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9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
9.1 Introduction
9.1.1 This chapter provides the assessment of the potential effects of the construction and operation phases of the Scheme on Ecology and Nature Conservation. A desk-based study and field surveys, undertaken between 2009 and 2015, have been used to underpin this assessment. Technical supporting data are provided in Appendix 9.1 and Confidential Appendix 9.2. In view of the long design-life of the Scheme (30 years for new gantries, 40 years for new carriageway construction, and 120 years for new bridges), and as no impacts are predicted during the decommissioning phase of the Scheme which have not already been identified and assessed for the construction and operational phases, effects as a result of decommissioning have been scoped out of this assessment. 9.1.2 The assessment has been undertaken for the following receptors: statutory and non-statutory designated sites, habitats and plants, terrestrial invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, bats, dormice ( Muscardinus avellanarius ), water voles ( Arvicola terrestris ), otters ( Lutra lutra ), and badgers ( Meles meles ). 9.1.3 To prevent unnecessary injury or death to badgers and having regard to the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, all information related to badgers (including survey methodology, baseline information, mitigation and residual effects and cumulative effects), is presented in Confidential Appendix 9.2. Release of Confidential Appendix 9.2 will only be to the Planning Inspectorate (the “Inspectorate”), and on request from suitably qualified professionals. 9.1.4 Direct and indirect effects on nature conservation as a result of the Scheme have been considered. These include, but are not limited to, disturbance, injury or killing of individuals, and destruction or fragmentation of habitats including, noise disturbance and pollution (air quality and surface/ground water pollution).
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9.1.5 This chapter details the methodology followed for the assessment, and summarises the regulatory and policy framework relating to nature conservation. It then discusses Scheme-wide considerations which outline both where receptors are present within the study area and generic mitigation. Following this, the baseline, specific mitigation and residual effects of the Scheme are discussed for each link of the Scheme from west (junction 12) to east (junction 3). Cumulative effects are then discussed, followed by limitations encountered in compiling the assessment. Finally, a summary table is provided. 9.1.6 All drawings referenced within this chapter are presented in Document Reference 6.2 (ES Figures), and all appendices referenced in this chapter are presented in Document Reference 6.3 (ES Appendices).
9.2 Methodology
General approach 9.2.1 The assessment methodology has been based on the guidance provided in the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management ("IEEM") Guidelines (Ref 9-1), which focus on those activities that could potentially generate significant effects on valued receptors, in accordance with Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (“DMRB”) Volume 11, Section 3, Part 4, ‘Ecology and Nature Conservation’ (Ref 9-2) and Interim Advice Note (“IAN”) 130/10 ‘Ecology and Nature Conservation: Criteria for Impact Assessment’ (Ref 9-3). In line with the IEEM Guidelines’ requirements, this chapter makes reference to desk-based and field survey work previously undertaken in order to assist the assessment process. 9.2.2 When applying the methodologies set out below, professional judgement has been used in the: valuation of receptors; characterisation of effects; assessment of the likely success of mitigation measures to address these effects; and assessment of the likely residual effects after mitigation. 9.2.3 The approach to defining the baseline and assessing effects is set out below. 9.2.4 Throughout the chapter, specific locations are referred to by chainages and Target Notes ("TN"). Chainages are shown at every 100m along the motorway on Drawing 9.2. TNs provide additional information to support the phase 1 survey and are shown on Drawing 9.2. The ‘soft estate’ is referenced throughout the chapter; this term refers to all vegetated land inside the existing motorway boundary fence.
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Consultation 9.2.5 Natural England (“NE”) and local authorities were consulted on the Scoping Report and Preliminary Environmental Information Report. This included a teleconference on 11 February 2015. Study area 9.2.6 The study area for this assessment has been defined by determining the zone of influence of the Scheme in relation to each of the receptors, including the extent to which direct effects caused by land take and habitat loss may be experienced by those receptors and the extent of indirect effects, such as receptors’ prey species being affected by the Scheme. 9.2.7 The zone of influence is different for each of the receptors assessed and, therefore, the study area has been defined for each one in turn in Table 9.1 and are shown on Drawing 9.1. The data search study areas listed in the table below are measured from the edge of carriageway, unless stated otherwise. The study area is larger for desk-based searches as this provides a wider understanding of what species are likely to be using the field survey study area and Order limits. 9.2.8 Throughout the link-by-link description, where designated sites or species fall within the study area of two links, these are considered in both links.
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Table 9.1: Study areas
Data Search Field Survey Receptors Justification Study Area Study Area 1
Designated 2km from See chapter 6 Air Data search study Sites Order limits Quality area was in 30km from accordance with Order limits DMRB Volume 11, for SACs Section 4, Part 1, designated HD44/09 (Ref 9-4) for bats Any sites considered to be hydrologically linked to the Scheme via surface or ground water
Non-Statutory 500m N/A Data search study Designated area was decided Sites based upon professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
Habitats & 1km Habitats within the Study areas were Plants Order limits decided based upon professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
1 Access to construction compounds 5, 8 and 9 within the Order limits has not been obtained and is still being pursued. See para. 9.15.4 for further details.
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Data Search Field Survey Receptors Justification Study Area Study Area 1
Schedule 9 N/A Habitats within the Study areas were Invasive Plant Order limits decided based upon Species professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
Invertebrates 1km Habitat suitability Study areas were assessment: Order decided based upon limits professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
Amphibians 1km Habitat Suitability Data search study Index ("HSI") survey: area based upon 500m from the Order consideration of zone limits of influence. Pond surveys, where Field survey study HSI score greater than areas were decided in average: 250m from accordance with edge of carriageway DMRB Volume 10, Section 4, Part 6 (Ref 9-5) and NE Great Crested Newt Survey Guidelines (Ref 9-6).
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Data Search Field Survey Receptors Justification Study Area Study Area 1
Reptiles 1km Habitat suitability Data search study assessment: Order area based upon limits consideration of zone Reptile surveys: of influence. optimal or Suitable habitat within representative habitat the field survey study within the existing area for reptiles was Highways Agency (the identified in “Agency”) estate 2 accordance with DMRB Volume 10 Section 4 Part 7 (Ref 9-7)
Birds 1km Bird nesting habitat Study areas were assessment: Order decided based upon limits professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
Bats 1km Inspection survey: All Data search study structures and trees area based upon within Order limits consideration of zone Emergence survey: of influence. structures and trees Field survey study identified as having area was in potential for roosting accordance with bats within Order limits DMRB Volume 10, Section 4, Part 3 (Ref 9-8).
Dormouse 1km Habitat suitability Study areas were assessment: Order decided based upon limits professional Dormice surveys: judgement and optimal habitat within consideration of Order limits anticipated zone of influence.
2 In almost all circumstances the Agency’s estate represents better habitat than that which is outside its ownership. For assessment purposes, the adjacent land has been assumed to perform at least as well as the Agency’s estate; and this enables a high degree of confidence in the assessment.
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Data Search Field Survey Receptors Justification Study Area Study Area 1
Water Vole 1km All watercourses Data search study crossing the Order area based upon limits: 500m consideration of zone of influence. Field survey study area in accordance with the Water Vole Conservation Handbook 2011 (Ref 9-9).
Otter 1km All watercourses Study areas were crossing the Order decided based upon limits: 500m professional judgement and consideration of anticipated zone of influence.
Defining the baseline 9.2.9 The assessment of the likely effects of the Scheme on ecology and nature conservation has been undertaken in accordance with DMRB Volume 11, Section 3, Part 4, ‘Ecology and Nature Conservation’ (Ref 9-2) and IAN 130/10 ‘Ecology and Nature Conservation: Criteria for Impact Assessment‘ (Ref 9-3). 9.2.10 The assessment has been based on a comprehensive desk-based study, using information supplied from local environmental record centres and readily available web-based data. 9.2.11 Field-based surveys have been undertaken in accordance with DMRB Volume 10 Section 4 (Ref 9-11) to establish a baseline against which to assess the significance of effects on each of the receptors and to identify the need for European Protected Species ("EPS") mitigation licences. Timings for individual surveys can be found in Table 9.2. Whilst it is anticipated that baseline features will remain unchanged, further surveys will be undertaken prior to construction to maintain future validity (for example, to assess the distribution of great crested newts). 9.2.12 Specific ecological survey methodologies are presented in Appendix 9.1. Specialist surveys to assess the potential for effects on designated sites are described within chapter 6 Air Quality.
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Table 9.2: Field based surveys
Survey Area of Order limits Year
Phase 1 Junctions 3-8/9 2009 (updated 2014)
Phase 1 Junctions 8/9-12 2009 (updated 2014)
Amphibians Junctions 3-8/9 2010 and 2014
Amphibians Junctions 8/9-12 2010, 2013 and 2014
Reptiles Junctions 3-8/9 2014
Reptiles Junctions 8/9-12 2013
Bats Junctions 3-8/9 2010 (updated 2014)
Bats Junctions 8/9-12 2010 (updated 2013)
Dormice Junctions 3-8/9 2010 3
Dormice Junctions 8/9-12 2010 (updated 2013)
Water voles Junctions 3-8/9 2014 (updated 2015)
Water voles Junctions 8/9-12 2013 (updated 2015)
Otters Junctions 3-8/9 2014
Otters Junctions 8/9-12 2013
9.2.13 The receptors which may be affected by the Order limits were identified, and their value determined in a geographical context in accordance with IAN 130/10 (Ref 9-3). A summary table setting out the resource valuation for the relevant receptors is provided in Table 9.4.1 at Appendix 9.4.
3 Dormice surveys were not updated during the 2013 and 2014 survey season between junction 8/9 and 3, as no dormice were found during field surveys in 2010 and in light of the limited suitable habitat within this section of the Scheme. Full results and survey locations of Dormice surveys conducted in 2010 are included in Appendix 9.1, Annex 5-A and Annex 5-B and Appendix 9.1 Figure 2. Dormouse habitat surveys, and presence and absence surveys within suitable habitats, will be repeated in May- October 2015 to confirm the continued absence of this species between junction 8/9 and 3.
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Design and mitigation 9.2.14 Mitigation measures have been devised to address the potential effects identified in order to reduce the significance of residual effects, following the hierarchy below: a) avoidance – incorporate measures to avoid the effect, for example, alternative design options or modifying the programme to avoid environmentally sensitive periods; b) reduction – incorporate measures to lessen the effect, for example, fencing off sensitive areas during construction and implementing a Construction Environmental Management Plan ("CEMP") (Appendix 4.2); and c) compensation/remediation – where it is not possible to avoid or reduce a significant effect then offsetting measures should be considered, for example, the provision of replacement of habitat to replace that lost to the Order limits or remediation such as the clean-up of contaminated soils. 9.2.15 Gantries G3-08, G4-11, G5-02 and G5-07 have been relocated/moved to a location greater than 5m away from any ditch or watercourse to avoid impacts to watercourse habitats and their component species. Gantry G5- 04 has been relocated 30m to the west to avoid a stand of Japanese Knotweed ( Fallopia japonica ). Gantry G6-12 has also been moved to avoid ecological impacts. The location of these gantries is shown on Drawings 9.3, Sheets 10, 11, 12 and 13. 9.2.16 Pre-construction surveys will be undertaken in works areas where vegetation is to be removed or ground-breaking works are to occur, particularly in areas which include potentially suitable resting or breeding habitat for mobile protected species, such as trees suitable for roosting bat, water vole burrows or otter holts. 9.2.17 The mitigation measures are described for each receptor within this chapter. However, specific details of these measures will be set out within the CEMP, an ‘Outline’ version of which is submitted in support of this DCO application (Appendix 4.2).
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Assessing impacts 9.2.18 The magnitude and significance of residual effects have been identified in accordance with DMRB Volume 11, Section 2, Part 5 HA 205/08 (Ref 9- 12). These are summarised in Tables A9.4.2 and A9.4.3 at Appendix 9.4. 9.2.19 The significance of the effects on receptors of different categories of value are defined in accordance with IAN 130/10 (Ref 9-3). The significance of effects categories used in the assessment are summarised in Table A9.4.4 at Appendix 9.4.
9.3 Regulatory/policy framework
9.3.1 A summary of the principal national legislation and policies that have been considered as part of this assessment is provided in Table 9.3. A summary of the local plans and policies that have been considered as part of this assessment is provided in Table A9.5.1 in Appendix 9.5. Table 9.3: Nature conservation regulatory and policy framework
Policy/Legislation Summary of Requirements Scheme Response
Conservation of The Habitats Regulations Where EPS or European Habitats and provide for the designation of Sites are assessed to be Species both Special Protection Areas adversely affected, (amendment) ("SPAs") (first established under specific mitigation Regulations 2010 the Birds Directive, 1979) and measures will be (‘Habitats Special Areas for Conservation implemented. Regulations’) ("SACs") as part of the Natura (Ref 9-13) 2000 network of protected areas across Europe. The Habitats Regulations also provide protection for EPS from deliberate capture, killing or disturbance. It is also an absolute offence to destroy or damage the resting site or breeding site of an EPS.
The Wildlife and The Act provides for the Where species protected Countryside Act designation of Sites of Special under the Act are 1981 (as amended) Scientific Interest ("SSSI"), assessed to be adversely (Ref 9-14) which are selected as the best affected, such as reptiles, national examples of habitat nesting birds and water types, sites with notable species voles, species-specific and sites of geological mitigation measures must importance. be implemented.
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Policy/Legislation Summary of Requirements Scheme Response Section 1 of the Act provides for the protection of wild birds, their nests and their eggs, with special protection given to those species listed in Schedule 1. Full protection is given under Section 9 of the Act to certain animals listed in Schedule 5, including all species of bat. Partial protection under Section 9 is given to certain other species, including all widespread species of reptile. Section 13 of the Act details protection for plants and fungi listed in Schedule 8.
Countryside and The Act gives greater protection Where species and Rights of Way Act to SSSIs and strengthens habitats listed under the 2000 wildlife enforcement legislation Act are to be adversely (Ref 9-15) by the introduction of the affected as a result of the offence of ‘recklessness’ in the Scheme, species specific damage/destruction or mitigation measures will obstruction of the places of be implemented. shelter or rest of protected species and the disturbance of these species within such places. The Act also requires Government Departments to have regard to biodiversity and conservation; Section 74 of the Act required lists of habitats and species of Principal Importance to be produced, for which conservation steps should be taken or promoted. The requirement to prepare such lists of habitats and species was extended by the Natural Environment and Rural Communities ("NERC") Act 2006 (see below).
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Policy/Legislation Summary of Requirements Scheme Response
Natural Environment The NERC Act places a duty As a public body, the and Rural upon public bodies to consider Agency has a duty to Communities enhancement of biodiversity enhance biodiversity. ("NERC") Act 2006 within all of their actions. Landscaping proposals (Ref 9-16) Sections 40 and 41 of the NERC will consider planting Act superseded Section 74 of schemes to promote the Countryside and Rights of biodiversity objectives. Way Act 2000. Section 41 lists Where species and flora, fauna and habitats habitats listed under the considered by the Secretary of NERC Act are to be State to be of Principal adversely affected as a Importance for conserving result of the Scheme, biodiversity in England. species specific mitigation In addition, the NERC Act measures will be provides for those species that implemented. were previously identified within the UK Biodiversity Action Plan ("UKBAP") and the relevant Local Biodiversity Action Plans ("LBAPs") as biodiversity conservation priorities. The UKBAP has been superseded by Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s Wildlife and Ecosystem Service s (Ref 9-19).
Protection of The Act consolidates the See Confidential Badgers Act (1992) legislation specific to badgers. Appendix 9.2. (Ref 9-17) The Act makes it an offence to wilfully take, kill, injure or ill-treat a badger; to obstruct, destroy, or damage in any part, a badger’s sett; or to disturb badgers within a sett.
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Policy/Legislation Summary of Requirements Scheme Response
National Policy NN NPS aims to reduce overall The assessment has been Statement for biodiversity loss, support healthy undertaken in accordance National Networks well-functioning ecosystems and with the NN NPS by (“NN NPS”) establish coherent ecological adhering to existing networks, and underlines the biodiversity and legislation requirement to adhere to the and minimising impacts existing legislation and policy in on nature conservation relation to biodiversity. In receptors. Furthermore, particular, the NN NPS sets out opportunities to undertake the requirement that “the biodiversity applicant should show how the enhancements have been project has taken advantage of presented where opportunities to conserve and appropriate. enhance biodiversity and geological conservation interests.”
National Planning The NPPF sets out how the The assessment has been Policy Framework planning system should protect undertaken in accordance ("NPPF") and enhance nature with the NPPF with effects (Ref 9-18) conservation interests. upon nature conservation receptors minimised and the creation of receptor sites and enhancement measures recommended where appropriate.
National Planning NPPG provides that the The assessment has been Practice Guidance planning system should undertaken in accordance ("NPPG") contribute to and enhance the with NPPG, with effects natural and local environment, upon nature conservation minimise pollution and other receptors and biodiversity adverse effects on the local and minimised and the natural environment and creation of receptor sites minimise impacts on and enhancement biodiversity. measures recommended where appropriate.
