Walton, Wellesbourne S101a Photoview 5

COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: Agricultural fields separated by trees and Visual disturbance for the widening and construction the access and treatment plant visible but only forming a hedgerows are visible across the view. The site is of the access road and excavation associated with minor element within the overall view due to its small size View Looking from: visible centre of view alongside an abandoned the installation of the treatment plant. and colour. Walton Hall access shed. track

Middle Distance: TREATMENT Classification of Further agricultural fields separated by trees and WORKS Receptor: Highway hedgerows are visible across the view. COMPOUND

Distance from Scheme Far Distance: (nearest point): 260m Residential properties located within

DESCRIPTION OF VIEW 5 Wellesbourne are visible centre of view. Smatchley Wood is visible left of view. Elevation: 58m

Sensitivity: Medium

Low Negligible / Low OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF Slight Adverse Negligible E: 428879m N: 253300m OF IMPACT

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COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: Agricultural field visible across the view. some short term visual disturbance, although the the proposed Development forming a small element hedgerow and tree cover will screen much of this. within the wider landscape that has residential View Looking from: development and other visual disturbances. Visible B4086 Friz Hill Middle Distance: elements are primarily the proposed hedgerows. Agricultural fields separated by trees and 6 Classification of hedgerows are visible across the view. Receptor: Highway Residential properties located along Walton Road are visible centre of view. The site and an abandoned shed are also visible center of view. Distance from Scheme (nearest point): 705m Far Distance: TREATMENT Residential properties located within WORKS Wellesbourne visible far right of view. Scratchley

DESCRIPTION OF VIEW COMPOUND Elevation: 66m Wood defines the horizon.

Sensitivity: Medium

Negligible Negligible OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF Negligible Negligible E: 429294m N: 253732m OF IMPACT

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COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

7

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: Roadside hedgerow and agricultural fields are no visual disturbance. The view of the proposed no visual disturbance. It will not be possible to view the visible across the view. development is imperceptible due to the distance and proposed development due to the distance, landform and View Looking from: residential property on Kineton Road. screening by the residential property on Kineton Road. Unnamed road off Kineton Road Middle Distance: Bath Hill Wood is visible left of view. The Classification of remainder of the view comprises agricultural fields TREATMENT Receptor: Highway separated by hedgerows. WORKS COMPOUND

Distance from Scheme Far Distance: (nearest point): 1.63km A residential property located along Kineton Road is visible centre of view. Agricultural fields separated by trees and hedgerows are visible DESCRIPTION OF VIEW Elevation: 73m across the view and Scratchley Wood is visible along the skyline centre left to right of view. 7

Sensitivity: Medium

None None OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF None None E: 429564m N: 254794m OF IMPACT

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COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: 8 A SUDs pond is visible to the left of view. A bund the flat landform along with the intervening vegetation views of the proposed development would be and landscape planting is visible across the view. and trees will render any construction works barely imperceptible at this location. The residential View Looking from: Construction of future residential properties are visible. development, once completed will further screen the Copeland Avenue visible beyond. Proposed Development. Classification of Receptor: Highway / Middle Distance: Residential Agricultural fields separated by hedgerows are TREATMENT WORKS visible left to centre of view. COMPOUND Distance from Scheme (nearest point): 1.35km Far Distance: Bath Hill Wood is visible from the left to centre of DESCRIPTION OF VIEW Elevation: 52m view. Residential properties along Walton Road are visible beyond the construction rubble centre of view. Sensitivity: Medium 8 (Highway) / High (Residential) None None OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF None None E: 427761m N: 254487m OF IMPACT

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COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: Agricultural fields separated by a hedgerow are Little visibility as the Site is at approximately the intervening hedgerows and tree cover will screen the low visible across the view. same elevation as this photoview and Intervening profile development. The Proposed Development will be well View Looking from: 9 hedgerows and tree cover will screen construction contained within the visual envelope of the trees on the Public Bridleway SD81a works. slightly raised ground in the background and the hedgerow Middle Distance: and tree cover to the left and right of the image in the Residential properties located along Walton Road foreground Classification of are visible centre right of view. Agricultural fields TREATMENT Receptor: PRoW separated by hedgerows are visible across the WORKS view. The site is visible centre of view. COMPOUND

Distance from Scheme (nearest point): 1.12km Far Distance: Bath Hill House is visible across the view. DESCRIPTION OF VIEW Elevation: 59m

Sensitivity: High 9 Negligible Negligible OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF Negligible Adverse Negligible Adverse E: 427610m N: 253930m OF IMPACT

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COMPONENTS OF PROPOSED VIEW: CLASSIFICATION COMPONENTS OF EXISTING VIEW LOCATION OF PHOTOVIEW OF RECEPTOR DURING CONSTRUCTION FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF WORKS

Angle of View Foreground: : 90° As existing with: As existing with: Agricultural field visible across the view. Little visibility as the Site is at approximately the The Proposed Development will be well contained within the same elevation as this photoview and Intervening visual envelope of the trees on the slightly raised ground in View Looking from: hedgerows and tree cover will screen construction the background and the hedgerow and tree cover to the left Public Bridleway SD81a Middle Distance: works. and right of the image in the foreground. 10 Agricultural fields separated by hedgerows are visible across the view. The site is visible centre Classification of of view. Walton Farm is visible centre right of Receptor: PRoW view. A residential property located along Walton Road is visible centre left of view.

Distance from Scheme (nearest point): 595m Far Distance: Bath Hill Wood is visible across the view. DESCRIPTION OF VIEW Elevation: 56m

Sensitivity: High

Negligible / Low Negligible Adverse OF IMPACT MAGNITUDE c Crown Copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 0100031673 GRID REF Slight Adverse Negligible / Slight Adverse E: 428042m N: 253604m OF IMPACT

SIGNIFICANCE N:\WM\BM11559 - Walton Wellesbourne S101a\03 - Design\AutoCAD\BM11559-013 Photoviews Final.dwg Walton, Wellesbourne S101a Context of Photoviews 1 to 4

Photoview 1

Photoview 2

Photoview 3

Photoview 4

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Photoview 5

Photoview 6

Photoview 7

Photoview 8

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Photoview 10

N:\WM\BM11559 - Walton Wellesbourne S101a\03 - Design\AutoCAD\BM11559-013 Photoviews Final.dwg Walton, Wellesbourne S101a Plates 1 and 2

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Plate 2

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Plate 4

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Plate 6

N:\WM\BM11559 - Walton Wellesbourne S101a\03 - Design\AutoCAD\BM11559-013 Photoviews Final.dwg DO NOT SCALE FROM THIS DRAWING 1 No. Malus sylvestris 1 No. Quercus robur Trees 1 No. Sorbus aria 1 No. Betula pendula 33 1 No. Quercus robur

6

33 lin m Native hedgerow 115 No.Crataegus monogyna 25 No. Ligustrum vulgare 8 No. Rosa canina 16 No. Sambucus nigra 54 lin m Native hedgerow 189 No.Crataegus monogyna 41 No. Ligustrum vulgare 1 No. Quercus 14 No. Rosa canina robur 27 No. Sambucus nigra

1 No. Quercus robur 1 No. Malus sylvestris

1 No. Quercus robur

1 No. Quercus robur

REVISION DETAILS DATE DR'N CHK'D APP'D

CLIENT

PAMCAD

DIAMETERFITTING

PAMCAD DIAMETER FITTING

PAMCAD

DIAMETERFITTING

PAMCADDIAMETER 4 lin m infill native hedgerow FITTING KEY Severn Trent Water 14 No.Crataegus monogyna Proposed Trees (to be planted within new 3 No. Ligustrum vulgare hedges) 1 No. Rosa canina PROJECT 2 No. Sambucus nigra 2 No. Malus sylvestris Existing hedgerow 1 No. Sorbus aria Walton, Wellesbourne S101a Proposed native hedgerow (To be planted in double staggered rows 300m apart, 5 per linear metre. 1 No. Quercus robur Protection with spiral rabbit guards.) DRAWING TITLE Outline Planting Specification Tree and Hedge Planting to be protected by a spiral tree guard and supported by 2no. DRAFT 1. Tree protection shall be in place prior to works 4. Tree Pits for trees to be 1.2 x 1.2 x 0.6m (300mm topsoil 75mm diameter double stake, cross-bar and tie. Stake to be Planting Proposals commencing, refer to the submitted Existing Vegetation mixed with one part peat-free tree and shrub planting angled to avoid rootball and angled to the north with 400mm Removal and Protection Plan. Any existing trees to be retained, compost,300mm subsoil). Pits are to be thoroughly broken up below ground level, tied with Rainbow tree belting and rubber are the responsibility of the main contractor on site who shall before receiving backfill material. All trees to be planted to their tree cushions or similar approved. All stakes to be no more than one third of tree stem height. DRG No. REV take all necessary protective measures set out in BS 5837:2012. root collar and firmed in place. BM11559-014 6. Surface Mulching to be supplied to all shrub planting 2. All areas for proposed planting to be relieved of 4. Any deciduous trees and shrubs to be planted in late DRG SIZE SCALE DATE compaction. Works to be carried out while soil and weather October to late March. All stock is to be planted in positions and beds, and individual trees (500mm radius} to a depth of 50mm A3 1:200 March 2019 of Melcourt composted bark or equal approved. All native conditions are suitable; do not plant during periods of frost or densities indicated on the this drawing and the schedules. All DRAWN BY CHECKED BY APPROVED BY strong winds. plants to be planted to their root collar and firmed in place. plants are to be protected with rabbit proof fencing installed AS KS KS prior to planting. 3. All groundworks and planting operations shall be in 5. All whips / transplants shall be watered in on planting with STOKE ON TRENT | TEL 01782 276700 accordance with the following British Standards BS 3975 20 litres per square metre. Trees shall be watered in with 25 7. Rabbit proof fencing where required to be 900mm high WWW.WARDELL-ARMSTRONG.COM Glossary for Landscape Work and BS 4428 General Landscape litres per tree position. All trees to be fitted with Root Rain galvanised mesh with timber stakes. Mesh to buried 150mm BIRMINGHAM GLASGOW below ground, with 150mm angled away from planting. BOLTON LONDON Operations Metro plastic irrigation pipe or equal approved. Standard trees CARDIFF MANCHESTER CARLISLE NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE c Copyright Reserved EDINBURGH SHEFFIELD

N:\WM\BM11559 - WALTON WELLESBOURNE S101A\03 - DESIGN\AUTOCAD\BM11559-014 PLANTING PROPOSALS.DWG

SEVERN TRENT WATER LIMITED INSTALLATION OF A ROTATING BIOLOGICAL CONTACTOR UNIT AND TURNING HEAD ON LAND ADJACENT TO WALTON ROAD, WALTON, WARWICKSHIRE PLANNING SUPPORTING STATEMENT

Appendix 10 Ecology Appraisal

BM11559/FINAL APRIL 2019

Walton, Wellesbourne Proposed Pipeline Scheme

Ecological Appraisal

Client: NMCNomenca

Report Reference: RSE_1520_01_V2 Issue Date: October 2018

Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

East Midlands: West Midlands: London: Yorkshire:

Osprey House Chase View Barn Keltan House The Former Library Merlin Way Dunston Business Village 115 Mare St 10 Leeds Road Quarry Hill Industrial Estate Stafford Road London Attercliffe, Ilkeston Stafford E8 4RU Sheffield Derbyshire Staffordshire South Yorkshire DE7 4RA ST18 9AB S9 3TY [T] 0115 930 2493 [T] 01785 711 575 [T[ 0114 243 9179 (issuing office) [email protected] www.rammsanderson.com

Project Details

Client: NMCNomeca

Project: Walton, Wellesbourne Pipeline

Reference RSE_1520_01_V2

Report Title Ecological Appraisal

DISCLOSURE:

The information provided within this report has been prepared and provided as true and in accordance with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s (CIEEM) Code of Professional Conduct. It is intended for the sole use of the Client and their agents in accordance with the agreement under which our services were performed. Unauthorised communication, reproduction or usage of this report by any party other than the aforementioned is prohibited. No warranty, express or implied, is made as to the advice in this report or any other service provided by RammSanderson Ecology Ltd. This report has been prepared by an ecological specialist and does not purport to provide legal advice. RammSanderson is a trading name of RammSanderson Ecology Limited, as registered in England & Wales (Company No.: 8999992).

