Slow Worm Migiation Plan

The$Chase,$Coldwell$End$ Youlgrave$$$ $ $ Ecological$mitigation$statement$$ and$slow$worm$protection$and$ mitigation$plan$$ $ $ $ 18th$August$2015$ $ $ Introduction $ The purpose of this Ecological Mitigation Statement is to discharge Condition 5 of Conditions Application NP/DIS/0715/0696 for planning application DDD/0415/0374 for a residential development at The Chase, Youlgrave. A statement was first submitted on July 30th 2015(validation date) however following a site visit with Jonathan Ayres one of the PDNP ecologists further detail was required regarding mitigation for slowworms (Anguis fragilis) which are present on the site.

This document is the updated Ecological Mitigation Statement (replacing the earlier submission) and includes more detail on the proposed measure to mitigate possible impacts upon slowworms.

Background Full planning permission was originally granted for the development of a single earth shelter house on land at the west end of Youlgrave in September 2014. An amended (reduced) scheme was subsequently given full permission in July 2015. Prior to this the site has a long planning history and was originally the subject of an ecological survey in October 2010 by Sheaf Ecology Ltd. In March 2014 the site was re- surveyed by Sheaf Ecology, which confirmed the results of the 2010 survey. The ecology reports submitted with the various planning applications are reproduced in Appendix 1.

Each of the surveys highlighted the fact that slowworms were known to be present on the site. The applicant, Andrew Baker is a life-long resident of the village of Youlgrave and is also a professional ecologist and a full Member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. He has considerable experience of working with slowworms and the legislation under which they are protected.

When the scheme was granted full planning permission in September 2014 the applicant offered to submit an ecological mitigation scheme, which was to include a slowworm mitigation plan however, no ecological condition was applied to that planning permission. The applicant nonetheless instigated a mitigation scheme the spring of 2015 to move any slowworms out of the way of the development footprint.

During 2015 in the run up to the commencement of construction the Peak District National Park Planning Authority required the applicant to submit a further planning application in response to proposed amendments to the scheme. The amendments reduce the footprint of the proposed scheme.

The revised planning application was granted full planning permission on July 14th 2015 and included the following condition.

5. No development shall take place until an Ecological Mitigation Statement has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Authority. Thereafter, the development shall not be carried out otherwise than in complete accordance with the approved Ecological Mitigation Statement.

Ecological context of the site

The half-hectare site supports neutral semi-improved grassland, tall ruderal grassland and scattered scrub. The grassland habitat makes up the eastern half of the site while the western half is dominated by scrub with a ground layer of nettles and bindweed.

The 2010 survey found no evidence of bats or badgers, or other protected species on the site. The report did however identify the potential for bats to be present in the old barn and recommend that any cracks should be investigated using an endoscope. The report also identified the potential nesting birds on the site and recommended that any scrub removal should be done outside the bird-breeding season.

Much of Youlgrave is positioned on the south-facing slope of the river Bradford and the dale side supports a considerable population of slowworms. While there have been no systematic surveys of slowworms in and around the village the applicant knows from personal experience that they are wide spread and numerous in gardens, allotments and rough grassland across the village.

Proposed Mitigation

Slowworms There are two aspects to the protection of slowworms that this mitigation strategy aims to address.

Firstly is the legal protection of the species Slowworms are protected under Section 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 in respect to intentional killing and injuring only and offer for sale. It is therefore necessary to demonstrate that reasonable steps have been taken to reduced the chances of slowworms being killed or injured as a result of the development.

Secondly there is the need to ensure that the slowworms will remain on the site and continue to thrive in the habitat that will be retained around the property and in the garden.

Translocation of slowworms

Following the granting of planning permission in 2014 a program of mitigation work has already been carried out. The purpose of the work was to move any slowworms to an area of grassland at the top of the site (northern boundary) that has been fenced off with reptile proof fencing. This area coincides with the root protection zone that is in place to protect tree number 1 that is to be retained (see Figure 1 below and the tree protection report). Given the number of slowworms captured they are now being moved to suitable habitat off site further up Bradford Dale.

Thirty reptile traps (roofing felt sheets) were placed across the site. Each trap has been check on suitable days for the past 3 months. Each capture has been recorded and the capture results are shown in Appendix 2. The final capture records will be provided to the PDNPA once the site clearance is complete.

It is proposed to continue with the trapping work until site clearance is carried out. The fenced area will remain in place for the duration of the construction work. Grass cuttings will be place within the fenced area in order to provide additional feeding and hibernation habitat.

Site Clearance Immediately before site clearance the site will be strimmed and a destructive search carried out.

Strimming will start at the center of the site and will progress outwards to the edges of the build area. This work is already under way.

During the initial soil strip an ecologist will be present to ensure that any remaining animals that might be found are rescued and removed from the site.

Long-term mitigation Once construction is completed the reptile fencing will be removed the slow worms will be allowed to colonise the entire grounds of the property.

Habitat will be retained and new habitat created within the site that will be specifically managed to maintain optimal habitat for slowworms. The grassland will be cut once or twice a year using a strimmer so as not to endanger the slowworms. The arising will be kept on site to provide additional habitat and hibernacula.

