Glyn Rhonwy Pumped Storage Development Consent Order

Appendix 7.1 AECOM (2013a) Glyn Rhonwy Pump Storage - Phase 1 Habitat Report

Table of Contents

1 Executive Summary ...... 1 2 Introduction ...... 2 2.1 Introduction ...... 2 2.2 Development Proposals ...... 2 2.3 Site Description...... 2 2.4 Objectives ...... 3 2.5 Legislation ...... 3 2.6 Quality Assurance...... 3 3 Methodology ...... 4 3.1 Desk Study ...... 4 3.2 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey ...... 5 3.3 Assessment of Bat Potential ...... 5 3.4 Limitations to Phase 1 Survey and Desk Study ...... 6 4 Baseline Conditions ...... 7 4.1 Desk Study ...... 7 4.2 Extended Phase 1 Survey ...... 11 4.3 Protected or Notable Species ...... 17 5 References ...... 20 Figure 1: Phase 1 Habitat Map ...... 21 Appendix A: Target Notes for Figure 1 ...... 22 Appendix B: Legislation ...... 23 Appendix C: Biodiversity Action Plan Species and Habitats ...... 26 Appendix D: Project Staff ...... 28 Appendix E: Site Photographs ...... 29 Appendix F: Bird Species Records from Cofnod Local Record Centre ...... 39 Appendix G: Tree Preservation Order Plan ...... 40

AECOM Glyn Rhonwy Pump Storage – Phase 1 Habitat Report 1

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1 Executive Summary

AECOM were commissioned by Snowdonia Pumped Hydro (SPH) to undertake an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey for a proposed pumped storage scheme (hereby referred to as the Development) and associated electrical connection. This report provides an overall ecological description of the site and identifies potential ecological constraints. The report includes a desk study and an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey. An extension to the previous site boundary was made in 2014, and as such AECOM were commissioned to survey the full Order Limits and conduct a site walkover to confirm the status of the previously assessed areas. A previous Phase 1 Habitat Survey and further Phase 2 surveys were carried out by Cambrian Ecological Partnership in 2011. This report is an update of their findings and current conditions on the site. Ecological impacts and recommendations for mitigation will be addressed in the Ecological Assessment required for the development and will not be addressed in this report. The Development is located in a disused slate quarry 1km north west of , , National Grid Reference (NGR) SH 564 608. The Development includes the flooding of quarry 1 (Q1) and quarry 6 (Q6). This will include the construction of an underground pipe (penstock) connecting the two quarries and extending north east to an outflow at . An electrical connection will run from the power house located on Platform 5 of the Glyn Rhonwy Industrial Estate platforms and follows the A4086, A4244 and B4547 roads to an electricity sub-station 7km north. For the purpose of this report, the Development has been split into two distinct areas: - The Development: includes the quarries, pipe and construction compounds. - The electrical connection: Include a buffer of 25 metres either side of the electrical connection extending from the main site to the electricity sub-station. This electrical connection is subject to a separate consenting regime and therefore is not classed as Associated Development in Wales under the Planning Act 2008. This survey has been undertaken to inform whether there are likely to be any significant cumulative effects.

The Development comprises seven disused quarries with associated slate spoil heaps and slate plateaus. Further habitats within the development include mosaics of acid grassland with heath, broadleaved and mixed semi-natural woodland, scrub, improved grassland, acid grassland, semi-improved grassland, marshy grassland and coniferous plantation woodland. The site boundary extends into Llyn Padarn. The Development has potential to support lichens, bryophytes, invertebrates, fish, common amphibians, reptiles, birds, bats and badgers. The electrical connection runs adjacent to the A4086, A4244 and B4547 roads for its entire length. Semi-improved grassland verges, hedgerows, marshy grassland, improved grassland and scrub run parallel to the road and electrical connection. The route crosses two rivers the and Afon Rhythallt. It crosses 17 other mapped streams or ditches which were not visible during the survey and may be culverted under the road. The electrical connection has potential to support, invertebrates, fish, common amphibians, reptiles, birds, bats, badgers, otters and water vole. Invasive plant Himalayan balsam was present within the electrical connection boundary and there is potential for invasive species to be present within the in the south eastern more disturbed and publically accessible areas of the Development, though none was directly observed. There has been no significant change in the habitats present on site since the original Phase 1 Habitat Survey by Cambrian Ecological Partnership in 2011. The Executive Summary is intended to provide a synopsis of the report only.

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2 Introduction

2.1 Introduction AECOM were commissioned by Snowdonia Pumped Hydro (SPH) to undertake an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey for a proposed pumped storage scheme (hereby referred to as the Development) and associated electrical connection. This report provides an overall ecological description of the site and identifies potential ecological constraints. The report includes a desk study and an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

A previous Phase 1 Habitat Survey and further Phase 2 surveys were carried out by Cambrian Ecological Partnership in 2011. This report is an update of their findings and current conditions on the site. Ecological impacts and recommendations for mitigation will be addressed in the Ecological Assessment required for the development and will not be addressed in this report. The Development is located in a disused slate quarry 1km north west of Llanberis, Gwynedd, National Grid Reference (NGR) SH 564 608. 2.2 Development Proposals The Development includes the flooding of Q1 and Q6. This will include the construction of an underground pipe (penstock) connecting the two quarries and extending north east to an outflow at Llyn Padarn. The site design includes: - An upper reservoir (headpond); - A lower reservoir (tailpond); - A power house (combining the pump and turbine(s)); - A penstock (the pipe connecting the headpond to the power station); - A tailrace (the pipe connecting the power station to the tailpond); - A pumping station ; and - Spillways (discharge point from the headpond and a joint discharge/abstraction from the tailpond).