Biodiversity 2020: A The Strategy aims to halt the The assessment has been strategy for loss of biodiversity, support undertaken in accordance England’s Wildlife healthy ecosystems and with the Strategy with and Ecosystem establish coherent ecological mitigation designed to Services networks. minimise habitat (Ref 9-19) fragmentation and prevent biodiversity loss where possible.
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Policy/Legislation Summary of Requirements Scheme Response
The Highways The Strategy developed a Under this Strategy, Agency Biodiversity Action Plan ("BAP") projects such as the Environmental for the management of the soft Scheme must implement Strategy (2010) estate, founded on the actions to protect and (Ref 9-20) Government’s action plans to enhance the value of the protect species and habitats. Agency’s estate and to The policy allows for working in maximise the contribution conjunction with NE and other to biodiversity. partners to develop an understanding of biodiversity in the context of highways management. The Strategy implements a programme of engineering measures to protect wildlife from road traffic where highways cross their habitat. The Strategy gives further consideration to the approach to biodiversity and nature conservation, with the aim of contributing to the creation of coherent and resilient ecological networks by maximising opportunities for protecting, promoting, conserving and enhancing our natural environment.
9.4 Scheme-wide considerations
Approach to impact assessment 9.4.1 Generic impacts associated with road developments identified in DMRB include: a) direct mortality of animals on roads during construction and operation; b) behavioural changes of animals during operation; c) habitat loss through land take; d) severance or fragmentation; e) physical obstructions caused by road constructions and bridges; f) disturbance during construction, including as a result of noise;
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g) pollution via road drainage, run-off and spray from road traffic; h) air pollution; and i) visual and light pollution caused by road lighting. 9.4.2 Many of these potential impacts will not result in significant effects as a consequence of the Scheme, in light of the fact that there is already an existing operational road in place and the land take associated with the Scheme is relatively small. Impacts are only addressed in this chapter where, unmitigated, they may have the potential to cause significant effects or where other chapters have not specifically addressed them. Detail is provided in the relevant sections of the chapter, but the overall approach to the assessment is described below. Habitat loss 9.4.3 Land take is further discussed in chapter 14 Community and Private Assets. Only small amounts of land within the Order limits will be permanently lost. There will be no permanent land take from designated sites or for habitats above those valued at the local level. Mitigation is provided and will progress with detailed design and the development of the final CEMP, an ‘Outline’ of which is provided with the Application (Appendix 4.2). Direct mortality 9.4.4 Pre-construction surveys and/or timings of works are proposed to ensure that there is no direct mortality. Where applicable, appropriate NE licence consents will be required. Operational mitigation is proposed, as detailed below. Surface/ground water pollution 9.4.5 Chapter 15 Road Drainage and the Water Environment and the Water Framework Directive (“WFD”) Compliance Assessment have been completed for the Scheme (Document Reference 7.6). 9.4.6 None of the watercourses within 1km of the Scheme have any statutory nature conservation designations. There will be no new discharges or outfalls as a result of the Scheme and the M4 will continue to discharge as it does now. There will be no significant effect on statutory designated sites. 9.4.7 Following the recommended mitigation, no adverse effects on water quality are anticipated, including with regard to non-statutory or locally valued sites.
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Air quality 9.4.8 In relation to the air quality assessment (chapter 6 Air Quality), there are no potential construction effects on international and nationally designated sites as none are within the 200m threshold for potential significance. 9.4.9 Generic mitigation will prevent any significant effects from construction on non-statutory designated sites or those valued at local or above local level. 9.4.10 No specific embedded air quality mitigation measures have been assessed within the Scheme design for the operational phase as no significant air quality effects are anticipated. Noise disturbance 9.4.11 Although there will be construction noise, the receptors potentially affected by it are already habituated to the existing noise disturbance on the existing M4. These receptors are also highly mobile species which typically range over large areas. Therefore, although they may move away from the area temporarily during the construction phase, this is considered unlikely to result in significant effects. Mitigation is proposed in terms of timing of works, and this may result in restrictions to works in certain areas during sensitive times; outside these periods it is considered that the effect of additional disturbance due to construction and operational noise would not be significant. Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.12 One internationally designated site with bats as a qualifying feature has been identified within 30km of the Order limits, namely the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC. It is located approximately 25km south-east of the Order limits at its closest point (see Figure 1 in Appendix 9.1). Table A9.3.1 in Appendix 9.3 presents the Assessment of Implications on European Sites ("AIES") screening matrix for this site. 9.4.13 One internationally designated site has been identified within 2km of the Order limits, namely the Southwest London Waterbodies SPA and Ramsar site. It is located 1.8km south of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). Table A9.3.2 in Appendix 9.3 presents the AIES screening matrix for this site.
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9.4.14 Eight SSSIs and 11 Local Nature Reserves ("LNRs") have been identified within 2km of the Order limits, of which, Pearman’s Copse LNR, Ockwells Park LNR and Herschel Park LNR are adjacent to the Order limits. These are shown on Drawing 9.1. 9.4.15 Seven Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation ("SINC"), 32 Local Wildlife Sites ("LWS") and one Biological Notification Site (“BNS”) are located within 500m of the Order limits. Of these, five SINCs, 12 LWSs and the BNS are located adjacent to the Order limits. These are shown on Drawing 9.1. 9.4.16 All of the sites noted above are described and valued within the relevant links of the link-by-link descriptions in sections 9.5 to 9.13. None of the sites lies within the Order limits. 9.4.17 A number of trees which are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (“TPO”) lie within, or partly within, the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1). Impacts upon these are assessed in chapter 8 Landscape. Mitigation 9.4.18 Best practice pollution prevention and control measures will be adopted to ensure that designated sites and TPO trees are not adversely affected by dust created during construction, storm water runoff or accidental spillages from construction sites (also see chapter 6 Air Quality). These control measures will be incorporated within the CEMP, an ‘Outline’ version of which is submitted in support of this DCO application (Appendix 4.2). Assessment of residual effects 9.4.19 All national and international designated sites are outside of the zone of influence as they are sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected. For all other designated sites following the implementation of best practice guidelines, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated to be caused by the Scheme. The residual effect of the Scheme on statutory and non- statutory designated sites is therefore considered to be neutral .
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Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.20 A total of 82 areas of Ancient Woodland have been identified from Multi- Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside (“MAGIC”) (Ref 9- 10) as lying within 1km of the Order limits. None of these areas lie within the Order limits but nine are immediately adjacent (see Drawing 9.1). 9.4.21 The habitat plans and TNs (see Drawing 9.2 and Appendix 9.1 Annex 1-A) illustrate and describe the distribution of habitats present within and immediately adjacent to the study area. In general, the soft estate is narrow, extending only a few metres from the toe of the hard shoulder to the highway boundary fence. However, some wider sections do exist, in particular, around junctions and bridges. Habitats and plants are described and valued within each link of the link-by-link descriptions in sections 9.5 to 9.13. The majority of the habitats are considered to be of no more than local value with the exception of Ancient Woodland which is of national value . No Ancient Woodland will be lost. Mitigation 9.4.22 Vegetation removal within the Order limits will be minimised as far as possible and areas that are not cleared will be fenced off to prevent accidental incursions by construction plant. These include fencing to exclude incursions into the Root Protection Areas (“RPA”) of trees as per BS 5837:2012 (Ref 9-27), including those that lie immediately outside of the Order limits. 9.4.23 Best practice pollution prevention and control measures, including the control or airborne particulates, and those which will prevent direct or indirect adverse effects to watercourses, will be adopted within the CEMP. 9.4.24 Land cleared of vegetation for temporary construction works will be replanted following construction, these will be native species appropriate to the local area. The Environmental Masterplan will show proposed planting areas. The Environmental Masterplan is provided within Document Reference 7.4, Annex A. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.25 Although there will be a small amount of permanent habitat loss valued at the local level, it is not anticipated that this loss will be significant as the plants and habitats are widespread and common throughout the country at all geographical levels. The residual effect of the Scheme on habitats and plants is therefore considered to be neutral .
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Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.26 Giant hogweed ( Heracleum mantegazzianum), Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Indian balsam ( Impatiens glandulifera ), rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum), wall cotoneaster ( Cotoneaster horizontalis ) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus inserta) were all identified throughout the Order limits. The link-by-link descriptions presented in sections 9.5 to 9.13 highlights the locations in which invasive plant species have been found. 9.4.27 These species are listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (Ref 9-14) and, as such, it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause these species to grow in the wild. As a receptor within this assessment, invasive plant species have been considered to have no nature conservation value. 9.4.28 Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (as amended) (Ref 9-21), waste from the clearance of Giant hogweed, Japanese Knotweed and Indian balsam is classified as controlled waste, requiring special measures for its disposal. Mitigation 9.4.29 The Schedule 9 species identified within the Order limits will be managed to ensure that construction of the Scheme does not lead to the spread of these species, either through treatment, appropriate removal or demarcation and avoidance. A detailed pre-construction survey will be undertaken to map the locations of all invasive plant species. 9.4.30 Species-specific control measures will be designed in accordance with EA best practice guidance, and detailed method statements will be included in the CEMP and strictly implemented throughout the construction phase. All site staff will be briefed on the identification and treatment of invasive plant species as part of the contractor’s environmental training programme, including toolbox talks, to be included in the CEMP. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.31 Following the implementation of the CEMP, best-practice measures will prevent the spread of any Schedule 9 species within the Order limits. On this basis, the residual effect of the Scheme on invasive plant species is considered to be neutral . It is noted that the Scheme may result in a beneficial effect due to removal of invasive species from the working areas, but this would be significant only within a localised area.
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Invertebrate species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.32 The habitats within the Order limits were considered to be common and widespread, and contain no plant species considered of importance to notable invertebrate species, such as devils-bit scabious ( Succisa pratensis ), which is the food plant of marsh fritillary. Furthermore, no protected invertebrates have been identified during the desk study and, therefore, land within the Order limits is considered to be unlikely to support a large, notable or diverse assemblage of terrestrial invertebrates. The habitats within the Order limits are therefore considered to be of local value to the invertebrate assemblage. Mitigation 9.4.33 No specific mitigation measures are proposed in relation to invertebrates. However, measures designed to mitigate the effects of the Scheme on habitats and plants (minimising vegetation removal and replanting after construction) will also ameliorate any effects of the Scheme on invertebrates. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.34 The residual effect upon invertebrates is considered to be neutral and they are not considered further in this assessment. Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.35 Great crested newts are protected under the Habitats Regulations (as amended, Ref 9-13). The desk-based searches identified the presence of great crested newts within the study area between junctions 12 and 5. However, of 35 ponds surveyed along the Scheme, great crested newt populations were found in eight ponds; and these all lie between junctions 12 and 6 (see Figure 2 of Appendix 9.1). 9.4.36 None of the ponds lie within the Order limits, but there is potential for great crested newts to be present in terrestrial habitats in the area surrounding great crested newt ponds. A summary of all great crested newt survey data is given in Appendix 9.1, including the distances of the ponds from the Order limits.
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9.4.37 Due to the small number of ponds in which great crested newts were present, it is considered that great crested newts are only likely to be infrequently present in low numbers within the Order limits. No physical barrier to newts exists between the ponds and the Order limits. 9.4.38 Common toad ( Bufo bufo ), a priority species under Defra’s ‘Biodiversity 2020 A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services’ (Ref 9-19), were observed within the Order limits. Common frog ( Rana temporaria ) and smooth newt ( Lissotriton vulgaris ) were also identified in ponds within 500m of the Order limits in the great crested newt surveys. The locations of ponds containing smooth newts and the distance from the Order limits are given in Appendix 9.1. These amphibian species, which are more widespread throughout the Order limits, are listed in local or regional BAPs. 9.4.39 Suitable terrestrial habitat for foraging amphibians, including great crested newts, was present within the Order limits. Where great crested newt populations are known (between junctions 12 and 5), these habitats are considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Where no great crested newt populations were found (between junctions 5 and 3), the habitats are considered to be of no more than neutral value to amphibians. For this reason, amphibians are not considered further in the link-to-link description between junctions 5 and 3. 9.4.40 For each known great crested newt population, the need for a licence has been assessed using Natural England's 'Rapid Risk Assessment' calculator (Ref 9-6). Due to the small numbers of breeding ponds, their distance from the Order limits, and the small anticipated area of vegetation clearance in each case, the risk of an offence (i.e. direct mortality, injury or disturbance in a place of shelter or while breeding or the shelters’ obstruction or destruction) is considered to be 'highly unlikely'. Mitigation 9.4.41 Any potentially suitable breeding ponds within 250m (and with suitable terrestrial habitat that is connected to suitable habitat) within the Order limits for which access was not available will be surveyed prior to vegetation clearance. Pre-construction surveys to confirm the continued absence of great crested newts within all ponds within the study area will be undertaken to confirm the current assessment that an offence is considered to be “highly unlikely”.
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9.4.42 On a highly precautionary basis, where there is considered to be a low risk that great crested newts might be present vegetation clearance will be undertaken in a phased manner, as outlined below, and detailed in the Outline CEMP (Appendix 4.2), under ecological supervision. Consideration will be given to the timing of these works to avoid disturbance during the hibernation period (between October to February, inclusive): a) vegetation will be cut down to 150mm above ground level (using, for example, brush-cutters or strimmers) to avoid harm to great crested newts which may be present at ground level. The arisings will be raked off and removed from the footprint of the works. The cleared area will be left undisturbed for at least 24 hours; and b) if a significant density of vegetation remains (i.e. if there is sufficient vegetation below 150mm in which great crested newts may be concealed), this vegetation will then be cleared to ground level. The arisings will be raked off and removed from the footprint of the works. The cleared area will be left undisturbed for at least 24 hours. 9.4.43 Features which may be used as refuges (for example road-side debris, old tyres, etc.) will be removed by hand by an ecologist and searched for the presence of great crested newts (and reptiles). A destructive search of any larger features likely to be used by the animals (such as rubble piles or soil cracks) will also be undertaken where these are identified by the ecologist, by hand or using a small excavator. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.44 Following the implementation of mitigation, it is considered that amphibians between junctions 12 and 6 will be affected owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. The significance of the effects on amphibians is therefore considered to be slight adverse between these junctions. 9.4.45 As no great crested newt populations were found during the field surveys between junctions 6 and 3, it is considered that the effects of the Scheme on amphibians between these junctions will be neutral .
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Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.46 Land within the Order limits consists of areas of semi-improved rank grassland and bramble scrub suitable for reptiles. Two reptile species were identified in the desk-based searches as occurring within 1km of the Order limits: grass snake ( Natrix natrix ) between junctions 12-7 and junctions 6-4; and slow-worm ( Anguis fragilis ) between junctions 12-10 and junctions 7-5 (see Drawing 9.3). Both species are listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and are protected against killing or injury. Reptile surveys within suitable habitats within the Order limits identified occasional small populations of one or both of these species between junctions 12 and 5. 9.4.47 Overall, the habitat within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 5 is considered to be of no more than local value to reptiles, as the species present are widespread and the habitats present on site are small and fragmented. 9.4.48 No reptile populations were found between junctions 5 and 3. However, small areas of potentially suitable habitat for foraging reptiles are present between these junctions, but such habitat is considered to be of no more than neutral value to reptiles. As such, reptiles are not considered in the link-by-link descriptions between junctions 5 and 3 presented in sections 9.11 to 9.13. Mitigation 9.4.49 Reptile surveys were carried out on representative, suitable habitat with the potential to be removed by the Scheme. Since these surveys were undertaken, some additional areas have come under consideration for the Scheme (e.g. for construction compounds). Pre-construction surveys will be undertaken on any areas with potentially higher quality habitat than the large areas of representative habitat already surveyed to confirm our mitigation strategy (i.e. habitat manipulation versus translocation). An overarching Reptile Mitigation Strategy will then be produced detailing the specific areas where each approach should be undertaken, which will be secured in the CEMP. The need for ecological supervision of habitat manipulation where applicable will also be detailed within the CEMP.