Document Control

Originated: Katie Lawrence BSc Assistant 16/07/2018 Ecologist

Technical Joe McLaughlin BSc Senior Ecologist 16/07/2018 Reviewed: ACIEEM

Issued to Oliver Ramm BSc Director 19/07/2018 Client: MCIEEM

Revisions: Joe McLaughlin BSc Senior Ecologist 04/10/2018 ACIEEM

Page 2 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 Background RammSanderson Ecology Ltd was instructed by NMC Nomenca to carry out an Ecological Appraisal including protected species surveys for a proposed pipeline scheme through the hamlet of Walton, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire. The pipeline will be routed through an improved grassland field to the east of Walton Road and will connect to the existing sewer to the south, within the village of Walton. A proposed outfall and associated pipe will be installed in the western bank of the River Dene, however the current proposed location of this has not been finalised and will be informed by the findings of the protected species surveys. The works will comprise sewerage pipe installation, construction of a Sewage Pumping Station (SPS), treatment plant compound and treatment works, in the northern section of the survey area. The proposed installation method of the pipeline is via open trenching. Following suites of ecology surveys final recommendations to implement alongside this scheme are detailed below, all of which will help negate the risk to ecology as a result of the proposed.

Great Crested Newt No ponds were located within the survey area and no records of GCN were identified during the desk study element of this survey. A single pond was located however within 500m of the survey area – 230m southwest of the permeant works and 170m west of the temporary works. The majority of the habitats in the works area were assessed as sub-optimal for GCN, comprising heavily poached improved grassland. Furthermore, Walton Road was considered a partial barrier to dispersal to the west and the River Dene to the east, thus further reducing the likelihood of them traversing the works area. Hedgerow 1 provided suitable habitat for commuting and foraging GCN, although impacts will be minimal under current proposals, with only a 10m section to be removed, to widen an existing gap in the hedgerow and facilitate works access. It was not possible to access Pond 1 to conduct a Habitat Suitability assessment. Taking into account the small extent of habitats suitable for GCN which will be permanently impacted by the proposals, since the majority of the work proposed is temporary in nature and reversible in impact assessment terms (will be reinstated post completion) and the likelihood of the species being present in the majority of the works area being extremely low, further surveys are considered disproportionate. A Precautionary Method of Works (PMW) document is recommended, detailing appropriate timing of works with site induction training.

Birds The scattered trees, scrub, hedgerow and river on site offered suitable habitat for nesting birds. Any vegetation clearance / tree pruning works should be completed outside of the bird nesting season (which is considered to be March to September inclusive). If this is not possible the area should first be checked by a suitably qualified ecologist for any in-use nests. If any in-use nests are found, these should be protected from works until they are no longer in-use.

Reptiles The sites peripheral habitats, including the hedgerow, tall ruderal vegetation, scrub and river provided some scope for foraging and refuge for reptiles, although the majority of the works area was assessed as sub-optimal. Impacts to reptiles are therefore assessed as highly unlikely and further surveys are considered disproportionate. It is however recommended that a precautionary approach is adopted during any vegetation clearance on site.

Page 3 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

Otter The evidence of otter including spraint and feeding remains found during the survey demonstrates active foraging/commuting otter in the River Dene. Given the small scale of the works proposed on the River Dene which will be at least 50m from the evidence found, the risk to otters is considered very low and limited to potential disturbance only. Particularly as the outfall location will be in an open exposed location with no evidence of utilisation by such fauna. As such some precautionary measures are recommended particularly the avoidance of nightwork and pollution prevention. Furthermore, those measures should all be included with the PMW for the site and briefed to site staff during any eventual toolbox talk.

Badgers and Other Notable Fauna No setts or definitive physical evidence of badger was identified during the Phase 1 survey, although well- established mammal paths were present within the works area and the proximity to it and records were identified within 2km during the desk study. Furthermore, the grassland, scrub, hedgerows and watercourse provided opportunities for foraging and commuting as well as connectivity to the wider environment. Given the suitability of the site to badger, if works have not commenced by May 2019, a further badger survey will be necessary to confirm the absence of setts from the works area, prior to commencement. The works area also provides suitable opportunities for brown hare and hedgerow. On that basis, precautionary measures are recommended.

Invasive Species A stand of Japanese Knotweed was located to the south of the proposed pipeline works area. This is a highly invasive species, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), and strict controls are in place to prevent its spread. It is recommended that this area be entirely avoided during construction, with a 7m stand-off zone implemented for the duration of the works. This should be defined by Heras fencing to avoid accidental encroachment. If this is not possible, a decontamination system may be required to facilitate works in close proximity. As a population of American signal crayfish have been identified within the River Dene strict biosecurity measures should be upkept during works in proximity and directly to the River Dene whilst installing the culvert. This should include actions to take if the species is found during works, thorough removal of sediments/mud and spraying any plant/machinery and boots at the bankside before utilising Virknon-S disinfectant in a specially designated decontamination zone before leaving the works site following any work associated with the culvert creation; The details of this will also be provided in the PMW for this site.

Enhancements New native species-rich hedgerows could be planted along the boundaries of the permanent works areas as part of the scheme. These would provide corridors for local flora and fauna dispersal and would act as a valuable ecological enhancement.

Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan The ecological constraints and opportunities plan overleaf summarises the areas where further surveys and precautionary approaches are recommended as well as highlighting potential enhancement and retention of ecological corridors.

Page 4 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

Figure 1: Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan High Risk Item: Further survey requirements, presence of invasive species or effect on European Protected Species requiring either mitigation or further survey

A stand of Japanese Knotweed was located to the south of the proposed pipeline works area. This is a highly invasive species, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), and strict legal controls are in place to prevent its spread. It is therefore recommended that this area be avoided during construction, with a 7m stand-off zone implemented for the duration of the works. This should be defined by fencing to avoid accidental encroachment. Additionally, American signal crayfish have been found to be utilising the River Dene. As such strict biosecurity measures will need to be implemented to avoid risk of spreading this invasive species listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and countryside Act 1981 (as amended) during outfall installation. Details of which will be included within PMW for the site.

Moderate Risk Item: Mitigation required for protected or notable species

The hedgerows and trees adjacent to and within the proposed works areas have some potential for nesting birds. The trees are being retained, with some loss of a small section of hedgerow to facilitate access. Any clearance or pruning of this vegetation should be completed outside of the nesting bird season, between October and

February. If this is not possible, a suitably experienced ecologist should check the area immediately prior to works commencing. Pond 1 is located approximately 230m southwest of the permanent works area and 170m west of the temporary works area. The majority of the habitats within he works area were assessed as sub-optimal for GCN and Walton Road forms a partial barrier to GCN dispersal towards the site. The hedgerow provided some suitable commuting and foraging habitat and a small section will require removal to facilitate works access. Following the Natural England Rapid Risk Assessment, impacts to GCN are considered highly unlikely. However, their presence cannot be entirely ruled out and a PMW is recommended for the pipeline installation to further reduce impacts to GCN. No badger setts were identified during the survey, however well-established mammal paths and areas suitable for sett excavation were identified within the hedgerows and property boundaries. If the scheme has not commenced within the next 12 months then a re-survey for badgers will be necessary to confirm absence of badger setts from the works area prior to commencement. Furthermore, as there is a likelihood of transient badgers utilising the site during works precautionary measures are recommended.

Otter is known to be utilising the site (River Dene). However, the proposed works are small scale and impacts Figure 2: Pond Reference Plan are only likely to result in disturbance. As such some precautionary measures are recommended, particularly avoidance of night work and pollution prevention; the details of which will be included within the PMW for the site.

Low risk Item: Mitigation / Works procedures adopted for potential species which may pass through site during construction phases

The hedgerows and trees are also considered suitable for foraging and commuting bats. The trees are being retained under current proposals and although a small section of hedgerow will require removal, it will not lead to fragmentation or impact its connectivity and functionality as a linear commuting and foraging route for bats. Any security lighting associated with the permanent development should be directional and timed to avoid illumination of features likely to be used by foraging/commuting bats. The works area was assessed as being of low suitability to reptiles, however there remains a low residual risk of transient reptiles being present on site. The hedgerows on site present the most suitable habitat likely to be utilised by reptile species and as such clearance/pruning of this habitat as is currently proposed should be conducted in temperatures exceeding 110C using hand tools only. Under current proposals an outfall & associated pipe would be constructed northeast of the permanent works area in the River Denes western bank. This work should be conducted with reference to the Environment Agency PPG5 document to prevent pollution of the watercourse during the course of the works. Whilst this document has been officially withdrawn from implementation for works to/near water it is still a useful guide to inform working practises at the site in relation to pollution prevention.

Enhancement Possibility: possible enhancements suitable for this site given its context

Planting of native species-rich hedgerows is recommended where feasible along the boundaries of the permanent development. This would provide corridors for local flora and fauna dispersal and would act as a valuable ecological enhancement.