The retained/new habitat will include, the grassland within the tree protection zone, grassland around the periphery of the site and a new area of meadow at the western end of the site. The extent of the grassland habitat and other habitats is shown in Figure 2.

As well as the grassland the building will as feature areas of green roofs (that will be at ground level), dry stone retaining walls, and formal and informal gardens all of which will provide habitat for slowworms.

Figure 1 T1 Root Protection Area and Retained Woodland

Bats No bats are present on the site. While the stone building had cracks and crevices that could support roosts none of these have been found to have any evidence of usage. The building is used regularly by the applicant and he has recently confirmed that he has not found any evidence of roosting bats.

As a precaution immediately prior to any works being carried out on the stone barn any gaps in the stone work will be checked again. If evidence of bat is found then no work shall be carried out on the building until an appropriate license is secured from Natural England.

Birds Following grant of full planning permission in September 2014 scrub clearance was carried out outside the bird-breeding season. No further scrub clearance is anticipated but should it be required it will again be done outside the breeding period.

Badgers The applicant has confirmed that there are no badger setts currently on site.

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Appendix 1 2010 Ecology Report

Ecological Assessment

Land at Coldwell End, Youlgreave

Date: November 2010

Report written and checked by Sheaf Ecology Ltd

Sheaf Ecology Ltd. Registered Office: 54 Carter Knowle Rd, Sheffield, S7 2DX Email: [email protected], Web: www.sheafecology.co.uk, Telephone: 07828 582985. Registered in: England, No. 7117260, VAT No: 984 2493 80. 1

Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

CONTENTS

1.0 Non-technical summary ...... 3 2.0 Introduction ...... 4 3.0 Extended Phase 1 survey methodologies ...... 5 4.0 Results ...... 7 5.0 Evaluation of impacts and recommendations for mitigation ...... 13 6.0 Conclusion ...... 16

Bibliography ...... 17

Appendix A - Desk study map and annotations ...... 18 Appendix B - Phase 1 habitat map ...... 20 Appendix C - Species lists ...... 21 Appendix D - Site photographs ...... 24 Appendix E - Target notes ...... 26 Appendix F - Legal status of species potentially present on-site ...... 30 Appendix G - Assessing ecological impacts of a development ...... 32

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

1.0 Non-technical summary

1.1 An ecological assessment and potential for protected species survey was conducted on a site at Coldwell End, Youlgreave as supporting information for a proposed planning application. The site is a small area of land with a minor road to the north, residential housing to the east, and woodland to the west and south. The land slopes steeply down to the south towards the valley bottom. On the area close to the road there is a strip of level land and on the steeper slopes there are small outcrops of limestone.

1.2 The east of the site is former grazing land and contains a moderate mix of plant species. The west of the site is succeeding into a scrub / young woodland habitat although was most likely in the past also used for grazing. The vegetation types identified on-site have a low importance in terms of providing habitat for protected species although some of the more mature trees on-site do offer some potential for nesting birds and the tall ruderal growth to the south could offer suitable habitat for a badger sett and searches for this prior to any development work are recommended.

1.3 There are two structures on-site, one of which is a collapsed / derelict cattle shed, the other a still intact small cattle shed / storage area. The intact building has a low potential for bat species being in a partial state of disrepair and being open, draughty and providing little suitable roosting areas for bats, although there are some small crevices that require further investigation. The habitat immediately around the structures is comprised of former grazing land and patches of common tall ruderal growth. As reptiles (slow worms) have been recorded within 300m of the site these buildings do have the potential to offer habitat as possible hibernacula or places of shelter. It is therefore recommended that destructive searches of the buildings are conducted outside of the hibernation period to enable any reptile species to be re-located outside of the development area.

1.4 The proposed development plans will impact only upon the upper northern area of the site with the derelict cattle shed being converted and the still intact shed being retained. Habitat loss will be minimal although the grassland to the east of the site would benefit from management through either a controlled cutting regime or ideally grazing. The naturally moist atmosphere of the valley that maintains the damp woodland to the south of the site will not be disrupted by any temporary or permanent features of the development.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

2.0 Introduction

2.1 Background and aims

2.2.1 Sheaf Ecology Ltd was commissioned to conduct a ecological assessment and protected species potential survey in October 2010 on a former grazing area at the western end of Youlgreave, Coldwell End, Derbyshire.

2.2.2 This survey was required as supporting documentation for a planning application for a proposal to construct two houses at the northern side of the site.

2.2.3 Through national planning guidance PPS9 Planning Authorities are required to exercise their duties, giving due regard to the provisions of The Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations, 1994 and The Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended) to ensure protected species and other ecological matters are taken into account when determining a planning application. The ecological assessment survey will ensure this obligation can be met by providing the necessary ecological information.

2.2.4 The aims of the survey were to:

Carry out a desk-top study to collect existing information about the site and the surrounding area in terms of wildlife and nature conservation interest. Determine the wildlife interest of the site, including what habitats are present and the potential and/or presence for protected species. Enable an assessment of potential impacts of the proposed development in terms of nature conservation, habitats and species and to provide recommendations for mitigation in terms of the ecology of the site, habitats present and protected species.

