Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail (Northern Section)

Home , Banwell, Bishop Sutton, Chew Valley, Chew Valley Lake, Limestone Link, Mendip Hills

Full Business Case

Scheme: Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail (northern section)

Executive Summary

The Chew Valley Lake, a reservoir owned by Bristol Water (BW), has long been used for recreational fishing & sailing, under strict control. Over the last 10 years sections of the lakeside have been made accessible for walking and sections of traffic free cycling adjacent to the road. It is the ambition of Bristol Water, Bath & North East Somerset Council, Sustrans, West of England Rural Network & the local community to create a circular walking and cycling trail around the whole lake to open this natural amenity for all whilst taking account of its international, national and local landscape and wildlife designations. This trail will form part of a green active travel network in the WoE, and project within the Joint Green Infrastructure Strategy (JGIS) AONB Link Programme.

This Full Business Case (FBC) seeking match funding for the northern section of the trail will enable a full circular route for walkers with significant ‘all-purpose surface’ sections suitable for wheel bound users and cyclists. A Rural Development Programme England (RDPE) grant of £506,685 for approx. 30% of the cost has been secured to be spent and claimed by July 2021. The additional funding will allow the full scheme as submitted to RDPE to be implemented enabling a high quality multifunctional accessible off -road GI route.

Since the initial idea of the Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail by Chew Valley Recreational Trail Association in 1999, there have been studies and consultations over many years leading to some sections of route being constructed, but large parts of the lake remain inaccessible to visitors. This project will develop the areas rural tourism infrastructure by providing a critical section of the long-awaited recreational trail around Chew Valley Lake situated within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Lake is approximately 6 miles south of Bristol, 10 miles west of Bath and 14 miles east of Weston-super-Mare. It will support sustainable tourism and healthy lifestyles in the area as well as protecting the lake itself, a designated European protected site.

The trail has been designed to both open-up and respect the distinctive natural landscape of the area. The delivery of new and enhanced GI throughout this project’s delivery will support outdoor leisure facility and create an enhanced experience for visitors attracting an increased amount of new visitors particularly those with young families and day visitors who wish to experience a safe accessible route. Due to the construction of the path, it will allow access to nature and use outside of the normal tourist season.

1 Strategic Case

1.1 Project Description

The Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail project is part of the West of England (WoE), Joint Green Infrastructure (JGIS), AONB Link Programme (Cotswolds to Mendip Hills AONBs) that includes development of a green active travel plan and delivery of the WoE and AONB local nature recovery strategies.

This project will provide a well-constructed all-weather off-road shared trail for cyclists and walkers around Chew Valley Lake. Whilst providing greater access to natural green space, benefitting residents and tourists, it will protect the landscape character, habitat and wildlife, that has national and international designation status.

The project delivers on a number of the 25 Year Environment Plan goals: Clean air, thriving plants and wildlife, enhanced beauty, heritage and engagement with the natural beauty. It supports delivery of the JGIS outcomes particularly; Greater resilience to climate change, Valued healthy landscapes, Resilient Economy, Health and Wellbeing, Sustainable Places as set out below.

WoE GI Outcomes (National Tick What will project deliver Framework GI Outcomes)

Ecological connectivity ✓✓ Connect existing woodland and grassland

(Nature connected places) Better managed grassland

Better managed woodland and new woodland. The complete Chew Valley Recreational Trail project is designed to achieve protection & enhancement of ecologically sensitive areas. There is potential to target key gaps in habitat connectivity and networks around the lake, & potentially to look at links between lakes (Chew & Blagdon) for wintering birds. The current planning permission for the northern section includes the requirement for an Ecological Management & Monitoring Plan.

Resilience to climate change ✓ Improved and new grassland/woodland will reduce run off and soil erosion (Resilient places) Create carbon sinks

Sustainable water management ✓ Improve water quality

Attenuation of water

Reduced/slow run off

Health and wellbeing ✓✓ Improved cycling and walking connections particularly connecting to the Limestone Link, (Active healthy places) Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail, National Cycle route 24

Sustainable places ✓✓ Improved connections for Chew Valley rural communities and new development proposed at (Inclusive equitable places) Whitchurch (Beautiful safe and well designed places)

Valued landscape ✓ Improved access and habitat creation and management that enhances and protects the

AONB landscapes

Sustainable food production ✓ Enhanced habitat management that provides pollinators

Resilient economy ✓✓ Improved and new green active travel network that supports existing and new rural tourism (Prosperous, investible valued and business/extends season. Smart places) Development of Chew Valley as green tourism destination.

The all-weather northern section is intended for use by wheelchairs/mobility scooters users as much as walkers and cyclists. Currently those with mobility issues have limited and restricted access to the lake and cannot travel, other than by car, between the two major visitor facilities on the lake.

The trail is linking Woodford Lodge to the west and Salt and Malt café facilities on the east side of the lake as part of a route around the whole lake for walkers on public footpaths and for cyclists using sections of rural road.

The whole route around the lake will support the green and rural economy providing links to tourist and village facilities including camp sites, a farm shop, and villages of Bishop Sutton and West Harptree.

The element to be funded is the section on the highway on the dam and additional works including structures on the off-road section between Salt and Malt and Bishop Sutton.

An all-weather surfaced route for the southern lake section will be a separate business case as further consultation to agree the final route is proposed as part of a further phase in 2021/22.

1.2 Project Objectives and Case for Change

Objectives are to: 1. Enable responsible community and visitor access to the designated international and national wildlife site in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, that provides access for a wide audience The scheme will achieve:

• Construction of new off-road shared use path between Woodford Lodge and Walley Lane that will total approximately 840m in length

• Realignment of the road over the dam which will widen the existing footway to provide a segregated cycle/pedestrian path and reduce the road width and road speed from current 50 mph speed limit to 30mph thereby also improving road safety and reducing carbon emissions.

• Construction of a shared use path between the dam to the north and Hollowbrook Road. This also includes replacing an existing narrow footbridge. Total length approximately 1.5km.

• Improvements to 5.4km of existing footpaths to provide circular route for pedestrians

• Deliver on the stated ambition of the local Chew Valley communities in delivering a circular recreational trail around Chew Valley Lake and improved connections to their villages.

As part of the West of England AONB Link programme it will support: • increasing cycling and walking opportunities as part of improved and new green active travel network that includes the Limestone Link and National Cycle Route 24 and any new housing development in area, including that proposed at Whitchurch. • increasing other sustainable leisure activities including fishing, sailing, camping as well as specialist interest activities including bird watching as part of wider work to develop Chew Valley as a green tourism destination.

2. In providing new and additional tourism infrastructure, the trail will support development of existing and new sustainable rural business growth related to walking and cycling, local food and drink, local produce and visitor accommodation.

3. Protect and enhance international and national and wildlife and landscape designations, contributing to wider delivery of biodiversity and landscape protection and enhancement and as part of the AONB Link programme identified through the WoE Joint Green Infrastructure Strategy (JGIS) outcomes and strategic project work including delivery of nature recovery network and biodiversity net gain.

1.3 Rationale for Public Intervention

Meeting a community need to improve walking and cycle access and safety of that access to natural amenity for recreation and enjoyment. The community have demonstrated support for the scheme through their adopted Neighbourhood Plans and public consultation for the planning application.

The project will encourage visitors to participate in sustainable tourism (and local residents taking increased opportunities for leisure and fitness cycling), leading to reduced congestion on highway networks as tourists and residents switch mode from cars to sustainable options and enhanced journey quality as the trail provides a largely traffic-free and safe route.

The new trail will also help people from all backgrounds and abilities access nature, removing physical and perceived barriers to the countryside and potentially reducing isolation, thus helping people's physical health and their mental health and wellbeing.

Evidence shows that living in a greener environment can promote and protect good health, and aid in recovery from illness and help with managing poor health. The following document “Improving access to greenspace” https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/ 904439/Improving_access_to_greenspace_2020_review.pdf

This highlights the following points:- page 12 - £2.1 billion per year could be saved in health costs if everyone in England had good access to greenspace, due to increased physical activity in those spaces

Local authorities play a vital role in: • providing new, good quality greenspace that is inclusive and equitable • improving, maintaining and protecting existing greenspace • increasing green infrastructure within public spaces and promoting healthy streets • improving transport links, pathways and other means of access to greenspace, and providing imaginative routes linking areas of greenspace for active travel

Page 18 Government policy increasingly recognises the importance of greenspace in people’s health and wellbeing for promoting good health, prevention of poor health and treatment and recovery from illness and injury. The Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan, ‘A green future: Our 25-year plan to improve the environment’ (25YEP) (12) acknowledges the essential role that the natural environment and greenspace play in people’s physical and mental health, and aims to improve population health and wellbeing by forging a closer connection between people and the natural environment.

Page 19 Both the NHS and other government departments recognise the crucial importance of access to good quality greenspace as a key factor for health. This is reflected in a wide range of policies across Government including the Childhood Obesity Strategy (14); Everybody Active, Every Day (15); Loneliness Strategy (16); Clean Air Strategy (17); Sporting Future (18); Prevention is Better than Cure (19); Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (20); 5-year Forward View for Mental Health (21); Integrated Communities Action Plan (22) ; and is one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (23). It will also be key in achieving the mission laid out in the Industrial Strategy Grand Challenge to ensure that people can enjoy at least 5 extra healthy, independent years of life by 2035, while narrowing the gap between the experience of the richest and poorest (6).

New research by the RSPB in 2020 shows huge public support for putting nature at the heart of Coronavirus recovery plans. This research not only shows that nature has been important for maintaining people’s health and wellbeing during lockdown, but that there is widespread recognition of the valuable role it can play as we look to rebuild our economy https://www.wcl.org.uk/new- research-shows-huge-public-support-for-putting-nature-at-the-heart-of-coronavirus-recovery- plans.asp

Increasing demand for nature based recreation has impacted on the Mendip Hills AONB landscape and pressure at key sites including Chew Valley Lake. With new and proposed development in the area including on the fringes of Bristol (Whitchurch) and Banwell and Churchill there is requirement to mitigate the impact of this development on designated sites. There is therefore a need to address this demand and to conserve and enhance these sites for their wildlife and public amenity.

A key aspect of the Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail project is to enable the Chew Valley Lake to be more robust to increasing visitors. The recreational trail, once fully implemented, will provide a significant new recreational facility which could both alleviate existing recreational pressures whilst at the same time increase visitor numbers. To support this a robust approach to ecological impact mitigation and enhancement is proposed which includes significant changes to how some areas of the lake are used and managed. The plans is to provide more robust and resilient areas for key bird life associated with the lake. In addition the project would bring new and invigorated management to the lakeside habitats to increase habitat connectivity and resilience for different species and species groups (eg bats; dormice; wintering and wading birds etc), whilst enabling greater and managed public access. A key element will be the use of formal Lake wardens / liaison officers. This project seeks to provide the infra-structure needed, including the physical paths and also the habitat infra-structure to help avoid and mitigate impacts.

1.4 State Aid Considerations

The project will provide open access public infrastructure and this assistance is not State Aid for the following reasons:

• The project does not give an advantage to one or more undertakings over others as it will be open to public access.

• The assistance will not distort or have the potential to distort competition. • The assistance will not affect trade between Member States.

1.5 Strategic Fit

The proposed development is in accordance with policies GB.1, GB.2, NE.2, NE.4, NE.8, NE.10; NE.12; NE.13, SR.10 in the Bath and North East Somerset Local Plan (including minerals and waste policies) 2007. The relevant policies in the adopted Local Plan as they relate to the application proposals are consistent with the policies set out in the NPPF

This project is delivering on the WoE Joint Green Infrastructure Strategy (JGIS) Outcomes (as described in section 1.1) and is a project in the JGIS AONB Link Programme in the JGIS Pipeline.

This project supports the delivery of the Local Industrial Strategies commitment to maximise the multi benefits of Green Infrastructure and support locally identified priorities to support nature recovery and connecting people with the environment to improve health and well-being. As well as identified in JGIS 2020 and B&NES GI Strategy 2013, its also identified in the Chew Valley Neighbourhood Plan 2017.

Chew Valley Transport Strategy (2017) – identifies community requirement to create off road cycling and walking routes to connect key community facilities and recreational sites. Action (CV7) to progress the Chew Valley Lake route stating that new off-road routes would engender a new cycling culture and should be supported.

Chew Valley Parishes Neighbourhood Plan and Stowey Sutton Neighbourhood Plan all refer to the importance to the local community of a circular route around the lake. These plans have all been created through formal consultation & adopted by the local community through referenda.

As part of B&NES green recovery an off-road recreational route will attract tourists to the Chew Valley area and increase usage of local facilities including pubs, restaurants, shops, camping and caravan sites as well as benefiting the wider tourism economy.

The AONB Management Plan 2019-24 recognises the need to manage access and support the rural economy. It notes that most visitors to the AONB are day visitors, but tourism is increasingly an important part of the local economy as farmers diversify providing holiday accommodation. Rural facilities need to attract additional business to survive. The growing interest in green tourism has potential to create new employment opportunities.

Recreation, Access and Tourism objectives:

R1 Maintain, improve and promote public access and quiet recreational activities with measures to ensure access for all in accordance with the purposes of AONB designation.