An electrical connection will run from the power house located on Platform 5 of the Glyn Rhonwy Industrial Estate and follow the A4086, A4244 and B4547 roads to an electricity sub-station 7km north. For the purpose of this report, the habitat descriptions for the development have been split into two distinct areas: - The Development: includes the quarries, pipe and associated infrastructure. - The electrical connection: Include a corridor of 25 metres either side of the electrical connection extending from the main site to the electricity sub-station. This electrical connection is subject to a separate consenting regime and therefore is not classed as Associated Development in Wales under the Planning Act 2008. This survey has been undertaken to inform whether there are likely to be any significant cumulative effects. 2.3 Site Description The Development encompasses a series of disused quarries (Q1 in the west to Q7 in the east near Llyn Padarn). Habitats include spoil heaps, slate plateaus, semi natural and plantation woodland, scrub, heath and upland acid grassland utilised for grazing. The site boundary includes oligotrophic standing water of Llyn Padarn. No marginal or emergent vegetation was present. The surrounding land use around the Development is dominated by agricultural and open grazing, with scattered scrub on the lower grazed slopes. There are large slate waste spoil heaps to the north of the quarry system. Llyn Padarn with semi natural woodland slopes is located to the east, as well as the Glyn Rhonwy Industrial Estate and town of Llanberis to the south east. To the west, in proximity of Q1 is an area of coniferous plantation woodland, of which the majority has been clear-felled. The electrical connection follows the A4086, A4244 and B4547 roads to an electricity sub-station approximately 7km north. The route encompasses semi-improved grassland verges, hedgerows, scrub, adjacent improved and semi improved fields, coniferous plantation woodland and semi-natural mixed and broadleaved woodland. The route crosses two rivers the Afon Cegin and Afon Rhythallt. It crosses 17 other mapped streams or ditches which were not visible during the survey and at the time of writing, is likely to be included within the existing ducting under the road bridge on the A4244.

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The Electrical connection passes through a mixture of land uses including mixed semi-natural woodland, agricultural grazing land and commercial forestry. A number of small watercourses run through the surrounding areas resulting in many of the surrounding habitats having a wet nature. Agricultural land is well connected by hedgerows. The route passes through the village of Brynrefail and past a number of small settlements and individual dwellings. Llyn Glan-rhy reservoir is located 50m east of the north end of the Electrical connection.

An area of compensatory land and a Public Right of Way (PRoW) diversion were added to the Order Limits in 2015. 2.4 Objectives The objectives of the survey and report were:

- To identify any designated nature conservation sites on or in the vicinity of the Order Limits; - To identify any known records and/or populations of protected, notable or scarce species in the vicinity of the site; - To record and map the main habitats and features of ecological interest; and - To highlight any potential ecological constraints; 2.5 Legislation There are several different acts of legislation and regulations which refer to the protection of wildlife. These are summarised in Appendix B. In particular, the legislation relating to possible protected species on site is outlined. This is a brief summary of the legislation and is not to be regarded as a definitive legal opinion. When dealing with individual cases, the client is advised to consult the full texts of the relevant legislation and obtain further legal advice. 2.6 Quality Assurance This survey and subsequent report was undertaken in line with AECOM’s Integrated Management System (IMS). Our IMS places great emphasis on professionalism, technical excellence, quality, environmental and Health and Safety management. All staff members are committed to establishing and maintaining our accreditation to the international standards BS EN ISO 9001:2008 and 14001:2004 and BS OHSAS 18001:2007. In addition our IMS requires careful selection and monitoring of the performance of all sub consultants and contractors. All AECOM Ecologists are members of (at the appropriate level) the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and follow their code of professional conduct when undertaking ecological work.

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3 Methodology

3.1 Desk Study An update to the desk study was conducted in 2014. The objectives of the desk study are to review the existing information available in the public domain concerning species and habitats to identify the following:

- Internationally, nationally and locally designated sites, up to 2 km from the site; - Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) designated for bats within a 10 km radius of the site; - Records of protected species within 2 km of the site and records of bat species within 5 km of the site; - Any other natural features of importance or concern to consulted groups. Information relating to protected habitats was collated using the MAGIC website (www.magic.gov.uk). All internationally and nationally designated sites within a 2 km radius were identified. In accordance with Bat Conservation Trust (Hundt, 2012) recommendations, SACs and SSSIs designated for known bat populations were included in a search of up to 10 km radius. The Gwynedd Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) species and habitats were reviewed to highlight important species and habitats present on site.