2.2 Site description and context

2.2.1 The proposal site is approximately 0.5ha in area and is located at the western end of the village of Youlgreave, Derbyshire (Grid reference at the eastern end SK206640). The site is on a fairly steep southern facing slope.

2.2.2 The site is comprised of grassland to the east, most likely used for grazing until fairly recently. The west / south-west of the site is a mix of tall ruderal and scattered scrub. The level area of the site at the north provides access from the main road with the siting of two former agricultural buildings, one now derelict and the other still intact but in a state of some disrepair.

2.2.3 The site is within a rural setting with the last residential dwellings of Youlgreave abutting the eastern end, mature woodland to the south and south-west and allotments and grazing to the north.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

3.0 Extended Phase 1 survey methodologies

3.1 Desk study

3.1.1 A desk top study was conducted to collect existing wildlife data and records for the site and the surrounding area including sites with nature conservation designations and species records. A search of such records was conducted for the site and for a 2km radius surrounding the site. The following sources were consulted:

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust The National Biodiversity Network Multi-agency geographic information for the countryside (MAGIC)

3.1.2 The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust ecological data search including checking the following data sets:

Presence of protected species included on the Derbyshire Protected Species Database 2010. This includes water vole, otter, Atlantic stream crayfish, bat roosts, great crested newt and reptiles.

DWT species datasets for UK or local Biodiversity Action Plans Priority species including common toad, birds, fish, mammals, butterflies and moths. DWT badger database. Presence of plant species listed on the Derbyshire Vascular Plant Red Data List (2009). Presence of any statutory or non-statutory sites of ecological interest (SSSIs, Regionally Important Geological Sites) Presence of UK BAP Priority habitat types. Presence of ancient semi-natural woodland. Presence of other stands of woodland (broad-leaved or coniferous)

Presence of other areas of semi-improved grassland Statutory and non-statutory sites and species records

3.2 Phase 1 habitat survey and protected species surveys

3.2.1 The initial ecological appraisal of the site is based on the standard JNCC Phase 1 habitat survey methodology (1990). A phase 1 survey classifies and maps the habitats present in a given area using a standard technique and allows for features and findings of particular interest to be highlighted using target notes. For each habitat type the dominant plant

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

species are also recorded as well as noting any other wildlife detected on site, including the presence or potential for protected species based on the habitats present.

3.2.2 The ecological assessment / extended Phase 1 habitat survey was conducted on 25th October 2010 by experienced and qualified Sheaf Ecology staff who are members of the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) and follow species specific survey guidelines and the IEEM code for professional conduct for ecological work.

3.3 Constraints

3.3.1 There were no constraints in access to the site or any of the associated structures within. Weather conditions were cold with a ground frost from an overnight low of -3c. Throughout the survey the weather was clear and sunny with the temperature reaching 7c by the end.

3.3.2 A full accurate botanical survey of the site was not possible due to the timing of the assessment. Phase 1 surveys are possible at any time of year but outside the period around June, July and August there can be little evidence of some flowering plants on grassland surveys. It is therefore possible that the presence of some plant species may not have been recorded during the survey.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

4.0 Results

4.1 Results of the desk study

4.1.1 Designated Sites The site is within the Peak District National Park and the White Peak Natural area. The woodland to the immediate south of the site comprising of Bradford Dale and Moatlow Wood is classed as a combination of ancient and semi-natural and ancient replanted woodland. The nearest Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is the Peak District Dales (Lathkill Dale) being 1.5km to the east and 2.5km to the north also being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of the Derbyshire Dales National Nature Reserve.

4.1.2 Protected Species

No protected species records were obtained for within the site boundary, however a wide range of species do exist within the 2km search area: These are:

Great crested newt (7 records) Otter (2 records) Bat roosts (10 records) Badger setts (30 records – 26 confirmed as active setts) Water vole (145 records) Slow worm (8 records) Fresh water crayfish (92 records although latest record from 1993)

See Appendix A for more details and locations on these species (note, badger setts are not shown for reasons of confidentiality and species protection).

Of most relevance to the site are the records for badger, reptile (slow worm) and bat roosts. The nearest badger sett is approximately 250m from the site boundary, the nearest recorded bat roost (pipistrelle) is just north of the main road approximately 250m from the site boundary and the nearest reptile record is also north of the main road approximately 300m from the site boundary.

4.1.3 Botanical records

A number of nationally threatened, nationally scarce and locally scarce or declining plant species listed in the Derbyshire Red Data Book have also been recorded as listed below.

Nationally threatened species: Narrow-leaved Bitter-cress Cardamine impatiens Mezereon Daphne mezereum Maiden Pink Dianthus deltoids Spring Sandwort Minuartia verna

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Hoary Cinquefoil Potentilla argentea Mossy Saxifrage Saxifraga hypnoides

Records of Mossy saxifrage occur at around the south-western site boundary.