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9.4.50 Where appropriate, reptiles will be displaced from working areas within the Order limits to adjacent suitable habitats by undertaking phased vegetation clearance. The mitigation process will follow that described in relation to amphibians, above and will be supervised by an ecologist where directed in the CEMP. 9.4.51 Where adjacent habitat is considered to be suitable for reptiles and displacement is considered to be inappropriate, a translocation programme will be undertaken in accordance with the methodology published within DMRB Volume 10, Section 4, Part 7 (Ref 9-7). Whether displacement or translocation will be undertaken in any given junction to junction is described within the link-by-link description below. 9.4.52 Any reptile translocation programme will comprise: a) the identification of a suitable receptor site(s); b) securing the future status of the receptor site(s); c) installation and maintenance of the reptile-resistant fencing (as appropriate); d) undertaking reptile capture and translocation; e) undertaking vegetation clearance and destructive searches; and f) on-going management of the receptor site. 9.4.53 There are a number of areas of land within the ownership of the Secretary of State and available to the Agency close to the M4 in the vicinity of the Scheme. A number of these sites provide suitable receptors for species translocation. The Agency is currently in the process of identifying those areas of land which are optimal for species translocation and it will then report the necessary sites, meaning that the provision of the these areas can be secured by requirement under the DCO. Site surveys will shortly be undertaken as part of that process, in consultation with NE. 9.4.54 No reptile populations were found between junctions 5 and 3 during field surveys. However, as small areas of suitable habitat were found there, it will be appropriate to undertake mitigation on a precautionary basis, to ensure no reptiles are harmed. Supervision by an ecologist is not required due to the low risk of reptile injury in these areas.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.4.55 Following the implementation of the mitigation, the residual effect of the Scheme on reptiles is considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation (if undertaken) of species from the Order limits and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Birds Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.56 A number of bird species listed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (Ref 9-14) were identified as present from desk-based searches within 1km of the Order limits. These include barn owl ( Tyto alba ), brambling ( Fringilla montifringilla ), hobby ( Falco subbuteo ), kingfisher ( Alcedo atthis ) and peregrine falcon ( Falco peregrinus ). However, as the habitats present within the Order limits are unlikely to be used by these species, none is considered likely to be present. 9.4.57 The landscape planting, scrub and trees within the Order limits are likely to support a range of bird species during the nesting season. Birds and their nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), making it an offence to kill or injure any wild bird, or to damage or destroy their nest or eggs. 9.4.58 Although land within the Order limits has the potential to support significant numbers of nesting birds, the habitats within the Order limits are considered to be of only local value to birds due to their limited extent, the disturbance caused by the existing motorway and the abundance of alternative nesting opportunities in the surrounding land. Mitigation 9.4.59 The removal of all suitable nesting habitat (scrub, shrubs and trees) will be planned, where possible, to take place over the autumn and winter period, outside the core bird nesting season (March to August inclusive), to overcome programming constraints relating to the presence of nesting birds. This will also take into consideration any other mitigation requirements particularly those in relation to great crested newts and reptiles. In instances where seasonal timings overlap, the vegetation can be taken down to 150mm outside of the core hibernation season (November to March inclusive, depending on temperatures) following which the roots can be “grubbed out” under ecological supervision, where required.
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9.4.60 If vegetation clearance is required within the bird nesting period, all such vegetation will be checked by an ecologist for the presence of nesting birds no more than 24 hours prior to clearance. Wherever nests are found, a cordon of approximately 10m will be placed around the nest and no works will be permitted within that area until the chicks have fledged or confirmation from a qualified ecologist that work can proceed. In the unlikely event that a Schedule 1 species is recorded, bespoke mitigation methods would be developed and incorporated within the CEMP. This would likely involve demarcation and exclusion from the area until the chicks had fledged. 9.4.61 New tree and shrub planting will provide nesting opportunities for birds and, therefore, mitigate the loss of nesting habitats in the long term. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.62 Following the implementation of the mitigation mentioned above, no significant effects on birds are anticipated. The residual effect of the Scheme on birds is therefore considered to be neutral . (Note: the effects upon birds are considered to be identical throughout the Order limits and, therefore, birds have not been included within the link to link descriptions presented in sections 9.5 to 9.13 to avoid repetition.) Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.63 All bat species found in the UK are afforded protection under the Conservation of Habitats and Species (amendment) Regulations 2010 (Ref 9-13). Seven bat roosts have been confirmed in structures within the study area and further structures that have potential to support roosting bats were also noted. A number of trees within the Order limits have been identified as having the potential to support roosting bats, but just one of these was confirmed as a bat roost. In total four key areas suitable for foraging and commuting by bats have also been identified. No roosts likely to support hibernating bats were found within the Order limits. Table 9.4 indicates which links have the potential to support bats.
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Table 9.4: Links which have the potential to support bats
Areas of high Structures/buildings Trees with bat Junction commuting and with bat roost potential roost potential foraging activity
(3) 12-11 *
11-10 *(1) **
10-8/9 *(3)
8/9-7
7-6
6-5
5-4b
4b-4
4-3
*(1) Number of structures within this link contained with confirmed summer bat roosts.
** A single willow was found to have a confirmed bat roost within this link. 9.4.64 The majority of bats recorded when surveying the habitats within the Order limits were common species, such as common and soprano pipistrelle and brown long-eared bat. 9.4.65 Overall, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 8/9 are considered to be of county value to bats as, although the extent of suitable foraging habitat was limited within the Order limits, confirmed bat maternity roost sites are present in motorway structures. 9.4.66 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 8/9 and 3, but features which are potentially suitable for use by roosting bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between these links are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.4.67 No works to structures known to support roosting bats are anticipated and the single tree which supports roosting bats will be retained. No habitats likely to support hibernating bats were recorded.
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9.4.68 All potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. 9.4.69 Prior to felling, any tree previously assessed as having bat potential will either be assessed in the core activity season (May to September, inclusive) via emergence/re-entry surveys or be subject to climbing inspection, and felled within 24 hours if absence is confirmed. If more than 24 hours has elapsed between the survey and the felling, the tree may be soft felled during winter (November to February inclusive) under a precautionary method statement, as detailed in the Outline CEMP (Appendix 4.2). 9.4.70 Works within close proximity to structures with roosting bats should, where possible, avoid the core active season for bats to ensure no disturbance to any roosts. There is no anticipated loss of a bat roosting tree. 9.4.71 Where this is not possible, and should disturbance be considered to be significant, or roost loss required, a bat EPS licence will be necessary to disturb or remove a roost. Detail of this is provided in the link-by-link descriptions. 9.4.72 In cases where disturbance is considered to be minimal, precautionary mitigation measures, including construction phase lighting will be designed to avoid light spill to such areas, monitoring during construction and the restriction of operational hours to day time working (0.5 hours after sunrise to 0.5 hours before sunset, inclusive), will be implemented to ensure that roosting bats are not disturbed. For these reasons, a bat EPS licence will not be required in these instances. 9.4.73 Works to areas used by foraging and/or commuting bats will be avoided during the core active season for bats (May to September inclusive) wherever possible. If works are required during the active season, construction phase lighting will be designed to avoid light spill to such areas. 9.4.74 New landscape planting and habitat reinstatement will provide opportunities for foraging bats in the long term. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.75 Following implementation of mitigation measures, it is considered that the Scheme will have no significant effects on bats. The residual effect of the Scheme on bats is therefore considered to be neutral .
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Dormice Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.76 The desk-based searches did not identify dormice within the 1km study area. Targeted surveys for dormice were undertaken in potentially suitable habitats within the study area in 2010 and again in 2013 (see Appendix 9.1 Annex 5-A and Annex 5-B and Figure 2), no evidence of dormice was identified. Dormice are therefore considered to be absent from the Order limits. Mitigation 9.4.77 No mitigation measures are proposed in relation to dormice. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.78 The potential for significant effects on dormice is considered to be neutral and dormice are not considered further in this assessment. Water voles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.79 The desk-based searches identified records of water voles within the 1km study area between junctions 12 and 6. Water voles are protected from killing, injury, disturbance, and damage to or obstruction of their place of shelter under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (Ref 9- 14). Surveys in the vicinity of the Scheme confirmed the presence of water voles on three watercourses between junctions 12 and 11, but habitats considered suitable for water voles were also identified elsewhere throughout the Scheme (listed in detail in Appendix 9.1 Annex 6-A). 9.4.80 Due to the potential presence of water voles, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 are considered to be of local value for the species. Although suitable habitat for water voles was identified between junctions 11 and 3, no water vole populations were found within these links of the Scheme. For this reason, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 11 and 3 are considered to be of neutral value to water voles and, therefore, they are not considered further between these junctions in the link-by-link descriptions presented in sections 9.6 to 9.13. 9.4.81 No works to occupied water vole habitats (or within 5m of watercourses occupied by water voles) are proposed and, therefore, neither a licence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) nor any targeted mitigation will be required.
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Mitigation 9.4.82 In areas potentially suitable for water vole that require vegetation removal and ground breaking works but within which no water vole populations have been identified, a pre-construction survey will be undertaken to confirm the continued absence of water voles. 9.4.83 The potential effects of pollution upon watercourses which are suitable for use by water voles will be mitigated through the provisions of the CEMP. These will require compliance with the EA’s Pollution Prevention Guidance 5 ("PPG5") (Ref 9-25), including: a) controlling the creation and release of contaminated silts and sediment release into the surrounding watercourses and surface water ponds; b) controlling refuelling facilities, chemical and waste storage and handling areas; c) controlling any polluted drainage and discharges from site; d) managing any dewatering required for construction of foundations; and e) managing potential contamination of groundwater. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.84 Following the implementation of the mitigation measures, the residual effect across the Scheme on water voles is considered to be neutral. Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.85 Otters are fully protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended, Ref 9-13) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (Ref 9-14). Just one record of an otter was identified during the desk-based search; this was a road casualty on the motorway within the Order limits. Surveys identified the presence of otters on seven watercourses within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11, junctions 11 and 10, junctions 10 and 8/9 and junctions 8/9 and 7. No otter holts or resting sites were found within the field survey study area.
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9.4.86 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a very limited proportion of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters. However, as these areas are critical to the movement of otters, linking habitats to the north and south of the existing motorway, collectively they may be considered to be of county value to otters. However, on an individual basis (i.e. at each structure which crosses a watercourse) the otter habitats are considered to be of no more than local value. 9.4.87 No evidence of otter was found between junctions 7 and 3 and, although suitable habitats for otters were identified within these links, otters have not been considered further between these links in the link-by-link descriptions presented in sections 9.9 to 9.13. Mitigation 9.4.88 In proposed works areas that were considered to contain potentially suitable habitat to support otter holts or couches (see Appendix 9.1 Annex 6-A), but within which no evidence of otter presence has been identified, pre-construction surveys will be undertaken to confirm the continued absence of this species. 9.4.89 Where works are to be undertaken to structures on watercourses which may be used by otters (such as Thames Bray underbridge), measures to minimise disturbance will be implemented. Night working will be minimised to avoid disturbance to otters commuting along watercourses. In particular, efforts will be made to avoid significant construction noise or vibration during the hours of darkness. Construction/site lighting will use directional lamps, so that light-spill to the watercourses and their banks is avoided. Wherever possible, allowance for the passage of otters along one or both banks of the watercourse will be incorporated within the temporary works arrangements. 9.4.90 The potential effects of pollution upon watercourses that are suitable for use by otters will be mitigated through the provisions of the CEMP, including compliance with the EA’s PPG, as detailed above in relation to water voles. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.91 Following the implementation of the mitigation, the residual effect across the Scheme on otters is considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of suitable habitat and minimal disturbance envisaged.
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Badgers Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.92 As stated in paragraph 9.1.3 above, to prevent unnecessary injury or death to badgers and having regard to the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, information relating to badgers is presented in Confidential Appendix 9.2. Release of Confidential Appendix 9.2 will only be to the Inspectorate, and on request from suitably qualified professionals. Mitigation 9.4.93 Mitigation is considered within Confidential Appendix 9.2. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.94 The assessment of residual effects is considered within Confidential Appendix 9.2. Future baseline 9.4.95 In the absence of the Scheme, it is assumed that current management of the habitats within the Order limits will continue. Therefore, it is most likely that, in the design year (2037), the composition and nature conservation value of the habitats will have remained largely the same as the current baseline conditions. As such, the value of the receptors within the Order limits is unlikely to have changed. It is noted that, in the absence of suitable control measures, the extent of invasive plants within the Order limits may increase over time. 9.4.96 It is also assumed that current management of all statutory and non- statutory designated sites will continue and, although this may lead to an increase in their conservation status, it is considered unlikely that the value of these sites will have changed significantly by the design year. 9.4.97 Long-term climatic predictions suggest that warmer wetter winters and drier summers will become more frequent in England, with more extreme weather events (Ref 9-28). However, it is expected that this gradual change will be unlikely to alter significantly the species composition or distribution of the receptors within the Order limits. However, wetter winters could result in more frequent fluctuations of water levels in ditches occupied by water voles, and this may affect the distribution of local water vole populations. Culverts beneath the Scheme may flood more frequently, increasing the likelihood that otters may cross the highway itself, which may result in an increase in otter road mortality. (These considerations have been set out via mitigation measures addressed in the following section.)
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Operation 9.4.98 The assessment of effects of the Scheme during its operational phase is based on the future baseline conditions at the opening year, in 2022. The effects on ecology and nature conservation are anticipated to be associated with road mortality, resulting from the increased width of the road, and the proposed concrete barrier within the central reserve. 9.4.99 The presence of the concrete barrier is considered likely to reduce the ability of animals to cross the road safely: this is because animals may spend an increased period of time on the carriageway either from being disoriented, or as they make persistent attempts to cross. 9.4.100 A key element of the air quality assessment is the rate of improvement in air quality over time as cleaner vehicles enter the national vehicle fleet. 9.4.101 No other effects are anticipated during the operational phase: maintenance operations are not expected to differ from the existing conditions. As the approach to mitigation of operational phase effects is the same for all links, further details have not been included in the link-by- link descriptions. Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.102 In relation to the air quality assessment (see chapter 6 Air Quality), the following international and nationally designated sites were considered because they are within 200m of affected road links: a) Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham SAC, located adjacent to the M3; b) Thames Basin Heaths SPA, located adjacent to the M3 and the A322; c) Chobham Common SSSI (located within Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham SAC and Thames Basin Heaths SPA); d) Foxlease and Ancell’s Meadows SSSI, located adjacent to the M3; e) Colony Bog and Bagshot Heath SSSI (located within Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham SAC and Thames Basin Heaths SPA); and f) Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadows SSSI, located approximately 20m from the M4.
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9.4.103 The Air Quality assessment (chapter 6 Air Quality) considered impacts as
a result of nitrogen dioxide (“NO x” ) and nitrogen deposition on sites of European or national importance within 200m of affected road links. The results predict that, for all sites except Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadows SSSI, there would either be no change or a small decrease in
annual mean NO x and nitrogen deposition following the implementation of the Scheme in 2022, compared to the situation in 2022 with no Scheme in
place. The maximum change in NO x is predicted at Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadows SSSI, where it is closest to the M4. At this location, 3 3 it is predicted that NO x would increase from 29.8µg/m to 30.1µg/m in a worst-case scenario (a difference of only 0.3µg/m 3), which is just above the objective for European and nationally designated sites of 30µg/m 3. However, within 10m of this point and elsewhere in the site the annual 3 mean NO x concentrations are predicted to drop to 27.8µg/m , below the objective value over the same period. Any change less than 0.4µg/m 3 is considered to be imperceptible. This imperceptible change would only affect a very small area of the designated site, and as such is not ascribed significance per se. Mitigation 9.4.104 Significant effects on designated sites as a result of the operation of the Scheme are not anticipated and no mitigation measures are proposed. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.105 The effect of the operation of the Scheme on designated sites is considered to be neutral given that the very small potential increase in
NO x concentrations at Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadows SSSI is predicted to drop further to 27.8 µg/m 3 with the Scheme; below the objective value (see chapter 6 Air Quality) . Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.106 Although not a regular or frequent occurrence, reptiles may occasionally attempt to cross the motorway. No data on road mortality of reptiles was available within the Order limits. Reptile surveys within suitable habitats within the Order limits identified occasional small populations of grass snakes and slow worms between junctions 12 and 5. Of these, grass snake is considered the more likely to attempt to cross roads, due to its greater ability to move quickly over large distances.
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9.4.107 Overall, the populations of reptiles which may encounter the Scheme are considered to be of no more than local value, as the species present are widespread, occupying relatively small areas of habitat which are fragmented by the existing motorway. Mitigation 9.4.108 Due to the difficulty in preventing reptiles from accessing the road, no mitigation measures are proposed in relation to the potential mortality of reptiles during the operational phase. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.109 Despite a small potential increase in reptile road mortality, this would be insignificant compared to the routine overwintering mortality and predation experienced by these species, so the effect of the Scheme is therefore anticipated to be neutral . Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.4.110 It is possible that otters may attempt to cross the motorway occasionally, particularly when their normal routes beside watercourses are blocked, or made impassable by high flows or floods. A record of a dead otter on the motorway was recorded at chainage 38+850: in this location, watercourses were present on either side of the motorway, but they do not appear to be linked by a culvert. 9.4.111 Field surveys identified the presence of otters on seven watercourses within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11, junctions 11 and 10, junctions 10 and 8/9 and junctions 8/9 and 7; but it is also assumed that any other watercourses which pass beneath or adjacent to the Scheme may be used by otters from time to time. 9.4.112 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a limited proportion of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters. However, as these areas are required to facilitate the movement of otters, linking habitats to the north and south of the existing motorway, collectively they may be considered to be of county value to otters. However, on an individual basis (i.e. at each structure which crosses a watercourse) the otter habitats are considered to be of no more than local value.