Page 5 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

CONTENTS

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3

1.1 BACKGROUND 3

2 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 8

2.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THIS REPORT 8 2.2 ZONE OF INFLUENCE 8 2.3 SITE CONTEXT AND LOCATION 9

3 LEGISLATION AND PLANNING POLICY 11

3.1 GENERAL & REGIONALLY SPECIFIC POLICIES 11 3.2 BATS 11 3.3 WHITE-CLAWED CRAYFISH 12 3.4 WATER VOLE AND OTTER 12

4 METHODOLOGY 13

4.1 IMPACT APPRAISAL 13 4.2 DESK BASED ASSESSMENT 13 4.3 PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY 14 4.4 HEDGEROW ASSESSMENT 14 4.5 PROTECTED / NOTABLE SPECIES SCOPING ASSESSMENT 14 4.6 BATS 14 4.7 WATER VOLE SURVEY 15 4.8 OTTER SURVEY 16 4.9 WHITE CLAWED-CRAYFISH SURVEYS 16 4.10 LIMITATIONS 16 4.11 ACCURATE LIFESPAN OF ECOLOGICAL DATA 16

5 RESULTS 17

5.1 SURVEYORS 17 5.2 DESK STUDY 17 5.3 HABITAT CONNECTIVITY ANALYSIS 21 5.4 PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY 22 5.5 PRELIMINARY PROTECTED / NOTABLE SPECIES ASSESSMENT 26 5.6 BAT TREE ASSESSMENT 35

6 DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATIONS 39

6.1 HABITATS 39 6.2 STATUTORILY AND NON-STATUTORILY DESIGNATED SITES 40

Page 6 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

6.3 FAUNA 41 6.4 ENHANCEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS 45

7 REFERENCES 46

FIGURES FIGURE 1: ECOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES PLAN 5 FIGURE 2: POND REFERENCE PLAN 5 FIGURE 3: SITE LOCATION PLAN 9 FIGURE 4: SITE CONTEXT PLAN 10 FIGURE 5: SITE HABITAT CONNECTIVITY 21 FIGURE 6: DENSE SCRUB ALONG THE WATERCOURSE 22 FIGURE 7: CRAB APPLE TREES IN THE SOUTHERN SECTION OF THE SITE 23 FIGURE 8: NORTHERN FIELD 23 FIGURE 9: TALL RUDERAL VEGETATION IN THE WEST OF THE SURVEY AREA 24 FIGURE 10: HEDGEROW 1 25 FIGURE 11: RIVER DENE 26 FIGURE 12: POND LOCATION PLAN 27 FIGURE 13: STRUCTURE WITH POTENTIAL FOR OTTER HOLT CREATION 29 FIGURE 14: WATER VOLE, WHITE-CLAWED CRAYFISH AND OTTER SURVEY AREA 30 FIGURE 15: OTTER SPRAINT IDENTIFIED DURING SURVEY 31 FIGURE 16: OTTER FEEDING REMAINS WITH ASSUMED SIGNAL CRAYFISH FRAGMENTS 31 FIGURE 17: LOCATION OF OTTER SPRAINT AND FEEDING REMAINS 32 FIGURE 18: WHITE-CLAWED CRAYFISH SURVEY POINTS 34 FIGURE 19: SIGNAL CRAYFISH FOUND DURING SURVEY 34

TABLES TABLE 1: CONSULTED RESOURCES 13 TABLE 2: CRITERIA FOR BAT ROOST POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT OF TREES 15 TABLE 3: SUMMARY OF CONDITIONS DURING SURVEY 17 TABLE 4: STATUTORILY DESIGNATED SITES WITHIN 5KM OF SITE BOUNDARY 18 TABLE 5: NON-STATUTORY DESIGNATED SITES WITHIN 2KM OF SITE BOUNDARY 18 TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES RECORDS 19 TABLE 7: HEDGEROWS SUMMARY TABLE 25 TABLE 8: SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT -WATER VOLE, OTTER AND WHITE-CLAWED CRAYFISH 28 TABLE 9: SURVEY CONDITIONS 32 TABLE 10: WHITE CLAWED CRAYFISH SURVEY POINT DESCRIPTIONS 33 TABLE 11: TREES IDENTIFIED WITH SUITABILITY TO ROOSTING BATS 35 TABLE 12: AERIAL INSPECTION BAT SURVEY SUMMARY 38 TABLE 13: PHASE 1 HABITAT TYPES AND THEIR ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE 39 TABLE 14: NATURAL ENGLAND RAPID RISK ASSESSMENT 42 APPENDICES APPENDIX 1: PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY PLAN OVERVIEW 47 APPENDIX 2: PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY PLAN NORTH 48 APPENDIX 3: PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY PLAN SOUTH 49 APPENDIX 4: SPECIES LIST 50

Page 7 of 51 Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

2 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

2.1 Purpose and Scope of this Report

RammSanderson Ecology Ltd was commissioned by NMC Nomenca to assess the potential ecological impacts of sewage system improvements in Walton, Wellesbourne; including the installation of a Sewage Pumping Station (SPS), a treatment plant compound, a treatment works area building, a new sewage pipeline and outfall pipe installed via open trenching. To complete an ecological impact assessment of the proposals, a desk based assessment, Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, and a preliminary protected species assessment were carried out. Taken together, in common with the Chartered Institute of Ecology & Environmental Management’s (CIEEM) 2012 publication this is termed as a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA). This assessment was considered ‘preliminary’ until required protected species were carried out for roosting bats, white clawed-crayfish and water vole and the results were then collated into this document to form a final ‘Ecological Appraisal’, which can be used to lawfully determine a planning application in line with current planning policy1. The study area is defined as shown in the enclosed Site Location Plan and Phase 1 Habitat plan plus a buffer zone extended to include the Zone of Influence (see section below) of the proposals (hereafter referred to as the “Site”). This Appraisal is based on a review of the development proposals provided by the Client, desk study data (third party information) and a survey of the Site. The aims of this report are to:

▪ Classify the habitat types at the site based on standard Phase 1 Habitat survey methodology; ▪ Evaluate any potential for protected species to be present; ▪ Identify any significant ecological impacts likely to result from the proposed development; and, ▪ Provide recommendations for any further surveys that might be required, for example to confirm presence / likely absence of protected species, which would need to be proven in order for a planning decision to be concurrent with current planning policy.

This report pertains to these results only; recommendations included within this report are the professional opinion of an experienced ecologist and therefore the view of RammSanderson Ecology Ltd. The surveys and desk based assessments undertaken as part of this review and subsequent report including the Ecological Constraints and Opportunities Plan are prepared in accordance with the British Standard for Biodiversity Code of Practice for Planning and Development (BS42020:2013).

2.2 Zone of Influence The Zone of Influence is used to describe the geographic extent of potential impacts of a proposed development. The Zone is determined by the nature of the development and also in relation to individual species, depending on their habitat requirements, mobility and distances indicated in any best practice guidelines. In relation to great crested newts (GCN) for example, the zone of influence for the permanent works, including the treatment plant compound, is considered to be up to 500m from the site boundaries, as this is the distance that Natural England would require to be considered in relation to GCN licensing. However, with

1 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Circular 06/05: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation - Statutory Obligations and Their Impact Within The Planning System

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regards to the installation of the pipeline itself, the zone of influence is only 250m, as this is considered to be temporary work and is the distance that Natural England would require to be considered in relation to GCN licensing and this type of work.

2.3 Site Context and Location The survey area was located to the east of Walton Road, within the hamlet of Walton, near Wellesbourne, east of Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire (CV35 9HX). The proposed works area comprised a large improved grassland field compartment located within a predominantly rural landscape. The River Dene was located to the east of the survey area and the River’s western bank formed the survey boundary. Other features of the local landscape included hedgerows, trees and large wooded areas. Residential dwellings associated with the hamlet were also situated to the south and west but were generally rare in proximity of the survey area.

Figure 3: Site Location Plan

© Crown Copyright and Database Rights 2010 Ordnance Survey

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Figure 4: Site Context Plan

© Google 2015, Image reproduced under licence from Google EarthPro

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3 LEGISLATION AND PLANNING POLICY

3.1 General & Regionally Specific Policies Articles of British legislation, policy guidance and both Local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) and the NERC Act 2006 are referred to throughout this report. Their context and application is explained in the relevant sections of this report. The relevant articles of legislation are:

▪ The National Planning Policy Framework (2018) ▪ ODPM Circular 06/2005 (retained as Technical Guidance on NPPF 2012) ▪ Local planning policies (Stratford-on-Avon District Council) ▪ The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017; ▪ The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); ▪ EC Council Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds 79/409/EEC; ▪ National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949; ▪ The Protection of Badgers Act 1992; ▪ The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000; ▪ The Hedgerow Regulations 1997; ▪ The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006; ▪ Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Warwickshire

3.2 Bats All species of British bats are fully protected within UK Law under Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) through their inclusion in Schedule 5. Under the Act, they are protected from:

▪ Intentional or reckless killing, injury, taking; ▪ Damage to or destruction of or, obstruction of access to any place of shelter, breeding or rest; ▪ Disturbance of an animal occupying a structure or place; ▪ Possession or control (live or dead animals); ▪ Selling, bartering or exchange of these species, or parts of;

This law is reinforced by the UK’s transposition of the EU Habitats Regulations under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. These Regulations also prohibit:

▪ the deliberate killing, injuring or taking of bats; ▪ the deliberate disturbance of any bat species in such a way as to be significantly likely to affect: > their ability to survive, hibernate, migrate, breed, or rear or nurture their young; or > the local distribution or abundance of that species. ▪ damage or destruction of a breeding site or resting place (roost); ▪ the possession or transport of bats or any other part of.

Under certain circumstances a licence may be granted by Natural England to permit activities that would otherwise constitute an offence. In relation to development, a scheme must have full planning permission before a licence application can be made. All species of British bat are listed as Species of Principal Importance (SPI) under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006. These are barbastelle (Barbastellus barbastellus), Bechstein’s (Myotis bechsteinii), noctule (Nyctalus noctula), soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus), brown long-eared (Plecotus auritus), greater horseshoe (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and lesser horseshoe (Rhinolophus hipposideros). Under the National Planning Policy Framework 2018 the presence of any protected species is a material planning consideration. The Framework states that impacts arising from development proposals must be avoided where possible or adequately mitigated/compensated for and that opportunities for ecological enhancement should be sought.

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3.3 White-Clawed Crayfish White-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes are protected under the following UK and European legislation:

▪ Bern Convention 1979: Appendix III ▪ IUCN Red Data List – “Endangered” ▪ Wildlife & Countryside Act (as Amended) 1981: Schedule 5 ▪ > Intentionally take white-clawed crayfish from the wild ▪ > Sell, or attempt to sell, any part of a white-clawed crayfish, alive or dead, or advertise that one buys or sells, or intends to buy or sell any part of a white- clawed crayfish. ▪ EC Habitats Directive: Annex II and V(a) ▪ The Prohibition of Keeping of Live Fish (Crayfish) Order 1996 (implemented under the Import of Live Fish (England and Wales) Act 1980)

3.4 Water Vole and Otter Water voles Arvicola amphibious and otters Lutra lutra and their habitats are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Under this legislation it is an offence to:

▪ Capture, kill or injure a water vole; ▪ Damage, destroy or obstruct access to a breeding site or resting place (i.e. burrow); ▪ Disturb a water vole whilst in a place of shelter; ▪ Possess or control a water vole (live or dead), any part of a water vole or anything derived from a water vole; ▪ Sell, barter or exchange a water vole (live or dead), any part of a water vole or anything derived from a water vole; and / or ▪ Advertise or offer for sale, barter or exchange a water vole (live or dead), any part of a water vole or anything derived from a water vole.