Nationally scarce species:

Wall Whitlowgrass Draba muralis Spring Cinquefoil Potentilla neumanniana Lead-wort (Alpine Penny Cress) Thlaspi caerulescens

Locally scarce or declining (DRDB) species: Blue-fruited Water-starwort Callitriche obtusangula Narrow-leaved Meadow-grass Poa angustifolia Brown Sedge Carex disticha Narrow Buckler-fern Dryopteris carthusiana Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem Gagea lutea Green Hellebore Helleborus viridis Lesser Hawkbit Leontodon saxatilis Spiny Restharrow Ononis spinosa Narrow-fruited Water-cress Rorippa microphylla Pepper-saxifrage Silaum silaus Marsh Arrowgrass Triglochin palustre Marsh Valerian Valeriana dioica Dark Mullein Verbascum nigrum

4.1.4 Other records

Song Thrush – UK BAP species (8 records) Brown Hare – UK BAP (15 records)

4.2 Results of the field study

4.2.1 The site, as noted in section 2.2 above, is fairly small and is predominately surrounded with woodland, agricultural land and residential dwellings. The site boundary comprises stone walling varying between 0.5m-1m in height along the northern boundary. The eastern, western and southern boundary comprises of post and wire fencing with some more solid fencing sections on the south and north-west boundary. There are also relic collapsed dry stone walls evident to the south of the defunct barn and along the southern boundary of the post and wire fence.

4.2.2 The east of the site is dominated by neutral semi-improved grassland which is most likely to have been used for stock grazing as the steep slope of the area would prove difficult to take a hay cut. Towards the centre of the site and to the south of the defunct cattle-stall the area

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

is dominated by tall ruderal species which then becomes more scattered scrub in nature to the west almost to the point of very young woodland.

4.2.3 There are few tree species along the northern / eastern boundary with only a young multi- stemmed ash and one large mature ash being any of note. The south and west of the site boundaries are dominated by mature woodland leading down into the valley bottom. The northern boundary abuts the main road with allotments and grazing land on the north of the road.

4.3 Habitat descriptions

4.3.1 Neutral Semi-improved grassland Whilst there is an underlying geology of limestone, the small protrusion of rock towards the eastern boundary being an example (See Figure 6), there appear to be few indicators of calcareous grassland, although the survey was conducted at a sub-optimal time of year. The grassland habitat exists across approximately 50% of the site (See Figures 3, 4 and 7) and has probably not been grazed extensively for some years. Whilst the grassland is predominately found to the east of the site, there is also a strip running along the northern boundary of the site and around the access point and old buildings (See Figures 11 and 12).

The composition of the grassland as stated above shows few indicators of a calcareous type although it has a fairly extensive species composition including: common mouse-ear (Cerastium fontanum), crosswort (Galium cruciata), yarrow (Achillia millefolium), meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans), common vetch (Vicia sativa) and germander speedwell (Veronica chamaedrys). The growth of the sward is dense and indicative of a lack of management containing twitch (Agropyron repens), cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), false oat grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) and upright brome (Bromus erectus).

Up against the boundaries, the stone walls and post and wire fencing more common tall ruderal species can be found such as stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and bramble (Rubus fructicosus agg.). However where the grassland comes up against the buildings or in some places the walls, more specialist species such as purple saxifrage (Saxifraga oppoisitifolia) and shining crane’s-bill (Geranium lucidum) occur occasionally.

4.3.2 Tall ruderal This habitat is dominant to the south of the derelict cattle stall and over towards the west of the site (See Figures 8, 9 and 10). The species composition is fairy typical of tall ruderal community. In some parts the tallest species is hogweed and that is used by field bindweed (Calystegia sepium) as a climbing prop. Nettle, spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare), creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense) and dock (Rumex obtusifolius) also occur frequently. Where the tall ruderal community approaches the scattered scrub, species such as male fern (Dryopteris felix-mas), bramble and red campion (Silene dioica) become more frequent and as shade

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

increases, male fern (Dryopteris felix-mas) and common polypody (Polypodium vulgare) can be found growing in lower damp areas between tree and shrub stems with the latter species found growing epiphytically on elder stems from thick coverings of the moss Eurynchium praelongum. Bramble dominates in some areas with cleavers (Galium aparine) and field bindweed frequently found climbing through.

4.3.3 Scattered scrub (trees and shrubs)

Towards the west of the site the habitat becomes dominated by scattered scrub and young woodland (See Figures 9 and 10). There is evidence that there was more extensive woodland in this and the surrounding area with large ash (Fraxinus excelsior) stumps and logs in a state of advanced decay. There are woodland climax species present, ash (Fraxinus excelsior), wych elm (Ulmus glabra) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) within this habitat type but these are either as seedlings or very infrequent mature specimens that even in combination they could not constitute a woodland. However, there are woodland indicator species present in dog’s mercury (Mercurialis perennis), wood forget-me-not (Myosotis sylvatica) , male fern (Dryopteris felix-mas), common polypody, cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) and red campion (Silene dioica) all of which are associated with W8 Fraxinus excelsior-Acer campestre-Mercurialis perennis woodland. As stated in 4.3.2, moss and other bryophyte growth on tree and shrub trunks indicate valley bottom damp conditions that add biodiversity value to the habitat.

4.3.4 Summary of habitat types recorded on and close to the site:

Neutral semi-improved grassland Tall ruderals Scattered shrubs and trees.