The Section 42 List of Species and Habitats in Wales was reviewed via the Wales Biodiversity Partnership website (http://www.biodiversitywales.org.uk/en-GB/Section-42-Lists). The Section 42 list of habitats and species of principal importance in Wales is the definite list and is a key requirement of the NERC Act 2006 Biodiversity Duty. The list has been published as a reference for all statutory and non-statutory bodies involved in operations that affect biodiversity in Wales. The Section 42 list is designed to be used by decision-makers such as public bodies, including local and regional authorities, in implementing their duty under section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 “to have regard” to the conservation of biodiversity in all their activities. Section 42 habitats and species present within the site have been highlighted. Aerial photographs and Ordnance Survey (OS) maps were reviewed to identify features of ecological interest surrounding the site including ponds within 500m, nearby areas of ecological interest and features connecting these habitats (hedgerows, watercourses, railway lines). Records of protected species within 2km were obtained from Cofnod; Environmental Information Service. Gwynedd County Council was contacted for records of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) within the site boundary.

The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) local recorder was contacted for ornithological records in the area. The Red Squirrel Trust Wales was contacted for records of red squirrel in the area. Previous reports of ecology surveys carried out for the site were reviewed: - Cambrian Ecology (2011a) – Appendix 6.2 Phase 1 Habitat Report; - Cambrian Ecology (2011b) – Appendix 6.1 Desk Study; - AECOM (2013a) Summer Bat Report; - AECOM (2013b) Bat Mitigation Plan; - AECOM (2013c) Breeding Bird Survey; and - Cambrian Ecology (2012) Bird Report.

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species (Rhinolophus sp.), noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), Natterer's bat (Myotis nattereri), soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus), whiskered bat (Myotis mystacinus), myotis bat species (Myotis sp.); - Other Mammals: Water vole (Arvicola terrestris), Eurasian badger (Meles meles), hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), otter (Lutra lutra); polecat (Mustela putorius).

Several records of bat roosts were returned from Cofnod including lesser horseshoe, pipistrelle, brown long-eared, Natterer’s and myotis species. Precise details of location cannot be included in this report. No response was received from the local BTO recorder regarding records of protected species within the local area. Previous consultation by Cambrian Ecological Partnership (Cambrian Ecological Partnership, 2011) with Adrienne Stratford of the Wales Chough Ringing Project returned records of breeding barn owl within Q4. A record of red squirrel was returned from the Red Squirrel Trust Wales from 2013, located adjacent to the site, near Q7 and Q8. Rugathodes bellicosus (a small theridiid spider), has been recorded by the local biodiversity group in slate waste south of Q6. This species is notable due to its 50% population decline in the past 20 years. Although it appears to have declined, this may in part be due to under-recording in its specialised micro-habitat (Dawson et al, in prep.). The species is found within boulders, scree slopes and manmade quarries with a main threat to the species being tidying of quarries. Trees within Glyn Rhonwy are under a blanket Tree Preservation Order. A plan of trees with Tree Preservation Orders is shown in Appendix G. 4.2 Extended Phase 1 Survey 4.2.1 Habitats Figures 1 shows the habitats within the Order Limits. These have been described first for the Development and then for the electrical connection. Table 4.3 highlights which habitats are LBAP or Section 42 habitats. 4.2.2 Habitats - Development 4.2.2.1 Broadleaved Semi-Natural Woodland There are several areas of broadleaved semi natural woodland in the east of the site. A strip of broadleaved semi-natural woodland surrounds Q6. Woodland extends down towards Q7, species include downy birch (Betula pubescens), oak (Quercus sp.), rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), willow, (Salix sp.), heather (Calluna vulgaris), ferns (Pteridophyta sp.), buddleia (Buddleja davidii)and bracken (Pteridium aquilinum). The woodland to the south west of Q7 has a species rich glade, species include sweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), selfheal (Prunella vulgaris), thyme (Thymus serpyllum), stonecrops (sedum sp.), gorse (ulex europaeus), heather, cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) (Appendix E: Photograph 3).

Broadleaved semi-natural woodland extends towards the far north east of the Development following the spillway down to Llyn Padarn. Species include downy birch, willow, ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and oak with an understory of bramble (Rubus fruticosa) and buddleia (Appendix E: Photograph 14). A strip of broadleaved semi-natural woodland borders the southern boundary of the Development adjacent to Q4. This has a stream running through it and contains areas of wet woodland; species present include birch, willow, oak, sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), dogrose (Rosa canina), moss and fern species. 4.2.2.2 Coniferous Woodland- Plantation There is an area of sitka spruce plantation woodland located at the far west of the site. This extends out to the south and south west of the Order Limits; there are some areas of windfall within the stand (Appendix E: Photograph 8). 4.2.2.3 Coniferous Woodland – Recently Felled An area of recently clear felled plantation woodland is located to the west of the site in an area of commercial forestry. The majority of the clear felled area is outside of the Order Limits connecting to woodland within the site boundary, there is one small area of clear felled plantation woodland within the PRoW diversion route.