Offences can result from intentional or reckless actions. Penalties include fines of up to £5000 and / or imprisonment for up to six months, per offence. Under certain circumstances a licence can be granted by Natural England to permit activities that would otherwise constitute an offence. Otters have additional protection, being listed as a European Protected Species (EPS) under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. This makes it an offence to deliberately or recklessly:

▪ Capture, injure or kill an otter; ▪ Harass an otter or group of otters; ▪ Disturb an otter in a holt or any other structure or place it uses for shelter or protection; ▪ Disturb an otter while it is rearing or otherwise caring for its young; ▪ Obstruct access to a holt or other structure or place otters use for shelter or protection or to otherwise deny the animal use of that place; ▪ Disturb an otter in a manner that is, or in circumstances which are, likely to significantly affect the local distribution or abundance of the species; ▪ Disturb an otter in a manner that is, or in circumstances which are, likely to impair its ability to survive, breed or reproduce, or rear or otherwise care for its young.

It is also an offence to:

▪ Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such an animal (note that this does not need to be deliberate or reckless to constitute an offence); ▪ Keep, transport, sell or exchange or offer for sale or exchange any wild otter or any part or derivative of one (if obtained after 10 June 1994).

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4 METHODOLOGY

4.1 Impact Appraisal The overall ecological appraisal is based on the standard best practice methodology provided by the Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (CIEEM, 2012). The assessment identifies sites, habitats, species and other ecological features that are of value based on factors such as legal protection, statutory or local site designations such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) or inclusion on Red Data Book Lists or Biodiversity Action Plans. Ecological value is considered in the context of international, national, regional or local scale and potential constraints to development are identified on that basis, with recommendations for further, more detailed surveys made as appropriate, for example to fully investigate botanical value or to confirm presence / likely absence of a protected species. In appraising any impacts, the review considers the Client’s Site proposals and any subsequent recommendations made are proportionate and appropriate to the site and have considered the Mitigation Hierarchy as identified below:

▪ Avoid: Provide advice on how the development may proceed by avoiding impacts to any species or sites by either consideration of site design or identification of an alternative option. ▪ Mitigate: Where avoidance cannot be implemented mitigation proposals are put forward to minimise impacts to species or sites as a result of the proposals. Mitigation put forward is proportionate to the site. ▪ Compensate: Where avoidance cannot be achieved any mitigation strategy will consider the requirements for site compensatory measures. ▪ Enhance: The assessment refers to planning policy guidance (e.g. NPPF) to relate the ecological value of the site and identify appropriate and proportionate ecological enhancement in line with both national and local policy.

4.2 Desk Based Assessment Data regarding statutory and non-statutory designated sites, plus any records of protected or notable species and habitats was requested from the local ecological records centre and online resources, details of which are provided in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Consulted resources

Consultee/Resource Data Sought Search Radius from Boundary

Warwickshire Biological Records Centre Non-Statutory Site Designations, 2km protected/notable species records

www.magic.gov.uk2 Statutory Site Designations 5km NERC Act (2006) Habitats 1km

NB: Desk study data is third party controlled data, purchased or consulted for the purposes of this report only. RammSanderson Ecology Ltd cannot vouch for its accuracy and cannot be held liable for any error(s) in these data.

2 Multi Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside Interactive GIS Map.

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4.3 Phase 1 Habitat Survey An extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the site was completed to identify habitats present within the site. All habitats within and adjacent to the site boundary were described and mapped following standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology (JNCC, 2010), which categorises habitat type through the identification of individual plant species. Nomenclature follows Stace (Stace, 2010) for vascular plant species and the DAFOR scale for relative abundance was used in the field to determine dominant plants within habitats and communities (D = dominant, A = abundant, F = frequent, O = occasional and R = rare).

4.4 Hedgerow Assessment Hedgerows on site were assessed using the Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading System (HEGS) (Clements & Tofts, 1992). This method of assessment includes noting canopy species composition, associated ground flora and climbers, structure of the hedgerow including height, width and gaps, associated features including number and species of mature trees, banks, ditches and grass verges. Each hedgerow is given a grade using HEGS with the suffixes ‘+’ and ‘-‘, representing the upper and lower limits of each grade respectively. These grades represent a continuum on a scale from 1+ (the highest score and denoting hedges of the greatest nature conservation priority) to 4- (representing the lowest score and hedges of the least nature conservation priority) as follows:

▪ Grade 1 – High to very high value ▪ Grade 2 – Moderately high to high value ▪ Grade 3 – Moderate to low value ▪ Grade 4 – Low value

Hedgerows graded 1 or 2 are considered to be a priority for nature conservation. The hedgerows were also assessed against the Wildlife and Landscape criteria contained within The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 to determine whether they qualified as ‘Important Hedgerows’ under the Regulations. This was achieved using a methodology in accordance with both the Regulations and DEFRA guidance.

4.5 Protected / Notable Species Scoping Assessment The habitats on site were assessed for their suitability for supporting any legally protected or notable species that would be affected by the proposed development. This includes invasive non-native plant species such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) and giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). Any incidental sightings of individual species or field signs such as footprints, latrines or feeding remains discovered during the survey were noted. In the case of bats, specific quantitative assessment methodologies have been adopted industry wide and details of these are provided below.

4.6 Bats The overall value of the site and its connectivity to the wider countryside was assessed in relation to bats. The likelihood of bats roosting at the site or moving through the site between local roost sites and foraging/mating/hibernation habitats was considered. The site, including the trees and boundary trees, were assessed by an ecologist and graded as to their suitability for supporting roosting bats using the Bat Conservation Trust’s Bat Surveys for Professional

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Ecologists: Good Survey Guidelines (Collins, J. Eds. 2016), an extract of which is provided interpreted in Table 2.

Table 2: Criteria for bat roost potential assessment of trees

Roost Potential Description Surveys Required (Trees)

Confirmed roost Evidence of roosting bats found during 3 – including 1 dawn as a minimum initial daytime inspection.

High * Structures with one or more features 3 – including 1 dawn as a minimum suitable for bat roosting, with obvious suitability for larger numbers of bats. Or alternatively 3 climbed surveys if features are able to be fully inspected

Moderate Structure with one or more potential 2– including 1 dawn as a minimum roost sites that could be used due to size, shelter and protection but unlikely Or alternatively 2 climbed surveys if to support a roost of high conservation features are able to be fully status. inspected

Low Structure with one or more potential Precautionary Mitigation Approach, roosting sites used by individual bats some instances may require further opportunistically. Insufficient space, survey such as an aerial inspection shelter or protection to be used by large pre demolition. numbers of bats.

Negligible No or negligible features identified that None are likely to be used by roosting bats

* Unless it is a confirmed roost, additional surveys are required of buildings to assess presence / likely absence of a roost. The number of surveys are indicative to give confidence in a negative result, i.e. where no bats are found, confidence in a result can be taken.

Following this initial ground level assessment aerial inspection’s of those trees on site considered to have bat roosting potential was conducted within the active period May-September. Surveyors looked for field signs of bat roosts in trees including smells, greasing or droppings and utilised equipment such as torches, ladders and endoscopes. Aerial inspections were specifically selected for as apposed to typical nocturnal surveys as it was established that the features in T1-4 could be comprehensively searched via endoscopy without any uncertainty. Furthermore, recent research (Andrews, 2017) has demonstrated that the typical emergence and re-entry times of UK bats in tree roosts is extremely variable often far earlier/later than the recommended times as per best practise guidance for dawn re-entry and dusk emergence surveys. Additionally, inspection eliminates the risk of missed activity in low light levels and as such is considered a more effective approach provided potential roosting features can be comprehensively searched.

4.7 Water Vole Survey A team of two ecologists walked the River Dene adjacent to the site in search of field sign and/or physical evidence of water vole including prints, droppings, fur, latrines, feeding stations, burrows and runs to determine presence/ absence of the species. The survey was conducted from both the bankside and the channel and include the length of watercourse immediately adjacent to the site plus 50m up and downstream. A total of two surveys were conducted within the optimal period for these species (April to September). Surveys followed best practise methodologies (Strachen and Moorhouse, 2011 3rd Eds.) and were conducted in suitable weather conditions.

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4.8 Otter Survey A single otter survey was carried out within the optimal period between April and September. A competently experienced survey team of two searched for field signs including spraints, fur, feeding remains, prints, laying up/holt sites along the River Dene bank within the survey area plus 50m down/upstream and into terrestrial habitat at bankside for suitable foraging, commuting and potential refuge features. Surveyors followed best practise methodologies (Chanin, 2003) and the survey was conducted in daytime hours during optimal weather conditions.

4.9 White clawed-crayfish surveys A team of two surveyors surveyed the River Dene twice from the channel in day light hours within the optimal period July-October. Surveyors followed best practise methodologies (Peay, 2003) by a combination of hand searching 10 potential refuge locations of the River Dene at least five objectively chosen points along the watercourse considered suitable for the species as well as conducting torch light inspection along the watercourse. This included beneath large cobbles, boulders, dead wood, submerged tree roots, submerged vegetation and within dense detritus.

4.10 Limitations It should be noted that whilst every effort has been made to provide a comprehensive description of the site, no investigation could ensure the complete characterisation and prediction of the natural environment.

4.11 Accurate lifespan of ecological data The majority of ecological data remain valid for only short periods due to the inherently transient nature of the subject. The survey results contained in this report are considered accurate for approximately 2 years, notwithstanding any considerable changes to the site conditions.

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5 RESULTS

5.1 Surveyors The Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey was carried out by Joe McLaughlin BSc (Hons) ACIEEM and Katie Lawrence BSc (Hons). Joe holds class two licences for GCN (2015-16947-CLS-CLS) and bats (2016-26529- CLS-CLS) and has been a professional ecologist for the past five years. Both are appropriately experienced to carry out this type of survey. The survey was completed during suitable conditions as detailed in the table below. Following this two protected species survey visits were conducted at the site. White clawed-crayfish surveys, Aerial inspection surveys of trees for roosting bats, water vole and otter surveys were led by Dean Le Feuvre BSc (Hons) ACIEEM who was assisted by Joe McLaughlin. Dean holds a Natural England Level two personal class licence for roosting bats (2017-31316-CLS-CLS) and a personal class licence for white clawed-crayfish (2015-18125-CLS-CLS) and is appropriately experienced to lead all of the afore mentioned protected species surveys.

Table 3: Summary of conditions during survey

Abiotic Factor Survey 1 Survey 2 Survey 3

Survey type PEA Water vole survey, otter Water vole survey, white- survey, white-clawed clawed crayfish survey, crayfish survey, aerial aerial inspection of trees inspection of trees for for roosting bats roosting bats

Date completed 18.05.18 03.09.2018 26.09.2018

Temperature 18°C 19°C 15°C

Wind speed (Beaufort 2 1 1 Scale)

Cloud cover (Oktas 40% 10% 20% Scale)

Precipitation 0 0 0

5.2 Desk Study Three statutorily designated sites were recorded within the search radius, the details of which are summarised in the table overleaf.

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Table 4: Statutorily Designated sites within 5km of Site Boundary

Site Name Designation Location Brief Description

Oxhouse Farm SSSI3 2.4km S Comprises three herb rich meadows on alkaline soils which favours a limestone flora.