A Phase 1 habitat map, species lists and photographs are presented in Appendix B, C and D.

4.4 Evidence of fauna and potential for protected species

4.4.1 Birds The following species were seen or heard during the survey:

Nuthatch Blue tit Blackbird Pheasant Jackdaw

The tree and shrub habitat is considered to be of some value for birds, in particular where there is limited disturbance. In addition, blue tits may nest within the boundary walls where

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

there are big enough cracks. Old nests were found within the intact cattle stall structure although there was no breeding behaviour exhibited by any of the birds identified including territorial birdsong, carrying of nest material, feeding young at nest, feeding fledglings, etc although the survey was conducted outside the bird breeding season.

4.4.2 Badger

The habitat could be considered of value to badgers (Meles meles) as there were areas that could be foraged and dug for soil invertebrates. No evidence was found of this species either in the form of setts, feeding and foraging field signs or latrines during the walk over survey.

As there is a confirmed active badger sett within 300m of the site it is very possible that badgers will occasionally use the site for commuting and foraging and consideration should be given to the mobility of this species and the potential for a badger to dig out an outlying sett prior to any development work.

4.4.3 Water vole There were no features on-site suitable for water vole.

4.4.4 Bats

The only suitable roosting areas for bats would be the intact cattle-shed and mature ash both on the northern boundary and the other semi-mature ash to the south of the site. All of these features were studied from the ground using binoculars where appropriate or carefully examined within.

No evidence was found to suggest bats may be using any of these features and the cattle- shed was light, draughty and offered few roosting opportunities although the small holes and cracks within may offer some potential for occasional transient roosting bats.

4.4.5 Other mammals A fox was discovered in the tall ruderal growth at the south of the derelict structure. It is also likely that a range of other small mammal species such as field voles and mice are present.

4.4.6 Reptiles No reptiles were recorded during the survey although the site does offer some potential for reptiles for foraging. The collapsed walls and especially the area to the south of the derelict barn also offers some potential as possible hibernacula or resting place for reptiles especially in light of slow worms being recorded within 300m of the site.

4.4.7 Amphibians

No amphibians were found during the survey of the site and there were no water-bodies present that would provide suitable habitat for the protected great crested newt.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

4.4.8 Invertebrates No invertebrates were recorded during the survey although as noted earlier, weather conditions at the time of the survey were very cold making conditions inappropriate for recording of these species. It is likely there will be a range of small invertebrates present normally associated with the habitat types identified.

N.B. Recordings of protected species are valid at the time of survey. There is the possibility that species not recorded in surveys may at sometime afterwards, occupy, utilise or colonise the site.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

5.0 Evaluation of impacts and recommendations for mitigation

5.1 Ecological effects of the Development

5.1.1 The proposed development of the residential properties cut into the upper slope of the site will have some impact upon the existing grassland and the tall ruderal habitats in particular. It is not envisaged that there will be any tree removal other than that of scrub from areas where the tall ruderal merges into the scrub habitat. Temporary storage and access areas will be required during the construction period and these will be accommodated in areas of current disturbance and dereliction. The damp environment that currently has beneficial impact upon the biodiversity of the lower slope scrub areas will not be affected by the proposed development.

See Appendix F for detail on how ecological impact levels are determined.

5.2 Habitats & flora

5.2.1 The three main habitats identified on the survey site all showed signs of having deteriorated over the past 5-10 years. The grassland, while lying on limestone substrate does not clearly contain a range of calcareous indicators which are typical of many of the valuable calcareous grasslands in the White Peak Natural Area. The tall ruderal which also contains areas of bramble scrub, may have developed from succession on grassland that is becoming impoverished through lack of management. This succession is typical of agricultural dereliction (Rodwell 1991) which is apparent from the lack of use and maintenance of the buildings and habitats on the site. Where the scattered scrub exist on-site, the species composition indicated that a more substantial woodland may have existed with a potential range of trees species including ash, wych elm, hawthorn, goat willow (Salix caprea) whitebeam (Sorbus aria) and field maple (Acer campestre). At present one of the most valuable elements of this habitat is the relatively damp conditions that are promoting the growth of bryophytes and ferns.

5.2.2 None of the habitats on-site are considered to be of sufficient quality to be of national or regional importance nor at present would they contribute to any significance to the local Biodiversity Action Plan although both neutral and calcareous grasslands are part of unimproved pasture, rough grazing and limestone dale habitat action plans under the Peak District Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). The removal of existing habitats on-site will reduce to a small extent the amount of semi-natural vegetation in the area, in particular the semi- improved/neutral grassland that can provide suitable habitat to a range of invertebrates. Management of the grassland can be undertaken through small scale grazing or cutting programmes and this will enhance its biodiversity value through reduction in rank grasses and promotion of species more typical of calcareous grasslands. Therefore the proposed development will have a minor negative impact due to the loss of semi-natural habitats.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

5.2.3 The removal of a some trees will have an impact upon birds as some species were observed to be using the trees for perching and feeding. There are however a wide range of trees in the immediate zone of influence both as street trees within landscaped areas and in the woodland to the south of the site. It is considered that the impacts due to the removal of trees will be low within the immediate area.