R2 Support the development of tourism that benefits the local economy, conserves and enhances the landscape and improves understanding of the Mendip Hills.

R3 Develop and promote more sustainable methods of travel to and around the AONB for enjoyment and recreation.

R4 Support healthy lifestyles by encouraging more people to use the Mendip Hills for sustainable outdoor activities.

A report prepared for the Mendip Hills AONB in 2018 identified that in order to meet the AONB Plan objectives, that the target tourism audience should be Central England ABC1 demographic, young couples (no kids), Pre-school families, empty nesters and group get-togethers. The plan for an accessible circular route meets this identified demand that currently is not being met in the area.

Existing research to demonstrate demand:

Visit England 2017 activities and themes research shows significant interest by visitors to exploring an area by E-bike (China 49%, Italy 42% and USA 41%). Of those visitors showing interest 79% expressed interest in Exploring villages/rural area, 83% trying local food and drink specialities and 83% combining with short walk of less than 2 miles.

Discover England Fund – Activities and Themes research 2017

The research also showed interest in long and half day country or coastal walk (China 67%, UK 58% and France 57%).

Exploring villages and rural areas showed figures of UK 68%, China 65%, Australia 63% and Netherlands 63%. Cross over with seeing World Famous or Iconic places showed interest of 91%

VisitBath have provided information for this application that relates to demand for data on the website, visitbath.co.uk and has been separated by lockdown (1 April to 30 June) and post lockdown (1 July to 2 September). The ‘lockdown’ dates are based on the tourism industry ‘reopen’ date of 4 July but better separates web enquiries during what have effectively been ‘open’ and ‘closed’ times. During this ‘lockdown’ time, resident populations have been using the Visit Bath site for inspiration to explore their local area from Bath, Bristol, Frome and Trowbridge for example.

Walking During the first Covid 19 lockdown period in 2020, one of Visit Baths walking blog posts was the 5th most visited page https://visitbath.co.uk/blog/baths-country-walks-which-path-will-you-take/

It was one of few pages that had higher traffic in 2020 during lock down than in 2019. There has been a 54% increase in views of post lockdown views of walking content. Post lockdown, Visit Bath have seen increased interest in cycling content, growing throughout July and peaking in August when traffic was 122% up on the previous year.

Conclusions Walking and cycling are increasingly in demand for visitors interested in trips to Bath. There is an interest both for local markets and visitor markets. There are opportunities to present routes as part of wider itineraries generating a boost for the local economy, creating a holistic experience for friends and families.

Bristol Water have provided the following information for this application: The Bristol Water customer catchment is broadly 1.2M. It is estimated that the number of visits per year to Bristol Water amenities at Chew Lake is in the range of 250k–350k, by cars, bikes and walkers. This is based on car parking data and counting surveys. Bristol Water survey of customers (online panel surveys) identified that across our customers of Bristol and surrounding areas 72% of people have visited our amenities at Chew. Of the 28% that hadn’t visited 90% indicated they would in future.

1.6 Options Appraisal The initial Feasibility Study commissioned in 2017 (See appendix 2) was to assess if an all-weather off- road shared trail route around the entire Chew Valley Lake linking up with existing sections of the route was feasible, taking account of the international and national landscape and wildlife designations. The Feasibility Study examined preferred and alternative routes section by section and gave a rating for each of high/medium /low to show issues on each section, costs/ecological mitigation and construction requirements. The project partnership of B&NES, Bristol Water, West of England Rural Network and AONB, supported by Sustrans, agreed a whole route was feasible and commissioned Sustrans to progress a scheme proposal and obtain appropriate landowner agreement and planning permission.

A planning application was submitted for the north west and southern section; however, it became apparent from the consultation feedback that further work was required to develop the proposed southern section due to landowner, user group and wildlife concerns. Taking onboard comments from local communities, consultees and B&NES Highway Officers, it was decided to simplify and amend the originally proposed route and split the project into two phases:

Current proposed route – the north west and east route from Woodford Lodge, Chew Stoke around to Hollowbrook Lane, Bishop Sutton. These sections will be constructed initially as it can be achieved within the timescales of July 2021 as set out by the Rural Payments Agency funding deadlines. It was granted planning permission in June 2019. It will link with the section given planning permission in 2011 but not constructed. The project is mainly on Bristol water land, public highway or a private landowner where a draft land agreement is in place. It will provide a continuous mainly off-road route between the west, north and east side of the lake.

Future phases – The southern section requires further work to develop the proposals and this was not possible within the timescales of the initial funding bid to the Rural Payments Agency. It is proposed that in April 2021 consultation is carried out with landowners/stakeholders for an all-weather surfaced route, the planning application is submitted in 2021for implementation subject to future funding bids.

A minimum option has been considered for the northern section to construct the current proposed off-road sections only and not provide an off road segregated cycle/pedestrian route which crosses the dam between the two off road sections and as minimum reduce the speed limit and provide traffic calming measures. However, this would not provide a continuous off-road route for cyclists and pedestrians. Currently there is a footway of standard width so cyclists would need to use the highway. The preferred option proposal is to narrow the carriageway, provide traffic calming and a segregated off-road cycle/pedestrian route.

1.7 Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action Considerations

Due to Chew Valley Lake being a European designated Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) situated in the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), particular attention has had to be taken in designing the route and additional requirements met as part of the planning permission process.

The project would contribute to the 25 year Environment Plan through the following outcomes: 1. Clean Air: The local connections will provide safe links between local communities and local facilities, and so should reduce local short travel trips and help to reduce local congestion. Emissions from the most frequent car journeys should therefore be reduced. 2. Thriving Plants and Animals – the immediate project for the northern section is associated with a requirement to provide and implement an Ecological Management & Monitoring Plan and so will deliver new and additional habitat management to some habitats and areas. The wider scheme has the potential to secure more significant benefits by securing more substantive changes to the way the lake is used and managed to benefit key wildlife. 3. Enhanced Beauty: planning approvals associated with the project are also associated with landscape management plans 4. Heritage and Engagement with natural beauty: this scheme for the northern section of the trail, and the wider trail bring substantive opportunities for people to access and engage with this site which has largely been inaccessible to many people. In particular access for buggies and wheelchairs is particularly significant.

It supports delivery of the JGIS outcomes particularly; Greater resilience to climate change, Valued healthy landscapes, Resilient Economy, Health and Wellbeing, Sustainable Places.

The Cotswolds- Mendip Hills Link (AONB Linkway) is identified in the adopted B&NES GI Strategy (2013) – it intends to strengthen the habitat and access connectivity between the Mendip Hills and southern part of the Cotswolds AONB. To some extent these two AONBs are linked naturally by exiting east west river corridors of the Wellow and Cam. In terms of recreation and active access they are connected by the Limestone Link. However, there is no specific strategy or initiative to link the two AONBs proactively for recreational or ecological benefits. The Chew Valley recreational trail provides opportunities to build on recreational links through the National Cycle Route 3, encouraging access to the Lake via active travel rather than by car, and also for developing and enhancing habitat links.

The route surface is an all-weather route that will allow all year round use by local community and visitors. In creating a trail that links to existing cycle and walking routes and by creating a safer route

between communities by reducing traffic speeds on the dam, it will potentially reduce car journeys and thereby carbon emissions.

As a Green Infrastructure scheme this project will provide a wide range of multi-functional benefits, in line with the West of England Joint Green Infrastructure Strategy and the West of England Unitary and Combined Authorities Climate Change Emergency declarations.

Ecological surveys have been completed and were submitted with the planning application that has been approved following consultation with Natural England and other statutory consultees;

The Conditions of the Planning permission require the following to be undertaken pre use or pre- commencement of the construction: • Ecological Management and monitoring plan (pre-use) • Visitor & communication Plan (pre-use) • Arboriculture Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan (pre-commencement)

In accordance with B&NES policies for construction works and planning permission all the recommendations of the Biodiversity Management Plan 2018 and additional Report have been incorporated in the design. The planning permission requirement for an Arboriculture method statement and Tree Protection Plan will be incorporated into the construction contracts.

Options for the route alignment were subject to detailed discussion with B&NES Highways, Natural England & local private land owners, to ensure along with projected costing for detailed design, construction & future maintenance the route will ensure protection of wildlife & habitat and be a route that will be attractive and safe for users, and respects the wildlife.

The Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) will be commissioned by Bristol Water (BW) who have an existing Biodiversity Action Plan for Chew Valley Lake as required as a SPA and SSSI. The EMMP will be produced in consultation with the Project Board. The Biodiversity Management Plan 2018 submitted with the planning application states that all fences and structures to be monitored by BW staff and repaired quickly. Surveillance is to be provided by BW staff and voluntary bird wardens thus ensuring environmental protection for the designated wildlife and habitats.

This scheme will provide multifunctional Green Infrastructure, enabling greater access to recreational walkways, providing health benefits to the local communities, as well as access to green space and nature.

The Visitor and Communication Plan will be commissioned/led by BW through the Project Board that includes CVLRT Charitable Incorporated Organisation that has been established to support engagement with community, promotion and management of the trail to ensure responsible community and visitor access to enjoy this designated site.

1.8 Equality and Diversity Impact Assessment

B&NES Equalities Impact Assessment Tool Kit (see appendix 3) is being used and will be reviewed through the implementation and delivery of the project. A copy can be provided if required. Assessment and actions consider visitor information being appropriate to all users, opportunity for feedback from all users, review seating, signage, facilities, cycle lock up disabled parking and staff training.

The Council has duties to provide access for all around the highway network including design of footways, crossing points and general road safety. The scheme has been designed to fully take these and planning policies into account. This shared use facility will be designed to provide access for all permitted users, whether on foot, or via a variety of wheeled means. Any ramps or necessary gradients and road crossings detailed will comply the DfT Inclusive mobility, the Sustrans Design Manual and other current design guidance. These has been fully taken into account by the scheme engineer.

In addition, following the inception of Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment and Review (WCHAR) adopted in DMRB HD 42/17, which replaces the HD 42/05 Non-Motorised User Audit, the guidance has been adopted by B&NES to coincide with central Government’s vision to encourage walking, cycling and horse-riding.

2 Economic Case

2.1 Economic Appraisal The highway works will be carried out by Volker the Council term contractor for highway works who are based locally in Clutton and construction materials sourced locally where possible.

The creation of the route around the lake will support local rural businesses and tourism including shops, pubs and farm shops by delivering a more attractive multifunctional trail for visitors that will be legible, more resilient to damage and poor weather conditions, and more accessible. It will also create new business opportunities for example the use of cycle hire. The trail will extend the tourism season via the construction of an all-weather resilient route. It is estimated that 5 full time jobs will be created once the trail is completed. A number of the 61 businesses identified in the area have expressed interest in establishing new activities including Manor Farm Shop on south side of lake who is considering electric bike hire and guided walks. Another local landowner is interested in a new camp site on west side of lake with direct access to the trail.

There is proven demand and experience that can be used in establishing this type of business using that of Derwent reservoir: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/cycle/bike-hire-centres/derwent

There is also potential for a mobility scooter hire for those who require motorised mobility to use the trail around the lake. These schemes operate elsewhere in countryside locations. https://www.countrysidemobility.org/

Recognising the impact of Covid-19 on our rural economy this green infrastructure project delivers a range of multi-benefits with regard to improving opportunities for people’s health and wellbeing and, providing opportunities for access to the natural and cultural resources which contribute to the AONB special qualities , and lake status as a SPA and SSSI. Evidence from Visit Britain and Visit Bath identifies significant interest in electric cycling and exploration of rural villages and countryside. See also section 1.5 Strategic Fit https://www.visitbritain.org/sites/default/files/vb-corporate/Documents- Library/documents/England-documents/ve_activities_summary_-_exploring_an_area_by_e- bike.pdf

The construction of the shared use path will enable responsible community and visitor access to the designated international and national wildlife site in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Direct benefits of this include:

• Use of the new section (2.76km) by those with limited mobility

• Use of new route by cyclists

• Use of new route by more pedestrians

• Reduced car journeys between the 2 key visitor facility locations on the Lake side.

• visitor satisfaction with the route connection

Indirect benefits are:

Wider dispersal of visitors around the Lake rather than concentrated in 2 key locations. It will also protect and enhance international and national and wildlife and landscape designations as the quality of existing habitat will be protected and enhanced through this project. In addition the protected species numbers maintained and enhanced and the WoE and Mendip Hills AONB nature recovery networks will be enhanced

Funding for the northern section has come from RDPE Rural Growth Programme for green tourism infrastructure in recognition of the trails benefits to 61 local businesses (see appendix 5 for list of businesses and map showing location). This scheme will provide direct and indirect local jobs to manage, develop and support the use of this recreational spaces across a European protected site.

Based on the current visitor numbers provided by Bristol Water it is expected that when the trail is completed visitor numbers to the lake facilities could increase by 20%. Using Visit Britain day visitor spend of £40 per head this could potentially equate to additional £2 million per year spend in the local economy. Overnight visitor spend is higher- £66 (2015 Visit England).

Page 13 gives a summary of day visitor spend https://www.visitbritain.org/sites/default/files/vb- corporate/gbdvs_2019_annual_report.pdf

A survey in March 2017 taken as a snapshot of Bristol Water’s supply area identified that 34% had never visited the lakes (Chew is main amenity lake), supply area is 1.2M people.