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Mitigation 9.4.113 Otter-resistant fencing will be installed in key locations to be outlined in the Environmental Masterplan in order to prevent otters from accessing the Scheme. This installation will be focussed around bridges over watercourses where evidence of otters has been recorded. The fencing will be designed and installed in accordance with detailed guidance in DMRB Vol.10 Section 4 Part 4 (Ref 9-2). 9.4.114 Note: also see Enhancements section, below, in relation to the installation of otter ledges in appropriate locations. Assessment of residual effects 9.4.115 Following the implementation of the mitigation, the residual effect of the operation of the Scheme on otters is considered to be neutral , as fencing, combined with increased commuting capacity along bridges and culverts, will minimise the risk of them accessing the motorway. Badgers 9.4.116 As stated in paragraph 9.1.3 above, information relating to badgers is presented in Confidential Appendix 9.2. Enhancements 9.4.117 Due to the small land take required for the Scheme, opportunities for enhancement measures are limited. However, in compliance with national policy including the NN NPS, opportunities for ecological enhancement measures have been sought to maximise the biodiversity benefits of the Scheme. These are outlined below, and will be incorporated into the detailed CEMP. 9.4.118 Any reinstatement of vegetation on the affected verges will include reseeding with an appropriate native wildflower seed mix and only native species will be used in any landscape planting. The removal of invasive species to prevent spread during construction could also result in a beneficial effect. 9.4.119 The Environmental Masterplan will incorporate native tree planting in any re-instatement of woodland, with an emphasis on fruit bearing varieties in areas identified as supporting foraging mammals and birds. 9.4.120 In particular, the Environmental Masterplan will allow for the planting of native species of tree on the borders of any LWS and LNR, where terrain permits.
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9.4.121 The Environmental Masterplan will incorporate the installation of otter ledges on culverts or under bridges where no ledge is currently present, in accordance with DMRB Volume 10 Section 4 Part 4 (Ref 9-26). This will ensure improved habitat connectivity for otters (and water vole) beneath the Scheme and allow for adaptation to climate change. 9.4.122 The Environmental Masterplan will incorporate the provision of approximately 60 bat boxes at suitable locations. A variety of boxes will be used to support a variety of species, for example: a) larger woodcrete boxes such as the Schwegler 1FW Hibernation box; b) woodcrete boxes such as the Schwegler 2F suitable for smaller bat species; and c) larger woodcrete boxes such as the Schwegler 2FN design suitable for larger bat species such as the noctule. 9.4.123 This will increase the available number and type of potential roosting sites for bats within the local area, including the new provision of potential hibernation sites. 9.4.124 For nesting birds, approximately 40 bird boxes will provide a variety of additional nesting opportunities and will be erected on trees at appropriate locations to be determined by an ecologist, for example: a) smaller wood or woodcrete boxes with a small hole entrance (around 25 to 32mm in diameter) suitable for smaller bird species such as blue tits; b) larger wood or woodcrete boxes with a larger hole entrance (around 45mm in diameter) suitable for starlings and woodpeckers; and c) wood or woodcrete open-fronted boxes suitable for robins, blackbirds and wagtails.
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9.5 Junction 12 to junction 11
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.1 One SSSI and two LNRs lie within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 4. 9.5.2 Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadow SSSI is located approximately 50m north of the Order limits as shown on Drawing 9.1, Sheet 1. This SSSI is designated for the mosaic of damp copses and seasonally-flooded meadows present, which have declined throughout southern England. The site covers an area of 73.8ha and is in a favourable condition. The woods are primarily wet valley Alder woods, with a rich ground flora. The grazed meadows include areas of dry acid grassland and damp neutral pasture. Notable species within wet grass areas include devil’s-bit scabious (Succisa pratensis ) and ragged-robin ( Lychnis flos-cuculi ). A rich invertebrate fauna is supported across the site, including notable moth species, such as scarlet tiger ( Callimorpha dominula ) and the very-local micromoth ( Micropterix mansuetella ). Due to the national nature conservation designation of this site, Sulham and Tidmarsh Woods and Meadow SSSI is considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.5.3 Hosehill Lake LNR is located approximately 1.3km south of the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 1). The LNR consists of a lake surrounded by a pond and areas of meadow, woodland and reedbed. 9.5.4 Pearman’s Copse LNR is located approximately 1.7km east of junction 11 and covers an area of 6.8ha (Drawing 9.1 Sheet 2). The reserve consists of natural ancient woodland and lowland mixed deciduous woodland. 9.5.5 Due to the local nature conservation designations of these sites, Pearman’s Copse LNR and Hosehill Lake LNR are considered of local value for nature conservation.
4 An additional SSSI, Pincent’s Kiln SSSI, is located approximately 240m north of the Order limits, as shown on Drawing 9.1 Sheet 1. This SSSI is designated as a geological site, but is not designated for reasons of nature conservation. As such, it is addressed in chapter 10 Geology and Soils and not in this chapter.
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9.5.6 Six LWSs are present within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11. These are Burghfield Gravel Pits LWS; Theale Gravel Pits LWS; Great Lea Pond LWS; Pinge Wood LWS; Hosehill Gren, Jame’s Hill and Bennettshill LWS; and Haresfield Copse, Mount Skyver and Boxgrove Wood LWS. Two of these LWSs are located adjacent to the Order limits: a) Burghfield Gravel Pits LWS, which comprises an extensive area of gravel pits with well-developed wooded areas, islands and marginal vegetation. It attracts a good variety of wildfowl and other birds, including Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) Schedule 1 species, as well as uncommon passage migrants; and b) Theale Gravel Pits LWS, which also comprises an extensive area of gravel pits, with large areas of open water, islands, marginal wetland vegetation and wooded areas. It attracts bird species, including uncommon passage migrants. 9.5.7 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, all of the LWSs between junctions 12 and 11 are considered to be of local value for nature conservation; with the exception of Ancient Woodland which is considered to be of national value. No Ancient Woodland will be lost as a result of the Scheme. 9.5.8 With the exception of those sites which lie immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected to it so that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.5.9 All mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon sites that are immediately adjacent to the Order limits. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.10 There are no pre-mitigation predicted effects on the sites. No effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on statutory and non-statutory designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral .
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Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.11 Seven areas of Ancient Woodland have been identified from Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory as being present within the 500m study area between junctions 12 and 11. Of these, one woodland (which is unnamed) lies adjacent to the Order limits to the west of junction 12 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheets 1). All areas of Ancient Woodland between junctions 12 and 11 are considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.5.12 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 include: a) several small sections of semi-natural broad-leaved woodland, which occur within close proximity/adjacent to the Order limits between chainages 61+000 A and B; and 61+350 A and B (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 2); b) areas of tall ruderal herbs and semi-improved grassland; and c) a large area of amenity grassland, which is present between chainages 59+050 A and B; and 59+750 A and B (Drawing 9.2 Sheets 4 and 5). 9.5.13 The areas proposed for construction compounds 2 and 3 comprise broad- leaved plantation woodland, ephemeral/short perennial, scattered trees, dense scrub, tall ruderal herbs, amenity grassland, hard-standing, species- poor intact hedge and semi-improved grassland. No Ancient Woodland will be lost as a result of the Scheme. 9.5.14 The habitats, other than Ancient Woodland which is described above, within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. Mitigation 9.5.15 All mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs, and best practice pollution and control measures. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.16 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , owing to the small amounts of habitat loss within the Order limits valued at the local level and unlikely to be significant within this link.
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Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.17 Invasive plants were identified within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainage 56+650 A and B, and chainage 56+500 A and B (TN 13 and 142 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 8); b) giant hogweed at chainage 56+250 A and B (TN 25 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 8); and c) Virginia creeper at chainage 56+700 A (TN 135 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 8). Mitigation 9.5.18 All mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.19 Mitigation to prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 12 and 11. Therefore, the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral, or potentially even beneficial. Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.20 Great crested newts were confirmed as present in the following ponds between junctions 12 and 11 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 2 and 3): a) ponds numbered P1_01a and P1_01b are no longer in existence, nevertheless suitable terrestrial habitat remains in the vicinity; and b) a small population of great crested newts was identified near to Hartley Court during surveys undertaken in 2010. 9.5.21 No ponds are present within the Order limits.
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9.5.22 A considerable area of the Order limits comprises suitable terrestrial habitat for amphibians, as the scrub and rough grassland provide opportunities for foraging and shelter. Between junctions 12 and 11, approximately 8,500m 2 of the Order limits is located within 250m of ponds in which great crested newts have been identified. Within the area proposed for construction compound 2, two log piles were noted (TN 169 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 1) as providing hibernacula potential for amphibians. 9.5.23 In addition to those ponds identified during previous field surveys, a further pond considered to potentially provide suitable habitat for amphibians has been identified approximately 370m north of construction compound 3 (Appendix 9.1 Figure 2 Sheet 14). Access could not be obtained to assess the HSI for this pond but as it is well over 250m from the works area this is not considered to be a significant limitation to the assessment. For full details of access, see section 9.15. 9.5.24 Overall, the habitat within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 is considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians, although it provides potential foraging and hibernation habitat to amphibians in a number of locations. Breeding habitat is not in close proximity and, therefore, the use of this habitat by great crested newts is likely to be limited. Mitigation 9.5.25 Mitigation measures comprising staged vegetation removal are sufficient, as no offence is likely under NEs Rapid Risk Assessment and works can proceed under a precautionary method statement as outlined in section 9.4. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.26 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. However, this is unlikely to be significant to the populations in the wider area.
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Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.27 Targeted reptile surveys representative of suitable habitats within the study area identified occasional small populations of grass snake and slow-worm (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 1 to 3) in this link of the Scheme. 9.5.28 The semi-improved grassland and tall ruderal herb habitats located in the areas proposed for construction compounds 2 and 3 may provide suitable habitat for reptiles. Within construction compound 2, two log piles were noted (TN 169 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 1) as providing hibernacula potential for reptile species. 9.5.29 Both reptile species are widespread and, given that the reptile habitats present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles and only small amounts of habitat are to be lost with no additional loss of connectivity. Therefore, the impact is likely to be slight adverse . Mitigation 9.5.30 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within construction areas within the soft estate will rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance. 9.5.31 Displacement is not considered an appropriate mitigation method in relation to proposed construction compound 3 as the habitats adjacent to it are not suitable for use by reptiles. Instead, translocation will be undertaken as outlined in paragraph 9.4.53 above. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.32 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation of species from the Order limits and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat but this is not likely to be significant. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.33 Records of five species of bat were identified within the study area between junctions 12 and 11 during the data searches. These are common pipistrelle ( Pipistrellus pipistrellus ), soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus ), Daubenton’s bat ( Myotis daubentonii ), noctule (Nyctalus noctula ) and brown long-eared bat ( Plecotus auritus ).
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9.5.34 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. These identified three confirmed bat roosts for Soprano pipistrelle in structures between junctions 12 and 11. Four areas suitable for foraging and commuting by bats were also identified during the surveys. 9.5.35 The locations of confirmed bat roosts all relate to summer roosts of common species and are located in the following structures (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 1 and 3): a) soprano and common pipistrelle maternity roost present at Beansheaf Farm culvert at chainage 61+700 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1); b) soprano pipistrelle maternity roost present at Holybrook underbridge at chainage 61+250 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1); and c) soprano pipistrelle maternity roost present at Foundry Brook culvert at chainage 56+500 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 3). 9.5.36 Significant foraging and commuting corridors for Common and Soprano pipistrelle were evident during the surveys, as outlined below: a) Beansheaf Farm culvert at chainage 61+700 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1); and b) Holybrook underbridge at chainage 61+250 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1). 9.5.37 A tree at chainage 59+900 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 2) was also considered to have potential to support roosting bats. 9.5.38 Overall and due to the presence of a maternity roost, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 are considered to be of county value to bats as, although the extent of suitable foraging habitat was limited within the Order limits, confirmed bat roost sites are present in motorway structures. Mitigation 9.5.39 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats.
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9.5.40 Construction widening is proposed above the known roost at Beansheaf Farm culvert (though the culvert will remain unaffected). So as to avoid disturbance to roosting bats, works in this vicinity will be avoided during the active season for bats (May to September inclusive), wherever possible. As works in this vicinity could potentially occur during the bat active season, an EPS licence will be submitted to NE in relation to the disturbance of bats within this roost. 9.5.41 The roosts confirmed at Holybrook underbridge and Foundry Brook culvert are in close proximity to a proposed new gantry and vegetation clearance. As these works may disturb roosting bats, works should be avoided during the active season, wherever possible. If works are required during the bat active season, precautionary mitigation will be implemented to ensure that roosting bats are not disturbed, including the use of construction phase lighting designed to avoid light spill to such areas. As maternity roosts have been identified within both these structures, if works are undertaken during the breeding season for bats (May to mid-August), operational hours will be restricted to daylight working and the roosts will be monitored throughout construction. By doing so, it is considered that significant impacts will be avoided, and that a bat EPS licence will not be required. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.42 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all roosts and the temporary nature of disturbance. Water voles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.43 Surveys in the vicinity of the Scheme confirmed the presence of water voles on three watercourses between junctions 12 and 11: a) a single water vole was seen crossing the tow path of the River Kennet at chainage 61+100 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1); b) water vole burrows were found in the banks of the Foundry Brook crossing at chainage 56+550 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 3); and c) an un-named drain at 56+050 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 3) was found to contain old water vole burrows and feeding signs on the banks.
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9.5.44 Note: a further record of water voles was found at Arlington Business Park Drain crossing at chainage 61+7?50 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1) in 2013. During this survey, water vole prints were identified but no other field signs were recorded. A subsequent re-survey in January 2015 within 5m of the Order limits found that the habitats present were sub-optimal for the species, and thorough search for water vole burrows concluded that none were present. For this reason, water voles are not considered to occupy the Arlington Business Park Drain within 5m of the Order limits. No works are proposed within 5m of any areas currently occupied by water voles. 9.5.45 It is considered that the watercourses within the Order limits between junctions 12 and 11 are of local value for water voles and no impacts are anticipated. Mitigation 9.5.46 Precautionary mitigation measures in relation to water voles are outlined in section 9.4. Pre-construction surveys will be undertaken to confirm the continued absence of water voles and the best practice pollution control measures will be implemented. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.47 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on water vole are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of suitable habitat and minimal to no disturbance envisaged. Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.5.48 Evidence of the presence of otters was found at the following locations: a) otter feeding signs were found at Arlington Business Park Drain crossing at chainage 61+750 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 1); and b) at Foundry Brook crossing at chainage 56+550 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 3) feeding signs were found on the banks and otter spraint was identified from the northern side of the channel, as well as near the adjoining lake. 9.5.49 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a fraction of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters and those habitats between junctions 12 and 11 are considered to be of local value for otters and no to insignificant impacts are predicted.
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Mitigation 9.5.50 Mitigation measures in relation to otters are outlined in section 9.4. Pre- construction surveys will be undertaken to confirm the continued absence of otter resting sites in the vicinity of the works and measures to minimise disturbance to otters and best practice pollution control measures will be implemented. Assessment of residual effects 9.5.51 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 12 and 11 on otter are considered to be neutral, owing to the retention of suitable habitat and minimal disturbance envisaged.
9.6 Junction 11 to junction 10
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.1 A total of four LNRs were identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 2). 9.6.2 Pearman’s Copse LNR lies adjacent to the Order limits and covers an area of 6.8ha. For full description, refer to link junction 12 to junction 11. 9.6.3 Maiden ErIegh Park LNR lies approximately 1.3km north of the Order limits. Maiden Eregh LNR covers an area of 10.1ha and consists of lowland mixed deciduous woodland, ancient semi-natural woodland and an area of open water. 9.6.4 Holts Copse and Joel Park LNR lies approximately 1.5km south of the Order limits and covers an area of 5.1ha, consisting of lowland mixed deciduous woodland and ancient semi-natural woodland. A known noctule bat roost is present within the LNR. 9.6.5 Lavell’s Lake LNR is located approximately 1.7km north of the Order limits. Lavell’s Lake LNR covers an area of 12.7ha and consists of a number of ponds, water scrapes and meadows attracting migratory and resident bird species. 9.6.6 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, all of the LNRs between junctions 11 and 10 are considered to be of local value for nature conservation, with the exception of Ancient Woodland which is considered to be of national value.
