 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

View of eastern field towards development area

H1 sub station screening

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Page 24 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

H2 looking towards sub station, parallel with Felindre Road

H3 looking towards development area

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Page 25 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

H4 looking from development area eastwards

H4 showing wire fence at north end of eastern field

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Page 26 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

H5 looking towards road access

H6 parallel to Felindre Road

TN1 Scrubby area next to western field and sub station

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Page 27 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Gateways in H3 to be blocked up with translocated hedge

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Page 28 of 29 Energion Ltd Preliminary Ecological Appraisal March 2019 Felindre Road, Pencoed (updated Oct 2019)

Approximate area of H3 within which new access to be created and hedge translocated to existing gateways

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