Within this 34%, 90% said they identified that would likely visit the lakes in future.

When asked what amenities visitors were ‘aware of’/’had used’/or ‘would use’ at the lake; walking and cycling produced some interesting results that indicate a walking/cycling trail would have a significant impact on visitor numbers.

‘aware of’ ’had used’ ‘would use’

Walking 65% 73% 82%

Cycling 28% 10% 33%

Only 28% of those that have visited are aware of cycling facilities and only 10% of visitors have used them. This is no surprise as there are in effect no/very limited cycling amenity provision at the lake

today. However, of the people that haven’t visited, 33% of them said they would visit for a cycle ride if such an amenity existed. This is a significant number when rolled out across the 1.2M people in the supply area.

This jump in percentage of ‘people who would visit if a cycling amenity was present’ is a driver behind thinking around the estimated increase in visitor numbers in the next 5 years. The scale of jump is unparalleled except for lakeside picnic area amenity, which Bristol already have but people always seem to want more of.

The benefit of this project is also managing a natural resource/enabling public access to green space/ benefiting local communities- health and well being.The construction of the recreational trail will also improve cycle/pedestrian links between the local rural communities of Bishop Sutton and Chew Stoke which is currently only connected by a relatively busy fast rural road with pavements only in the villages. In addition it will help improve the link to Chew Valley Secondary School for students living in Bishop Sutton travelling by bicycle.

This project will support future housing and employment growth - Chew Valley Lake is a European Protected site (SPA). Local Plan HRAs have identified an impact from recreational pressures on this SPA associated with future housing growth. The delivery of this project will be a significant mitigation solution to support future housing and employment growth regionally. Future Strategic Planning documents will be able to draw on this project to support plan making across all 4 West of England UAs and ensure legal compliance for future plan making.

SDS housing and population growth brings with it an inevitable increase in recreational pressures. These are set to increase from both new and existing growth. Recreational impacts to Internationally and nationally protected sites is a risk that needs to be fully mitigated, and for international sites a strategic approach is likely to be required. Risks to the ecological interests of Chew Valley lake through unmanaged and unmitigated increase in recreational growth is well recognised. Measures to proactively make the recreational facilities more robust at Chew Valley lake are therefore of critical importance to future growth. In addition to improved infrastructure, in terms of the physical trail and supporting habitat infra-structure that this project will deliver, there is also the opportunity to deliver the shared Conservation Plan for Chew Valley Lake which would set out the practical and costed measures needed to sustain the recreational and ecological interests of the lake in the long term. This plan would be involve all stakeholders and could help identify any financial contributions or other measures that new developments may need to provide. In comparison to the hard infrastructure of the path and associated habitat measures, these requirements are likely to be very small, and/or addressed through Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, or could well be addressed through mechanisms other than new development. The key is to get the trail delivered and a shared Conservation Plan in place.

The table below sets out overall expected benefits of the scheme.

21/22 22/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 Total

Overall £1m £1.5m £2m £2m £2m £8.5m additional Benefit

Proportion £0.5m £0.75m £1m £1m £1m £4.25m derived from this phase 50%

Additional £1.572m nil nil nil nil nil £1.572m Public Sector Costs

Ratio of benefits to costs over 5 year appraisal period 2.7:1

2.2 Value for Money Statement

Total project cost £1,607,500 Grant sought £1,005,800 (IF/EDF/LGF/RIF) Net Quantified Benefits 5 FTEs Jobs, reduced CO2 and road safety on the dam where the speed limit will be reduced from 50mph to 30mph, improved access for all. Ratio of benefits to costs over 5 year appraisal period 2.7:1

VfM indicator* An additional £2 million per annum spend in the local economy

* Benefit compared to total cost including match funding

Future Strategic Planning documents will be able to draw on this project to support plan making across all 4 West of England UAs and ensure legal compliance for future plan making. Local Plans and the

Mayoral SDS are currently at early stages of development and therefore an indication for Jobs/Homes /Affordable Homes/CO2 emissions will not be quantified until these plans reach adoption stage.

However, this project will support future housing and employment growth - Chew Valley Lake is a European protected site (SPA). Local Plan HRAs have identified an impact from recreational pressures on this SPA associated with future housing growth. The delivery of this project will be a significant mitigation solution to support future housing and employment growth regionally. If this mitigation is not provided future growth plans risk challenge of legal compliance and potentially failure of the plan to deliver future homes and jobs across the region.

3 Financial Case

3.1 Chief Financial Officer sign off The Chief Financial Officer has reviewed this business case and has provided the required letter of assurance (appendix 13).

3.2 Scheme Cost All costs for the project are considered capital expenditure.

Capital Elements

Cost Heading Total projected eligible Amount to be claimed expenditure Internal staff including £50,000 £50,000 overheads External consultants for Costs to be covered by Bristol arboriculture and ecological Water surveys Visitor & Communication Costs to be covered by Bristol Plan BW Water *Highway on dam changes £78,000 0 design drawings and detailed pre-construction drawings *Landowner compensation £14,200 0 and legal/agency fees (Bristol Water to fund) *Highway stopping up order £2,800 0 application (Bristol Water to fund) *Path construction Woodford £800,200 £293,500 Lodge to Hollowbrook Lane **Highway works on north £447,500 £447,500 dam section **Cycle/walking bridge near £60,000 £60,000 Tycross lane Contingency for off road path £124,800 £124,800 works & highway works 10% Contingency for £30,000 £30,000 cycling/walking bridge 50% Total £1,607,500 £1,005,800

*Match funded elements of the project with Rural Payment Agency Grant

** A contingency/risk has been included in the cost estimate. 50% has been added to the proposed bridge works for unknown ground conditions and 10% for other works. Costs will be confirmed when the tenders have been returned in December 2020

3.3 Spend Profile and Funding Sources

The profile of capital costs by financial year and fund source is illustrated below.

Capital Spend

2020/21 2021/22 Total Rural Payments Agency £506,700 £506,700 WECA £1,005,800 £1,005,800 BANES Transport Improvement £60,000 £60,000 Programme Bristol Water Contribution £35,000 35,000 Total £95,000 £1,512,500 £1,607,500

Table 3.3.xlsx

4 Commercial Case

4.1 Procurement

The construction of the off-road cycle & pedestrian route between

• Woodford Lodge and the dam to the north and • The dam to the north and Tycross Lane

This work is programmed to be tendered at the end of September 2020 through Pro-Contract (Pro-Contract is B&NES Council’s e-tendering system that can be accessed via the Supplying the South West portal). The Council will be using a NEC4 priced contract with bill of quantities (main option B), MCHW method of measurement and the Specification for Highway Works which is recommended for a scheme estimate of over £500k including the design and installation of a bridge and ramp structure.

The highway works on the dam will be carried out by B&NES Council term contractor Volker. The cost for the proposed works has been calculated using the contractor rates. Volker were appointed by B&NES Council as the highway term contractor in April 2019 through a competitive tender process through B&NES procurement framework.

4.2 Operation and Financial Viability

In 2018 the CVLRT Charitable Incorporated Organisation was set up with Trustees for Bristol Water, B&NES, and members of the local community to support management and maintenance of the route after construction and take forward visitor management, interpretation and community engagement work, working closely with BW.

BW as the main landowner have confirmed their commitment to maintain the trail on their land recognising the CIO as the potential mechanism through which they will finance this work and attract financial support possibly through visitor giving. It is intended through the CIO to engage with volunteers through social prescribing and direct community engagement to undertake practical conservation management.

The land over which the new path which has been awarded granted funding is in the ownership of Bristol Water plc or currently in third party ownership where a land agreement is being negotiated between the landowner and Bristol Water. The existing paths are already within the ownership of Bristol Water PLC or Bath & North East Somerset Council.

On completion of the build, and subject to satisfactory discharge of grant agreements, a suitable agreement (for a 25 year term) would be entered into with the CIO for the ongoing management and maintenance of the all off highway path with the individual land owners.

The monitoring of the maintenance of these off highway paths will be coordinated by the CVLRT CIO but in conjunction with Bristol Water or the respective future landowners.

The CIO will be responsible for agreeing with the land owners what maintenance is required and whether it is covered by the terms of the operating agreements and if responsible, will undertake the work.

The Mendip Hills AONB volunteer rangers have previously worked with BW on practical conservation projects and there is a well established voluntary bird monitoring group based on the lake side with a bird ringing station.

The Project Board during the construction phase will be developing a management and maintenance plan for the route identifying costs and responsibilities. However as stated in the Planning Application Biodiversity Action Plan, BW take responsibility for maintaining/repairing structures.

The trail surface and structures have been designed to a high standard to reduce need for maintenance and cost of maintenance. The section on the highway will be maintained by B&NES as part of B&NES highway maintenance budget.

4.3 Social Value Act

The Bath and North East Somerset Council strategy for Procurement is ‘Think Local’ by helping to develop the local economy we will make significant improvements to the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of the communities it serves. The strategy is therefore to first “think local‟ in relation to the goods, works and services procured. The proposed off-road cycle & pedestrian route works will be tendered through Pro-Contract (Pro- Contract is the Council's e-tendering system that can be accessed via the Supplying the South West portal).

The highway works on the dam will be carried out by B&NES Council term contractor Volker. The cost for the proposed works has been calculated using the contractor rates. Volker were appointed by the Council as the highway term contractor in April 2019 through a competitive tender process.

The aim is to deliver value for money to the taxpayer. The Council will provide clarity on expectations, be commercial in their approach and drive efficiency and benefits out of their systems.

The Council will provide a fair, consistent and proportionate framework of governance, rules and guidance to enable it to be transparent and accountable for our decisions.

5 Management Case

5.1 Promoter and Delivery Arrangements

The promoter is B&NES as the accountable body working with the Project Board that is B&NES, Bristol Water and the Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CVLRT CIO) (Appendix 4).

B&NES will provide roles of SRO and Project Manager. The Project Board role is to support B&NES (Project Manager) to ensure timely delivery of the scheme within the agreed budget.

Any issues will be reported through to the Project Board by the Project Manager and escalated to the SRO if necessary.

B&NES as the highway’s authority are responsible for the highway section on completion. The highway is on the dam that is the property of BW and therefore through the Project Board will ensure matters relating to this are communicated.

Bristol Water as the landowner of the majority of the off road sections and responsible for community consultation for matters concerning its property has set out Guiding principles for the Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail (CVLRT) ongoing design and consultation activities that include – Bristol Water…

• promotes responsible community access to its estate of natural beauty • supports increased recreational value from its lakeside estate where it is sustainable and where harmony with wildlife can be maintained • recognises the stated ambition of the local chew valley communities in delivering a circular recreational trail around Chew Valley Lake • is constructively working with its CVLRT project partners B&NES, WERN, Sustrans and Natural England • will listen carefully to customer and stakeholder feedback during the consultation period • accepts ongoing management and maintenance liability for the trail where it is on its land • supports design concepts that deliver an optimised ‘whole-life’ approach rather than lowest development cost (and may not support designs that don’t appropriately manage whole life concerns) The guiding principles do not overwrite BWs statutory duties; including those with regard to the designation of Chew Valley Lake as a Special Protection Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Appendix 12 Chew Trail NW Biodiversity Management Plan describes habitat management, restoration and creation measures that will be completed as part of the north-western section trail construction. Enhancement items will also be identified in the Soft Landscaping when this is completed by First Ecology.

5.2 Project Governance and Delivery

The governance arrangements are set out in the diagram above. The B&NES Council Project Manager will be Shane Charles reporting to the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) – Gary Peacock (B&NES Council).

Project Board Accountable body:

B&NES Council SRO

Bristol Water Finance mgt & procurement CVLRT CIO Project Manager

• The SRO will be Gary Peacock who has worked for B&NES for 30 years and is the Deputy Group Manager for Highways & Traffic (Environmental Services). His remit includes the promotion of cycling and the development of the cycle infrastructure network. The SRO will report to B&NES internal senior officers, Senior Finance officer (Kate Clements) and liaise with Procurement team.

• The Project Manager will be Shane Charles, Principal Engineer - Design & Projects employed by Bath & North East Somerset Council with significant experience in both Highway Design/Delivery and Highway Maintenance.

• Progress and any issues will be reported through to the Project Board by the Project Manager and escalated to the SRO if necessary.

• The Project Board will be;

• Alison Sherwin B&NES – (Senior Engineer, Accessibility and Cycling) responsible for the development of the cycle network and has managed similar projects to deliver off road cycle/pedestrian routes from inception to construction.

• Steve Smith Bristol Water Head of Lakeside and Communities, responsible for management of Chew Valley Lake and stakeholder engagement. Steve has been in this stewardship role since February 2015 for Bristol Water, primarily focussed on public access and recreation aspects, but also on conservation. Steve’s role covers 9 waterways within the South Bristol and Mendip regions, overseeing visitor experience for ~400,000 visits to these spaces annually. Prior to this role, Steve had 14 years in systems design and projects for BAE SYSTEMS and MBDA (defence and aerospace industry.