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9.6.7 Twelve LWSs were identified within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10. These are: Loddon River (part) LWS; Pearman’s Copse LWS; The Grove LWS; Loaders Copse LWS; Furze Covert LWS; Loddon Bridge/Lower Earley Common LWS; Alder Carr, adjacent to River Loddon LWS; Gravel Pit Wood The Holt LWS; Rushy Mead and New Covert LWS; St John’s Copse LWS; Shinfield Park Nores Hill LWS; and Great Lea Pond LWS. Three of these lie adjacent to the Order limits: a) the Loddon River (part) LWS comprises 17km of river that has a diversity of features such as adjacent marsh, islands, inlets, riffles, river cliffs and extensive and varied channel vegetation. The site supports water vole; b) Pearman’s Copse LWS forms part of Pearman’s Copse LNR and is a small area of ancient woodland. The copse has boundary banks and ditches which are typical of ancient woodland sites. At the northern end oak dominates, with abundant cherry at the western edge. The shrub layer is dominated by hazel with some maple. Bramble and bluebell dominate the field layer; and c) the Grove LWS comprises small mosaic of rank grassland, scrub, secondary woodland, broad-leaved plantation and two ponds completely enclosed by roads towards the north of Shinfield. Overall the site forms a mosaic of habitats. 9.6.8 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, all of the LWSs between junctions 11 and 10 are considered to be of local value for nature conservation, with the exception of Ancient Woodland sites. Ancient Woodland sites are considered to be of national value. No Ancient Woodland will be lost as a result of the Scheme. 9.6.9 With the exception of those sites which lie immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected to it, such that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.6.10 Mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon sites that are immediately adjacent to the Order limits.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.6.11 No adverse effects were predicted prior to mitigation, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.12 Three areas of ancient woodland lying within 1km of the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 have been identified from Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory. The closest is situated approximately 0.4km to the north of this link of the Scheme (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 2). 9.6.13 All areas of Ancient Woodland are considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.6.14 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 include: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland, dense/continuous scrub and semi-improved grassland, which form the dominant habitat types (see Drawing 9.2 Sheets 10 to 20); b) areas of tall ruderal, species-rich semi-improved neutral grassland and scattered broad-leaved trees; and c) a watercourse, the River Loddon, which under runs under the motorway between junctions 11 and 10. 9.6.15 The majority of habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation with the exception of Ancient Woodland which is of national value. No Ancient Woodland will be lost. 9.6.16 Despite only a small section lying within the study area, any effects to major watercourses has the potential to affect a wider zone of influence. The River Loddon, although historically modified for mill use, is a largely natural tributary of the Thames and includes a 4km stretch of SSSI (Stanford End Mill and River Loddon). It has not yet reached “good” water quality (WFD) but has had significant investment pledged to achieve this during 2015 and has recently had a new fish pass installed by the EA. It is considered to be county value.
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Mitigation 9.6.17 General mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs, and best practice pollution and control measures, including those that will prevent direct or indirect adverse effects to the River Loddon. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss and will be detailed within the CEMP. Assessment of residual effects 9.6.18 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral as, though there is a small amount of localised habitat loss proposed within this link, these habitats are widespread throughout the country at all geographical levels. As such, the residual effects of the Scheme are not considered to be significant. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.19 Invasive plant species were identified within the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainages 49+150 B and 49+850 B (TN 115 and 118 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 16 and 17); and b) wall cotoneaster at chainages 47+750 A; and 47+750 to 48+050 A (TN 154 and 122 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 18 and 19). Mitigation 9.6.20 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.6.21 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive species between junctions 11 and 10 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral and have the potential to be beneficial.
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Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.22 Of the five ponds surveyed between junctions 11 and 10, a small great crested newt population was found in one pond near Sindlesham in 2011 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 5). 9.6.23 Overall, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 are considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Although they provide potential foraging and hibernation habitat to amphibians in a number of locations, breeding habitat is not in close proximity. Therefore, the use of the habitat by amphibians is likely to be limited. Mitigation 9.6.24 Mitigation measures in relation to staged vegetation removal are sufficient as no offence is likely and works can proceed under a precautionary method statement as outlined in section 9.4. Assessment of residual effects 9.6.25 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.26 Targeted reptile surveys of suitable habitat within the study area identified occasional small populations of grass snake and slow-worm (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 4 and 5) through this link of the Scheme where suitable habitat exists. 9.6.27 Both reptile species are relatively common and widespread and, given that the reptile populations present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles. Mitigation 9.6.28 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within the Order limits in this link will rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance, and the location and need for ecological supervision will be directed in the CEMP.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.6.29 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement of species from the Order limits and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat although this is likely to be not significant to the wider population due to the small loss of habitat and the continued connectivity to the wider area. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.30 The data searches identified records of six species of bat recorded within the study area between junctions 11 and 10. These are common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Daubenton’s bat, noctule, Natterer’s bat (roost identified) and brown long-eared bat (roost identified). 9.6.31 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. These identified confirmed bat roosts for soprano pipistrelle and Daubenton’s bat in one structure and one area suitable for foraging and commuting by bats. 9.6.32 The River Loddon underbridge at chainage 50+450 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 4) has been identified as a bat roost, relating to satellite roosts of soprano pipistrelle and Daubenton’s bat. 9.6.33 Significant foraging and commuting corridors for bats were evident during the surveys, located along the River Loddon underbridge at chainage 50+450 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 4) for common and soprano pipistrelle, Leisler’s bat and Daubenton’s bat. 9.6.34 A single willow at chainage 46+950 A (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 5) was confirmed as a bat roost, as bat droppings were found during an inspection. The tree is suspected to be used by roosting noctule. Several other trees, including mature oak and ash trees at chainages 51+350 to 50+750 B (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 4), were considered to be suitable for use by roosting bats (though no evidence of bats was, in fact, found). 9.6.35 Overall, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 11 and 10 are considered to be of county value to bats as the connectivity of quality commuting and foraging habitats supports confirmed bat roost sites within a motorway structure and a tree. 9.6.36 The roost confirmed at River Loddon underbridge is in close proximity to a proposed ERA and vegetation clearance. These works may disturb roosting bats.
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9.6.37 No construction works are proposed to the willow tree at chainage 46+950 A, which contains a known noctule roost. Mitigation 9.6.38 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. 9.6.39 River Loddon underbridge works should avoid the core active season (April to September inclusive) wherever possible. If works are required during the bat active season, precautionary mitigation, including construction phase lighting will be designed to avoid light spill to such areas, will be implemented to ensure that roosting bats are not disturbed. As such, a bat EPS licence will not be required. Assessment of residual effects 9.6.40 The mitigation described will result in the residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on bats being considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all roosts and the temporary nature of disturbance. Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.6.41 Evidence of the presence of otters was found at the following locations: a) River Loddon crossing at chainage 50+450 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 4). Numerous sets of otter prints were identified within the underpass; and b) Emm Brook crossing at chainage 46+450 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 5). Otter prints were identified from the poached bank and a single otter spraint was identified from an overhanging bough. 9.6.42 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a limited proportion of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters and those habitats between junctions 11 and 10 are considered to be of local value for otters but impacts will be avoided or minimal.
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Mitigation 9.6.43 Mitigation measures in relation to otters are outlined in section 9.4. Pre- construction surveys will be undertaken to confirm the continued absence of otter resting sites in the vicinity of the works, and measures to minimise disturbance to otters and best practice pollution control measures will be implemented. Assessment of residual effects 9.6.44 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 11 and 10 on otter are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of suitable habitat and minimal disturbance envisaged.
9.7 Junction 10 to junction 8/9
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.1 Two SSSIs and five LNRs are located within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 10 and 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheets 2 and 3). 9.7.2 Great Thrift Wood SSSI is located approximately 260m north of the Order limits between junctions 10 and 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1, Sheets 2 and 3). The site is designated for its semi-natural woodland, with a varied and relatively undisturbed stand structure with rich shrub and ground flora, which indicate a very long continuity of woodland cover. The site covers an area of 13.9ha and is in a favourable condition. The most characteristic stand type is oak/hazel/ash woodland, with other areas dominated by stands of coppiced alder with grey and crack willows, ash and oak. Birch, aspen and alder buckthorn are locally frequent and field maple occurs mainly on the boundaries of the river banks. The rare wild service tree is also present in small quantities. 9.7.3 Bray Meadow SSSI is located approximately 1.7km north of the Order limits from junction 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). This site is designated for its representation of species-rich unimproved meadows which support distinctive flora, characteristic of the lower Thames floodplain, including the locally uncommon plant, restharrow ( Ononis repens ). Lying adjacent to a side channel of the Thames near Maidenhead, the riverside vegetation includes the nationally scarce greater dodder ( Cuscuta europaea ). The site covers an area of 6.5ha and is in an unfavourable recovering condition.
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9.7.4 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these SSSIs are considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.7.5 Holts Copse and Joel Park LNR lies approximately 1.2km south of the Order limits and covers an area of 5.1ha (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 2) and Lavell’s Lake LNR is located approximately 1.6km north of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 2). For full description of both sites, refer to link junction 11 to junction 10. 9.7.6 Ockwells Park LNR is located adjacent to the Order limits at junction 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). Ockwells Park LNR covers an area of 9.4ha and consists of woodland and meadows. 9.7.7 The Gullet LNR is located approximately 1.5km north of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). The Gullet LNR covers an area of 2.1ha next to the main railway line in Maidenhead. Consisting of woodland, scrub and grassland, it provides a wildlife refuge within the surrounding urban environment. 9.7.8 Braywick Park LNR is located approximately 1.2km north of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). Braywick Park LNR covers an area of 12.7ha on the fringe of the urban area of Maidenhead. The park is on the site of a disused quarry and contains formal park lane, as well as wildlife habitat such as grassland, woodland and ponds. 9.7.9 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these LNRs are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.7.10 Eleven LWS are present within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 10 and 8/9. These are: Hammonds Wood LWS; Kiln Copse LWS; Bushy Lees LWS; Warren Copse LWS; North Ockett Wood and Beech Wood LWS; Woodland near Short Lane Farm LWS; Triangular Wood Paley Street LWS; Woods by Waltham Place LWS; Pond Wood LWS; Gardner’s Copse LWS and Furze Covert LWS. Three of these are located adjacent to the Order limits: a) Kiln Copse LWS forms the remnants of a larger ancient semi- natural woodland, largely lost to arable land. The site supports stands of oak-birch woodland with local aspen. A near continuous understorey of hazel is present. The field layer is dominated by carpets of bluebell;
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b) Bushy Lees LWS is a small woodland dominated by oak and ash over hazel coppice. The edges of the site feature mature hawthorn and blackthorn. A small plantation of larch occupies the southern part of the site. Birch is abundant in this area. The ground flora has an abundance of bluebells; and c) Warren Copse LWS is a large mixed ancient semi-natural woodland situated in a varied landscape of mixed farms, permanent pasture and large landscaped gardens. The site is important for its large size, its obvious ancient character and varied habitat structure. 9.7.11 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, all of the LWSs are considered to be of local value for nature conservation with the exception of Ancient Woodland sites, which are considered to be of national value. No Ancient Woodland will be lost. 9.7.12 The majority of designated sites are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme, and are not hydrologically connected, so that no adverse effects are anticipated. For those valued at the local level that are adjacent to the Order limits, there is the potential for small localised areas to be subject to indirect impacts such as degradation due to encroachment of large plant from construction or noise disturbance and pollution (both air and surface/ground water). Although not likely to be significant due to the localised nature of the effects and the local value of the habitats, best practice construction mitigation will however be employed to further reduce adverse effects. Mitigation 9.7.13 Mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon sites that are immediately adjacent to the Order limits. Assessment of residual effects 9.7.14 In this link, no adverse effects are predicted prior to mitigation and, therefore, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral .
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Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.15 A total of 27 areas of Ancient Woodland have been identified from Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory within 1km of this link of the Scheme (see Drawing 9.1 Sheets 2 to 3). All of these areas are considered of national value for nature conservation. No Ancient Woodland will be lost. 9.7.16 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 10 and 8/9 include: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland, coniferous plantation woodland, mixed plantation woodland and dense/continuous scrub as the dominant habitat types (see Drawing 9.2 Sheet 22 to 36); and b) areas of tall ruderal, scattered scrub and semi-improved neutral grassland. 9.7.17 The area proposed for construction compound 4 contains the following habitat types: species poor improved grassland, dense scrub, scattered scrub, unimproved neutral grassland, bare ground and marshy grassland. Some scattered broad-leaf trees are also found within the area. 9.7.18 The habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. Mitigation 9.7.19 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs and best practice pollution and control measures. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.7.20 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , owing to the site value of the habitats and the small amount of habitat loss proposed within this link. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.21 Invasive plant species were identified within the Order limits at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainage 35+550 B (TN 52 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 34);
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b) giant hogweed at chainage 11+050100 A and B (TN 99 and 101 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 22;); and c) rhododendron at chainages 45+550 A (TN 97 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 22), 40+150 to 40+350 A (TN 39 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 28), and 39+850 to 40+050 B (TN 40 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 29). Mitigation 9.7.22 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.7.23 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive species between junctions 10 and 8/9 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral . Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.24 Of the seven ponds surveyed between junctions 10 and 8/9, great crested newt populations were found in three. The ponds in which presence was confirmed are noted below. a) a small population of great crested newts was identified at Bill Hill Park in surveys undertaken in 2010 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 6); and b) two ponds near Shurlock Row were found to contain great crested newts: one small population identified by surveys undertaken in 2010 and the second from a great crested newt egg in surveys undertaken in 2013 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 7). 9.7.25 Overall, the habitat within this link of the Scheme is considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Although it provides potential foraging and hibernation habitat for amphibians in a number of locations, breeding habitat is not in close proximity. Therefore, the use of the habitat by amphibians is likely to be limited. Mitigation 9.7.26 Mitigation measures in relation to amphibians are outlined in section 9.4. These include staged vegetation removal under a precautionary method statement.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.7.27 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.28 Targeted reptile surveys within suitable habitats within the study area between junctions 10 and 8/9 identified occasional populations of slow- worm and grass snake (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 6 to 9) with peak counts of 12 and 2, respectively. 9.7.29 The semi-improved grassland and scrub within construction compound 4 was considered to have low potential for reptiles. 9.7.30 However, both species are relatively common and widespread, and, given that the reptile populations present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles. Mitigation 9.7.31 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within construction areas within the Order limits should rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance, with the following exceptions. 9.7.32 Displacement is not considered appropriate in relation to the areas listed below, as the habitats adjacent to them are not suitable for use by reptiles: a) ERA E7-A3 at chainage 40+700 A and E7-B2 at chainage 38+750 B; b) widening area R33 between chainages 34350 to 31+050 B; and c) the area proposed for construction compound 4. 9.7.33 Instead, in these areas translocation will be undertaken as outlined in paragraph 9.4.53 above. Assessment of residual effects 9.7.34 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation of species from the Order limits and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat.
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Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.35 Five bat species have been recorded within the study area between junctions 10 and 8/9 based on the data searches. These are common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, Daubenton’s bat, Noctule and brown long- eared bat. 9.7.36 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. These identified three confirmed bat roosts for soprano pipistrelle in structures between junctions 10 and 8/9. Four areas suitable for foraging and commuting by bats were also identified during the surveys. 9.7.37 The locations of confirmed bat roosts all relate to summer roosts of common species and are located in the following structures: a) soprano pipistrelle satellite roost present at the Straight Mile overbridge at chainage 43+200 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 6); b) soprano pipistrelle maternity roost present at the Billingbear Brook culvert at chainage 43+000 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 6); and c) soprano pipistrelle satellite roost present at the Billingbear Brook Farm overbridge at chainage 41+700 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 7). 9.7.38 A tree within the area proposed for construction compound 4 was also identified as having potential for roosting bats (TN 171 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 21). 9.7.39 Significant foraging and commuting corridors for bats were evident during the surveys as outlined below: a) Littlefield Green overbridge at chainage 37+600 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 8); b) Littlefield Green underbridge at chainage 37+450 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 8); c) Stud Green culvert at chainage 35+550 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 8); and d) Stud Green Access overbridge at chainage 35+150 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 9). 9.7.40 Overall, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 10 and 8/9 are considered to be of county value to bats as, although the extent of suitable foraging habitat was limited within the Order limits, confirmed bat roost sites are present in a motorway structure and a single tree.
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Mitigation 9.7.41 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. 9.7.42 The roost confirmed at Straight Mile overbridge, Billingbear Farm overbridge and Billingbear Brook culvert are in close proximity to construction works and vegetation clearance. As these works may disturb roosting bats, works should avoid the active season, wherever possible. If works are required during the bat active season, precautionary mitigation, including construction phase lighting will be designed to avoid light spill to such areas, will be implemented to ensure that roosting bats are not disturbed. As a maternity roost has been identified within Billingbear Brook culvert, if works are undertaken during the breeding season for bats (May to mid-August), operational hours should be restricted to daytime working and the roosts should be monitored throughout construction. As such, a bat EPS licence will not be required. Assessment of residual effects 9.7.43 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all roosts, the timing of the works and the limited and temporary nature of disturbance. Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.7.44 Although no records of otter were returned during the data search, targeted surveys were undertaken of suitable habitat in the vicinity of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9. Evidence of the presence of otter was found at Emm Brook crossing at chainage 46+550 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 5). Otter prints were identified from the poached bank and a single otter spraint was identified from an overhanging bough. 9.7.45 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a limited proportion of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters and those habitats between junctions 10 and 8/9 are considered to be of local value for otters. Mitigation 9.7.46 Mitigation measures in relation to otters are outlined in section 9.4.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.7.47 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 10 and 8/9 on otter are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of suitable habitat, maintenance of habitat connectivity and minimal disturbance envisaged.