5.3 Protected Fauna

5.3.1 Badger There was no evidence of badgers using the site for any purpose therefore it is predicted that the proposed development would have no impact upon this protected mammal although it is recommended that a careful search of the undergrowth is conducted in the winter months or prior to works commencing allowing enough time to apply for a Natural England development licence should a sett be discovered.

5.3.2 Bats There is likely to be no impact on bats as there are few features with any potential to support these protected species although it is recommended that the small cracks and crevices in the intact cattle stall are checked with an endoscope for the presence of any bat species.

5.3.3 Reptiles and amphibians There was no identified use of the site by either reptiles or amphibians and while the grassland may provide some appropriate habitat there are no suitable water bodies for amphibians to use for breeding.

The site does however, have some potential for hibernacula and as slow worms have been recorded within 300m of the site it is recommended that a careful destructive search of the barns / outbuildings is conducted outside of the hibernation period prior to any works beginning. Slow worms can also often be found in compost heaps and in light of their being an allotment on the opposite side of the road, consideration will need to be given to this species

5.3.4 Invertebrates No invertebrates of note were identified as using the site nor were there any specific plant/ invertebrate relationships identified although the survey was conducted at a sub-optimal time of year for the recording of invertebrates. Any loss of habitat would have an impact upon the invertebrates using the site but as the invertebrate fauna is only of local value the impact would be reduced. It is therefore predicted that there would be low impact upon invertebrates from the development.

5.4 Although the impacts of the development are considered to be low to negligible, a number of recommendations are made that will ensure wildlife and habitats are protected.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

It is therefore recommended that:

1. Any tree and scrub clearance work, should planning be approved, be carried out outside the bird breeding season (March-September) and that adequate replacement habitat is provided within the landscaping plans for the site (including provision of shrubs or small trees for bird nesting, and provision of nest boxes).

2. The overall welfare of more common species is considered during site clearance work to allow animals to disperse away from the site without being harmed during development i.e. foxes, hedgehogs etc.

3. As many of the trees are retained where possible and that new landscaping works include native tree and shrub plantings to compensate for the loss of the habitat on site. Use of native species of trees and shrubs will provide habitat for invertebrates and birds.

4. Additional breeding opportunities for birds and bats should be incorporated into the structures linked to the proposed development. Such provision can provide roost sites for bats especially pipistrelles and birds such as house martins and swifts.

5. A regime of grassland management, approved by the LPA, should be instigated on the semi-mature grassland on the east of the site. This would help to improve species diversity and provide a valuable habitat for invertebrates.

6. To provide further, safe and permanent hibernation opportunities for reptiles (and potentially amphibians), purpose built hibernacula are created close to the site boundaries where there will be little chance of any disturbance.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

6.0 Conclusion

6.1 The site at Coldwell End, Youlgreave comprises approximately 0.5ha of land bounded on two sides by mature woodland, the road to the north and residential housing to the east. The main habitat types are neutral semi-improved grassland, tall ruderal, scattered scrub and scattered trees.

6.2 The survey concludes that the site offers very few habitat opportunities for a range of protected and important fauna including water voles, reptiles, amphibians and bats. The site does have some potential for badgers although no evidence of this species was found during the initial walk over survey although either a winter or pre-construction search is recommended in time to apply for a mitigation licence if required. Additionally it is recommended that an endoscopic search of any cavities in the intact barn for any bat species is carried out and the a carefully destructive search of the barns / outbuilding is conducted in respect of slow worms outside the hibernation period.

6.3 As stated in 5.2.1 above the habitats on the site have suffered deterioration of a number of years and this has reduced species diversity and hence biodiversity value. A reintroduction of grassland management by grazing or cutting can re-establish valuable grassland and extending this into existing tall ruderal and bramble scrub will extend that enhancement through a larger part of the site. Species associated with the built structures on the site such as purple saxifrage and shining cranesbill should be protected and enhanced where possible. The scrub woodland would not require active management as maintenance of humidity and allowing the natural process of succession and regeneration to take place would enhance biodiversity value.

6.4 The mitigation of predicted impacts can be achieved by ensuring that native species are used to replace any trees and shrubs that are removed. Semi-natural vegetation in the form of wild flower mixes of local provenance, active grassland management or landscaping that provides opportunities for wildlife and particularly invertebrates, can replace habitat areas of lower wildlife value that are removed. Bird boxes and artificial bat roosts can be incorporated into built structures as part of the development. This will enhance the biodiversity value of the site with the possible introduction of roosting bats and breeding birds.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Bibliography

Bat Conservation Trust, (2007) Bat Surveys –Good Practice Guidelines . BCT London

Joint Nature Conservation Committee (1990). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. A technique for environmental audit. Fifth edition. JNCC.

IEEM (2006) Guidelines for ecological Impact assessment in the United Kingdom. Final Draft 3rd February 2006, Winchester, Institute of ecology and Environmental Management .