• Chris Head CVLRT Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) Trustee – Executive Director of West of England Rural Network and Trustee of CVLRT responsible for the charities interest on the Project Board. Chris is Executive Director has a wide range of experience of managing and delivering EU funded programmes as well as involvement in setting up successful rural community development projects. Chris also chairs the Chew Valley Forum, a group of parish

councils, businesses, community groups and other organisations who are interested in achieving the best outcome for the residents of the wider Chew Valley area.

B&NES Council have a proven track record of delivering projects with external funding streams. The Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) behaviour change programme started in September 2010 (circa £3.3 million for B&NES), running in partnership across the West of England authority areas, until 2016. It included cycle infrastructure projects such as Claude Avenue ramp (connecting residential area to the Linear Way dedicated cycle corridor), upgrading footways to shared use for pupils attending Wellsway School and Batheaston Bridge (cycleway traversing the River Avon to connect the communities of Batheaston and Bathampton). DfT concluded that there was a 23% cycling increase identified in relation to this programme (excluding City of Bristol).

LSTF was succeeded by £300k of Sustainable Transport Transition Year funding in 2016/17, and £1million of Access Fund (2017-2020).

CVLRT CIO was established in 2019 through the project partnership to support and assist management and maintenance of the CVLRT (Appendix 4).

The objectives of the CIO are:

To promote for the benefit of the inhabitants of the Chew and Yeo Valleys in Bath & North East Somerset and North Somerset and the surrounding areas, the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure time occupation of individuals who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship or social and economic circumstances or for the public at large in the interests of social welfare and with the object of improving the condition of life of the said inhabitants.

Bristol Water PLC and Bath & North East Somerset Council (“the appointing bodies”) may each appoint up to two charity trustees.

5.3 Programme Plan

A full programme plan is set out in appendix 11 with milestones set out below:-

Milestone completion dates Baseline Prepare tenders for off road works August 2020 Tender off road works November 2020 Detailed design of highway works November 2020 Stopping up highway application for Woodford Lane Oct 2021 Appoint contractor for off road works January 2021 Arboriculture method statement & Tree Protection Plan 01 November 2020 Finalise draft land agreement with private landowner December 2020 Planning approval for pre-construction conditions January 2021

Advertise TRO’s for speed limit reduction January 2021 Tree and vegetation removal February 2021 Off road pathway contractor mobilisation Jan 2021 Restoration and habitat enhancement work To be confirmed Completion of works July 2021 Implement Visitor Management Plan July 2021 Launch event August 2021 Monitoring September 2021

5.4 Risks, Constraints and Dependencies

The risk register is included in appendix 7.

The funding awarded by the Rural payments Agency (RPA) for the off-road works stipulates that the works need to be completed by 10th July 2021. This relatively short timescale is a risk.

There is a land agreement required, highway stopping up order, traffic regulation order and planning condition approvals which all need to be in place prior to construction. If any of these are delayed it will impact on the construction programme.

One of the planning conditions required prior to construction is an arboriculture report. There is a requirement for some trees to be removed to enable the path construction and so approval for this will be part of the arboricultural report. This will be required before January/February 2021 so the trees can be removed before the bird nesting season.

Other risks identified on the off-road section are unknown ground conditions and poor weather conditions during the construction period. These could delay the works and add to costs. The works are programmed for April 2021 to minimise this risk of poor weather conditions.

The risk of increased costs due to unforeseen additional works is being reduced with the review of the initial Bill of Quantities for the tender as part of RPA funding bid and the re-tender of the works increase certainty of costs.

5.5 Land Acquisition, Planning and Other Consents

The land is mainly owned by Bristol Water for the off-road section of path. The Council are working in partnership with Bristol Water.

The other section of off-road route is owned by a private landowner. There is a draft land agreement in place which will require finalising when funding is confirmed.

Planning permission has been granted for the northern section. There are planning conditions (Appendix 6) that will be delivered pre commencement or pre use as listed below

1. Construction Management Plan (pre-commencement)

2. Detailed highway drawings (pre-commencement)

3. Ecological Management and monitoring plan (pre-use)

4. Visitor & communication Plan (pre-use)

5. Arborcultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan (pre-commencement).

A highway stopping up order is required for one section of the route. All affected parties have been consulted and there are no objections, and the application is due to be submitted late September when design drawings are available.

5.6 Service Diversions

No service diversions are required

5.7 Engagement and Consultation

Consultation has been undertaken in devising the route. Sustrans were commissioned in 2017 to produce a feasibility study for the route and consulted with landowners as part of that. This was followed by public consultation in June 2018 on the route proposal. A Consultation Summary Report was produced July 2018. Sustrans then led on and submitted the planning application for the whole route in 2018.

The initial planning application for the complete surfaced route around the lake was withdrawn following issues raised concerning the southern section. Due to the deadline for the RDPE grant application a revised application was submitted for the northern section that enabled linking key visitor facilities and Bishop Sutton. This application was subject to full consultation and was determined by planning committee not a single member decision.

Updates of progress on the project have been provided to the Chew Valley Forum and parish councils by West of England Rural Network working in partnership with B&NES, BW and the Mendip Hills AONB Unit.

The setting up of the CVLRT CIO is to facilitate and deliver wider public participation and engagement including assistance with the visitor monitoring, management of the route ensuring that it provides community benefit as set out in the Charity Objects of the CIO (see 5.2). It will also lead on development and consultation on the southern section to be an all-weather surface, rather than be sections of public footpath and on road sections for cyclists.

In addition. there is a Planning permission condition to provide a visitor & communication Plan (pre- use).

5.8 Project Assurance

As set out in section 5.2 Shane Charles, Principal Engineer (B&NES Design and Projects) will be appointed as Project Manager

A member of B&NES Design and Project team will be allocated to supervise construction and quality assurance. This will also include contract administration, inspection and approval of works with B&NES and Bristol Water.

Progress and any issues will be reported through to the Project Board by the Project Manager and escalated to the SRO if necessary.

5.9 Monitoring and Evaluation

The RPA funding conditions requires a full record of project progress and evidence of the outputs, milestones and conditions met as part of the grant claim submission. These will also be submitted as part of the WECA funding grant.

The AONB has secured funding from National Grid for its Counting on Mendip project that will install visitor counters at key sites across the AONB – and are liaising with Bristol Water to install one on the new route in order to monitor numbers to aid monitoring and evaluation. In May 2018 a 'big count' was carried out over a four hour period on the bank holiday Saturday, volunteers counted the number of visits (not specifically the number of unique visitors) at specific locations across the AONB. This is a baseline and will be repeated annually.

In addition, monitoring will be undertaken as part of the Planning permission conditions: Ecological Management and monitoring plan (preuse) and Arboriculture Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan (pre-commencement).

Included in the Biodiversity Management Plan 2018 (Appendix 10) submitted with the planning application an annual report is collated each year. This report will analysis any impacts of the trail and any additional measures required to mitigate adverse impacts. The report includes annual survey of wetland birds, wildfowl broods, singing warblers and reed buntings, monitoring of nesting birds in natural sites and migratory birds.

The Councils Equalities Impact Assessment Tool Kit is being used and will be reviewed through the implementation and delivery of the project.

Scheme: Chew Valley Recreational Trail 1. Scheme background and context

A summary of the key milestones is provided with expected and actual completion dates.

Milestone completion dates Baseline month/year Actual completion Prepare tenders for off road 08/2020 works Tender off road works 11/2020 Detailed design of highway 11/2020 works Stopping up highway 01/2021 application for Woodford Lane Appoint contractor for off road 01/2021 works Arboriculture method 12/2020 statement Finalise draft land agreement 12/2020 with private landowner Planning approval for pre- 01/2021 construction conditions Advertise TRO’s for speed limit 03/2021 reduction Tree and vegetation removal 02/2021 Off road pathway contractor 01/2021 mobilisation Completion of works 07/2021 Implement Visitor Management 07/2021 Plan Launch event 08/2021 Monitoring 09/2021

2. Logic Model

Context and Rationale This project will support future housing and employment growth - Chew Valley Lake is a European protected site -Special Protected Area (SPA). Local Plan HRAs have identified an impact from recreational pressures on this SPA associated with future housing growth. The delivery of this project will be a significant mitigation solution to support future housing and employment growth regionally. If this mitigation is not provided future growth plans risk challenge of legal compliance and potentially failure of the plan to deliver future homes and jobs across the region.

Tourism is key element of rural economy, location being within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – sustainable green tourism offering potential to explore and enjoy the landscape via walking and cycling. Evidence for demand for this is supported by Visit England and is part of local authority Covid recovery plans

Sustainable travel/movement – B&NES Chew Valley Transport Study identifies this route as part of improvements to connectivity between surrounding villages as part of wider transport improvements to improve connectivity and safety. Road speed is an issue on the dam section that will be traffic calmed through this scheme. The AONB Link Programme has identified a green active travel plan for the Chew Valley area.

Health and wellbeing – Public Health England and B&NES have prioritised need to address obesity. B&NES whole system approach to obesity supports increased provision of infrastructure to support increase in cycling and walking

Objectives Resources/ Input Activities Outputs Direct & Indirect Outcomes Impact In order to achieve the set of activities to In order to address the aims and objectives We expect that, once accomplished these We expect that if accomplished these We expect that if accomplished these The aims/ objectives fulfil these aims/ objectives we need the we will accomplish the following activities: activities will produce the following outputs will lead to the following change activities will lead to the following changes of the scheme are: following: (What will the money be used for? e.g. deliverables: e.g. new products or services, skills, in service, organisation or community: (Resources should not be limited to money construction, project management, (Provide measurable outputs e.g. length of behaviour, new business/contracts, etc: (quantitative economic impacts e.g. indirect (Ensure that all aims/objectives are SMART) e.g. grant, match funding, in-kind, project equipment/fit out, etc): new road/cycle path, m2 of space (Ensure that all outcomes are SMART and jobs and/or GVA to be cross-referenced team, specialist support, etc. The inputs constructed/refurbished, number of relevant to the aims/objectives to allow for with FBC as appropriate) define the scope of the project being businesses supported, learners engaged, attribution; distinguish between direct and considered in the logic model ) etc) indirect outcomes) • Enable responsible community and Funding to implement the scheme: • Tree and vegetation removal New off-road shared use path between DIRECT: • reduced carbon emissions visitor access to the designated £60,000 B&NES • Ecological Management and Woodford Lodge and Walley Lane that • Use of the new section (2.76km) by • reduced car speed on dam e.g. of car international and national wildlife £35,000 Bristol Water Monitoring Plan will total approximately 840m in length those with limited mobility speeds now and reduced to 30mph site in an Area of Outstanding Natural £506,686 Rural Payments Agency • Arboriculture method statement • Use of new route by cyclists • greater use and access to the Lake side Beauty. • Construction of the trail • Use of new route by more pedestrians areas for recreation/engagement in Project Board supporting the B&NES • Traffic calming measures Construction of a shared use path • Reduced car journeys between the 2 wildlife/conservation activities project team between the dam to the north and key visitor facility locations on the • Hollowbrook Road including replacing Lake side. an existing narrow footbridge. Total • visitor satisfaction with the route length approximately 1.5km. connection Widening of existing footway (approximately 420m) to provide a INDIRECT segregated cycle/pedestrian route • Wider dispersal of visitors around the adjacent to highway on the dam, Lake rather than concentrated in 2 key reduce speed limit and provide traffic locations calming Improvements to 5.4km of existing footpaths. • inc. traffic calming measures • if proposal to monitor after include output still

• Support increase in rural green tourism • Trail to be constructed • Project Board to liaise with local • 61 existing businesses identified in the DIRECT: • Increased spend of £2m in local related business growth, both for • Project Board to liaise with local businesses directly or via VisitBath, area to be contacted on completion of Increase of 20% (50,000)in visitor businesses – shops, pubs, farm shops, existing and new. businesses directly or via VisitBath, VisitBristol, VisitWsM when whole route including southern numbers at BW Chew lake facilities on accommodation VisitBristol, VisitWsM when constructed section (Sept 2023) see appendix 5 completion of whole route. Based on • New rural businesses creating 5fte constructed • Expect to see outdoor mobility scooter GB day visitor spend of £40 per head local jobs • Visitor and communication plan to be scheme/cycle hire/lakeside camping this equates to £2m per annum. • produced will include liaison with local opportunities explored additional spend in local economy. businesses to monitor increase in https://www.visitbritain.org/gb-day- business, new activities associated visits-survey-latest-results with the trail. INDIRECT: • New products – eg cycle hire & repair/outdoor mobility scooter hire

• Protect and enhance international and • Specialist input from Natural England • Ecological Management and • Ecological Management and • DIRECT • Trail has no detrimental impact on national and wildlife and landscape • Project Board will have joint Monitoring Plan will progress the Monitoring Plan for the trail with • Quality of existing habitat protected wildlife designation i.e the monitored designations responsibility to ensure route Biodiversity Management Plan 2018 to monitoring of species number and and enhanced habitats and species. constructed to comply with planning ensure trail complies and in response habitat quality, in relation to the • INDIRECT • West of England Nature Recovery permission conditions to protect to monitoring set out will respond with current monitoring and reporting • Protected species numbers maintained Network enhanced wildlife. measures required to mitigate any required for the SPA/SSSI. This will and enhanced. • BW currently produce annual bird identified impacts such as creating new includes monitoring of impact on the • WoE and Mendip Hills AONB nature monitoring report as part of their habitats. New habitats include new features the SPA has protection for recovery networks enhanced Biodiversity Action Plan for Chew hedges, enhance species rich including: water plants, reedbed birds, Valley Lake. grassland, woodland creation and reed non-breeding populations of birds, bed renewal. shoveler, gadwell, pochad, tufted duck. Great crested grebe, coot and • Project Board working closely with green sand piper. Protected species: wildlife interests/local community bats, otter and badger and other • Visitor and communication Plan – pre- species grass snake, dormouse, use will be produced March 2021 to harvest mouse. ensure visitor use is appropriate and managed to respect designations. Also quality of visitor experience maintained.