9.8 Junction 8/9 to junction 7
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.1 Three SSSIs and three LNRs were identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 (see Drawing 9.1, Sheet 3). 9.8.2 Great Thrift Wood SSSI is located approximately 950m west of junction 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). For full description of site, refer to link junction 10 to junction 8/9. 9.8.3 Bray Pennyroyal Field SSSI is located approximately 960m south of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3).The site is designated as it represents the sole Berkshire locality for the nationally-rare pennyroyal ( Mentha pulegium) , a species included in Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and listed in the British Red Data Book of vascular plants. The site covers an area of 3.43ha and is in an unfavourable declining condition. The site comprises a single field adjoining the Thames. Pennyroyal is a creeping perennial of pond or lake margins and damp depressions, formerly a locally-common plant in most counties in England and Wales. 9.8.4 Bray Meadow SSSI is located approximately 900m north of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 (see Drawing 9.1, Sheet 3). For full description of site, refer to link junction 10 to junction 8/9. 9.8.5 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these SSSIs are considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.8.6 Ockwells Park LNR is located adjacent to the Order limits at junctions 8/9 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). For full description of site, refer to link junction 10 to junction 8/9. 9.8.7 The Gullet LNR is located approximately 1.6km north of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). For full description of site, refer to link junction 10 to junction 8/9.
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9.8.8 Braywick Park LNR is located approximately 935m north of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 3). For full description of site, refer to link junction 10 to junction 8/9. 9.8.9 Haymill Valley LNR is located approximately 1.7km north of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). Haymill Valley LNR covers an area of 3.2ha and consists of a reedbed within a former mill pond. 9.8.10 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these LNRs are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.8.11 Three LWSs are located within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7. These are: Trumper’s Field LWS, Greenway Corridor LWS and Bray Pit Reserve LWS. All are adjacent to the Order limits: a) Trumper’s Field is an area of unimproved damp neutral grassland, with 109 plant species recorded; b) Greenway Corridor LWS forms a linear waterside corridor. It has a good variety of riparian plant species in the channel and at the margins. The site has water vole records from the late 1990s; and c) Bray Pit Reserve is a nature reserve managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. It is a disused pit, enhanced by the planting of marginal vegetation and grassland. The site, along with adjacent pits, is valuable habitat for birds including little ringed plover and sand martin. 9.8.12 Due to nature conservation designations of these sites, these LWSs are considered of local value for nature conservation with the exception of Ancient Woodland which is of national value. 9.8.13 With the exception of those sites which lie immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected so that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.8.14 Mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon sites that are immediately adjacent to the Order limits.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.8.15 Following the implementation of best practice guidelines, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.16 A summary of the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 is presented below: a) a broad-leaved plantation woodland, dense/continuous scrub and poor semi-improved grassland form the dominant habitat types. There is a single homogeneous red oak ( Quercus rubra ) woodland, which extends from the bridge between chainages 33+500 to 33+650 B (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 37); b) areas of tall ruderal and broad-leaved parkland/scattered trees; c) there are three major watercourses which run underneath the motorway between junctions 8/9 and 7. These are the Thames; the Jubilee River; and The Cut. The Thames is a major river, the banks of which support continuous scrub, a mix of semi-mature deciduous trees and tall ruderal communities with occasional invasive plant species (Indian balsam, see TN 159 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 40), and the Jubilee River is a man-made channel constructed to take River Thames overflow. The Cut’s banks are heavily shaded by immature trees and scrub; the river channel is reinforced with timber boarding; and d) a number of wet and dry ditches. 9.8.17 The area proposed for construction compound 5 is dominated by rough semi-improved grassland, with a large area of hard standing near the site entrance. Several isolated patches of tall ruderal vegetation are present near this area of hard standing. There is a further area of plantation woodland bounded by dense scrub adjacent to the A330 carriageway. Due to access constraints, the area proposed for construction compound 5 was observed from the boundary and public rights of way, and by reviewing aerial photography.
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9.8.18 The majority of habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.8.19 The Jubilee River was a flagship project and includes banks with native woodlands, hedgerows, riverside vegetation and wildflower grassland, which is integrated fully with the surrounding countryside and provides numerous new ecosystem services. The River Thames supports a large number of major urban settlements (London, Swindon, Oxford, Slough, Maidenhead and Reading) and although it can be heavily impacted by sewage pollution, many of its upper reaches are of good water quality. These Rivers are of county value. 9.8.20 Despite only small sections lying within the study area, any effects to major watercourses, for example as a result of the widening of the Thames Bray underbridge, has the potential to effect a wider zone of influence and many ecosystem services. Mitigation 9.8.21 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs, and best practice pollution and control measures, including those appropriate for the major watercourses noted above. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.22 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , owing to the pollution prevention methods, the level of the effects and the small, localised amount of habitat loss proposed within this link. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.23 Invasive plant species were identified within the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainage 32+100 A and B (TN 162 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 39), 36+250 A (TN 159 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 39); b) giant hogweed at chainage 31+100 A and B (TN 162 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 39); and c) Japanese Knotweed at chainage 32+450 B (TN 156 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 39).
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Mitigation 9.8.24 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.25 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 8/9 and 7 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral . It is noted that removal of the invasive species may have a localised beneficial effect on nature conservation. Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.26 A single pond was surveyed between junctions 8/9 and 7; a small great crested newt population was found within this pond at Huntercombe Hospital near junction 7 in 2014 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10). 9.8.27 Overall, the habitat within this link of the Scheme is considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Although works will take place within habitats that are suitable for foraging and hibernating amphibians, these are distant from the pond and the habitats represent a very small proportion of the suitable habitats present within 250m of the pond. Mitigation 9.8.28 Mitigation measures in relation to amphibians are outlined in section 9.4. These include staged vegetation removal under a precautionary method statement. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.29 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. However, this is not likely to be significant with regards to the wider population. Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.30 Targeted reptile surveys of suitable habitat within the study area identified occasional small populations of grass snake and slow-worm (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 9 to 10) between junctions 8/9 and 7, where suitable habitat exists.
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9.8.31 The semi-improved grassland, scrub and tall ruderal herbs within the eastern section of construction compound 5 were considered to have potential to support a reptile population. Due to access constraints, the area proposed for construction compound 5 was observed from the boundary and public rights of way, and by reviewing aerial photography. 9.8.32 Both species are relatively common and widespread and, given that the reptile populations present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles and impacts would be slight adverse at maximum. Mitigation 9.8.33 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within construction areas within the soft estate should rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance with the following exception. 9.8.34 Displacement is not considered appropriate in relation to proposed widening between chainages 30+800 A to 31+800 A (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10), as the habitats adjacent to them are not suitable for use by reptiles. Instead, a translocation will be undertaken as outlined in paragraph 9.4.53 above. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.35 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation of species from the Order limits, and minor permanent loss of localised foraging habitat. These effects are not likely to be significant for the wider population even at the local level. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.36 Three species of bat have been recorded within the 1km study area between junctions 8/9 and 7 based on the data searches. These are soprano pipistrelle, Daubenton’s bat and brown long-eared bat. Records for brown long-eared bat included records of roosts within 1km. Unidentified pipistrelle species records also included roost records within 1km. 9.8.37 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. Two trees between chainages 33+750 A and 33+850 A (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 9) were identified as having potential for roosting bats.
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9.8.38 One area suitable for foraging and commuting by bats was identified during the surveys. Significant foraging and commuting corridors for Myotis species, common and soprano pipistrelle were evident during the surveys at Thames Bray underbridge at chainage 31+200 to 31+300 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10). 9.8.39 The area proposed for construction compound 5 has low potential to support roosting bats within mature trees and the broad-leaved plantation woodland adjacent to the carriageway. Due to access constraints, this area was not subject to targeted surveys. 9.8.40 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 8/9 and 7, but features which were potentially suitable for use by bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 8/9 and 7 are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.8.41 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.42 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of potential roosting sites; and foraging and commuting corridors. Otters Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.8.43 Although no records of otter were returned from the data search, targeted surveys were undertaken of suitable habitat in the vicinity of the Scheme between junction 8/9 and 7. Evidence of the presence of otters was found at the following locations: a) the Cut crossing at chainage 32+050 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 9). A single otter spraint was identified at two locations in from the banks of the watercourse; b) Jubilee River crossing at chainage 30+300 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10). A single otter spraint was identified under the motorway bridge and on a footbridge to the north of the motorway. It is assumed that otters use the entire Jubilee River throughout this area; and
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c) Thames Bray crossing at chainage 31+200 to 31+300 (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10). No evidence was observed during targeted surveys. However, an incidental sighting of a possible otter within the river was recorded during the bat surveys at this location. Otters are known to be present on the Thames through this area. 9.8.44 Suitable habitats for otters within the Order limits represent a fraction of the habitats within the likely range of individual otters, and those habitats between junctions 8/9 and 7 are considered to be of local value for otters, but impacts will be avoided or minimal in terms of disturbance. Mitigation 9.8.45 Mitigation measures in relation to otters are outlined in section 9.4. Assessment of residual effects 9.8.46 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 8/9 and 7 on otter are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of suitable habitat and minimal disturbance envisaged.
9.9 Junction 7 to junction 6
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.1 Two LNRs were identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6 (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). 9.9.2 Haymill Valley LNR is located approximately 1.1km north of the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6 (see Drawing 9.1, Sheet 4). This site covers an area of 3.2ha and consists of a reedbed within a former mill pond. 9.9.3 Herschel Park LNR is located approximately 1.3km north of the Order limits and lies adjacent to the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5 (see Drawing 9.1, Sheet 4). For full description of site, refer to link junction 8/9 to junction 7. 9.9.4 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, both LNRs are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.9.5 These sites are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected such that no adverse effects are anticipated.
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Mitigation 9.9.6 No specific mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are considered necessary between junctions 7 and 6. Nevertheless, best practice pollution prevention and control measures will be implemented, as outlined in section 9.4. Assessment of residual effects 9.9.7 Following the implementation of best practice guidelines, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 7 and 6 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.8 A summary of the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6 is presented below: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland and poor semi-improved grassland form the dominant habitat types. The woodland at chainage 28+050 A (TN 165 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 9) is Ash, Field Maple and Sycamore woodland, which has been cleared in places, and in these locations Bramble scrub was regenerating; b) a section of semi-improved neutral grassland occurs within close proximity/adjacent to the study area between chainages 27+200 A to 27+300 A (TN 166 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 45). This grassland is dominated with herbaceous species such as red fescues, creeping bent, oxeye daisy, red campion ( Silene dioica), creeping cinquefoil, hairy tare ( Vicia hirsuta ), common vetch ( Vicia sativa ) and cut- leaved crane's-bill ( Geranium dissectum ); and c) areas of tall ruderal herbs, dense/continuous scrub and scattered scrub. 9.9.9 The area proposed for construction compound 6 comprises predominantly semi-improved grassland, with scattered patches of tall ruderal herb and scrub. The proposed compound area is bounded by a ring of dense scrub and there is a small area of broad-leaved plantation woodland to the east. There is a further area of species poor semi-improved grassland to the west, with scattered scrub and a small patch of bare ground adjacent to the carriageway.
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9.9.10 The habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable, and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. Mitigation 9.9.11 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs and best practice pollution and control measures. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.9.12 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 7 and 6 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , owing to the low intrinsic nature conservation value of the habitats and the small amount of habitat loss proposed within this link. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.13 Invasive plant species were identified within the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6 at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainage 26+850 A and B (TN 161 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 46); b) Japanese Knotweed at chainage 26+850 A (TN 156 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 46); and c) giant hogweed at chainage 28+050 A (TN 157 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 46). Mitigation 9.9.14 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.9.15 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 7 and 6, the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral and has the potential to be beneficial.
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Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.16 A single pond was surveyed in 2014 in the vicinity of junctions 7 and 6 and was found to support a small population of great crested newts. The pond is located at Huntercombe Hospital near junction 7 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 10). 9.9.17 Overall, the habitat within this link of the Scheme is considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Although it provides potential foraging and hibernation habitat to amphibians in a number of locations, breeding habitat is not in close proximity, and therefore the use of the habitat by amphibians is likely to be limited. Mitigation 9.9.18 Mitigation measures in relation to amphibians are outlined in section 9.4. These include staged vegetation removal pursuant to a precautionary method statement. Assessment of residual effects 9.9.19 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 7 and 6 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.20 Targeted reptile surveys of suitable habitat within the study area identified scattered small populations of grass snake and slow-worm (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 10 to 11) within the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6, where suitable habitat exists. 9.9.21 The improved grassland, scrub and tall ruderal herbs present within construction compound 6 were considered to have the potential to support a reptile population. 9.9.22 Both species are relatively common and widespread and, given that the reptile populations present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles.
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Mitigation 9.9.23 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within construction areas within the soft estate should rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance with the following exception. 9.9.24 Displacement is not considered appropriate in relation to proposed works at Datchet Mead overbridge and construction compound 6, as the habitats adjacent to them are not suitable for use by reptiles. Instead, translocation will be undertaken as outlined above in paragraph 9.4.53 above. Assessment of residual effects 9.9.25 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 7 and 6 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation of species from the Order limits, and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.9.26 No records of bat species were identified within the study area between junctions 7 and 6 during desk-based searches. 9.9.27 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. A row of trees between chainages 27+550 A and 27+700 A (Drawing 9.3 Sheet 11) was identified as having potential for roosting bats. No significant foraging and commuting corridors were identified during surveys between junctions 7 and 6. 9.9.28 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 7 and 6, but features which were potentially suitable for use by roosting bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 7 and 6 are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.9.29 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. Assessment of Residual Effects 9.9.30 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 7 and 6 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all potential roosts.
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9.10 Junction 6 to junction 5
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.1 One internationally designated site with bats as a qualifying feature has been identified within 30km of the Order limits. The Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC is located approximately 25km south-east of the Order limits at its closest point between junctions 6 and 5 (see Appendix 9.1 Figure 2) and is designated for Bechstein’s bat ( Myotis bechsteinii ). (Note: this species has not been recorded in the area between junctions 6 and 5). Urbanised areas of Greater London lie between the Scheme and the SAC, acting as a barrier to commuting bats and effectively increasing the likely flight distance of between the SAC and the Scheme to more than 30km. Due to nature conservation designation of this site, the SAC is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.10.2 A second internationally designated site has been identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b. The Southwest London Waterbodies is designated both as a Ramsar site and SPA. It is located approximately 1.8km south of the Order limits. The site comprises a series of embanked water supply reservoirs and former gravel pits, and is designated for the overwintering populations of gadwall ( Anas strepera ) and shoveler ( Anas clypeata ) that it supports. Due to nature conservation designation of this site, this site is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.10.3 One SSSI and one LNR were identified within 2km of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5. 9.10.4 Wraysbury No. 1 Gravel Pit SSSI is located approximately 2km south of the Order limits at chainage 29+200 B (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4) and is a component SSSI of the Southwest London Waterbodies SPA. The site is designated for its nationally important habitat for wintering gadwall ( Anas strepera ). The site covers an area of 57.75ha and is in an unfavourable recovering condition. In addition, the SSSI is considered to be locally important for wintering birds, including great crested grebe ( Podiceps cristatus ), cormorant ( Phalacrocorax carbo ) and pochard ( Ahthya farina ). The site also includes areas of woodland and scrub which support a range of woodland birds. Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, the SSSI is considered to be of national value for nature conservation.
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9.10.5 Herschel Park LNR is located adjacent to the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4,) to the north. For full description of site, refer to link junction 7 to junction 6. The LNR is considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.10.6 Two LWSs are located within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5. These are: Queen Mother Reservoir LWS and Upland Park Wetland WHS LWS. Neither of these is located adjacent to the Order limits. 9.10.7 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these LWSs are considered of local value for nature conservation. 9.10.8 With the exception of Herschel Park LNR which lies immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all of the designated sites between junctions 6 and 5 are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme, and not hydrologically connected, such that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.10.9 All mitigation measures for statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon Herschel Park LNR. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.10 No adverse effects prior to mitigation on any of the statutory or non- statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5 on designated sites are therefore to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.11 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5 comprise: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland, dense/continuous scrub and semi-improved grassland form the dominant habitat types; b) a section of species rich semi-improved neutral grassland on the abutments at Recreation Ground overbridge, at chainage 24+900 (See Drawing 9.2 Sheet 51); species present include common knapweed (Centurea nigra ), wild carrot ( Daucus carota ) and creeping cinquefoil; and
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c) areas of tall ruderal, broad-leaved parkland/scattered trees and scattered scrub. 9.10.12 The area proposed for construction compound 7 comprises a mosaic of amenity grassland, hard standing, tall ruderal herbs, plantation broad- leaved plantation woodland, dense scrub and semi-improved grassland. 9.10.13 The area proposed for construction compound 8 comprises semi-improved grassland with some scattered scrub and a single tree. Adjacent areas of broad-leaved woodland and dense/continuous scrub were present within the boundary to the east and south-west. Within the broad-leaved wood, a patch of rhododendron was noted (see Invasive Plant Species, below). Due to access constraints, the area proposed for construction compound 8 was observed from the boundary and public rights of way, and by reviewing aerial photography only. 9.10.14 The habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable, and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. Mitigation 9.10.15 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs, and best practice pollution and control measures. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.16 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , owing to the small amount of habitat loss proposed within this link. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.17 Invasive plant species were identified within the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5 at the following locations: a) Indian balsam at chainage 21+600 A and B (TN 155 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 53); b) Japanese Knotweed at chainage 24+300 B (TN 156 Drawing 9.2 Sheets 50); and c) rhododendron within the area proposed for construction compound 8 (TN 172 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 50).