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4.2.2.4 Mixed Woodland – Semi-Natural There are several areas of mixed semi natural woodland in the east of the site. These areas are covered by a Tree Preservation Order (Appendix G). Mixed semi-natural woodland surrounds Q7 and extends north along the eastern boundary of the Order Limits. Species include downy birch, rowan, sitka spruce, oak, ash, Scots pine, larch and buddleia with an understory of moss, heather, fern and bramble (Appendix E: Photograph 5). 4.2.2.5 Scrub – Scattered Scrub surrounds Q7 at the bottom of the site, this area of scrub extends out onto the plateau of slate extending beyond the south east boundary of the Development. A further area of scattered scrub is located to the south east of Q6. Species include downy birch, buddleia, heather, oak birch, gorse and bramble (Appendix E: Photograph 4). 4.2.2.6 Acid Grassland – Semi Improved There are several areas of semi improved acid grassland in the centre of the Order Limits; these are grazed by sheep. There are two small areas of acid grassland – semi-improved within the PRoW diversion route (one of which is grazed by sheep), and one area of acid grassland – semi-improved within the compensatory land which is grazed by sheep. Species include mat grass (Nardus stricta), heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile), tormentil (Potentilla erecta), soft rush (Juncus effusus), black rush (Juncus roemerianus), heather, bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), purple moor grass (Molinia caerulea) and Carex species (Appendix E: Photograph 11). 4.2.2.7 Marshy Grassland There is one small area of marshy grassland adjacent to the running water within the PRoW diversion route. Species include lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), soft rush and blunt-leaved bog-moss (Sphagnum palustre) (Appendix E: Photograph 23). 4.2.2.8 Bracken – Scattered There is a mosaic of bracken and acid grassland located in the centre of the site to the south of Q3 (Appendix A; TN4). 4.2.2.9 Bracken – Continuous There is a patch of dense bracken to the south of Q4 in-between the quarry and spoil heaps (Appendix E: Photograph 16). 4.2.2.10 Wet Dwarf Shrub Heath An area (approximately 250m in length) within the PRoW diversion route. Species include purple moor grass, compact bog-moss (Sphagnum compactum) and heather (Appendix E: Photograph 24). 4.2.2.11 Dry Heath/ Acid Grassland There are several areas of dry heath/ acid grassland in the west of the site, including a large area covering the majority of the compensatory land and two sections of the PRoW diversion route (Appendix E: Photograph 6). A large area of dry heath/ acid grassland surrounds Q1. To the west of Q1 an area of heath is growing on top of a spoil heap, species include heather, gorse, bilberry, stonecrop, buttercup species and moss. To the east and north of Q1 there is a large area of mosaic habitat of heathland and grassland. Species include gorse, heather, bilberry, black rush, soft rush and moss. Lichen is growing on the slate plateau. A strip of heathland is located to the north of Q2, this surrounds the outer edge of the quarry; species include heather, bilberry and moss. 4.2.2.12 Flush and Spring – Acid/Neutral Flush There are several small areas of acid/neutral flush in the centre of the site between Q2 and Q3, and along the PRoW diversion route within the wet dwarf shrub heath (Figure 1, TN5, TN6 and TN7). Species include soft rush with a sphagnum moss carpet. 4.2.2.13 Standing Water Immediately adjacent to the PRoW diversion route is an area of standing water (pond), at the time of survey supporting a broadleaved pondweed species (Potamogeton sp.) (Appendix E: Photograph 25).

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4.2.2.14 Standing Water- Oligotrophic Standing water is located in the bottom of Q1 and Q6. The far north east of the site extends into Llyn Padarn, a large lake extending over 3km along the length of the valley. This has a rock substrate with no emergent vegetation. 4.2.2.15 Running Water There are eight watercourses within or immediately adjacent to the Order Limits: three unnamed watercourses run north-south and are located towards the northern boundary of the western section of the site; the Nant-y-Betws (Appendix E: Photograph 25) runs east-west immediately adjacent to the southern site boundary towards the west of the site, and also crosses the PRoW diversion route; two unnamed tributaries of the Nant-y-Betws cross the PRoW diversion route; there are two unnamed watercourses to the east of the site adjacent to/crossing the southern boundary, one of which sinks underground. 4.2.2.16 Quarry - There are seven large quarries along the length of the Order Limits (described below). In addition, there are two small quarries within the compensatory land to the north and one partially within the PRoW diversion route to the south of the Order Limits. All of the quarries are disused and are under varying stages of re-colonisation. - Q1 – Bare slate rock face. Sparsely vegetated with small areas of heather and ferns and five small trees including rowan, downy birch and oak (Appendix E: Photograph 7). - Q2 – Quarry with spoil heaps with some scattered heath on ledges (Appendix E: Photograph 10) - Q3 – Made up of three small quarries. The quarry to the north west has standing water in the bottom and heath vegetation around the edge. Species include heather, rowan and ferns. The quarry to the north east has heath vegetation around the edge, species include heather, fern, soft rush, oak and rowan. The quarry to the south has a small stream running into it. Ferns are growing on the sides and trees are in the bottom. Species include sycamore, willow, downy birch and rowan. - Q4 – Quarry with heath vegetation around rim. - Q5 – Quarry with a woodland base and trees around edges. Species include oak, birch , ash, buddleia and rowan - Q6 – Quarry with rock face. Vegetation is sparse with small areas of scattered scrub. Species include oak, birch, ash, buddleia and rowan (Appendix E: Photograph 13). - Q7 – Rock face with area of scattered scrub in the base species include downy birch, buddleia and heather. There is a concrete lined pit with scattered buddleia in the east of the quarry. A tunnel to the “Bomb Store” is located on the southern wall. A small quarry is located in-between Q6 and Q7. This has steep rock faces and sparse vegetation (Appendix E: Photograph 1).