Lobbington Hall Farm SSSI 2.6km W Unimproved species-rich hay meadow, on Meadow calcareous soil, with ridge and furrow topography.

Loxley Church Meadow SSSI 3.5km SE Species rich lowland meadow, on neutral to calcareous clays, with ridge and furrow topography.

Five non-statutorily designated sites were also identified within the search radius, details of which are provided in the table below.

Table 5: Non-statutory designated sites within 2km of Site Boundary

Site Name Designation Location Brief Description

Eight Men’s Math LWS4 1.5km S Ash and hazel coppice with oak standards.

Walton Wood LWS 1.7km S Oak dominated woodland with and understory of ash coppice, hawthorn and blackthorn.

Moreton Wood LWS 1.7km NE Replanted ancient calcareous coppice woodland.

Hell Hole Tip LWS 1.7km W A mosaic of habitats, including stream, woodland, hedgerow and open areas with species-rich vegetation and species-poor grassland.

Moreton Hall Meadows LWS 1.7km NE Species-rich, semi-improved calcareous grassland.

Within the search area 21 potential Local Wildlife Sites (pLWS) were identified, the closest of which is 0.4 km SE. There are six ancient woodlands (closest 400m east of the site), 24 deciduous woodlands, (closest 300m east of the site), three conifer woodlands (closest… 400m of the site), three wood pasture and parkland BAP Priority Habitats (closest 100m west of the site) and two traditional orchards (closest adjacent to west of site), all of which are NERC habitats are identified within a 1km radius of the site. There are eight previous bat licences (closest 1.8km north of the site) and one GCN Licences (3.3 km east of the site), which were identified within a 5km search area for the site. Protected species records were received from Warwickshire Biological Records Centre. A summary of the records considered most relevant to the site and/or proposed development are provided in Table 3. Full species records are available to view upon request.

3 SSSI – Site of Special Scientific Interest 4 LWS – Local Wildlife Site

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Table 6: Summary of protected and notable species records

Species Records Conservation Status

Amphibians

Common Toad 2 records, closest 0.9 km NNW Partial Protection under WCA5

Smooth Newt 1 record, 1.2 km W Partial protection under WCA

Common Frog 1 record 1.8k m ENE Partial protection under WCA

Mammals

Common Pipistrelle 7 records, closest 12m SSW EPS6, WCA, NERC7, LBAP8 (detector recording)

Brown Long-eared Bat 6 records, closest 12m SSW EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP (approx. 40 droppings in a garage)

Leisler’s Bat 2 records, closest 12m SSW EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP (detector recording)

Soprano Pipistrelle 4 records, closest 12m SSW EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP (detector recording)

European Otter 4 records, closest 30m S by the EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP Walton Village Bridge on the River Dene

Brown Hare 2 records, closest 0.7km SE NERC, LBAP

Noctule 1 record 1km N EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP

Lesser Horseshoe Bat 1 record 1.4km SSW EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP

Whiskered Bat 2 records, closest 1.4km SSW EPS, WCA, NERC, LBAP

European Hedgehog 8 records, closest 1.6km NW NERC, LBAP

Daubenton’s Bat 1 record 1.9km ESE EPS, WCA, NERC

Eurasian Badger 2 records within 2km search PBA9

Birds

Hen Harrier 1 record 0.7km E BoCCRed10, WCA111

5 WCA – Wildlife & Countryside Act (1981) Section 5 protecting against trade or sale of species. 6 EPS – European Protected Species - protected by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 7 NERC – Natural Environment Rural Communities Act (2006) Species of Principal Conservation Importance; UKBAP & LBAP 8 LBAP – Local Biodiversity Action Plan Species 9 PBA – Protection of Badgers Act 1992 10 BoCC - Birds of Conservation Concern - split in to three categories of conservation importance - Red, Amber and Green. Red is the highest conservation priority, with species needing urgent action. Amber is the next most critical group, followed by green 11 Schedule 1 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

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Species Records Conservation Status

Barn Owl 5 records, closest 1.2km SSW WCA1, LBAP

Nightingale 1 record, 1.7km ESE BoCCRed

Reptiles

Grass Snake 2 records, closest 230m SW Partial protection under WCA

Full species records are available to view upon request.

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5.3 Habitat Connectivity Analysis In assessing the site, a review of online resources and desk study data was undertaken to assesses the site with respect to its connectivity to the wider environment, particularly along linear features (rivers, railways, canals etc.) and any designated or protected sites. The figure below highlights the site and any such habitat connectivity. This assessment enables the evaluation of a particular proposal in context of the wider environment with regard to the site itself and any species which may utilise the site. As Figure 5Error! Not a valid bookmark self-reference. below shows, the site has connectivity to the greater landscape north and south via the River Dene, a section of which will form part of the works area for the proposed outfall. Set within a predominantly rural landscape, other features including hedgerows, woodlands and lines of trees dissect the landscape and provide connectivity between the survey area and the surrounding landscape.

Figure 5: Site Habitat Connectivity

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5.4 Phase 1 Habitat Survey Habitats types detailed below are listed in order of the JNCC (2010) Handbook. The species list provided in this report reflect only those taxa observed during the survey. For a Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan refer to Appendix 1 and a full species list is provided in Appendix 2.

Scrub Small areas of dense and scattered scrub were associated with the watercourse in the eastern section of the survey area. This was dominated by hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), with frequent dog-dose (Rosa canina) wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare) and occasional bramble (Rubus fructicosus agg). In the southern section of the survey area, small stands of hazel (Corylus avellana) were also occasionally present.

Figure 6: Dense scrub along the watercourse

Broad-Leaved Scattered Trees Five mature fruit trees were present within the improved grassland in the southern section of the survey area, all of which were crab apple (Malus sylvestris). A number of mature-immature ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) and willow saplings (Salix sp.) were also noted along the watercourse. Similarly, willow and sycamore (Acer pseudoplanus) saplings were also present within the south western section of the site, along the fence forming a boundary to adjacent properties and fields.

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Figure 7: Crab apple trees in the southern section of the site

Improved Grassland The majority of the site comprised improved grassland, divided across two fields which showed signs of previous intensive grazing by livestock and some more recent poaching. Sward height was varied from 5 – 10cm, with bare patches associated with trampling along gateways. Perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne) was dominant throughout both fields, with occasional cock’s foot (Dactylis glomerata) and fescue (Festuca sp.). Other species recorded during the survey included frequent creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens)and chickweed (Stellaria media) and rare occurrences of ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria).

Figure 8: Northern field

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Ruderal species were distributed throughout the sward in both compartments, including abundant creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), frequent broad-leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius) and rarely encountered hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and common nettle.

Tall Ruderal Vegetation Tall ruderal vegetation was frequently present within the site along boundaries and as an understorey habitat to the hedgerows, trees and along the watercourse. This was dominated by common nettle, with abundant broad-leaved dock and frequent creeping thistle and cleavers (Galium aparine). Cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) was frequently encountered along the watercourse, with occasional meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) and hogweed. Common mare’s-tail (Hippuris vulgaris) was recorded in patches along the watercourse, whilst butterbur (Petasites hybridus) was observed on the eastern bank.

Figure 9: Tall ruderal vegetation in the west of the survey area

Defunct Species Poor Hedgerow Hedgerow 1 was located along the western boundary of the northern field. It was approximately 2m tall and 2m wide with numerous gaps along the surveyed length, particularly to the south of the field entrance gate. H1 had not been trimmed recently and had a species composition dominated by hawthorn, with occasional elder (Sambucus nigra) and elm (Ulmus procera). The understorey comprised bramble, ivy, bindweed (Calystegia sepium) and a mixture of those species previously listed under tall ruderal.

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Figure 10: Hedgerow 1

H1 was subject to further assessment under the Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading System (HEGS) and the Hedgerow Regulations (1997), the details of which are summarised in the table below.

Table 7: Hedgerows Summary Table

Hedgerow number NERC Act (2006) priority HEGS assessment score ‘Important’ under the habitat Hedgerow Regulations (1997) Yes – through the Category 3- moderate to No – did not qualify 1 dominance of native low conservation value species and over 20m long

Running Watercourse The River Dene was located in the eastern section of the works area, running from south to north. The river was approximately 4m wide, 0.2-0.7m deep with a moderate current and clear water. The banks were predominantly steep sided and comprised soft earth. Silt, sand, gravel and stones comprised the majority of the river bed sediment, with only small areas of larger materials, including cobbles and boulders noted as well as some undercut banks and tree roots with potential for refuge. The river banks were predominantly densely vegetated, included overhanging trees and shrubs, and comprised a mixture of those species listed under scrub and tall ruderal vegetation. A population of fish were also observed within the watercourse during the survey, however species was unknown.

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Figure 11: River Dene

Boundaries In addition to the boundary hedgerow, there was a wooden fence spanning the western boundary of the works area. In the southern field there was also a small area fenced off with metal heras fencing.

Non-Native Species A stand of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) was located approximately 10m south of the proposed works area, as well as an additional stand offsite to the west of the fence (see Phase 1 Plan for exact locations). This is a highly invasive species, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and strict controls are in place to prevent its spread. Additionally, during white-clawed crayfish surveys a single signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) was identified in the River Dene which is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); for more details see Section 5.5.8. As the River Dene will form a small component of the works area mitigation should be put in place to reduce the risk of accidental spread of this species via plant machinery and other construction equipment that will move between sites. No further Schedule 9 species of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, including Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) and giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) were observed during the survey.

5.5 Preliminary Protected / Notable Species Assessment The potential protected species to be present on site and impacted by the proposals is discussed under the headings below.

Great Crested Newt (GCN) No ponds were located within the survey boundary; however one pond was identified within 500m. Pond 1 was located approximately 230m southwest of the permeant works and 170m west of the temporary works area. As per best practise guidance, the survey area falls within the ‘intermediate habitat zone’ for Pond 1, which refers to the terrestrial habitat in proximity of any pond or waterbody which could be utilised by GCN for breeding between 50-250m. The majority of the habitats on site which are to be impacted, however were assessed as being sub-optimal to terrestrial phase GCN, comprising short-sward improved grassland used

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primarily for grazing livestock and lacking the heterogeneity required to support GCN. Moreover, no records of the species were identified during the desk study within 2km of the works area. Walton Road, located between the survey area and the pond, was assessed as a partial barrier to dispersal, with sporadic road traffic and occasional kerb stones, thus reducing the likelihood of the species being present in the area. Combined with Ettington Road to the west, the actual works area is fairly isolated within the context of the wider environment. Despite this, the peripheral habitat including tall ruderal vegetation, hedgerow and scrub provided some, albeit limited, opportunities for commuting, refuge seeking and forging GCN. It was not possible to gain access to the pond at the time of the initial survey in order to conduct a HSI assessment.

Figure 12: Pond Location Plan

Reptiles Reptile species have similar habitat requirements to terrestrial phase GCN. On that basis, those habitats on site previously identified as having the potential to support this species are considered suitable for reptiles. Additionally, two grass snake records were identified during the desk study, with the closest located approximately 230m southwest of the works area demonstrating a known population in the locality of the proposed scheme.