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Mitigation 9.10.18 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.19 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 6 and 5 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral, and may be beneficial due to the removal of invasive species. Amphibians Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.20 Desk data search has identified a great crested newt population within ponds 30A and 31. However, no great crested newt were identified during surveys undertaken in 2014 at this location. As these Ponds are located in close proximity to construction works at Riding Court Road overbridge, precautionary mitigation is proposed. 9.10.21 Overall, the habitat within this link of the Scheme is considered to be of no more than local value to amphibians. Although it provides potential foraging and hibernation habitat to amphibians in a number of locations, breeding habitat is not in close proximity to the Order limits and, therefore, the use of the habitat by amphibians is likely to be limited. Mitigation 9.10.22 Mitigation measures in relation to amphibians are outlined in section 9.4. These include staged vegetation removal under a precautionary method statement. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.23 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5 on amphibians are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the minor permanent loss of foraging habitat.
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Reptiles Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.24 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5 consist of areas of semi-improved rank grassland and bramble scrub suitable for reptiles. Grass snake and slow-worm were identified in the desk-based searches as occurring within the 1km study area. Targeted reptile surveys of suitable habitat within the study area identified scattered small populations of slow-worm (see Drawing 9.3 Sheets 11 to 12) between junctions 6 and 5, where suitable habitat exists. Both the areas proposed for construction compound 7 and 8 contain areas of semi-improved grassland that have the potential to support reptiles. 9.10.25 Both species are relatively common and widespread and, given that the reptile populations present are small and fragmented, it is considered that the habitats within the Order limits are of no more than local value for reptiles. Mitigation 9.10.26 Mitigation measures in relation to reptiles are outlined in section 9.4. The mitigation within construction areas within the soft estate should rely on displacement by phased vegetation clearance with the following exception. 9.10.27 Displacement is not considered appropriate in relation to proposed works at Riding Court Road overbridge and proposed construction compound 8, as the habitats adjacent to them are not suitable for use by reptiles. Instead, translocation will be undertaken as outlined above in paragraph 9.4.53 above. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.28 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5 on reptiles are considered to be slight adverse , owing to the displacement and translocation of species from the Order limits, and minor permanent loss of foraging habitat. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.10.29 Desk-based searches identified records only for unknown pipistrelle species (including records of roosts) within the 1km study area.
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9.10.30 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. No roosts were identified. One area suitable for foraging and commuting by bats was identified during the surveys. Construction compound 8 was identified as having potential for roosting bats, although access constraints meant that no targeted for bats surveys could be undertaken. No suitable habitat for bat species was identified during surveys of the area proposed for construction compound 7. 9.10.31 Significant foraging and commuting corridors for noctule, common and soprano pipistrelle were evident during the surveys at Windsor Branch Railway underbridge at chainage 25+550 (see Drawing 9.3 Sheet 11). 9.10.32 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 6 and 5, but features which were potentially suitable for use by bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 6 and 5 are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.10.33 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. Assessment of residual effects 9.10.34 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 6 and 5 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all potential roost sites; and foraging and commuting corridors.
9.11 Junction 5 to junction 4b
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.11.1 The Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC lies within 30km of the Order limits. It is located approximately 25km south-east of the Order limits at its closest point to this link (see Appendix 9.1 Figure 1), and is designated for Bechstein’s bat ( Myotis bechsteinii ). (Note: this species has not been recorded in the area between junctions 5 and 4b). Urbanised areas of Greater London lie between the Scheme and the SAC, acting as a barrier to commuting bats and effectively increasing the likely flight distance between the SAC and the Scheme to more than 30km. Due to nature
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conservation designation of this site, the SAC is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.11.2 A second internationally designated site has been identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b. The Southwest London Waterbodies is designated both as a Ramsar site and SPA. It is located approximately 1.8km south of the Order limits. For full description of site, refer to link junction 6 to 5. Due to nature conservation designation of this site, this site is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.11.3 Two SSSIs and one LNR were identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b. 9.11.4 Wraysbury Reservoir SSSI is located approximately 1.9km south of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). For full description of site, refer to link junction 6 to 5. 9.11.5 Staines Moor SSSI is located approximately 1.8km south of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). The site is designated for its alluvial meadows, the largest area of such habitat in Surrey, and nationally important populations of wintering wildfowl and aquatic flora. The site covers an area of 513.6ha and is primarily in a favourable condition. It supports one of only three known locations in Britain for the brown galingale ( Cyperus fuscus ). Over 1% of the total British wintering populations of tufted duck, pochard, goosander and shoveler utilise the site. 9.11.6 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these SSSIs are considered to be of national value for nature conservation. 9.11.7 Arthur Jacobs LNR is located approximately 1.6km south of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 4). Covering an area of 4.1ha, the site formally comprised a series of sewage sludge lagoons which have been transformed into wetland habitats. Due to nature conservation designation of this site, the LNR is considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.11.8 One BNS is located within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b. It is Home Farm Stream BNS and is located adjacent to the Order limits. It comprises a wide stream of canalised appearance, scattered shrubs and trees, and reeds.
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9.11.9 Due to nature conservation designation of this site, this BNS is considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.11.10 With the exception of Home Farm Stream BNS which lies immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all of the designated sites between junctions 5 and 4a are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected such that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.11.11 All mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon Home Farm Stream BNS. Assessment of residual effects 9.11.12 No effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated prior to mitigation. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 5 and 4b on designated sites, including those of international value, are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.11.13 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b comprise: a) ash and sycamore broad-leaved plantation woodland and dense/continuous bramble scrub as the dominant habitat types; b) ancient and semi-natural woodland lying adjacent to the Order limits at chainage 18+200, at the point of a new gantry (G3-03a) (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 58); c) areas of species poor amenity grassland between chainages 20+250 A and B; and 20+050 A and B at junction 5 (Drawing 9.2 Sheets 55 and 56); d) the unnamed watercourse which passes through old wood culvert between chainages 18+400 to 18+350 (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 57) supports aquatic and emergent/marginal floral communities; and e) areas of tall ruderal, poor semi-improved grassland and scattered scrub.
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9.11.14 Access to the areas proposed for construction compound 9 could not be obtained. The area proposed for construction compound 9 appears to comprise a large arable field with a small area of woodland in the south- west corner. 9.11.15 The habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable, and (within the areas that could be surveyed) did not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation, with the exception of Ancient Woodland sites which are considered to be of national value. No Ancient Woodland will be lost. Mitigation 9.11.16 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs and best practice pollution and control measures. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.11.17 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 5 and 4b on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , though there is a small amount of localised habitat loss proposed within this link, these habitats are widespread throughout the country at all geographical levels. As such, the residual effects of the Scheme are not considered to be significant. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.11.18 Japanese Knotweed was identified within the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b at chainage 17+300 B (TN 156 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 59). Note: as the areas proposed for construction compound 9 could not be surveyed, the absence of invasive plant species from these areas could not confirmed. Mitigation 9.11.19 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.11.20 As the spread of invasive plant species is not anticipated between junctions 5 and 4b, the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral, and may actually be beneficial. Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.11.21 Nine bat species have been recorded within the 1km study area based on the data searches. These are common pipistrelle, Daubenton’s bat, noctule, Leisler’s bat, serotine, Brandt’s bat, whiskered bat, Natterer’s bat and brown long-eared bat. 9.11.22 Targeted surveys of potential bat roosting structures and trees were undertaken in 2013/14. No significant foraging and commuting corridors were identified during surveys between junctions 5 and 4b. 9.11.23 As targeted surveys were not undertaken at the areas proposed for construction compounds 9 and 10, there could be potential for bats to be roosting within trees and buildings. 9.11.24 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 5 and 4b but features which were potentially suitable for use by roosting bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 5 and 4b are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.11.25 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. This will include surveys to assess the bat roost potential at construction compounds 9 and 10. Assessment of residual effects 9.11.26 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 5 and 4b on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to retention of potential roosts.
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9.12 Junction 4b to junction 4
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.12.1 The Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC lies within 30km of the Order limits. It is designated for Bechstein’s bat ( Myotis bechsteinii ). (Note: this species has not been recorded in the area between junctions 4b and 4). Due to nature conservation designation of this site, the SAC is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.12.2 No other statutory designated sites are located within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 4b and 4. 9.12.3 Two SINCs are located within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 4b and 4 (Drawing 9.1 Sheets 4 and 5). These are: Lower Colne SINC (of Metropolitan Importance) and Stockley Road Rough SINC. Of these, Lower Colne SINC is located adjacent to the Order limits. It covers an area of 140ha and is adjacent to and crosses under the carriageway at junction 4b. It is considered one of the finest river systems in London, including sections of the Rivers Colne, Wraysbury and Frays. They originate as chalk streams and support a diverse aquatic and marginal flora including nationally declining species. Associated wet meadows, flooded gravel pits, ponds, wet woodland, and an orchard are included in the site. The rare pennyroyal ( Mentha pulegium ) and water vole are also present. 9.12.4 The River Colne is a tributary of the River Thames with variable water quality. It flows mainly through Hertfordshire and forms the boundary between the South Bucks district of Buckinghamshire and the London Borough of Hillingdon. It flows into the River Thames on the reach above Penton Hook Lock at Staines upon Thames. It is a major wildlife corridor. 9.12.5 Due to nature conservation designation of these sites, these SINCs are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. However, the major rivers are evaluated as being of county value due to their range of ecosystem services and connectivity. 9.12.6 With the exception of the River Colne, which lies immediately adjacent to the Order limits, the other sites are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected such that no adverse effects are anticipated.
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Mitigation 9.12.7 Mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon the River Colne. Assessment of residual effects 9.12.8 Following the implementation of best practice guidelines, no effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4b and 4 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.12.9 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 4b and 4 comprise: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland and dense/continuous scrub as the dominant habitat types; b) the River Colne passes under the Scheme at chainage 16+000 (TN 160 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 61) – it supports little aquatic/marginal flora close to the bridge and the banks support mature scrub and willow trees; and c) areas of tall ruderal and scattered scrub. 9.12.10 The majority of habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and do not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.12.11 Despite only a small section lying within the study area, any effects to major watercourses have the potential to effect a wider zone of influence. As such, the River Colne is considered to be of county value, but with effects potentially extending to the local level. Mitigation 9.12.12 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs, and best practice pollution and control measures, including those appropriate for the River Colne. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss.
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Assessment of residual effects 9.12.13 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4b and 4 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral , though there is a small amount of localised habitat loss proposed within this link, these habitats are widespread throughout the country at all geographical levels. As such, the residual effects of the Scheme are not considered to be significant. Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.12.14 Indian balsam was identified within the Order limits at chainage 16+000 A and B (TN 160 Drawing 9.2 Sheets 61). Mitigation 9.12.15 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.12.16 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 4b and 4 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral . Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.12.17 Nine bat species have been recorded within the 1km study area between junctions 4b and 4 based on the data searches. These are common pipistrelle, Daubenton’s bat, noctule, Leisler’s bat, serotine, Brandt’s bat, whiskered bat, Natterer’s bat and brown long-eared bat. 9.12.18 Targeted surveys of potential bat roost sites within bridge structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. No roosts or significant foraging and commuting corridors were identified during surveys between junctions 4b and 4. 9.12.19 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 4b and 4 but features which were potentially suitable for use by roosting bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 4b and 4 are considered to be of local value to bats.
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Mitigation 9.12.20 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by works will be subject to a bat survey to reassess the presence of bats immediately prior to construction. Assessment of residual effects 9.12.21 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4b and 4 on bats are considered to be neutral .
9.13 Junction 4 to junction 3
Construction Statutory and non-statutory designated sites Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.13.1 The Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC lies within 30km of the Order limits. It is designated for Bechstein’s bat ( Myotis bechsteinii). (Note: this species has not been recorded in the area between junctions 4 and 3). Due to nature conservation designation of this site, the SAC is considered to be of international value for nature conservation. 9.13.2 One LNR was identified within 2km of the Order limits between junctions 4 and 3. Cranebank LNR is located approximately 1.9km south of the Order limits (see Drawing 9.1 Sheet 5). It covers an area of 6.7ha and consists of flood meadows adjacent to the River Crane. Due to nature conservation designation of this site, The LNR is considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.13.3 Six SINCs are located within 500m of the Order limits between junctions 4 and 3 (Drawing 9.1 Sheet 5). These are: Hartlands Wood and Lower Park Farm SINC, Crane Corridor SINC, Cranford Countryside Park and Open Space SINC, Wall Garden Farm Sand Heaps SINC, Cranford Lane Gravel Workings SINC and Stockley Road Rough SINC. Four of these lie adjacent to the Order limits: a) Hartlands Wood and Lower Park Farm SINC: Lower Park Farm comprises mainly species poor grassland. A mixture of tall herb species attracts large flocks of finches and seed-eating birds. Hartlands Wood has oak ( Quercus robur ) and native scrub species;
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b) Crane Corridor SINC covers a habitat corridor surrounding the River Crane. It comprises wetland habitats, woodlands, pasture, heathland and areas of open water. The site includes uncommon aquatic plants, breeding kingfisher and water vole; c) Cranford Countryside Park SINC supports a variety of habitats such as hay meadows, copses, native mixed woodland and is used as an education centre. The site has an important long-eared bat roost in one of the older buildings close to the interpretation centre; and d) Wall Garden Farm Sand Heaps SINC has sand heaps that support a breeding colony of sand martins adjacent to active gravel workings. 9.13.4 Due to nature conservation designation of this site, these SINC are considered to be of county value for nature conservation. 9.13.5 With the exception of those sites which lie immediately adjacent to the Order limits, all are considered to be sufficiently distant from the Scheme and not hydrologically connected such that no adverse effects are anticipated. Mitigation 9.13.6 All mitigation measures relating to statutory and non-statutory designated sites are outlined in section 9.4. These include the implementation of best practice pollution prevention and control measures to address any localised effects upon sites that are immediately adjacent to the Order limits. Assessment of residual effects 9.13.7 No effect on any of the statutory or non-statutory designated sites is anticipated prior to mitigation being undertaken. The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4 and 3 on designated sites are therefore considered to be neutral . Habitats and plants Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.13.8 The habitats within the Order limits between junctions 4 and 3 include: a) broad-leaved plantation woodland, dense/continuous scrub and scattered scrub form the dominant habitat types;
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b) a section of semi-natural broad-leaved woodland present adjacent to the Order limits between chainages 11+200 B and 11+050 B (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 68); c) the River Crane passing under the Scheme at chainage 11+050 (TN 158 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 69) – it is shallow with a muddy substrate and the banks are heavily shaded by woodland, scrub and tall ruderal/invasive plant species; d) areas of amenity grassland present between chainages 11+000 A and B and 10+800 A and B at junction 3 (Drawing 9.2 Sheet 69), and e) areas of tall ruderal and broad-leaved parkland/scattered trees. 9.13.9 The area proposed for construction compound 11 contains areas of dense scrub, broad-leaved plantation woodland, amenity grassland, tall ruderal and a species poor hedgerow. 9.13.10 The majority of habitats within this link of the Scheme are widespread within the wider area, are not notable and (within the areas that could be surveyed) did not contain protected plants. They are considered to be of local value for nature conservation. 9.13.11 Despite only a small section lying within the study area, any effects to major watercourses have the potential to effect a wider zone of influence. The River Crane has suffered major recent acute pollution incidents, but has been restocked by the EA’s partnership. It is considered to be of county value for the wide range of ecosystem services it provides. Mitigation 9.13.12 Mitigation measures in relation to habitats and plants are outlined in section 9.4. These include the protection of retained habitats, fencing of RPAs and best practice pollution and control measures, including those appropriate for the River Crane. Replanting will be undertaken to mitigate any habitat loss. Assessment of residual effects 9.13.13 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4 and 3 on habitats and plants are considered to be neutral, owing to the impacts being small amounts of localised habitat loss to habitats valued at the local level within this link, and the generic mitigation measures including prevention of pollution.