Peak District National Park Authority (2001). The Peak District Biodiversity Action Plan. http://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/bap.pdf

Rodwell, J.S (1991) British Plant Communities: Volume 1 Woodlands and scrub. Cambridge, C.U.P,

Rodwell, J.S (1992) British Plant Communities: Volume 3 Grasslands and montane communities . Cambridge, C.U.P,

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix A - Desk study map and annotations

Ecological data search within a 2km radius of the site Source: Derbyshire Wildlife Trust

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Key to the ecological date search within a 2km radius of the site Source: Derbyshire Wildlife Trust

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix B - Phase 1 habitat map

Phase 1 habitat map of the site Source: Adapted from site survey plans from Peak Surveying Services (2004)

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix C - Species lists

Neutral Semi improved grassland

Common Name Scientific Name

Twitch Agropyron repens False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius Creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera Daisy Bellis perennis Upright brome Bromus erectus Cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata Male Fern Dryopteris felix-mas Broad leaved willowherb Epilobium montanum Red Fescue Festuca rubra Cleavers Galium aparine Shining cranesbill Geranium lucidum Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus Nipplewort Lapsana communis Perennial rye-grass Lolium perenne Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata Annual meadow grass Poa annua Smooth meadow grass Poa pratensis Creeping cinquefoil Potentilla reptans Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens Dock Rumex obtusifolius Ragwort Senecio jacobaea Smooth sow thistle Sonchus oleraceous Lesser stitchwort Stellaria graminea Purple saxifrage Saxifraga oppoisitifolia Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. Yellow oat grass Tricetum flavens White clover Trifolium repens Germander speedwell Veronica chamaedrys Common vetch Vicia sativa

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Tall ruderal

Common Name Scientific Name Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Moss Brachythecium rutabulum Field bindweed Calystegia sepium Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense Lichen Cladonia coniocraea Cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata Tussock grass Deschampsia caespitosa Male Fern Dryopteris felix-mas Couch grass Elymus repens Moss Eurynchium praelongum Cleavers Galium aparine Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus Smooth meadow grass Poa pratensis Meadow buttercup Ranunculus acris Bramble Rubus fructicosus Dock Rumex obtusifolius Red campion Silene dioica Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. Stinging nettle Urtica dioica

Trees and shrubs

Common Name Scientific Name Garlic mustard Alliaria petiolaris Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Silver birch Betula pendula Elder Sambucus nigra Field bindweed Calystegia sepium Elder Sambucus nigra Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Lichen Cladonia coniocraea Cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata Male fern Dryopteris felix-mas Moss Eurynchium praelongum Ash Fraxinus excelsior Herb Robert Geranium robertianum Ground ivy Glechoma hederacea Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Wood avens Geum urbanum Wych elm Ulmus glabra Dog’s mercury Mercurialis perennis Wood forget-me-not Myosotis sylvatica Common polypody Polypodium vulgare Bramble Rubus fructicosus agg. Red campion Silene dioica Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus

Nettle Urtica dioica

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix D - Site photographs

Figure 1: A view east of the site from the west Figure 2: Showing the intact small building

Figure 3: A view east across the site Figure 4: A view south from the eastern end

Figure 5: The other large ash on-site Figure 6: A small limestone outcrop at the east

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Figure 7: Facing north-west showing the steep Figure 8: Facing north showing an area of tall ruderal gradient of the hillside to the south of the small outbuilding

Figure 9: Showing an area of tall ruderal to the south Figure 10: A view to the south-west from the south of the defunct outbuilding of the defunct outbuilding

Figure 11: Showing the defunct outbuilding Figure 12: Facing west over an area of grassland from adjacent to the defunct outbuilding

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix E - Target notes

T1 Target noted as being the most mature tree on-site (See photograph below taken from the north- east facing west). This is a mature / semi-mature ash approximately 12m-14m in height with a DBH of 70cm. The main bole becomes bifurcate at 2m with the two boughs from this being in good condition although there is a missing bough on the western section, possibly through wind damage.

The tree is in fairly good condition with there being little dead wood or signs of disease. The upper canopy is even with a spread of approximately 6m although the lower canopy on the northern section has become slightly box-shaped due to the passage of high sided vehicles along the main road. The lower canopy to the south extends out into the field by approximately 7-8m and there is some young re-growth from the stool of the tree within the field on the northern side.

The tree has a significant sized lower base which is starting to cause the wall and the footpath to the north to become raised.

The most mature tree on the site

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

T2 The woodland at the south of the site, whilst south facing appears to remain fairly damp and there are in places some interesting plant communities present, although common. The photograph below shows moss growing on an elder in which there is also ferns growing from the moss which is retaining the overall dampness.

Some of the elder in this area are dead and decaying and ear-fungus can be found throughout.

Damp conditions providing interesting plant communities on the lower south of the site

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

T3 The disused cattle stall adjacent to the main road at the north of the site is the only building on-site that is still intact. This small outbuilding is of stone construction with wooden timber beams to support the asbestos roof. Numerous roof panels are missing, there is no door and the windows are broken leading to a windy and very open feel combined with a general state of disrepair.

Birds nests are evident within, on the window frame and also in the roof timbers. There are large deposits of insect eating bird droppings on the eastern wall, possibly swallow. There are also numerous small cracks and cavities within the building especially on the western wall which could have some small potential for occasional transient roosting bats.