Birds The River Dene, scattered trees and hedgerows located on site are suitable habitat for nesting sites. Hawthorn, elder and crab apple located within the survey area provide suitable berries for foraging birds, whilst hazel provides a suitable additional food source. Given the context of the works area, these habitats are likely to support a range of common garden and farmland birds. Due to the presence of the River Dene, the potential for waterfowl cannot be entirely ruled out.

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Despite the potential food source for kingfisher the River Dene was considered mostly sub optimal for this species. This was due to the dense low hanging vegetation over the channel and covering both banks along the River Dene making the river sub optimal for commuting and nest burrowing. Furthermore, the shallow grading of the banks of the River Dene further reduced the likelihood of nesting due to the increased risk of predation. No records of the species have been received within 2km of the site further reducing the likelihood of their presence; as such kingfisher are not considered to present a constraint to the proposals.

Foraging Bats The majority of the works area comprised short-sward improved grassland, with limited diversity and suitability to foraging bats. However small areas of hedgerow, scrub, trees and watercourse within the survey area provide potential for foraging bats through the provision of insects, as well as opportunities for commuting and connectivity with the wider environment. The desk study identified eight species of bats within 2km of the survey area, with the closest comprising passes of common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and Leisler’s bats and potential brown long-eared bat droppings in a garage, all located 12m from the proposed pipeline. However, the majority of the actual works area comprised short-sward improved grassland, with limited diversity and suitability to foraging bats.

Water Vole, Otter and White Clawed Crayfish Suitability Assessment The River Dene was assessed as providing suitable opportunities for water vole, otter and white-clawed crayfish, the details of which can be seen in Table 8, below.

Table 8: Suitability assessment -water vole, otter and white-clawed crayfish

Species Refuge and commuting potential Foraging potential/ Additional notes Food source

Water Vole Steep densely vegetated earth Dense bankside No incidental evidence of the species banks provide optimal habitat for vegetation found during Phase 1 survey and no burrow excavation. River channel dominated by records identified in the desk study. is relatively deep (up to 1m) with grasses and River is also considered suitable for emergent and submerged submerged weeds American mink (presence/absence of vegetation providing opportunities are considered mink unknown). for cross channel dispersal for suitable as a food water vole, whilst still remaining source. covered from predators.

Otter Steep densely vegetated earth Large numbers of No incidental evidence of the species banks with overhanging trees with fish observed in the found during Phase 1 survey. Areas of exposed root systems, provides river, providing a woodland to the east and south of the multiple opportunities for otter viable food source. survey area provide potential for otter refuge, cover and commuting. However, river fast to commute through the wider Furthermore, a concrete structure flowing with few landscape. However, the habitats in with large sheltered gaps pools, reducing its the survey area are more limited, underneath in the southern extent suitability to support making their presence most likely of the surveyed area of river some amphibians. within the river itself. Historical provided opportunities for holt records of otter spraints were creation (see Figure 13). obtained in the desk study for the river, with the closest located 30m south of the works area, by Walton Village Bridge.

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Species Refuge and commuting potential Foraging potential/ Additional notes Food source

White-Clawed Gravel, boulders, and stones in Submerged No incidental evidence of the species Crayfish river bed sediment are considered vegetation, fish fry found during Phase 1 survey and no (WCC) suitable features for WCC refuge. and likely historical records identified in the Emergent tree roots and invertebrate desk study. The local presence / submerged vegetation provide populations provide absence of the signal crayfish is not additional cover for this species. a viable food source known. for this species within the river.

Figure 13: Structure with potential for otter holt creation

As suitability to each species was established during the initial Phase 1 survey a suite of surveys for these species was recommended and was carried out on the River Dene and its adjacent land between the points illustrated on Figure 14 below. The results of these surveys are detailed in the specific sections below 5.5.6, 5.5.7 and 5.5.8. For abiotic conditions see Table 3 earlier in this report.

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Figure 14: Water vole, white-clawed crayfish and otter survey area

Water Vole Survey Despite the suitability of the River Dene and its banks to water vole no evidence of this species was encountered including burrows, prints latrines or feeding remains as surveyors extensively searched the river banks beneath dense vegetation. On this basis the species are considered absent from the site.

Otter Survey The River Dene and adjacent land provide numerous opportunities for otter foraging, commuting and refuge; see Figure 13 for example of potential holt site. Despite this, during the survey very little evidence of this species was encountered. The only evidence found was in the central section of the survey area where surveyors identified otter spraint on a prominent in channel rock and feeding remains (containing fragments of signal crayfish) on a bankside potential laying up site; see Figure 15-17 respectively.

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Figure 15: Otter Spraint identified during survey

Figure 16: Otter feeding remains with assumed signal crayfish fragments

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Figure 17: Location of otter spraint and feeding remains

White-clawed Crayfish Survey The surveys highlighted that the River Dene provided areas of sub-optimal habitat (through siltation and minor pollution) to optimal habitat conditions for crayfish. Suitable habitat features identified within the survey areas included:

▪ Numerous in-channel refuges including cobbles of size 6.5 – 25cm, flat boulders and slabs (>25cm), rubble and fine flat tree roots; ▪ Numerous bank refuges including undercut banks and trees; ▪ A variety of flow patterns including riffles, pools and runs ▪ In channel emergent and submerged vegetation with dense detritus for burrowing.

Survey conditions are summarised below in Table 9.

Table 9: Survey conditions

Survey Date Survey Type Brook Conditions

03.09.2018 Normal flow (depth 5 – 60cm) with clear water, riffle and run, occasional pools, evidence of litter and minor pollution in Crayfish refuge search, netting southern section of the survey area.

26.09.2018 and torch light surveys Low-normal flow (depth 5 – 50cm) with clear water, riffle sections pools and runs evidence of minor pollution in southern end of survey area

Those areas of optimal habitat were objectively chosen along the River Dene’s survey area as potential survey locations. A total of seven were surveyed to increase potential detectability of the species despite best practise recommendations for only five survey points. Details and locations of these survey points are provided overleaf in Table 10 and Figure 18.

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Table 10: White clawed crayfish survey point descriptions

Survey Point Description Photos

1 Glide with pool, in channel vegetation with undercut banks and exposed roots and woody debris

2 Riffle and run section with large debris in channel and emergent vegetation with lots of dense detritus around its base. Soft earth banks also undercut on eastern side.

3 Pool and run large woody debris in channel from dead tree, exposed root network, some siltation on western bank but eastern bank undercut with some large boulders and dense detritus present.

4 Slow sluggish flow, gravel bed sediments with exposed will root system providing lots of opportunities for refuge.

5 Deeper sluggish pool section with several submerged plastic membranes which can be searched as well as large rocky substrate with dense detritus which can be netted.

6 Shallow run with lots of large rocky debris and potential for refuge as well as several submerged old jars which can be searched and deeply undercut banks with willow root mats also present.

7 Slow sluggish flow, earth banks intact but willow root networks exposed creating lots of refuge potential. Dead pigeon located here on first survey as well which was inspected as a potential food source for crayfish.

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Figure 18: White-clawed crayfish survey points

During both surveys only one individual crayfish was found on the first survey 03.09.2018 at survey point 6 beneath a plastic bag and rock. This was a juvenile male signal crayfish with a carapace length of 12mm; see Figure 19 below for details. The signal crayfish is none- native and is listed on the Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended as an invasive species. As no white-clawed crayfish were found they are assumed absent from the site.

Figure 19: Signal crayfish found during survey

Parallel sided rostrum shape, lack of spine on cervical groove and two post orbital ridges contributory factors into identification as signal crayfish.

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Badgers and Other Notable Fauna Species The survey area was assessed to have suitable habitat for foraging and commuting badger (Meles meles) through the provision of grassland, scrub, hedgerows and the watercourse. These also provide connectivity to suitable habitat in the wider environment, including Smatchley Wood to the west. Whilst no setts were observed during the survey or definitive physical signs, such as latrines or hair, several well established mammal paths were identified both within, and in proximity to, the works areas and the hedgerows and property boundaries provided opportunities for sett-building. Furthermore, two records of badger were identified within 2km of the site during the desk study, indicating the presence of the species in the area. Given the suitability of the site to badger, it is considered likely that other notable fauna such as hedgehog and brown hare will utilise the works area for commuting and foraging.

5.6 Bat Tree Assessment

Trees i. All trees within the survey area were assessed for their potential to support roosting bats. In total, four crab apple trees were assessed as having moderate potential to support roosting bats, the details of which are included in Table 9, overleaf. See Appendix 1 for their locations. All other trees within the survey area were assessed as having negligible bat roosting potential and thus pose no constraints to the proposed pipeline works.

Table 11: Trees identified with suitability to roosting bats

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Tree Species Tree / Feature Description Grading Photographs Number

T1 Crab Apple Large trunk cavity at 1m on the south-western aspect. Feature Moderate was angled upwards, partially exposing it to weather and egress of water. A large proportion of the trunk appeared to be hollow, with a sheltered void extending upwards which would provide suitability to a small number of roosting bats.

No evidence of bats observed.

T2 Crab Apple Branch cavity at 1.5m on the eastern aspect. Cavity appeared Moderate to extend upwards, with a small rot hole on the south-eastern aspect at 2m in some deadwood, providing potential opportunities for small numbers of bats.

Larger rot hole at 2.5m located on a branch on the southern aspect. Feature had previously callused around the edges. Although angled slightly upwards, exposing it to weather and light, feature potentially extended towards trunk and upwards which would provide adequate shelter for small number of bats to roost. No evidence of bats observed.

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T3 Crab Apple Small knot hole which was callused around the edges at 1.5m Moderate on the southern aspect. The feature appeared to extend into a suitable cavity for roosting bats from ground level.

Branch cavity at 2.5m on the eastern aspect. Located behind dead wood and feature partially sheltered by overhang above. Although fly in a little cluttered by vegetation, the feature may extend upwards into a suitable cavity for roosting bats.

No evidence of bats observed.

T4 Crab Apple Branch cavity at 1.5m on the eastern aspect. Cavity extended Moderate upwards with a small knot hole located at 2m southeast and lager one at 2.5m southern, providing additional access into the feature. Uncluttered fly in to feature and if the cavity extends upwards into a more sheltered void, it would provide suitability for roosting bats, however unable to tell from ground level.

No evidence of bats observed.

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Following the identification of the four trees (T1-4) as having moderate potential to support roosting bats from ground level a suite of aerial inspection surveys were conducted to determine if the trees formed bat roosts, the results are summarised below:

Table 12: Aerial inspection bat survey summary

Tree ref, Inspection dates Features and description Pictures

1 03.09.2018 Tree had one feature close to ground level. This feature extended into tree 30-40cm and was wet 26.09.2018 and rough internally. Lots of light gaps through deterioration of tree some of which near canopy exposing this cavity to weather. No evidence of bats and is not considered utilised as a roost.