3. Evaluation design and methodologies The Visitor and Communication Plan that is to be commissioned as part of this project will set out the design and methodology to be applied once the trail is constructed. We will want to find out: Who is using the trail – age/gender/disability etc Are they local resident or visitor Has it led to behaviour change i.e did they walk/cycle and how far Level of satisfaction – with the route, accessibility/signage/facilities The Visitor and Communication Plan will identify audiences and how each are best communicated with to answer the evaluation questions and feedback any issues etc as set out in the Equalities Tool Kit assessment

The Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan that is to be produced as part of this project will assess any impact on wildlife and will refer to the established annual Bird monitoring report that is produced each December.

The users of the trail are identifiable and accessible on site. Identifying the business that will /may benefit is less easy but through the CVLRT CIO and use of the Visitor and Communication Plan when produced, will include communication with businesses to promote the route and the local businesses to encourage visitors to stay in the area to explore.

4.1 Data collection methods BW commission an annual bird survey report that is collation of date that they collect from number of bird monitoring counts and surveys. This report is produced each December. The Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan will set out other monitoring required and frequency of this.

The 61 businesses that were known of in 2018 when the list was compiled will be contacted one year after the trail is implemented in full (northern and southern section) to assess any quantifiable uplift in business that can be related to the trail eg new cycle hire, customer feedback etc. See map of where businesses located appendix 5.

4.2 Data collection and establishing the baseline

Metric Unit Frequency Data source Baseline date Reporting to? (inc. Target) (& Responsibility) Inputs e.g. Expenditure £, by Quarterly Supplier invoices; FBC at full Highlight source Quarterly grant claims approval on report; Project – Finance Officer 29th June governance 2016 Arboriculture and tree plan Ecological and monitoring plan Visitor and Communication Plan Outputs Annual Detailed design plans Sept 2020 Project length of trail 6.4kms – Main contractor governance, Yr1 evaluation report 20% increase in visitor 50,000 annual BW Visitor numbers BW 2020 Project numbers governance, CVLRT CIO Annual Bristol Water 2019 Bird UAs and NE No negative impact of UA planning and monitoring habitat or species ecology report Outcomes and impacts Jobs created connected 5FTEs Annual June 2018 Highlight to the Trail Estimates of indirect report; Yr1 jobs created based on and Yr3 assessment of contact evaluation with local businesses report

5. Delivery plan

The Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan will be commissioned November 2020 – ecological monitoring already takes place annually, The EMMP will be specific monitoring on and of the trail that will be assessed alongside existing data collection. This will be managed by Bristol Water.

The Visitor and Communication Plan will be commissioned March 2021 – assumed that this will include baseline date collation before trail opens. Visitor numbers for the site provided by Bristol Water who will be working with Mendip Hills AONB in installing visitor counter(s) on the trail (date to be confirmed)

Collation of new jobs created will be via stakeholder/business liaison through CVLRT CIO/Project Board – but until the full route is completed (northern and southern sections) collation will not start until Sept 2023 when proposed full route completion date.

6. Resourcing and Governance

Ecological monitoring and visitor monitoring will be undertaken by BW – cost has not be identified as separate to their existing costs in undertaking this work but additional costs may be identified when EMMP and V&C Plan completed March 2021

Risk management and quality checking of the trail construction/quality checking is the responsibility of B&NES with the project Board (see project governance) On completion of the trail, monitoring and evaluation responsibility is with BW on their land and B&NES Highways for the section on the highway.

The CVLRT CIO set up to support management and maintenance of the trail working engaging local community and visitors.

Mendip Hills AONB Unit will be responsible for their visitor counter(s) and collation of data from the counters. This information will be supplied to the Project Board, and after completion of the trail to CIO that has trustees from B&NES,BW and West of England Rural Network.

To bring all of the above together it will be initially the responsibility of the Project Board with a view to hand onto the CIO to manage going forward. Chris Head CVLRT CIO Trustee [email protected] 01275 333701

7. Dissemination

The findings from the evaluation will be used to:

Address visitor management issues eg issues of overuse/conflicts between users, accessibility – audience will be BW staff, CIO, Parish councils. There will also direct response to users by the responsible body (BW/B&NES/CIO) if specific issues raised.

Address impact on habitat/wildlife – the audience will be BW, NE, B&NES ecologist/AONB, specialist interest groups eg bird monitoring volunteers

Address promotional/communication issues – the audience will be parish councils, Chew Valley Forum, local businesses

Chew Kitchen

Stoke Inn & Stores Salt & Malt

Phase 2 – Dam section, consents received but not The funded Woodford

Phase 2 – All consents received and funding from RDPE Rural Growth Fund

Shop Indicative route, & PO (subject to consent and landowner agreement)

Red Herons Lion Green

Budgens Indicative route, (subject to consent and landowner agreement)

New Manor Farm

Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail route The Blue Bowl

Phase 3 Multi-use trail Phase 1 -Existing built Phase 2 Multi-use Trail Indicative only (subject trail granted funding 2019 to planning and other constraints)

Equality Impact Assessment / Equality Analysis

Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail Title of service or policy

Transport Name of directorate and service Planning Policy

Alison Sherwin Senior Engineer (Accessibility and cycling) Name and role of officers completing the EIA Sarah Jackson Green Infrastructure Coordinator 2.10.19 Date of assessment

Equality Impact Assessment (or ‘Equality Analysis’) is a process of systematically analysing a new or existing policy or service to identify what impact or likely impact it will have on different groups within the community. The main aim is to identify any discriminatory or negative consequences for a particular group or sector of the community, and also to identify areas where equality can be better promoted. Equality impact Assessments (EIAs) can be carried out in relation to service delivery as well as employment policies and strategies. This toolkit has been developed to use as a framework when carrying out an Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) or Equality Analysis on a policy, service or function. It is intended that this is used as a working document throughout the process, with a final version (including the action plan section) being published on the Council’s and NHS Bath and North East Somerset’s websites.

1. Identify the aims of the policy or service and how it is implemented.

Key questions Answers / Notes 1.1 Briefly describe purpose of the service/policy e.g CVLRT is a project to deliver a multiuser recreational route around Chew • How the service/policy is delivered Valley Lake in partnership with Bristol Water, West Of England Rural Network, and by whom Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) , CVLRT Charity Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and Sustrans • If responsibility for its B&NES is the accountable body for the scheme funding through the Rural implementation is shared with other Payments Agency. departments or organisations Implementation is responsibility of the Council together with Bristol Water and • Intended outcomes the CIO through a Project Management Board. Outcome is an all weather, accessible route that will provide accessible off road route for local community and tourists. 1.2 Provide brief details of the scope of the policy or This is a new project that will link and improve existing sections of route. service being reviewed, for example: The scheme has obtained planning permission but detailed construction • Is it a new service/policy or review drawings have yet to be completed. These can take account of any suggested improvements identified through this EIA/EA. of an existing one? • Is it a national requirement?). • How much room for review is there? 1.3 Do the aims of this policy link to or conflict with No conflicts – having been subject to planning application process policies

Page 2 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit any other policies of the Council? regarding highways safety/access standards etc have been assessed.

2. Consideration of available data, research and information

Monitoring data and other information should be used to help you analyse whether you are delivering a fair and equal service. Please consider the availability of the following as potential sources:

• Demographic data and other statistics, including census findings • Recent research findings (local and national) • Results from consultation or engagement you have undertaken • Service user monitoring data (including ethnicity, gender, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation and age) • Information from relevant groups or agencies, for example trade unions and voluntary/community organisations • Analysis of records of enquiries about your service, or complaints or compliments about them • Recommendations of external inspections or audit reports

Key questions Data, research and information that you can refer to

2.1 What is the equalities profile of the team delivering Team too small – 2 people so not appropriate to give details the service/policy? 2.2 What equalities training have staff received? Team responsible have access to equalities training and development through the Council’s Corporate Induction and Corporate Training programme 2.3 What is the equalities profile of service users? Chew Valley Transport Strategy identifies The population of the Chew Valley totals nearly 11,000 (Census 2011). Clutton is the largest settlement with Camely, Chew Magna, Stowey Sutton and Publow each having over 1,000 residents, representing 51% of the Valley’s population in combination; the remainder is a dispersed rural population. Younger people who are seeking work moving away and local jobs being taken largely by people from the Bristol area who have transport available. In the longer term, this could have impacts on rural communities as their

Page 3 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit demographic structure changes with a disproportionate number of middle aged, middle income households and a residual number of older, more immobile, people. https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/sites/default/files/siteimages/Parking-and- Travel/final_draft_chew_valley_transport_strategy_- _non_technical_report_oct_17.pdf 2.4 What other data do you have in terms of service Sustrans public consultation in June 2018 of the proposal profiled age (1% users or staff? (e.g results of customer satisfaction under 20, 11% 21-35, 23% over 65,1% preferred not to say , and gender surveys, consultation findings). Are there any gaps? (45% male/54% female, 1% preferred not to say) of respondents. Comments received included: 92% in favour of the scheme, enabling access to the lake and providing active travel were the two highest scoring responses to the support for the route. Improving safety was third.

Will be undertaking on-going consultation and as part of visitor and Communication Plan will explain how people can report issues/ideas/barriers. The charity set up to manage and maintain the route will be considering this as they develop their work.

2.5 What engagement or consultation has been Will be sharing EIA with project partners Bristol Water, West of England undertaken as part of this EIA and with whom? Rural Network and Mendip Hills AONB and new Chew Valley Lake What were the results? Recreational Trail charity 2.6 If you are planning to undertake any consultation in Will include as part of visitor and communication plan a check to ensure the future regarding this service or policy, how will we are promoting equality including how visitor information is you include equalities considerations within this? communicated and takes account of feedback.

3. Assessment of impact: ‘Equality analysis’

Based upon any data you have considered, or the results of consultation or research, use the spaces below to demonstrate you have analysed how the service or policy: • Meets any particular needs of equalities groups or helps promote equality in some way. • Could have a negative or adverse impact for any of the equalities groups • Examples of actual or potential

Page 4 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit Examples of what the service has negative or adverse impact and done to promote equality what steps have been or could be taken to address this 3.1 Sex - – identify the impact/potential impact of Public consultation received equal Overcome fear of isolation that some the policy on women and men. representation from men and women. people may face using the trail if they are alone - Creating safe environment by being in close proximity to lake facilities such as cafes, restaurants and presence of Bristol Water staff. People advised of no on site surveillance after dark As some of the route is on public footpaths

3.2 Pregnancy and maternity Design of the route is to be accessible Toilets include baby changing facilities to prams/buggies being on level ground at Woodford Lodge and location of Salt and gentle gradients. and Malt. Check that breast feeding supported by BW tenants who run businesses on site i.e Salt and Malt and The Woodford. Seating on route - check as part of future provision 3.3 Transgender – – identify the impact/potential BW staff training- awareness of dealing impact of the policy on transgender people No issues identified as yet – keep with issues if people targeted due to under review prejudice. BW has own equalities policy. 3.4 Disability - identify the impact/potential impact Route designed to be accessible to Visitor information will ensure sets out of the policy on disabled people (ensure wheelchair users and mobility scooters. shared use and care, respect and enjoy consideration both physical, sensory and Complies with British standards or the principles promoted by Sustrans on mental impairments and mental health) Fieldfare Trust access guidance as other shared routes. appropriate A winding route has been purposefully Consideration of seating rest points on designed in order to slow down cyclists. route - check as part of future provision- There is provision of clear signage of benches with arms to assist sitting and route. . standing up; signage route, check all We will capture feedback about facilities accessible. accessibility and review as scheme Review disabled car parking provision

Page 5 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit progresses. is adequate if demand increases. Picnic Area 1: Check BW visitor information clear on - Disabled toilet (public facilities – opening times of site– toilets convenience outdoor space) open/closing times. - Disabled parking spaces - Disabled access to Salt & Malt restaurant and takeaway (ramp access)

Woodford Lodge: - Disabled toilet (inside the restaurant) - Disabled Parking Spaces - Disabled access to the Woodford restaurant (ramp access)

3.5 Age – identify the impact/potential impact of Route accessible to all ages – target the policy on different age groups audience families with young children and elderly in providing an off road route Provision of route will assist Safer route to school and encourage children to be more active- addressing childhood obesity. 3.6 Race – identify the impact/potential impact on No issues identified - accessible to all Ensure that visitor information and different black and minority ethnic groups publicity represents black and minority ethnic groups Examples of what the service has Examples of actual or potential done to promote equality negative or adverse impact and what steps have been or could be taken to address this 3.6 Sexual orientation - identify the No issues identified as yet- keep under N/A impact/potential impact of the policy on review lesbian, gay, bisexual, heterosexual people

Page 6 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit

3.7 Marriage and civil partnership – does the No issues identified as yet- keep under N/A policy/strategy treat married and civil partnered review people equally? 3.8 Religion/belief – identify the impact/potential No issues identified as yet- keep under N/A impact of the policy on people of different review religious/faith groups and also upon those with no religion. 3.9 Socio-economically disadvantaged* – Route is free access and by providing None identified identify the impact on people who are safe active travel route will address disadvantaged due to factors like family need identified by rural communities in background, educational attainment, Neighbourhood Plans. Low car or one neighbourhood, employment status can car ownership in rural communities. influence life chances (this is not a legal requirement, but is a local priority). 3.10 Rural communities* – identify the impact / Provides a recreation al off road route To ensure people can safely leave potential impact on people living in rural that currently does not exist in this area bikes - Check Cycle lock up provision- communities that will also improve road safety and is adequate. safer route to school and between at least two communities – Bishop Sutton and Chew Stoke. Will promote sustainable travel and reduce pollution, traffic on roads.