4.2.2.17 Spoil Slate spoil heaps associated with the quarries are located throughout the Order Limits. Vegetation on the spoil heaps is sparse with the exception of two spoil heaps within the compensatory land and a spoil heap adjacent to Q2 and Q1, all of which form a mosaic with acid grassland and heath vegetation. Species include heather, bilberry, gorse, lichens and moss (Appendix E: Photograph 4, 9 and 15). 4.2.2.18 Bare Ground Areas of bare ground occur throughout the Order Limits. A track runs in an east-west direction in the south west end of the site, south of Q1. This continues west beyond the Order Limits into the village of . Another track dissects the site in a north west- south east direction in the between Q5 and Q6. This continues beyond the site boundary into the town of Llanberis. The A4086 dissects the site in the far south east corner of the site. There are several plateaus of crushed slate (Appendix E: Photograph 2). To the south of Q6 there is a plateau of crushed slate. This is sparsely vegetated with small areas of stonecrop. To the north east of Q6 and south of Q7 there are further plateaus of slate, these are bare of vegetation. Several tracks link these plateaus and join to the A4086 (Appendix E: Photograph 5). Within Q7 there is a concrete lined pit, this has a tunnel at its southern end extending to the “Bomb Store”.

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In the far south east corner of the site is a small area of hardstanding adjoining a car park. The PRoW diversion route includes five areas of gravel forest roads. 4.2.2.19 Wall A stone wall runs parallel to the farm track in the west of the site. Another stone wall forms a field boundary joining at its’ northern end to Q2. 4.2.3 Habitats - Electrical connection 4.2.3.1 Scrub – Scattered Patches of scattered scrub are located along the entire length of the electrical connection. Species include blackthorn, willow, elder, rowan, sycamore, hazel, gorse, hawthorn, dog rose, birch, bramble, oak, heather and buddleia. 4.2.3.2 Scrub - Dense/Continuous A small area of dense scrub is located adjacent to the A4086 west of Llanberis. 4.2.3.3 Mixed Woodland – Plantation One area of mixed woodland plantation is located to the north of the electrical connection 500m south of the sub-station. 4.2.3.4 Mixed Woodland - Semi-Natural Several areas of mixed semi-natural woodland extend along the electrical connection. These are mostly located adjacent to the A4086 west of Llanberis. Species include downy birch, buddleia, rowan, spruce, oak and ash with an understory of bramble, moss, heather and fern. A further block is located adjacent to the west of Llyn Glan-rhy reservoir. 4.2.3.5 Broadleaved Woodland – Plantation Four small area of broadleaved plantation woodland are located along the electrical connection. These are located adjacent to the caravan park in the settlement of Brynrefail. 4.2.3.6 Broadleaved Woodland - Semi Natural Several areas of broadleaved semi natural woodland scattered along the length of the electrical connection. Some of these are adjoining to larger blocks of woodland. There are Tree Preservation Order within and adjacent to the electrical connection in proximity to Glyn Rhonwy (Appendix G). 4.2.3.7 Neutral Grassland - Semi-Improved Semi-improved grassland verges run along the entire length of the electrical connection. Species include ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Yorkshire fog, sorrel (Rumex acetosa), cocksfoot , male fern (Dryopteris filix-mas), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris), nettle (Urtica dioica), perrenial rye grass (Lolium perenne), red clover (Trifolium pratense), black medick (Medicago lupulina), dandelion (Taraxacum sp.), oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), bristly ox tongue (Helminthotheca echioides), thistle (Asteraceae sp.), greater knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa), umbellifer sp (Apiaceae sp.), bracken, rosebay willowherb, St John ’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), vetch sp.(Vicia sp.), hawkbit (Leontodon sp.). 4.2.3.8 Marsh/Marshy Grassland Marshy grassland is found in a number of fields along the entire length of the electrical connection, mostly close to running water. 4.2.3.9 Improved Grassland Improved grassland areas are present in a number of fields along the entire length of the electrical connection. 4.2.3.10 Running Water The electrical connection crosses the Afon Rhythallt 100 metres west of Llyn Padarn. This has a gravel substrate with phragmites growing along the banks (Appendix E: Photograph 12). It crosses 17 other mapped streams or ditches which were not visible during the survey and may be culverted under the road. The electrical connection crosses a tributary of the Afon Rhythallt in the settlement of Brynrefail.

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4.2.3.11 Inland Cliff - Acid/Neutral A steep cliff with scattered vegetation and trees runs adjacent to the A4086 west of Llanberis. Species include oak, gorse, rowan, heather and buddleia. 4.2.3.12 Buildings and structures Several buildings are located along the electrical connection adjacent to towns and settlements.

A bridge crosses Afon Rhythallt 100 metres west of Llyn Padarn. This has stone clad pillars, a concrete deck and vertical drainage pipes. There are no gaps in the mortar; overall the bridge is in good condition. 4.2.3.13 Bare ground Several areas of hard standing are located adjacent to the road along the length of the electrical connection. A road runs along the entire length of the electrical connection; the A4086 west of Llanberis, A4244 North and the B4547 to the sub-station. 4.2.3.14 Wall A drystone wall is frequent along most parts of the electrical connection adjacent to the A4086, A4244 and B4547. 4.2.3.15 Broadleaved parkland/ scattered trees Rows of trees are frequent along the entire electrical connection running adjacent to the A4244 and B4547. 4.2.3.16 Intact Hedge - Species-Poor A species poor intact hedgerow runs adjacent to the roadside verge intermittently along the entire length of the electrical connection. Hedgerows run parallel to the drystone wall. Species include blackthorn, bramble, willow and hawthorn. 4.2.3.17 Intact Hedge - Species-Poor Hedgerows are defunct in several places along the length of the electrical connection.