2 03.09.2018 Several openings through deterioration of heartwood in trees trunk inspected by endoscope. These 26.09.2018 features all led to a single chamber which was damp and rough in texture with no evidence of bats. This feature was considered reasonably exposed with only some micro niches which could be opportunistically utilised by bats. However, due to the lack of evidence of bats (i.e no greasing, no smell, no dropping and the rough natural texture) T2 is considered highly unlikely to support roosting bats.

3 03.09.2018 Features (knot hole and branch cavity) in this tree open and exposed with exposure to light and 26.09.2018 weather reducing the likelihood of utilisation by roosting bats. No evidence of bats utilising this feature and heartwood in the cavities is wet and rough, as such it is not considered likely to support roosting bats.

4 03.09.2018 Branch cavity and knot hole features upturned to elements and exposed to weather wet and no 26.09.2018 evidence of bats some light gaps noted from other minor holes in this tree through its deterioration exposing the features further to the elements.

No bats or evidence of bats were found in any of T1-4 following two aerial inspections and as such none are considered to support roosting bats.

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6 DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Habitats The majority of habitats encountered within the proposed works area are considered to be of limited floristic value, comprising mainly of improved grassland subject to grazing, tall ruderal vegetation and scrub. Hedgerow 1 did not qualify as ‘important’ under the Hedgerow Regulations (1997) and was as assessed as being of moderate to low conservation value (Category 3-) following a HEGS Assessment. The hedgerow did, however qualify as a habitat of principal importance under the NERC Act (2006) and is therefore considered to be of some limited floristic value. Under the current proposals, a small section of hedgerow (approximately 10m) will require removal to widen an existing gated gap and provide vehicular access to the works area. It is recommended that a section of hedgerow south of the existing gateway is removed, where the hedgerow is in poorer condition and gaps already exist. If this recommendation is followed (as is currently proposed), impacts to the hedgerow are assessed to be minimal and any losses can be offset by native species reinforcement planting in other areas of the hedgerow which have deteriorated and gaps have become present. The River Dene is also considered a habitat of principle important under the NERC Act (2006) due to the l presence of otter – a species which are listed under Annex II of the Habitats Directive and also as NERC Priority Species. The installation of a sewerage outfall is currently proposed, on the western bank of the River Dene, likely in the northeast of the works area although the exact location has not been finalised. As such, care should be taken to avoid any impacts to the watercourse as a result of the works, for example through flow alteration, water quality or as a habitat for fauna, including protected species. For guidance on robust pollution prevention measures, consult the CIRA C53212 and Environment Agency PPG513 documents. Whilst the PPG documents have been officially withdrawn from implementation for works to/near water, they are still a useful guide to inform working practises at the site in relation to pollution prevention. A number of scattered crab apple trees have been identified within proximity to the proposed pipeline location, forming the remains of a traditional orchard, which is a NERC (2006) priority habitat. Whilst the nature of the works are localised, temporary and reversible, it is recommended that a 6m stand-off zone be maintained around each tree for the duration of the works to prevent any damage to the root protection areas (RPAs) of those specimens. This stand-off zone should be protected with Heras fencing to prevent any accidental encroachment into the RPAs. Should the trees require removal, it will be necessary to replace them following completion of the works. Whilst the majority of the habitats on site were assessed as being of limited floristic value, their value with respect to a range of protected fauna has been identified, see Section 6.3 for more details. The table below summarises the habitat types identified on site and the potential impacts as a result of the proposals and their ecological significance.

Table 13: Phase 1 habitat types and their ecological importance

12 Construction Industry Research and Information Association documents. CIRA C532 is targeted at the control of water pollution from construction sites. 13 Environment Agency PPG5 withdrawn as a best practice document (works near or liable to affect watercourses). However, pollution prevention practices detailed within are still considered adequate for aiding the implementation of pollution prevention practices during site work in or near a watercourse.

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Habitat JNCC Ecological Importance & Outcome of Proposal Code

Dense Scrub A2.1 Habitat of limited florist value, but some value noted for protected / notable species. Scattered Scrub A2.2 Likely to incur limited minimal impacts as a result of the proposals, notably along the western bank of the River Dene to facilitate the installation of the outfall and associated pipe. Recommendations for clearance with regard to protected / notable species should be adhered to, as described in Section 6.3.

Broad-leaved Scattered Trees A3.1 Mature crab apple trees located within the works area and form the remains of a traditional orchard – a NERC (2006) priority habitat. All trees are considered to have some potential to support nesting birds and T1-4 are assessed as having moderate potential to support roosting bats. A 6m stand-off should be maintained by Heras fencing around each tree to avoid impacts to the RPAs. Any tree pruning works or where works required within 6m of the trees should follow the recommendations discussed in Section 6.3, below.

Improved Grassland B6 Improved grassland is the habitat where the majority of the works will occur. Both are of little floristic value, but some limited potential Tall Ruderal C3.1 to support protected / notable fauna. Some mitigation is recommended in Section 6.3.

Defunct Species Poor Hedge (H1) J2.2.2 Hedgerow 1 (H1) failed to qualify as important under the Hedgerow Regulations (1997), therefore it is not specially protected. Furthermore, H1 was assessed as being of’ moderately low’ conservation value (Category 3-) following a HEGS Assessment, demonstrating a limited significance from a floristic perspective. Despite this H1 did qualify as a NERC (2006) priority habitat. Therefore, H1 is of some floristic value. H1 also provides some opportunities for protected / notable fauna. Approximately 10m of hedgerow to be removed under current proposals to widen an existing gap for works access. It is recommended the section be removed from south of the existing gateway, where gaps already exist. Recommendations for clearance with regard to protected / notable species should be adhered to, as described in Section 6.3.

Running Watercourse G2 River Dene classified as a NERC (2006) priority habitat for conservation due to the potential presence of otter. Impacts to the western river bank are anticipated under the current proposals through the installation of an outfall and associated pipe. Therefore, robust pollution prevention measures are recommended to avoid any adverse impacts as a result of the works. See Section 6.1.ii for further details.

6.2 Statutorily and Non-Statutorily Designated Sites The closest statutorily designated site was Oxhouse Farm SSSI, located 2.4km south, whilst the closest non- statutorily designated site was Eight Men’s Math LWS, 1.5km south of the survey area. These are protected for their herb rich meadows and standard trees, respectively. Whilst the site does fall into the SSSI Impact Risk Zone for Oxhouse Farm, the nature of the works do not fall into one of the categories requiring consultation with Natural England. The works relating to the proposed pipeline are short term, localised and entirely reversible in nature. Furthermore, SPS, outfall and treatment works creation are extremely small

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scale and will result in highly localised impacts to grassland of limited floristic diversity restricting impacts to local areas only. As such, impacts to any nearby statuary and non-statutorily designated sites, included those listed previously, are considered highly unlikely, under the current proposals. In order to avoid any impacts to the River Dene, a NERC (2006) priority habitat, robust pollution prevention measures are recommended, as discussed in Section 6.1. These should be implemented in conjunction with any recommendations discussed following the completion of otter and water vole surveys. Furthermore, a stand-off of 6m should be denoted by Heras fencing and maintained in order to avoid damage or accidental encroachment to the RPAs of the trees, which are located within a traditional orchard, a NERC (2006) priority habitat, as disused above. Other designated sites are considered to be too far afield to be impacted by the proposals and will not be considered further.

6.3 Fauna Through abundance of protected species constraints at this site in relation to this scheme it is recommended a multi-species Precautionary Method of Works document is drafted to implement alongside proposals for great crested newt, otter, badger and nesting birds. This document would also include details in relation to invasive species and pollution prevention. For specific details see Sub headings below in this Section.

Great Crested Newts No ponds were located within the survey area, although a single pond was located within 500m of the survey area boundary. Despite the proposed pipeline works falling within the intermediate zone of influence (50 – 250m) of Pond 1, the majority of the works area comprised heavily poached improved grassland. This is assessed as sub-optimal terrestrial habitat for GCN, lacking the heterogeneity for the species to persist within the works footprint, or utilise it for commuting and foraging. Furthermore, Walton Road forms a partial barrier to GCN dispersal towards the proposed works and combined with the River Dene to the east, the lack of ponds in the locality and desk study records for the species, it is considered highly unlikely for GCN to be present in the works area. Additionally, higher quality habitat for GCN is located to the west, in the form of Smatchley Wood, further reducing the likelihood of them being present within the works area. However, the defunct hedgerow provides suitable habitat for commuting foraging and a small section (approximately 10m) will require removal under current proposals, to widen an existing gap for access to the works area. As such, the Natural England mitigation licence ‘Rapid Risk Assessment was consulted to determine the potential risk of an offence occurring as a result of the proposals and inform a requirement for further survey work and / or mitigation. In completing this table the assessed probability of causing an offence by the works is ‘highly likely’ which can be interpreted as a low risk to GCN. Thus, the potential risks associated with the proposed pipeline with respect to GCN are only that of the potential killing and injury of individual newt which, as discussed, are highly unlikely to be present within the majority of the construction area, with only a low risk of their presence in Hedgerow 1. Taking the above factors into consideration, it is highly unlikely for GCN to be present within the majority of the works area (the grassland), with only a low risk associated with Hedgerow 1. Therefore, the potential risk of committing an offence with respect to GCN is considered highly unlikely and further surveys are not considered proportionate or necessary.

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Table 14: Natural England Rapid Risk Assessment

Component Likely effect (select one for each component; Notional select the most harmful option if more than one is offence likely; lists are in order of harm, top to bottom) probability score

Great crested newt breeding pond(s) No effect 0

Land within 100m of any breeding pond(s) No effect 0

Land 100-250m from any breeding pond(s) 0.001 - 0.01 ha lost or damaged 0.1

Land >250m from any breeding pond(s) 1 - 5 ha lost or damaged 0.05

Individual great crested newts No effect 0

Maximum: 0.1

Rapid risk assessment result: GREEN: OFFENCE HIGHLY UNLIKELY

It was found that the total area of suitable terrestrial habitat to be affected within the 250m intermediate zone of Pond 1 will be 0.464ha and the affected area beyond 250m will be 0.35ha. However, a large proportion of the works will be temporary and reversible, with the majority of habitats impacted being considered sub-optimal habitat for GCN, primarily the short-grazed improved grassland. The risk assessment above purposefully has not allocated a score for the component of ‘individual great crested newt’. This is because, as stated, works will primarily be contained within the improved grassland, which GCN and other amphibians are unlikely to persist within. Furthermore, despite the suitability of the hedgerow to GCN, the risk assessment has not taken into account site specific factors, including timing and duration of works, including night time works being prohibited, method of vegetation clearance and appropriate areas for works supervision which would further reduce the potential risk the species. Thus, the potential risk of committing an offence with respect to GCN is considered highly unlikely and further surveys are not considered necessary. However, as presence cannot be entirely ruled out, a Precautionary Method of Works (PMW) document is recommended for the site. This should include a toolbox talk by a suitably trained and licenced ecologist, suitable weather conditions and timings, appropriate methods for storage of earth from excavations and recommendations for covering / backfilling excavations. Provided the PMW statement can be adhered to, it is not expected that any further survey or mitigation, including a EPS Licence will be necessary for this site.