Showing the open nature of the small outbuilding

Showing the western gable wall with large deposits of bird droppings and numerous small cavities.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

T4 Between the intact outbuilding and the derelict cattle stalls is remaining section of a very large ash where almost the entire upper bole has fallen into the south of the site. This was once a significant tree with a DBH of 100cm+. The fallen trunk is now beginning to decay as are the branches and remains of the upper canopy.

The remaining trunk has a significant hollow to the northern side and presents an excellent dead wood habitat for invertebrates.

Additionally this area with logs, collapsed stone walls and the derelict building to the north could offer suitable hibernacula for reptiles, especially slow worms.

Showing the fallen tree to the south of the site. This has created a dense complex undergrowth structure with numerous pieces of rotting wood beneath the heavy growth of bindweed.

Showing the remains of the ash tree

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix F - Legal status of species potentially present on-site

Nesting birds Under the terms of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to disturb nesting birds. The survey site is likely of significant local importance for nesting birds therefore any proposed operation considered to have the potential to disturb nesting birds should be carried out outside of the optimum period for bird nesting (March to September inclusive).

Reptiles All reptiles are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) against:

intentional killing and injuring selling, offering or exposing for sale, or having in possession or transporting for the purpose of sale, any live or dead wild animal or any part of, or anything derived from, such an animal; or publishing or causing to be published any advertisement likely to be understood as conveying buying or selling, or intending to buy or sell, any of those things.

Note: Smooth snake and sand lizard are afforded higher levels of protection than other reptiles, which are addressed here.

Bats All European bat species are protected through listing in Annex IV of the EC Directive 92/94/EEC ‘The Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora’. Bats are also protected by the Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations, 1994 and are therefore included in a range of protected species where it is an offence to;

Deliberately capture or kill any animal of a European protected species Deliberately disturb such an animal Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such an animal Keep, transport, sell or exchange or offer for sale or exchange and live or dead wild animal (or plant) of a European protected species, or any part of or anything derived from such a wild animal.

The high conservation status of bats is primarily due to their declining population both in the UK and throughout Europe. The loss of feeding areas, modern agricultural and forestry practices, loss of roost sites and remedial timber treatment have all contributed to the decline in bat populations (English Nature, 2003). Where these negative factors occur, characteristics such as such as bat physiology, reproductive strategies, hibernation requirements and lifecycles, increase the bat’s overall vulnerability to change.

The decline in bat numbers and breeding sites has resulted in most of the UK bat species being prioritised in either the National Biodiversity Action Plan or in Local Biodiversity Action Plans.

Badger Badgers are comprehensively protected through UK legislation. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 brought together earlier legislation providing full legal protection throughout the year. It is illegal to kill, injure or capture a badger deliberately or to disturb, damage or interfere with a badger sett. This may also include indirect activities that affect badgers such as changes or loss of feeding habitat.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Priority habitats and species Under the terms of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 all public bodies are required to have regard to the conservation of biodiversity when carrying out their activities. This means that efforts must be made to conserve, particularly, areas of priority habitat and populations of priority species. There would be a presumption in the land-use planning process against any development that would result in loss to an area of priority habitat.

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Ecological Assessment – Coldwell End, Youlgreave November 2010

Appendix G - Assessing ecological impacts of a development

In assessing the ecological impact of a development it is essential to consider the types of ecological receptor that could be impacted upon:

Designated sites and features Identifiable discrete units of important semi-natural habitats Definable populations, sub populations and meta populations Areas of habitat that form a continuum extending beyond the boundaries of the development site

These receptors that together and individually, form the intrinsic biodiversity interest of the site and must be valued to form the basis of an objective evaluation of the impacts of the proposed development upon the site. The relative values used are:

International UK National (England, Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland) Regional County District (Unitary Authority) Local or parish Zone of influence (immediate area)

The impact of a development on receptors whether negative or positive can range across a number of factors, extent, magnitude, duration, reversibility and frequency all of which should be taken into account where relevant.

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Appendix 2 2014 Verification Report

Peak District National Park Authority, Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1AE

31st March 2014

Dear Sirs,

Ecological Assessment Report - Verification of Report for Planning Purposes

In November 2010 Sheaf Ecology Ltd. provided an Initial Ecological Assessment report for development proposals at land at Coldwell End, Youlgreave for Mr and Mrs Baker.

Following a request from Mr and Mrs Baker, a revisit was conducted in March 2014 to evaluate if there had been any ecological changes at the site. I can confirm that the findings of the original report are still valid and that the habitats remain in the same condition as per the original report.

I can also report that on this site re-visit the potential presence for slow worms, as noted in the original report, was confirmed with two being found during the site visit. Mr and Mrs Baker were already aware of the presence of these at the site and I am informed that they will be submitting an appropriate mitigation and compensation scheme to take account of these during proposed site works.

Yours faithfully,

Martin Derbyshire Sheaf Ecology Ltd.

[email protected] 07754 946800

Sheaf Ecology Ltd. Email: [email protected], Web: www.sheafecology.co.uk, Telephone: 07754 946800 Registered Office: 54 Carter Knowle Rd, Sheffield, S7 2DX, Registered in: England, No. 7117260

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