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4.3 Protected or Notable Species 4.3.1.1 Lichens and Bryophytes Llyn Coed SSSI is located 0.75 km from the site and supports a collection of unusual bryophytes. A number of unidentified lichens were recorded during the Phase 1 Habitat survey in the Development. 4.3.1.2 Invertebrates Cofnod returned records of several butterflies and moths: Small heath, small pearl-bordered fritillary, dusky brocade and grayling. None are protected species, all are Local BAP species. Heath and disused quarries have the potential to support small heath and grayling. Small heath primary larval food sources include fescues and meadow grasses which are found within the grassland areas of the site. Adult nectar sources include bramble, yarrow, buttercup and ragwort which are found throughout the site. Grayling adult nectar sources include red clover, thistle, bramble and heather which are found throughout the site. Marshy grassland and woodland have the potential to support dusky brocade; larval food plants include a range of grasses which are present within the Order Limits. Rugathodes bellicosus (a small theridiid spider), has been recorded by the local biodiversity group in slate waste south of Q6. This species is notable due to its 50% population decline in the past 20 years. Although it appears to have declined, this may in part be due to under-recording in its specialised micro-habitat (Dawson et al, in prep.). The species is found within boulders, scree slopes and manmade quarries with a main threat to the species being tidying of quarries. Habitats on site have potential to support a number of generalist invertebrates. 4.3.1.3 Fish Cofnod returned records of European eel. Llyn Padarn SSSI is designated for hosting arctic charr. Afon Gwyrfai a llyn Cwellyn SAC/SSSI is located 1.8km from the site and is designated for Atlantic salmon. Due to the isolation of water bodies within the quarries, they are not suitable for protected fish species. Areas of running water within the electrical connection have the potential to support protected fish species and allow connectivity for migratory species of Llyn Padarn to aquatic habitats west of the site. 4.3.1.4 Amphibians Cofnod returned records of palmate newt. No records of great crested newt were returned. The known distribution of great crested newts does not extend over the area of the site and it is considered that they are unlikely to be present. Common amphibians may be present in the standing water and terrestrial habitats such as scrub edges, woodland, marshy grassland and semi improved grassland. Several ponds are present within 500m of the Order Limits 4.3.1.5 Reptiles Cofnod returned records of common lizard and slow worm. Scrub, semi improved grassland, bracken, heath and drystone walls provide potential habitat for reptiles. Spoil heaps provide potential basking sites and hibernacula. 4.3.1.6 Birds A number of bird records were returned from Cofnod (Appendix F). Quarries and cliff faces have potential to support breeding peregrine and choughs. The results of the bird surveys for these species are reported in the Breeding Bird Reports (Cambrian Ecology 2012; AECOM, 2013c). Woodland, scrub and hedgerows have potential to support a number of breeding birds. A bird box is located in a downy birch near to Llyn Padarn (Appendix A: TN1). Heath and upland improved grassland have the potential to support upland breeding birds. Dipper, grebe and mallard were recorded during the site visit along the watercourse/ bridge crossing of the Afon Rhythallt on the electrical connection. 4.3.1.7 Bats Cofnod returned records of nine species of bat including Annex II species lesser horseshoe. Records include roosts within close proximity of the site for several species including lesser horseshoe. Llyn Padarn SSSI is designated for pipistrelle bats and Daubenton’s bats. Glynillifon SAC is located 8km from the site and designated as a maternity and hibernation roost for lesser horseshoe bats. Both hibernation and summer bat roosts have been confirmed within the quarries. The results of the bat surveys

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Tree 11 Ash – 10 metre high, 0.25m DBH. Knothole/natural hole 2.5 metre off the ground (Appendix E: Category II Photograph 35).

Tree 12 Ash – 14 metre high, 0.45 metre DBH. Missing limb with upward facing hole (Appendix E: Category III Photograph 36).

Tree 13 Ash – 12 metre high, 0.65 metre DBH. Ivy obscuring view, and potentially features with the Category II potential to support bats (Appendix E: Photograph 37).

Tree 14 Birch – 8 metre high, 0.65 metre DBH. Two woodpecker hole and missing limb (Appendix E: Category II Photograph 38).

4.3.1.8 Water vole Cofnod returned records of water vole. The river banks along the electrical connection may provide potential habitat for water voles. No water vole signs were observed in visible areas. However, access was limited. 4.3.1.9 Badger Cofnod returned records of badger. No badger setts or signs were recorded within the Order Limits during the survey. Woodland provides potential habitat for badger setts. Woodland, scrub and grassland provide foraging and commuting habitat for badgers. The site is well connected to surrounding habitats by hedgerows and woodland corridors.