Reptiles Habitats with the potential to support reptiles were restricted to the hedgerow, tall ruderal vegetation and scrub on site, with limited scope for foraging and refuge along the western boundary and the river and bankside vegetation providing some opportunities for commuting. Two grass snake records were identified 230m southwest of the works area in the desk study, indicating there are some reptiles present in the locality. However, given the majority of the works area comprised short-sward improved grassland which is sub- optimal to reptiles, impacts to the species are assessed to be highly unlikely and further surveys are not considered necessary or proportionate.

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Whilst the peripheral habitats have been identified as suitable for reptiles, current proposals include the retention of the scrub and tall ruderal vegetation, with only minimal impacts to the hedgerow. As such, the actual need for mitigation is minimal, although necessary to reduce the risk of killing or injuring individual reptiles during vegetation clearance. As such, it is proposed any impacts to suitable habitats occur in temperatures above 11°C, ideally in the late morning to afternoon, when reptiles are most active. Furthermore, any clearance should be systematic working directionally towards any adjacent areas of other suitable habitat; this should be informed by a project ecologist on a section by section basis as pipe installation works progress. This will allow any reptiles present to disperse into the wider environment unharmed. In the extremely unlikely event a reptile is seen during these works, they should be allowed to escape unharmed at their own pace. Only a trained ecologist should attempt to move reptiles by hand.

Roosting Bats Following a suite of aerial inspection surveys T1-4 were not found to support roosting bats or any evidence to suggest roosting bats formerly utilise these trees. As such roosting bats are not considered to present a constraint to the required pruning/felling and will not be discussed further within this report.

Foraging Bats The hedgerow, trees and river within the survey area were considered suitable for foraging and commuting bats. Under current proposals, no impacts to the trees are anticipated and only an extremely small section of Hedgerow 1 (approximately 10m) will require removal for access It is considered that removal of such a small section will not lead to fragmentation or impact its connectivity and functionality as a linear commuting and foraging route for bats. Given the localised and reversible nature of the pipeline installation, further surveys are considered disproportionate. To avoid any adverse impacts to bats, night work should be avoided and any security lighting associated with the permeant development should be directional and timed to avoid illumination of those feature previously listed with suitability to foraging and commuting bats.

Nesting Birds Scattered trees, scrub, hedgerows and the River Dene (including its banks with consideration for potential kingfisher) are suitable for nesting birds. Any clearance of these habitat features or vegetation within these habitats should be completed between October and February, outside of the nesting bird season to ensure compliance with the general protection afforded to wild birds under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). If this is not possible, a licensed ecologist should be present to conduct a nesting bird check prior to commencement. Where nesting birds are found a stand-off should be implemented and no works should proceed in this area until all chicks have fledged. With specific consideration for kingfisher, the proposed outfall has the potential to directly impact nests or lead to disturbance. As such a specific kingfisher suitability assessment and survey should be conducted Between July and September (ideally both conducted during water vole/white clawed crayfish surveys; see Section 6.3.6 below for details). Where kingfisher are found to be nesting foraging appropriate stand-off zoned will be required to allow works to proceed.

Water Vole, White-Clawed Crayfish and Otter No evidence of water vole was found during either survey of the River Dene. As such this species is assumed absent from the site and will not present a constraint to the proposed creation of an outfall at the north eastern end of the proposed route.

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Similarly, no white-clawed crayfish were identified during either survey and only the non-native and invasive American signal crayfish was found. This non-native signal crayfish is known to outcompete the native white- clawed crayfish and is also immune to crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci) which it carries; something which is known to eradicate whole populations of the native white-clawed crayfish. It is therefore assumed either of those factors outlined could be attributed to the absence of the native white-clawed crayfish, particularly as some areas of the River Dene provide optimal habitat. As white clawed crayfish are considered absent they will require not further consideration in relation to creation of the proposed outfall. The evidence of otter including spraint and feeding remains found during the survey demonstrates active foraging/commuting otter in the River Dene. Given the small scale of the works proposed on the River Dene which will be at least 50m from the evidence found the risk to otters is considered very low and limited to potential disturbance only. Particularly as the outfall location will be in an open exposed location with no evidence of utilisation by such fauna. As such some precautionary measures are recommended as per those listed earlier in this report in relation to pollution prevention and those below in Section 6.3.7 for badgers; particularly the avoidance of nightwork. Furthermore, those measures should all be included with any PMW for the site and briefed to site staff during any eventual toolbox talk.

Badgers and Other Notable Fauna Whilst no setts or definitive physical evidence of badger was identified during the Phase 1 survey, several well established mammal paths were identified within and in the proximity to the works area. Furthermore, the grassland, scrub, hedgerows and watercourse provided opportunities for foraging and commuting, as well as connectivity to suitable habitat in the wider environment. The banks of the river, however were considered too low, for the most part, to provide opportunities for sett digging. Two records of badger were identified during the desk study within 2km of the site, indicated the presence of the species in the area. Given the suitability of the site to badger, it’s context and the nature of the works, if the scheme has not commenced by May 2019, then it will be necessary to conduct a further badger survey to confirm the absence of setts from the works area, prior to commencement. As the site is suitable for badgers, it is considered possible that other notable / protected mammals such as hedgehog and brown hare are likely to be utilising the site for foraging during the construction phase of the development. As such precautionary measures are recommended to reduce the risk of impacting badgers, or any other mammals during the works. These precautions are:

▪ Mammal ladders (such as a plank) or earth ramps to be placed in any open excavations at the end of each day; ▪ Cap off any open pipes at the end of each day; ▪ Cover any open holes, or install mammal ladders or earth ramps in any open excavations at the end of each day to prevent animals from becoming trapped; ▪ Keep all fuel and other harmful substances in a locked area; ▪ Ensure any spillages are treated with spill kits; ▪ Night work should be avoided where possible, and any flood lighting should face away from the site boundaries; and if any fresh sett digging is observed notify an ecologist immediately and leave a 20m buffer around the area until an assessment can be made.

Invasive Species A stand of Japanese Knotweed was located to the south of the proposed pipeline works area. This is a highly invasive species, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), and strict controls are in place to prevent its spread. It is recommended that this area be entirely avoided during construction, with a 7m stand-off zone implemented for the duration of the works. This should be defined by Heras fencing to

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avoid accidental encroachment. If this is not possible, a decontamination system may be required to facilitate works in close proximity or alternatively its complete eradication (prior to commencing works in this area) will be necessary; both of which will require consultation with a knotweed specialist to inform best practises. As a population of American signal crayfish have been identified within the River Dene strict biosecurity measures should be upkept during works in proximity and directly to the River Dene whilst installing the culvert. This should include thorough removal of sediments/mud and spraying any plant/machinery and boots utilising Virknon-S in a specially designated decontamination zone before leaving the works site following any work associated with the culvert creation; The details of this will also be provided in the PMW for this site.

6.4 Enhancement Recommendations The National Planning Policy Framework and local development plan encourages ecological enhancement of sites subject to development/works proposals. Where new landscape planting is proposed species commonly occurring locally such as horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and oak (Quercus spp.) could be used. Other species such as silver birch (Betula pendula), rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) and whitebeam (Sorbus aria) would make attractive additions to the site. In particular rowan will provide a valuable source of berries late into the winter months and provide an important food source for native and migratory bird species. Ash and elm should currently be avoided due to the prevalence of ‘Ash die-back’ and ‘Dutch elm disease’, as stocks of these species cannot be guaranteed to be free from these afflictions. New native species-rich hedgerows could be planted along the boundaries of the permanent works areas as part of the scheme. These would provide corridors for local flora and fauna dispersal and would act as a valuable ecological enhancement.

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7 REFERENCES

Andrews, 2017 A review of empirical data in respect of emergence and re-entry times reported for the UK’s 17 bat species. Andrews ecology. Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the United Kingdom, 2010. ARG UK Advice Note 5: Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index. s.l.:s.n. BS 42020:2013 Biodiversity – Code of Practice for Planning and Development 2013: The British Standards Institution. Chanin.p. 2003. Monitoring the Otter. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers. Monitoring Series No.10 Clements, D. & Tofts, R., 1992. Hedgerow Evaluation and Grading Systems (HEGS). s.l.:s.n. Collins J eds. 2016. Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 3rd Edition. London: Bat Conservation Trust. Department of Communities & Local Government, 2018. National Planning Policy Framework, London: DCLG. English Nature, 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. Peterborough: English Nature. Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, 2006. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK. 2nd ed. Winchester: IEEM. Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, 2012. Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. 2nd ed. Winchester: IEEM. Institute of Environmental Assessment, 1995. Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment. London: E & FN Spon. Joint Nature Conservancy Council, 2010. Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey. Peterborough: JNCC. Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2004. Bat Workers Manual. 2nd ed. Peterborough: s.n. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, 06/2005. Government Circular: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation - Statutory Obligations and their impact within the planning system. London: ODPM. Peay, 2003 Monitoring the white clawed crayfish 1st Eds. Strachen and Moorhouse, 2011 The Water Vole Conservation Handbook, 3rd Eds.

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Appendix 1: Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan Overview

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Phase 1 Survey Walton Wellesbourne

Appendix 2: Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan North

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Appendix 3: Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan South

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Appendix 4: Species List

Latin Name English Name

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore

Anthriscus sylvestris Cow parsley

Bellis perennis Daisy

Calystegia sepium Hedge bindweed

Cirsium arvense Creeping thistle

Corylus avellana Hazel

Cratageus monogyna Hawthorn

Dactylis glomerata Cock’s foot

Dipsacus fullonum Teasel

Fallopia japonica* Japanese knotweed*

Festuca sp Fescue sp

Filipendula ulmaria Meadow sweet

Fraxinus excelsior Ash

Galium aparine Cleavers

Geranium sp. Cranesbill sp

Hedera helix Ivy

Heracleum sphondylium Hogweed

Hippuris vulgaris Coo are’s tail

Lamium album White dead nettle

Lamium purpureum Red dead nettle

Ligustrum vulgare Wild privet

Lolium perenne Perennial rye grass

Malus sylvestris Crab apple

Petasites hybridus Butterbur

Phragmites australis Common reed

Plantago lanceoloata Ribwort plantain

Poa annua Annual meadow grass

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Ranunculus ficaria Lesser celandine

Ranunculus repens Creeping buttercup

Rosa canina Dog rose

Rubus fruiticosus Bramble

Rumex obtusifolius Broad-leaved dock

Salix sp Willow sp

Sambucus nigra Elder

Stellaria media Chickweed

Taraxacum officianale Dandelion

Ulmus minor English elm

Urtica dioica Common nettle

Veronica sp Speedwell sp. *Non-native invasive species

Page 51 of 51 SEVERN TRENT WATER LIMITED INSTALLATION OF A ROTATING BIOLOGICAL CONTACTOR UNIT AND TURNING HEAD ON LAND ADJACENT TO WALTON ROAD, WALTON, WARWICKSHIRE PLANNING SUPPORTING STATEMENT

DRAWINGS

BM11559/FINAL APRIL 2019