There is no requirement within the public sector duty of the Equality Act to consider groups who may be disadvantaged due to socio economic status, or because of living in a rural area. However, these are significant issues within B&NES and haver therefore been included here.

4. Bath and North East Somerset Council & NHS B&NES Equality Impact Assessment Improvement Plan

Page 7 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit

Please list actions that you plan to take as a result of this assessment/analysis. These actions should be based upon the analysis of data and engagement, any gaps in the data you have identified, and any steps you will be taking to address any negative impacts or remove barriers. The actions need to be built into your service planning framework. Actions/targets should be measurable, achievable, realistic and time framed.

Officer Issues identified Actions required Progress milestones By when responsible Ensure visitor information is Visitor and Communication Plan – Produce Plan Steve Smith Nov 2020 appropriate for all users pre commencement to be subject (BW) to EA

Visitor monitoring of completed Agree monitoring approach and who CVLRT CIO Nov 2020 Ensure opportunity for users to scheme to ensure users are and how issues will be dealt with Trustee tbc feedback /report issues/barriers representative of local community and communicated and tourism profile , and can give feedback, report issues, Review seating and signage BW audit of existing Audit completed Steve Smith Nov 2020 provision on route Identify requirement for additional CVLRT CIO (BW) CVLRT CIO

Check cycle lock up adequate BW to audit Audit completed Steve Smith Nov 2020 (BW) Check disable parking facilities BW audit Audit completed Steve Smith Nov 2020 adequate Provide additional/relocate if (BW ) required

5. Sign off and publishing Once you have completed this form, it needs to be ‘approved’ by your Divisional Director or their nominated officer. Following this sign off, send a copy to the Equalities Team ([email protected]), who will publish it on the Council’s and/or NHS B&NES’ website. Keep a copy for your own records.

Page 8 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit Signed off by: (Director of Environment) Date: 21/9/20

Page 9 of 9 Bath and North East Somerset Council and NHS B&NES: Equality Impact Assessment Toolkit Activities Food (café or Restaurant) Caravan Camping Accommodation (B&B Bunk house or Hotel) Pub Coffee shop

Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail Location of tourism businesses

Planning Services PO Box 5006, Bath, BA1 1JG Fax: (01225) 394199 Telephone: (01225) 394 041 DX: 8047 (Bath) [email protected] Date: 29th March 2012 www.bathnes.gov.uk Our Ref: 11/05421/FUL

Chris Dent Architect 5 North Avenue Exeter EX1 2DU

Dear Sir/Madam

Town and Country Planning Act 1990

Address to which the proposal relates: Application No: 11/05421/FUL Chew Valley Lake Walking And Cycle Trail Walley Lane Chew Magna Bristol

Description of proposal: Date registered: 10th January 2012 Enlargement of existing path to create a route for walkers and cyclists from the dam to the picnic area and the picnic area to Ham Lane (Resubmission)

Name of Applicant: Sustrans Ltd

With reference to the above application for planning permission, please find enclosed a copy of the Local Planning Authority's notification of decision. Your attention is drawn to the notes that accompany the decision notice which give guidance on matters such as making appeals, serving purchase notices and compensation issues. However, if you require further assistance on any of the above areas, please contact Planning Services.

Yours faithfully

Town and Country Planning Act 1990

NOTIFICATION OF DECISION

Application Type: Full Application Application No: 11/05421/FUL

Address to which the proposal relates: Chew Valley Lake Walking And Cycle Trail Walley Lane Chew Magna Bristol

Description of Proposal: Enlargement of existing path to create a route for walkers and cyclists from the dam to the picnic area and the picnic area to Ham Lane (Resubmission)

Application submitted by: Sustrans Ltd

The above development is PERMITTED in accordance with the application, plans and drawings submitted by you subject to the condition(s) set out below:

PLANS LIST:

This permission relates to the proposals shown on the following drawings and as specified in the following documents: SW/CVL/SK001; SW/CVL/SK002; SW/CVL/003; TC8501/002 REV F; TC8501/003 C; TC8501/004; Arboricultural Report (August 2011); Eastern Path (December 2011); Ecological Report (received 20 December 2011); Flood Risk Assessment (December 2011).

The applicant is advised that notwithstanding the hedgerow removal shown on Drawing SW/CVL/SK001, no works to the existing hedge shall be carried out other than to accommodate the chicane barrier to be provided at the northern end of the site.

REASONS FOR GRANTING APPROVAL:

The decision to grant approval has taken account of policies set out in the development plan and Draft Core Strategy, and in the National Planning Policy Framework (March 2012). The proposed development is in accordance with policies GB.1, GB.2, NE.2, NE.4, NE.8, NE.10; NE.12; NE.13, SR.10 in the Bath and North East Somerset Local Plan (including minerals and waste policies) 2007. The relevant policies in the adopted Local Plan as they relate to the application proposals are consistent with the policies set out in the NPPF.

It is considered that the proposed development will not impact on the openness of the Green Belt nor purposes for including land within it, nor impact adversely on the natural beauty of the landscape in the Mendip Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or adversely affect the Site of Special Scientific Interest. Subject to appropriate protection measures the proposed works will not give rise to adverse impacts on the natural environment and landscape value of the site.

Bath & North East Somerset Council (PEFULZ) Please read the notes that accompany this decision notice. Date of Decision: 29th March 2012

IMPORTANT NOTE - The above decision refers to Planning Permission only and does not grant or imply Listed Building Consent, Advertisement Consent, Building Regulation or other consents under any other legislation.

Bath & North East Somerset Council (PEFULZ) Please read the notes that accompany this decision notice. APPEALS TO THE FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE • If you are aggrieved by the decision of your local planning authority to refuse permission for the purposed development or to grant it subject to conditions, then you can appeal to the Secretary of State under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. • If you want to appeal against your local planning authority’s decision then you must do so within 6 months of the date of this notice (8 weeks for Advertisement appeals). • Appeals must be made using a form which you can get from the Planning Inspectorate at Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN or online at www.planningportal.gov.uk/pcs . • The Secretary of State can allow a longer period for giving notice of an appeal, but he will not normally be prepared to use this power unless there are special circumstances which excuse the delay in giving notice of appeal. • The Secretary of State need not consider an appeal if it seems to him that the local planning authority could not have granted planning permission for the proposed development or could not have granted it without the conditions they imposed, having regard to the statutory requirements, to the provisions of any development order and to any directions given under a development order. • In practice the Secretary of State does not refuse to consider appeals solely because the local planning authority based their decision on a direction given by him.

PURCHASE NOTICES • If either the local planning authority or the Secretary of State refuses permission to develop land or grants it subject to conditions, the owner may claim that he can neither put the land to a reasonably beneficial use in its existing state nor render the land capable of a reasonably beneficial use by the carrying out of any development which has been or would be permitted. • In these circumstances, the owner may serve a purchase notice on the Council (District Council, London Borough Council or Common Council of the City of London) in whose are the land is situated. This notice will require the Council to purchase his interest in the land in accordance with the provisions of Part V1 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

COMPENSATION • In certain circumstances compensation may be claimed from the local planning authority if permission or consent is refused or granted subject to conditions by the First Secretary of State on appeal or on reference of the application to him. • These circumstances are set out in Section 114 and related provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Section 27 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

Town and Country Planning Act 1990 NOTIFICATION OF DECISION

Application Type: Full Application Application No: 18/02543/FUL

Address to which the proposal relates: Chew Valley Lake Walking And Cycle Trail Walley Lane Chew Magna Bristol

Description of Proposal: Creation of a leisure trail for walkers and cyclists around Chew Valley Lake (North-Western section only), including associated engineering works.

Application submitted by: Sustrans Ltd

The above development is PERMITTED in accordance with the application, plans and drawings submitted by you subject to the condition(s) set out below:

1 Standard Time Limit (Compliance) The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.

Reason: As required by Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) and to avoid the accumulation of unimplemented planning permission.

2 Construction Management Plan (Pre-commencement) No development shall commence until a Construction Management Plan has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. This shall include details of deliveries (including storage arrangements and timings), contractor parking, traffic management, working hours, site opening times, wheel wash facilities and site compound arrangements. The development shall thereafter be undertaken in accordance with the approved details.

Reason: To ensure that safe operation of the highway and in the interests of protecting residential amenity in accordance with Policy ST7 of the Bath and North East Somerset Placemaking Plan. This is a condition precedent because any initial construction or demolition works could have a detrimental impact upon highways safety and/or residential amenity.

3 Detailed Highway Drawings (Pre-commencement) Prior to the commencement of development comprehensive details of the hereby approved pedestrian/cycle path shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The details to be submitted and approved shall include (but are not limited to): o Detailed drawings of all sections of the route; o The means by which Woodford Lane will be stopped up; o All works within the highway; o All crossing points; o The reduction in speed limit on Walley Lane; o The phasing/timing for the implementation/completion for all of the above; o A signage scheme

The development shall proceed in accordance with the details so approved.

Reason: For the avoidance of doubt as to the extent of the permission granted and in the interests of highway safety. 4 Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan (Pre-use commencing) Prior to the hereby approved development being first brought into use an Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The development shall subsequently be operated in accordance with the Ecological Management and Monitoring Plan so approved.

Reason: To ensure that ecological interests are managed, monitored and ultimately protected.

5 Visitor Management and Communications Plan (Pre-use commencing) Prior to the hereby approved development being first brought into use a Visitor Management and Communications Plan shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The development shall subsequently be operated in accordance with the Visitor Management and Communications Plan so approved.

Reason: To ensure that ecological interests are managed, monitored and ultimately protected.

6 Arboricultural Method Statement with Tree Protection Plan (Pre-commencement) No development shall take place until a Detailed Arboricultural Method Statement with Tree Protection Plan following the recommendations contained within BS 5837:2012 has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and details within the approved document implemented as appropriate. The final method statement shall incorporate a provisional programme of works; tree works schedule; supervision and monitoring details by an Arboricultural Consultant and provision of site visit records and certificates of completion to the local planning authority. The statement should also include the control of potentially harmful operations such as the storage, handling and mixing of materials on site, burning, surface water management and movement of people and machinery.

Reason: To ensure that no excavation, tipping, burning, storing of materials or any other activity takes place which would adversely affect the trees to be retained in accordance with policy NE.6 of the Placemaking Plan and CP7 of the Core Strategy. This is a condition precedent because the works comprising the development have the potential to harm retained trees. Therefore these details need to be agreed before work commences.

7 Arboricultural Method Statement with Tree Protection Plan (compliance) No development or other operations shall take place except in complete accordance with the approved Arboricultural Method Statement. A signed certificate of compliance shall be provided by the appointed arboriculturalist to the local planning authority on completion.

Reason: To ensure that the approved method statement is complied with for the duration of the development.

8 Soft Landscaping (Bespoke Trigger) The use hereby permitted shall not commence until such time that details of all planting has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The submitted details shall include a planting specification to include numbers, density, size, species and positions of all new trees and shrubs, and a programme of implementation. The approved planting shall be undertaken in full no later than the end of the first planting season following the use first commencing. Any trees or plants indicated on the approved scheme which, within a period of five years from the date of the development being completed, die, are removed or become seriously damaged or diseased shall be replaced during the next planting season with other trees or plants of a species and size to be first submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason: To ensure the provision of an appropriate landscape setting to the development in accordance with Policies D1, D2 and NE2 of the Bath and North East Somerset Placemaking Plan. 9 Plans List (Compliance) The development/works hereby permitted shall only be implemented in accordance with the plans as set out in the plans list below.

Reason: To define the terms and extent of the permission.

PLANS LIST:

Approved Plans List o Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail North West Section, Sustrans/Bristol Water (March 6 2019); o Wally Lane Traffic Speed Reduction Measures 1 of 2; Drawing No. 11164-ES-DR-25 Rev A o Wally Lane Traffic Speed Reduction Measures 2 of 2; Drawing No. 11164-ES-DR-26 Rev A o Standard DBM Path Cross Section: Drawing No. SD/01 Rev B o Standard DBM Path with Surface Dressing (chips) Cross Section: Drawing No. SD/08 Rev A o Post and Pig Net Fence: Drawing No. SD/31 Rev A o Basic Sleeper Bench: Drawing No. SD/60 Rev B o Sitting Area Layout: Drawing No. SD/61 Rev B o Woodford Lane Crossing Proposed: Drawing No. 11164-ES-DR-01

Condition Categories The heading of each condition gives an indication of the type of condition and what is required by it. There are 4 broad categories:

Compliance - The condition specifies matters to which you must comply. These conditions do not require the submission of additional details and do not need to be discharged.