A badger sett with three entrance holes was identified just outside of the Order Limits, near Q8; the sett had no signs of recent activity (within the last 3 – 6 months). 4.3.1.10 Otter Llyn Padarn SSSI is designated for otters. Otters have been recorded using the lake and adjoining outflows. Otters are present at Afon Gwyrfai a llyn Cwellyn SAC/SSSI. During the Phase 1 Habitat survey, otter spraint was found along the electrical connection under the A4244 road bridge crossing of the Afon Rhythallt 100 metres west of Llyn Padarn. (Appendix A: TN2). Some spraints were fresh and intact, others dry. This indicates recent and possible long term use. 4.3.1.11 Red Squirrel The Red Squirrel Trust Wales returned a record of red squirrel from 2013, adjacent to the Order Limits near Q7 and Q8. Red squirrel is present in the wider north Gwynedd landscape but only very sporadically and out from Treborth and Faenol next to Menai Straits. Red Squirrel Trust returned a record of the species from summer 2014 at Rhyd ddu over the mountain. The landscape to the east of the site is well wooded and sufficient in habitat quality/structure for both residency and dispersal of red squirrels. However, the presence of grey squirrel is the factor restricting red squirrel population recovery in the area. 4.3.1.12 Invasive species One stand of Himalayan balsam was recorded close to the car park in Llanberis within the Development boundary (Appendix A: TN3). Two stands of Rhododendron were identified within the woodland to the east of the site boundary.

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5 References

AECOM (2013a) Glyn Rhonwy Pumped Storage Scheme - Summer Bat Survey Report. December 2013. AECOM (2013b). Glyn Rhonwy Pumped Storage Scheme - Bat Mitigation Report. April 2013 AECOM (2013c) Glyn Rhonwy Pumped Storage Scheme Breeding Bird Report. December 2013.

Bat Conservation Trust (2012). Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd Edition. BCT, London Cambrian Ecological Partnership (2011a). Phase 1 Habitat Survey Report. Cambrian Ecological Partnership (2011b). Desk Study. Cambrian Ecological Partnership (2012). Bird Report.

Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. in prep. A review of the scarce and threatened spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) of Great Britain. Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – A Technique for Environmental Audit. JNCC. Peterborough. Mitchell-Jones A.J. (2004) Bat Workers Manual (3rd edition). JNCC. Peterborough.

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Figure 1: Phase 1 Habitat Map

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(NERC Act 2006) makes provision in respect of biodiversity, pesticides harmful to wildlife and the protection of birds, and in respect of invasive non-native species. It alters enforcement powers in connection with wildlife protection, and extends time limits for prosecuting certain wildlife offences. It addresses a small number of gaps and uncertainties which have been identified in relation to the law on SSSIs. It also amends the functions and constitution of National Park authorities, the functions of the Broads Authority and the law on rights of way.

It is illegal to wilfully kill, injure or take a badger. Their setts are also protected against obstruction, destruction, or damage in any part. Badgers occupying setts are protected from disturbance. Based on current Natural England guidance, this would apply to excessive noise Protection of Badgers Act or vibration or significant earthworks/ground disturbance in the vicinity of setts. Moderate levels 1992 of noise and activity around badger setts, removal of small trees or shrubs over or adjacent to setts and clearing out of ditches close to setts with hand tools/machinery would not constitute disturbance in most cases.

A small number of plant species are listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended, which includes species such as Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam, giant hogweed and cotoneaster. It is illegal to plant or to cause these plants to grow in the wild, and legal disposal methods for vegetation and soil subject to disturbance or clearance from a site must be used.

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xanthomelana) Littoral Rock A weevil Sitona gemel atus Littoral sediment Freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera Sublittoral rock Geyeri’s whorl snail Vertigo geyeri Sublittoral sediment Desmoulin’s whorl snail Vertigo moulinsiana Gardens and allotments A whorl snail Vertigo lilljeborgi Gardens within school and Shrill carder bee, Bombus sylvarum community grounds Buildings Great yellow bumblebee Bombus distinguendus Eutrophic standing water A carder bee Bombus humilis Mesotrophic lakes Ashworth’s Rustic Xestia ashworthii Oligotrophic and dysotrophic Bumblebees lakes Ponds Dragonfly/Damselfly species Ditches Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta Rivers and streams plus Floating water plantain Luronium natans associated habitats within the river corridor Roadside verges Pillwort Pilularia globulifera Slender green feather moss Hamatocaulis vernicosus Golden hair lichen Telochistes flavicans Waxcaps Hygrocybe sp. Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena Small dolphins Toothed whales Marine turtles Basking shark Cetorhinus maximus Commercial fish A red alga Anotrichium barbatum Grass snake Natrix natrix Adder Vipera berus Common lizard Zootoca vivipara Sand lizard Lacerta agilis Silver studded blue butterfly Plebejus argus Small pearl bordered fritillary Boloria selene Snowdon beetle Chrysolina cerealis Stag’s horn clubmoss Lycopodium clavatum

Source: Gwynedd County Council

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Appendix D: Project Staff

Lisbeth Nash BSc (Hons), CIEEM Senior Ecologist Lisbeth is a Senior Ecologist with seven years experience in a broad range of ecology and environmental projects. Lisbeth has experience surveying for protected species including: bats, dormice, great crested newts, wading birds, badgers and otters, including planning, resourcing and managing landscape scale bat surveys for road and pipeline schemes. Lisbeth has experience in ecological desk studies, Phase 1 habitat surveys, ecological site supervision and internal inspections. Lisbeth has experience in surveying and mitigating for a number of bat species including horseshoe bat species. Lisbeth holds a Natural England and Natural Resources Wales great crested newt survey licence. Lisbeth has been involved in submitting successful protected species licence applications for bats and has undertaken supervision of works under licence. Lisbeth has experience of using remote sensing equipment and analysing sonograms for bat calls using Analook. Lisbeth has been Consultant ecologist on a number of BREEAM assessments and Eco Homes Assessments She is a full member of the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. Lisbeth is a member of Cardiff Bat Group and the Gwent Amphibian and Reptile Group.