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Invasive plant species Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.13.14 Indian balsam was identified within the Order limits between junctions 4 and 3, at chainage 11+000 A and B (TN 158 Drawing 9.2 Sheet 69). Mitigation 9.13.15 Mitigation measures in relation to invasive plant species are outlined in section 9.4. These include the need for pre-construction surveys and species-specific control measures in accordance with best practice guidance. Assessment of residual effects 9.13.16 Mitigation will prevent the spread of invasive plant species between junctions 4 and 3 and the residual effects of the Scheme within this link on invasive plant species are considered to be neutral . Bats Baseline features and value (sensitivity) of resource 9.13.17 No bat species were found to have been recorded within the 1km study area between junctions 4 and 3 based on the desk-based searches. 9.13.18 Targeted surveys of potential bat roost sites within bridge structures or trees were undertaken in 2013/14. No roosts or significant foraging and commuting corridors were identified during surveys between junctions 4 and 3. 9.13.19 No bat roosts were confirmed between junctions 4 and 3 but features which were potentially suitable for use by roosting bats were noted and, therefore, the habitats within the Order limits between junctions 4 and 3 are considered to be of local value to bats. Mitigation 9.13.20 Mitigation measures in relation to bats are outlined in section 9.4. Any potential roost sites which could be affected by construction activities will be subject to a pre-construction survey to confirm the continued absence of bats. Assessment of residual effects 9.13.21 The residual effects of the Scheme between junctions 4 and 3 on bats are considered to be neutral , owing to the retention of all potential roosts and foraging habitat.
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9.14 Cumulative effects
Assessment of cumulative effects approach 9.14.1 As of January 2015, 27 new developments have been proposed within 1km of the Order limits. A review of all publically available ecological information regarding these new developments has been undertaken in order to assess the potential for cumulative effects associated with the Scheme. Only receptors with the potential to be significantly affected by this Scheme or the surrounding schemes following mitigation are included in the cumulative effects assessment. Those with neutral or beneficial residuals effects have been scoped out of this assessment. Limitations to Assessment 9.14.2 For the majority of sites, detailed planning information existed, however two potentially significant developments were not assessed due to a lack of available material: a) Slough International Freight Exchange (“SIFE”) on land to the north of Colnbrook bypass; and b) Reading Football Club application for development of new football training and academy facilities. Developments and receptor scoped out after consideration 9.14.3 Of the 25 developments considered, 16 were scoped out of the assessment due to their either having negligible potential to support biodiversity being on already urbanised sites or those with detailed proposed and/or conditioned mitigation that avoided or significant residual effects. 9.14.4 No impacts on designated sites were predicted within the other schemes scoped into the assessment, nor for this Scheme. Those schemes with potential to affect the Thames Basin Heath SPA have statutory and masterplanning provision for Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace. As a result, considering this integrated mitigation, the other developments that have been considered as part of this cumulative impact assessment, will not have significant cumulative effects on designated sites. No cumulative effects relating to air quality are predicted (see chapter 6 Air Quality).
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9.14.5 No significant impacts on habitats and plants (with the exception of winged orchid, hedgerows and veteran trees) were predicted within the other schemes scoped into the assessment, nor for this Scheme. Dormice, otter and water vole were scoped out of the cumulative assessment due to their absence or lack of residual adverse effects in the schemes considered for cumulative assessment. Developments and receptors scoped in after consideration 9.14.6 The following schemes and receptors were scoped in for their potential to result in cumulative effects. a) Science and Innovation Park: with regards to bats, badger, nesting birds and grass snakes; b) Shinfield West: application for a residential development of up to 1200 dwellings a further 150 units of specialist housing (including Sheltered housing) and associated community infrastructure including an extension to the primary school and a SANG: with regards to bats and breeding birds; c) land at Spencers Wood and Three Mile Cross: a hybrid application with part in outline in respect of up to 900 dwellings and associated community infrastructure: with regards to orchids; d) the Manor: an outline application for a residential development on Hollow Lane comprising up to 126 dwellings public open space, with regards to in skylark; e) Matthewsgreen Farm: an outline application for a phased development of approximately 760 dwellings including 60 units of assisted living homes and associated community infrastructure: with regards to nesting birds including skylarks and bats; f) proposed development of land at Hatch Farm Dairies for the construction of up to 433 dwellings with associated internal access roads garaging and car parking. A link road including new junctions with King Street Lane and Lower Earley Way. Primary school including associated pitches/play area: with regards to veteran trees; g) a full application for the construction of an Eastern Relief Road (ERR) to Shinfield: with regards to hedgerows, breeding birds, barn owls, bats;
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h) Arborfield Garrison: an outline application for a 2000 home mixed use residential and associate community infrastructure development of decamped barracks and adjacent greenfield land: with regards badger and nesting birds; and i) land adjacent to Green Park Business Park development for a mixed used residential in with regards to breeding and wintering birds. Predicted and residual cumulative effects Habitats 9.14.7 The effects of the Scheme are assessed as neutral for habitats and plants. Of the schemes within 1km, only one has a residual effect for winged orchid, one for veteran trees and one for hedgerows. Therefore, no significant cumulative effects of the Scheme on habitats are anticipated. Amphibians 9.14.8 Residual effects on amphibians on this Scheme were considered to be slight adverse, but without a likely significant effect on the wider population. A review of available ecological information in regards to other developments within 1km of the Scheme revealed neutral or negligible residual effects on amphibians. Therefore no significant cumulative effects of the Scheme on amphibians are anticipated. Reptiles 9.14.9 The Environmental Statement for phase 1 development of the Science and Innovation Park at Cutbush Lane, Shinfield stated that the cumulative residual effects on grass snakes would be minor adverse as a result of the change in habitat availability. Some habitat enhancement on the site was recommended as mitigation, but reptiles are expected to be displaced from the site to other suitable habitat. However, a review of available ecological information in regards to other developments within 1km of the Scheme revealed neutral, negligible or beneficial residual effects on reptiles. The Environmental Statement for the development of 760 dwellings on Matthewsgreen Farm, Matthewsgreen Road stated that residual effects on reptiles would be beneficial as a result of proposed habitat creation and enhancement. Due to proposed mitigation on the Scheme and only one development within 1km found with slight adverse cumulative effects on reptiles, it is considered that no significant cumulative effects of the Scheme on reptiles will occur.
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Birds and bats 9.14.10 Given that residual effects on bats and birds on this Scheme was considered neutral, and that most of the residual adverse effects of other developments within 1km were due to habitat loss, it is unlikely that the combined effect of the construction of the Scheme and these other developments would result in significant cumulative effects on these ecological receptors. Similarly, in the operational phase, the combined effect of the Scheme and the other developments is unlikely to result in changes to incidental road mortality for these receptors. 9.14.11 Following the implementation of mitigation, the cumulative effects of the Scheme in combination with other relevant schemes would be neutral .
9.15 Limitations encountered in compiling the ES
Great crested newts 9.15.1 Access was sought to survey all watercourses which cross beneath the Scheme, as well as all ponds within 500m of the Scheme. However, access to third party land was not always granted by the landowner/occupier. Consequently, a number of ponds (see Appendix 9.1Annex 2-B) and sections of watercourse (see Appendix 9.1 Annex 6-B) have not been subject to detailed species-specific surveys. Given the general survey access and coverage of the wider area, the assessments for baseline and mitigation are considered to be sufficiently precautionary and represent a reasonable assessment. However, additional pre- construction surveys will be undertaken to confirm the assessment and mitigation. 9.15.2 Access was granted for some areas that had associated access restrictions, such as “no access at night”. As such, not all great crested newt survey methods were possible at every location. In other cases, access was pursued and only granted towards the end of the survey period for great crested newts. Therefore, some ponds have not been subject to surveys across the entire survey period, but have received survey visits weighted to the end of the survey period. However, it is considered that this is not a significant limitation as the data collected has been sufficient to establish presence or absence of the species concerned.
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Reptiles 9.15.3 Due to the location of the reptile survey sections, the artificial refuges were located often within narrow sections of verge and close to the hard shoulder. Therefore, at some locations only a limited number of surveys were deployed. However, these were still deployed at the recommended density stated in DMRB Volume 10, Section 4, Part 7. Observations of reptiles away from the refuges were limited due to the safety aspect of the nature of working close to the motorway. Bats 9.15.4 Access to some parts of structures or trees to survey for bats was restricted because of the safety constraints with working in proximity to the live carriageway. However, it is considered that this is not a significant limitation as the structures concerned were subject to a visual inspection, so that any likely features that warranted further inspection could be noted. Construction compounds 9.15.5 Access to three of the nine proposed construction compounds was not granted, and so full protected species and phase 1 habitat surveys could not be carried out. Construction compounds 5 and 8 were surveyed from the boundary and public rights of way, and by using aerial photographs. Construction compound 9 could not be accessed, and the assessment is based on a review of aerial photographs only. The presence of receptors at these locations could not be ruled out, but the assessment has been made on the basis of the assumptions in 9.15.6 and 9.15.7. 9.15.6 Assumption: in relation to habitats and plants – on the basis of the available information, it would appear that the habitats present at these sites are widespread and common, and it is not considered likely that any notable habitats or plant species would be present. The confidence in this assumption is ‘near-certain’. 9.15.7 Assumption: invasive plant species – major infestations of invasive plant species are not anticipated, but it is possible that invasive plant species may be present at construction compound 9, and that the number of species and their extent may have been underestimated at construction compounds 5 and 8. Pre-construction surveys will ensure that the appropriate mitigation is incorporated within the detailed CEMP.
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9.15.8 Assumption: reptiles – due to the nature of the sites and their surroundings, for the purposes of this assessment, it has been assumed that no more than small populations of widespread reptiles are present. The confidence in this prediction is ‘near-certain’. 9.15.9 Assumption: bats – due to the small number of potential roost sites for bats, it is considered unlikely that a bat roost would be present. The confidence in this prediction is ‘probable’. 9.15.10 The lack of survey access to the construction compounds is not considered a major limitation, and confidence in the assumptions made is high due to the survey coverage of representative habitats within the Order limits. The construction compounds will be used by the contractor only on a temporary basis, and it is possible that not all of the proposed compounds will be chosen for use by the contractor. Furthermore, the contractor is not restricted to the use of only those construction compounds proposed – alternative compound locations may be identified by the contractor prior to or during the construction phase. In such circumstances, the contractor would be required to undertake appropriate ecological surveys and environmental assessment pursuant to obtaining planning permission, if required. Refer to Appendix 5.3 for a full description of construction compounds.
9.16 Summary
9.16.1 The assessment has considered the likely impacts upon designated sites of international, national and local importance, protected species, habitats and other species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity, and has sought opportunities which may benefit biodiversity interests within the Order limits and the wider environment as required by the NN NPS at paragraph 5.22. 9.16.2 In line with paragraph 5.25, the assessment demonstrates the approach the Scheme has taken to avoid and mitigate its effects on ecology and nature conservation. The nature of the Scheme, being intrinsically tied to the existing M4 infrastructure and having only a small land take, means that opportunities to provide biodiversity enhancements are limited. Nevertheless, where benefits can be achieved (for example, the construction of otter ledges within existing culverts, and the provision of bat and bird boxes), biodiversity enhancement measures will be delivered in accordance with the requirement at paragraphs 5.33 and 5.36 of the NN NPS.
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9.16.3 Mitigation measures outlined within this chapter address the effects of the Scheme during construction and operation. The extent of the Order limits has been minimised wherever possible, and best practice measures are proposed to address the potential adverse effects of pollution, vegetation/habitat removal, disturbance and road mortality, as required by the provisions of the NN NPS, in particular paragraph 5.36. Measures to address the spread of invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed are also proposed. 9.16.4 Where possible, habitats will be restored after construction works have finished, and biodiversity will be taken into account during landscaping, including the use of wildflowers and native and fruit-bearing species which will provide benefits to a wildlife in general. 9.16.5 The majority of the Scheme’s residual effects in relation to ecology and nature conservation have been assessed to be neutral , with the exception of habitat removal in relation to amphibians and reptiles, for which the effects have been assessed as slight adverse . A full list of the residual effects of the Scheme in relation to ecology and nature conservation is set out in Table 9.5. 9.16.6 In accordance with DMRB (Ref 9-12), neutral effects are those that have “No effects or those that are beneath levels of perception, within normal bounds of variation or within the margin of forecasting error.” DMRB (Ref 9-12) considers that effects assessed as slight adverse are generally those which are relevant at the local level, and though they should be considered during the design and implementation of the Scheme, they are “unlikely to be critical in the decision-making process” .
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Table 9.5: Ecology and nature conservation impact summary table
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Statutory and Construction Scheme-wide International (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral non-statutory local) pollution designated sites prevention and control
J12-J11 National (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J11-J10 National (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J10-J8/9 National (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J8/9-J7 National (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
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Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J7-J6 Local - Pollution - Best practice Neutral pollution prevention and control
J6-J5 International (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J5-J4b International (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J4b-J4 International (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
J4-J3 International (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral local) pollution prevention and control
Operation Scheme-wide International (to - Pollution - No specific Neutral local) measures proposed
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Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Habitats and Construction Scheme-wide Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction Scheme-wide National No effects None required Neutral plants (ancient anticipated woodland)
Habitats and Construction J12-J11 Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J12-11 National No effects None required Neutral plants (ancient anticipated woodland)
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Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Habitats and Construction J11-J10 County (to local) - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J11-J10 National No effects None required Neutral plants (ancient anticipated woodland)
Habitats and Construction J10-J8/9 Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J10-J8/9 National No effects None required Neutral plants (ancient anticipated woodland)
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Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Habitats and Construction J8/9-J7 County (to - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants Local) vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J7-J6 Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J6-J5 Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
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Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Habitats and Construction J5-J4b Local - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Habitats and Construction J5-J4b National No effects None required Neutral plants (ancient anticipated woodland)
Habitats and Construction J4b-J4 County (to local) - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Habitats and Construction J4-J3 County (to local) - Permanent - Minimising Neutral plants vegetation works areas removal - Replanting - Temporary - Best practice vegetation pollution removal prevention and - Pollution control
Invasive Construction Scheme-wide N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral species specific control measures
J12-J11 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J11-J10 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J10-J8/9 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J8/9-J7 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J7-J6 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J6-J5 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J5-J4b N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J4b-J4 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
J4-J3 N/A - Spread - Species- Neutral specific control measures
Invertebrate Construction Scheme-wide Local - Habitat - No specific Neutral species removal measures proposed
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Amphibians Construction Scheme-wide Local (to - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse Neutral) removal vegetation (to Neutral) clearance - Seasonal avoidance
J12-J11 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
J11-J10 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
J10-8/9 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J8/9-J7 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
J7-J6 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
J6-J5 Local - Habitat - Phased Slight adverse removal vegetation clearance - Seasonal avoidance
Reptiles Construction Scheme-wide Local (to - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse Neutral) removal - Translocation
J12-J11 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal - Translocation
J11-J10 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J10-8/9 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal - Translocation
J8/9-J7 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal - Translocation
J7-J6 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal - Translocation
J6-J5 Local - Habitat - Displacement Slight adverse removal - Translocation
Reptiles Operation Scheme-wide Local - Road mortality - None Neutral proposed
Birds Construction Scheme-wide Local - Habitat - Seasonal Neutral removal avoidance (specifically, nesting sites)
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Bats Construction Scheme-wide County (to - Disturbance - Seasonal Neutral Local) (within roost) avoidance - Disturbance - Avoidance of (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Habitat loss light spill (temporary) - Replanting
J12-J11 County - Disturbance - Seasonal Neutral (within roost) avoidance - Disturbance - Avoidance of (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Habitat loss light spill (temporary) - Replanting
J11-J10 County - Disturbance - Seasonal Neutral (within roost) avoidance - Disturbance - Avoidance of (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Habitat loss light spill (temporary) - Replanting
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J10-J8/9 County - Disturbance - Seasonal Neutral (within roost) avoidance - Disturbance - Avoidance of (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Habitat loss light spill (temporary) - Replanting
J8/9-J7 Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
J7-J6 Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
J6-J5 Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
J5-J4b Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J4b-J4 Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
J4-J3 Local - Habitat loss - Minimising Neutral (temporary) light spill - Replanting
Dormice Construction Scheme-wide N/A (absent) N/A N/A Neutral
Water voles Construction Scheme-wide Local (to - Pollution - Best practice Neutral Neutral) pollution prevention and control
Water voles Construction J12-J11 Local - Pollution - Best practice Neutral pollution prevention and control
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
Otters Construction Scheme-wide County (to local) - Disturbance - Minimising Neutral (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Pollution light-spill - Best practice pollution prevention and control
J12-J11 Local - Disturbance - Minimising Neutral (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Pollution light-spill - Best practice pollution prevention and control
J11-J10 Local - Disturbance - Minimising Neutral (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Pollution light-spill - Best practice pollution prevention and control
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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HIGHWAYS AGENCY – M4 JUNCTIONS 3 TO 12 SMART MOTORWAY
Effect Significance of Receptor Works phase Location Value Mitigation description residual effect
J10-J8/9 Local - Disturbance - Minimising Neutral (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Pollution light-spill - Best practice pollution prevention and control
J8/9-J7 Local - Disturbance - Minimising Neutral (foraging/comm night-working uting) - Minimising - Pollution light-spill - Best practice pollution prevention and control
Otters Operation Scheme-wide County (to local) - Road mortality - Permanent Neutral fencing
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT CHAPTER 9 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
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