Pre-commencement - The condition requires the submission and approval of further information, drawings or details before any work begins on the approved development. The condition will list any specific works which are exempted from this restriction, e.g. ground investigations, remediation works, etc.

Pre-occupation - The condition requires the submission and approval of further information, drawings or details before occupation of all or part of the approved development.

Bespoke Trigger - The condition contains a bespoke trigger which requires the submission and approval of further information, drawings or details before a specific action occurs.

Please note all conditions should be read fully as these headings are intended as a guide only.

Where approval of further information is required you will need to submit an application to Discharge Conditions and pay the relevant fee via the Planning Portal at www.planningportal.co.uk or post to Planning Services, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JG.

Condition Categories In determining this application the Local Planning Authority considers it has complied with the aims of paragraph 38 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

Date of Decision: 12th June 2019 IMPORTANT NOTE - The above decision refers to Planning Permission only and does not grant or imply Listed Building Consent, Advertisement Consent, Building Regulation or other consents under any other legislation. APPEALS TO THE FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE  If you are aggrieved by the decision of your local planning authority to refuse permission for the purposed development or to grant it subject to conditions, then you can appeal to the Secretary of State under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.  If you want to appeal against your local planning authority’s decision then you must do so within 6 months of the date of this notice (8 weeks for Advertisement appeals).  Appeals must be made using a form which you can get from the Secretary of State at Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN (Tel: 0303 444 5000) or online at https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk.  The Secretary of State can allow a longer period for giving notice of an appeal, but he will not normally be prepared to use this power unless there are special circumstances which excuse the delay in giving notice of appeal.  The Secretary of State need not consider an appeal if it seems to the Secretary of State that the local planning authority could not have granted planning permission for the proposed development or could not have granted it without the conditions they imposed, having regard to the statutory requirements, to the provisions of any development order and to any directions given under a development order.

PURCHASE NOTICES  If either the local planning authority or the Secretary of State refuses permission to develop land or grants it subject to conditions, the owner may claim that he can neither put the land to a reasonably beneficial use in its existing state nor render the land capable of a reasonably beneficial use by the carrying out of any development which has been or would be permitted.  In these circumstances, the owner may serve a purchase notice on the Council (District Council, London Borough Council or Common Council of the City of London) in whose are the land is situated. This notice will require the Council to purchase his interest in the land in accordance with the provisions of Part V1 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

COMPENSATION  In certain circumstances compensation may be claimed from the local planning authority if permission or consent is refused or granted subject to conditions by the First Secretary of State on appeal or on reference of the application to him.  These circumstances are set out in Section 114 and related provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Section 27 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. Date Risk last Proposed Action / Control measures Date risk Risk Owner Description of Risk Commentary on Current Status updated Status Outcome

include target date for all actions Score Closed

or Impact Likehood reviewed

Planning Conditions to be approved by Planning within timescales: 1. Construction Management Plan (pre-commencemment) 2. Detailed highway drawings (pre-commencemment) AS/BW 3. Ecological Management and monitoring plan (pre-use) Liaise with BW to produce reports Not started 11.08.20 2 5 10 Open 4. Visitor & communication Plan (pre-use) 5. Arborcultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan (pre-commencemment). This needs to be approved by January/February before bird nesting season.

Completion of all works by Rural Payment Agency deadline Works programmed for April 2020 for AS Start date to be confirmed 11.08.20 2 5 10 Open 10th July 2020 a period of 12 weeks.

Bill of Quantities has been reviewed since initial tender process for works AS Unforseen additional costs as part of RPA funding bid and works Progressing 11.08.20 2 10 10 Open due to be tendered again to update costs.

Agreement between B&NES & BW with regard to sharing risks Letter of agreement to share risks of any unforseen increased costs. The level of risk will depend Not started 2 4 8 between Council & BW by Dec 20 AS on magnitude of increased costs. 09.11.20 Open Final land agreement with third party land owner which is Draft agreement in place to be Not started 1 5 5 AS required by RPA before any works commence. finalised by Dec 20 09.06.20 Open Stopping up for Woodford Lane order delayed. Estimated time Commence process by Sep 2020 Not started 1 5 5 AS period to complete is 5 months 09.06.20 Open Unforseen ground conditions on off road sections which could Liaise with BW for additional Discussions commenced. 2 4 8 AS delay the works and increase costs. information by Sep 2020 09.06.20 Open Informally consult with stakeholders Objections to TRO's PC's before advertising TRO's by Nov Not started 3 4 12 AS 20. 09.06.20 Open Large proportion of works are off road. Poor weather Construction works to be carried out conditions could lead to poor ground conditions. This could when risk of poor weather conditions Works programmed to start in April 3 3 9 AS delay the works and increase costs. less likley. 18.08.20 Open Impact of the forecast increase in visitor numbers and the risk Visitor and communications Visitor and communications management of harm and damage to European protected site. management plan. plan progressing. Bristol Water have permission from The route will be situated on existing Natural England to undertake works walkways and routes currently used by the within the SSSI impact area. general public. Apart from Woodford 2 3 6 Lodge to the Dam, although these areas, will be fenced and hedged and at present not as ecologically important as say the southern areas of Chew Reservoir. AS 09.11.20 Open D ISSUED FOR TENDER ISSUED FOR CUT-LINE PROPOSED TO FOLLOW 3.0m PATH EXISTINGALIGNMENT PATH TCS0007/01/02 ContinuedDrwg. on CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONALTRAIL GENERALARRANGEMENT (Sheet 1 of 3) PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (EAST) CUT-LINE SITE BOUNDARY SRC SRC SRC SRC 50m TRH SJF TRH SRC TRH SRC TRH SRC 40 ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSSALTERNATIVE PATH SECTION TRP1 WHEREADJACENT TREES TO TO PROTECTTREE ROOTS 30 C NORTHBOUND CYCLISTS DIVERTEDTHROUGH MAIN CARADDITIONAL PARK. ROAD MARKING PROVIDED TO GUIDE CYCLISTS. 1 : 500 1 20 THROUGH CORNER OF EXISTING EARTH BANK (TYPICAL CONSTRUCTION to B) ASA LENGTH PROPOSED 2.5m ROUTED CYCLEWAY 10 FIRST DRAFT ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION ISSUED FORTENDER ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION 5 SOUTHBOUND CYCLISTS DIVERTEDTHROUGH COACH/CARADDITIONAL PARK. ROAD MARKING PROVIDED TO GUIDE CYCLISTS. 22.07.20 10.09.20 11.11.20 22.09.20 0 - - - A

N O

P A R SITE BOUNDARY K I N G SITE COMPOUND SC5 AND SOUTHBOUND CYCLISTS. CYCLE ROUTE SPLIT INTO NORTHBOUND SECTION B to C SEE Drwg TCS0007/01/10 SECTION Drwg SEE C to B FOR LARGER SCALE PLAN OF FOR PLAN SCALE LARGER

ENTRY SITE BOUNDARY NO (150mmTOPSOIL) EXIT BANK1 AT in 2 TOPSOIL INFILL B ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSSALTERNATIVE PATH SECTION TRP1 WHEREADJACENT TREES TO TO PROTECTTREE ROOTS

GRANULARTYPE 1 MATERIAL Min. 150mm DEPTH

5 1 . 0 PROPOSED TO FOLLOW 3.0m PATH EXISTINGALIGNMENT PATH

STORED FOR REUSEAROUND NEW PATH 150mm EXISTING DEPTHTOPSOIL AND REMOVED

0 . 1

5 CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME DIRECTIONAS EXISTING GROUND

8 0 . 0 CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME DIRECTIONAS EXISTING GROUND

Min. 150mm DEPTHTYPE 1 GRANULAR MATERIAL

CYCLEWAY FINAL SURFACE EXISTING 2 No. MANHOLE COVERS RAISED TO BE FLUSH WITH NEW 0.15

Existing path 1.5-2.0m 0.08 PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH 80mmAC20 BINDER COURSE SCARIFY EXISTING 1.5-2.0m STONE/GRAVEL PATH THEN GRANULARPATH LAY MATERIAL PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE (TYPE FABRIC G1) PAVING 80mmAC20 BINDER COURSE

PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE (TYPE FABRIC G1) PAVING

5 1 . 0 SITE BOUNDARY TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH C to D (1:20) D to TYPICALC CROSSLENGTH - SECTION

TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH A to B (1:20) B to TYPICAL CROSS A SECTION - LENGTH

5 0 . 0 NEW 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH TOPSOIL INFILL EXISTING GROUND LEVEL (150mmTOPSOIL) BANK AT BANK1 AT in 2 REMOVEDAND STORED FOR REUSEAROUND NEW PATH 150mm EXISTING DEPTH TOPSOIL

L R

D LED

U 0 1 . 0 0mm)

G A CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME DIRECTIONAS EXISTING GROUND

8 E 0 . 0 ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSSALTERNATIVE PATH SECTION TRP1 WHEREADJACENT TREES TO TO PROTECTTREE ROOTS PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH 80mmAC10 POROUS SURFACE COURSE WITH CLEAN SHARP SAND DEPTH- NOMINAL 50mm (MAX. 15 HOLLOWS IN EXISTINGAROUND EXPOSEDGROUND ROOTS FIL PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE (TYPE FABRIC G1) PAVING CUT-LINE

WITH 4 to 20mm GRADEDANGULAR CLEAN STONE TYPE TRP1TREE ROOT PROTECTION CELLULAR CONFINEMENT SYSTEM 100mmTHICK (25mm OVERFILL) N (150mmTOPSOIL) N BANK AT BANK1 AT in 2 ALTERNATE CROSS SECTIONO WOODLAND ALTERNATE (TRP1)THROUGH - WHERE SHALLOW/EXPOSED TREE ROOTS ARE PRESENT (1:20) WHEREPRESENT ARE SHALLOW/EXPOSED ROOTS TREE N ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSS SECTION TRP1 WHERE ADJACENT TO TREES TO PROTECT TREE ROOTS (SEE TYPICAL SECTION F to G)

CYCLISTS TO USE EXISTING CAR PARK. ADDITIONAL ROAD MARKING PROVIDED TO GUIDE CYCLISTS.

Continued on Drwg. D TCS0007/01/01

CUT-LINE SITE BOUNDARY E

CUT-LINE

PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH

EXISTING GROUND LEVEL Existing path 1.5-2.0m SITE BOUNDARY NEW CYCLE TOPSOIL INFILL ROAD MARKINGS 80mm AC20 BANK AT 1 in 2 SITE COMPOUND SC6 8 CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME

BINDER COURSE . (150mm TOPSOIL)

0 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND C

150mm EXISTING TOPSOIL DEPTH 1

REMOVED AND STORED FOR 0 5 SCARIFY EXISTING 1.5-2.0m STONE/GRAVEL 1

REUSE AROUND NEW PATH PATH THEN LAY GRANULAR MATERIAL 0 Min. 150mm DEPTH GRANULAR MATERIAL TYPE 1 PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1) TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTHS C to D , E to F and G to H (1:20)

N PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH BANK AT 1 in 2 (150mm TOPSOIL) 80mm AC10 POROUS 8

. CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME

SURFACE COURSE 0 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND

EXISTING PIPED CULVERT AND HEADWALLS TO BE REPLACED BY NEW 5.0m LONG 600mmØ CONCRETE CLASS M CARRIER

F . PIPE, TYPE S BEDDING AND AND NEW HEADWALLS AT EITHER TYPE TRP1 TREE ROOT PROTECTION CELLULAR 0

0 END. HEADWALLS TO BE SIMILAR TO B&NES Std. Drwg. CONFINEMENT SYSTEM 100mm THICK (25mm OVERFILL) 0 HSD/500/210. TIMBER POST AND 4 RAIL FENCING ERECTED ON WITH 4 to 20mm GRADED CLEAN ANGULAR STONE EITHER SIDE OF NEW PATH (APPROX. 3.0m LENGTH EACH)TO REALIGNED PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1) H.C.D. STANDARD Drwg. H3 3.0m PATH HOLLOWS IN EXISTING GROUND AROUND EXPOSED ROOTS FILLED WITH CLEAN SHARP SAND - NOMINAL DEPTH 50mm (MAX. 150mm) TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH F to G (1:20)

SITE BOUNDARY REALIGNED 3.0m PATH ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSS SECTION Continued on Drwg. TRP1 WHERE ADJACENT TO TREES TCS0007/01/03 TO PROTECT TREE ROOTS (SEE TYPICAL SECTION F to G) CUT-LINE