Ursula Jones BSc (Hons), CIEEM Senior Ecologist Ursula is a Senior Ecologist with five years of consultancy experience and nine years experience in the field of botany and habitat survey. Ursula holds a First Class Honours in Environmental Conservation from the Swansea Metropolitan University. She has conducted numerous botanical and habitat surveys (including Phase, NVC, 1, Common Standards Monitoring, IHS and RHS) across the range of UK habitats and abroad, and has expertise in mapping and GIS (ArcMap). She has experience in protected species surveys for bats, reptiles, great crested newts, nesting birds, water voles, otters, badgers and dormice, and has produced numerous Phase 1 and Phase 2 written reports, several ecology chapters and appendices for Environmental Statements, a number of Habitat Regulations Assessments screening reports, as well as several CfSH and BREEAM assessments. She is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.

Kristy Lee Kelly BSc (Hons) Grad CIEEM Graduate Ecologist Kristy graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from The University of Birmingham in 2010 and continued on to a postgraduate Master’s in Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology with The University of Exeter in 2011. Kristy has experience in ecological field research including an extensive six month research project on the impact of anthropomorphic light disturbance on bat species within Cornwall. She has experience carrying out a variety of bat survey work and is currently a registered Natural England volunteer bat warden. She also has previous experience in Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and other protected species surveys including otter, badger, dormice and breeding birds.

Lucy Rouse BSc (Hons) Grad CIEEM Ecologist Lucy was awarded a First Class Honours degree in Ecology from Cardiff University in 2011. This included a placement year where she spent a year researching seabirds in Mauritius. During and since finishing her degree Lucy has gained experience in the field through a number of projects including an internship carrying out Ancient Woodland Surveys in South Wales and a project studying reptiles in Australia. Since starting with AECOM Lucy has conducted numerous protected species surveys including bats, birds and reptiles, has conducted Phase 1 surveys and has gained expertise in GIS. Lucy is a graduate member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.

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Appendix E: Site Photographs

Photograph 1: Q7. Concrete lined pit with scattered scrub Photograph 2: Slate plateau, sparse of vegetation growing on the cliffs.

Photograph: 3 Broadleaved semi-natural woodland Photograph 4: Spoil heaps with areas of scattered scrub

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Photograph 5: Track and mixed semi-natural woodland Photograph 6: Mosaic of dry heath/ acid grassland west of Q7

Photograph 7: Q1 with standing oligotrophic water in the Photograph 8: Coniferous plantation woodland surrounded base. by dry heath/ acid grassland

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Photograph 9: Spoil heap interspersed with dry heath Photograph 10: Q2 slate face and scree sparse of vegetation

Photograph 11: Acid semi-improved grassland in the Photograph 12: River crossing point. Looking east down middle of the site Afon Rhythallt towards Llyn Padarn

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Photograph 13: Q6. Steep rock face with sparse Photograph 14: Wet broadleaved woodland adjacent to vegetation. Broadleaved woodland present around the Q5 within edge

Photograph 15: Spoil heaps surrounding Q4 Photograph 16: Dense bracken

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Photograph 17: Tree 1 assessed as Category II potential Photograph 18: Tree 2 assessed as Category II potential to support roosting bats to support roosting bats

Photograph 19: Tree 3 assessed as Category I potential to Photograph 20: Tree 4 assessed as Category I potential to support roosting bats support roosting bats

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Photograph 21: Brick walled entrance to side room of Photograph 22: Main entrance to tunnel leading to bomb bomb store. store. Slate wall surrounding entrance has many small voids suitable for roosting bats.

Photograph 23: Marshy grassland. Photograph 24: Wet dwarf shrub heath.

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Photograph 25: Standing water (pond) in the far distance. Photograph 26: Running water (Nant-y-Betws).

Photograph 27: Grilled culvert under the road. Confirmed Photograph 28: Inside lip of grilled culvert under the road; bat potential. bat dropping circled.

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Photograph 29: Bat Tree 5, birch; Category II. Photograph 30: Bat Tree 6, birch; Category III.

Photograph 31: Bat Tree 7, unknown species; Category II. Photograph 32: Bat Tree 8, birch (dead); Category II.

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Photograph 33: Bat Tree 9, birch; Category III. Photograph 34: Bat Tree 10, ash; Category III.

Photograph 35: Bat Tree 11, ash; Category II. Photograph 36: Bat Tree 12, birch; Category III.

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Photograph 37: Bat Tree 13, birch; Category II. Photograph 38: Bat Tree 14, birch; Category II.

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Appendix G: Tree Preservation Order Plan

Source: Gwynedd County Council Tree Officer (Arfon Borough Council, Tree Preservation Order 1991, Number 30.)