PROPOSED 3.0m PATH TO FOLLOW EXISTING PATH ALIGNMENT G EXISTING PUBLIC BENCH WITH LARGE CONCRETE FOUNDATION. CUT-LINE ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSS REMOVE 1.0m TRIANGULAR SECTION SECTION WHERE ADJACENT TO FROM CORNER CLOSEST TO E TREES TO PROTECT TREE ROOTS EXISTING PATH AND MAKE GOOD (SEE TYPICAL SECTION F to G) NEW EXPOSED CONCRETE FACE. UNBOLT, TAKE UP AND RELOCATE EXISTING BENCH CENTRALLY ON REMAINING SLAB. EXISTING EARTH/GRAVEL PATH THROUGH DENSE PROPOSED 3.0m PATH TO FOLLOW EXISTING PATH WOODLAND. EXACT ROUTE OF 3.0m WIDE AS FAR AS PRACTICABLE BUT ALIGNMENT CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH TO BE AGREED ON SITE TO FOLLOW STRAIGHTENED AND ADJUSTED AS NECESSARY EXISTING PATH BUT REALIGNED LOCALLY TO AVOID TO CLEAR EXISTING TREES IMMEDIATELY SEVERAL PINCH POINTS BETWEEN EXISTING MATURE TREES. ADJACENT TO EDGE OF EXISTING PATH PATH TO BE NOMINALLY 230mm ABOVE EXISTING GROUND TO MINIMISE EFFECT ON EXISTING TREE ROOTS - SEE TYPICAL CROSS SECTION. REDUNDANT SECTIONS OF H EXISTING PATH TO BE REPLANTED (DETAILS OF PLANTED SPECIES TO BE AGREED WITH BRISTOL WATER). 0 5 10 20 30 40 50m ISSUED FOR TENDER 1 : 500

EXISTING EARTH/GRAVEL PATH THROUGH DENSE WOODLAND.EXACT ROUTE OF 3.0m WIDE CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH TO BE AGREED ON SITE PROPOSED 3.0m PATH TO FOLLOW EXISTING PATH TO FOLLOW EXISTING PATH BUT REALIGNED LOCALLY AT LEVEL TIE IN AS FAR AS PRACTICABLE BUT ALIGNMENT TO TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRING TREE REMOVAL. PATH TO BE STRAIGHTENED AND ADJUSTED AS NECESSARY NOMINALLY 230mm ABOVE EXISTING GROUND TO MINIMISE EFFECT ON TO CLEAR EXISTING TREES IMMEDIATELY EXISTING TREE ROOTS - SEE TYPICAL CROSS SECTION. REDUNDANT ADJACENT TO EDGE OF EXISTING PATH SECTIONS OF EXISTING PATH TO BE REPLANTED (DETAILSOF PLANTED SPECIES TO BE AGREED WITH BRISTOL WATER).

SITE BOUNDARY

PATH REALIGNED WITH WIDTH OF 2.5m TO REDUCE EFFECT OF NEW CUTTING ON EXISTING DISUSED EXISTING WOODLAND. FOR TYPICAL CUTTING GATED FIELD ACCESS CROSS SECTION SEE Drwg TCS0007/01/11 PATH TIES IN AT GRADE TO TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRING 1 in 2 EARTHWORKS AND LOSS OF Continued on Drwg. 3 No TREES. TCS0007/01/02 K CUT-LINE H ALTERNATIVE PATH CROSS SECTION TRP1 WHERE ADJACENT TO TREES PROPOSED 3.0m PATH TO TIE INTO PROPOSED TO PROTECT TREE ROOTS (SEE NEW BOARDWALK APPROACH TO NEW BRIDGE TYPICAL SECTION J to K) J BOARDWALK (CONTRACTOR'S DESIGN) PROPOSED 3.0m CLEAR WIDTH TIMBER BOARDWALK (See APPENDIX 25/70) TO EXTEND FROM NEW BRIDGE TO LIMIT OF TYPICAL HIGH WATER FLOOD. NEW BOARDWALK LENGTH APPROX. 19m. BOARDWALK TO BE FOR LARGER SCALE PLAN OF SECTIONS MOUNTED ABOVE FLOOD LEVEL ON CONCRETE PIERS. H to K SEE Drwg TCS0007/01/10 and 11 DESIGNATED OUTLINE FOR ITEM COVERAGE BRIDGE (CONTRACTOR'S DESIGN) EXISTING FOOTBRIDGE REPLACED WITH NEW I STRUCTURE (See APPENDIX 25/70) TO G ACCOMMODATE 3.0m WIDE CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH. BOARDWALK AND BRIDGE NEW BRIDGE LENGTH APPROX. 16m. PROPOSED DESIGN SHALL INCLUDE FOR NEW ABUTMENTS.

DESIGNATED OUTLINE FOR ITEM COVERAGE BT Underground cables. Depth unknown but may be shallow.

PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH

Existing path 1.5-2.0m SITE BOUNDARY

TOPSOIL INFILL 80mm AC20 BANK AT 1 in 2 8 CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME

BINDER COURSE . (150mm TOPSOIL)

0 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND

150mm EXISTING TOPSOIL DEPTH 1

0 REMOVED AND STORED FOR 5 SCARIFY EXISTING 1.5-2.0m STONE/GRAVEL 1

EXISTING GROUND LEVEL REUSE AROUND NEW PATH 0 PATH THEN LAY GRANULAR MATERIAL Min. 150mm DEPTH SITE COMPOUND SC7 PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1) GRANULAR MATERIAL TYPE 1 TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH G to H (1:20) 0 5 10 20 30 40 50m

1 : 500 PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH

BANK AT 1 in 2 (150mm TOPSOIL) 80mm AC10 POROUS 8

0 SURFACE COURSE . CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME 0 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND

TYPE TRP1 TREE ROOT PROTECTION CELLULAR 0 CONFINEMENT SYSTEM 100mm THICK (25mm OVERFILL) 0 WITH 4 to 20mm GRADED CLEAN ANGULAR STONE PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1)

HOLLOWS IN EXISTING GROUND AROUND EXPOSED ROOTS FILLED WITH CLEAN SHARP SAND - NOMINAL DEPTH 50mm (MAX. 150mm)

TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH J to K (1:20) ISSUED FOR TENDER

A 11.11.20 ISSUED FOR TENDER TRHSRC SRC CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONAL TRAIL - 22.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (EAST) - 10.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC GENERAL ARRANGEMENT (Sheet 3 of 3) - 22.07.20 FIRST DRAFT TRHSRC SJF EXISTING PEDESTRIAN GATE RELOCATED TO MAINTAIN SECURE ACCESS TO LAKE EXISTING WARNING SIGNS AND NOTICES TO N BE RELOCATED. (NEW POSITIONS TO BE AGREED WITH BRISTOL WATER.)

NEW HEDGE PLANTED LAKESIDE OF NEW CYCLETRACK EXISTING GRASS VERGE BOUNDARY FENCE TO DETER ACCESS TO LAKE. FOR PROPOSED TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING RECONSTRUCTED AS FOOTWAY HEDGE COMPOSITION REFER TO APPENDIX 30/06. (THESE HIGHWAY WORKS TO BE CARRIED OUT BY OTHERS) PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO EXISTING BOUNDARY HEDGE

EXISTING BRISTOL WATER POST AND BARBED WIRE FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK WITH TREE ROOT PROTECTION CONSTRUCTION ADJACENT TO TREES - B NEW HEDGE PLANTED LAKESIDE OF NEW CYCLETRACK SEE ALTERNATE TYPICAL CROSS SECTION TRP1 A EXISTING HEDGE BOUNDARY FENCE TO DETER ACCESS TO LAKE. FOR ON Drwg TCCS0007/01/05 HEDGE COMPOSITION REFER TO APPENDIX 30/06. SITE COMPOUND AREA SC4 C SITE BOUNDARY

TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING EXISTING HEDGE NEW BOUNDARY HEDGE PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED BETWEEN BRISTOL WATER BOUNDARY FENCE AND EXISTING DEER FENCING WITHIN ADJACENT FIELD PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH 0.25 0.25

EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED 80mm BINDER COURSE CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME TOPSOIL INFILL WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING 0.08 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND BANK AT 1 in 2 SITE COMPOUND AREA SC3 CUT-LINE

(150mm TOPSOIL) 5

EXISTING 1 150mm EXISTING TOPSOIL DEPTH REMOVED AND .

GROUND LEVEL 0 STORED FOR REUSE AROUND NEW PATH 0.15 Min. 150mm DEPTH GRANULAR MATERIAL TYPE 1

PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1) TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH A to B (1:20)

EXISTING DITCH/GULLY TO BE PIPED AS MAIN CROSS DRAIN FOR LONGITUDINAL DRAIN ON UPHILL PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED SIDE. OUTFALLS TO NEW HEADWALL BETWEEN BRISTOL WATER BOUNDARY FENCE AND SITE COMPOUND AREA SC2 EXISTING DEER FENCING WITHIN ADJACENT FIELD NEW HEDGE PLANTED LAKESIDE OF NEW CYCLETRACK

N EXISTING BRISTOL WATER POST AND BARBED WIRE FENCING BOUNDARY FENCE TO DETER ACCESS TO LAKE. FOR TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING HEDGE COMPOSITION REFER TO APPENDIX 30/06. Continued on Drwg. D TCS0007/01/05

EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED LONGITUDINAL AND CROSS FILTER DRAINS ON WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING UPHILL SIDE OF EMBANKMENT AND CROSSING SITE BOUNDARY AT INTERVALS AS SHOWN.

WOODFORD LANE STOPPED EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED UP AT THIS POINT WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING PIPING OF EXISTING DITCH WITH EXISTING BRISTOL WATER POST AND BARBED HEADWALLS AT EACH END. WIRE FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING PLUS NEW HEDGE TO DETER LAKE ACCESS. E AVERAGE GAP BEWTEEN EXISTING FENCELINES 5.33m NEW LAND DRAIN

CUT-LINE NEW BOUNDARY HEDGE PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH 0.25 0.25 CYCLEPATH AND EMBANKMENT CONSTRUCTED USING TREE ROOT PROTECTION SYSTEM 80mm AC20 TOPSOIL INFILL TRPS2 AS DETAILED ON CROSS SECTION BINDER COURSE CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME 0.08 Drwgs. TCS0007/01/23 and 24 BANK AT 1 in 2 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND (150mm TOPSOIL)

CUT-LINE EXISTING

GROUND LEVEL FOR LARGER SCALE PLAN, 5

1 150mm EXISTING TOPSOIL DEPTH REMOVED AND LOGITUDINAL SECTION AND CROSS . 0 STORED FOR REUSE AROUND NEW PATH SECTIONS OF PROPOSED 0.15 CYCLEPATH FOR SECTIONS D to E to F Min. 150mm DEPTH GRANULAR MATERIAL TYPE 1 SEE Drwgs TCS0007/ 21, 22, 23 and 24 PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1)

0 5 10 20 30 40 50m TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - LENGTH C to D (1:20) ISSUED FOR TENDER 1 : 500

A 11.11.20 ISSUED FOR TENDER TRHSRC SRC CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONAL TRAIL - 18.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (WEST) - 10.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC GENERAL ARRANGEMENT (Sheet 1 of 2) - 22.07.20 FIRST DRAFT TRHSRC SJF 11Kv Overhead Electricity cables across

site. N

EXISTING DITCH/GULLY TO BE PIPED AS MAIN CROSS DRAIN FOR LONGITUDINAL DRAIN ON UPHILL SIDE. OUTFALLS TO NEW HEADWALL

LONGITUDINAL AND CROSS FILTER DRAINS ON UPHILL SIDE OF EMBANKMENT AND CROSSING AS SHOWN

ACCESS TO EXISTING FOOTPATH THROUGH EXISTING BRISTOL WATER POST AND BARBED WIRE FENCING F WOODS MAINTAINED WITH TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING NEW PEDESTRIAN GATE

LONGITUDINAL FILTER DRAINS ON LOWER SIDE OF PATH WHERE IN CUTTING

E PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED ALTERNATE CROSS BETWEEN BRISTOL WATER BOUNDARY FENCE AND SECTION APPLIES CUT-LINE EXISTING DEER FENCING WITHIN ADJACENT FIELD SITE BOUNDARY Continued on Drwg. FOR LARGER SCALE PLAN, TCS0007/01/04 EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED NEW FIELD ACCESS WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING LOGITUDINAL SECTION AND CROSS PROVIDED WITH 4.5m WIDE GATE ALTERNATE CROSS SECTIONS OF PROPOSED SITE BOUNDARY SECTION TRP1 APPLIES CYCLEPATH FOR SECTIONS D to E to F UNDER MATURE OAK TREE SITE COMPOUND SEE Drwgs TCS0007/ 21, 22, 23 and 24 AREA SC1

0 5 10 20 30 40 50m

1 : 500

EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING.

EXISTING BRISTOL WATER POST AND BARBED WIRE FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITH TIMBER POST AND 4-RAIL FENCING.

AVERAGE GAP BEWTEEN EXISTING FENCELINES 5.33m AVERAGE GAP BEWTEEN EXISTING FENCELINES 5.33m PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH 0.25 0.25 BANK AT 1 in 2 (150mm TOPSOIL) 80mm AC10 POROUS CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME 8

0 . SURFACE COURSE 80mm AC20 TOPSOIL INFILL DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND 0 CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME BINDER COURSE 0.08 BANK AT 1 in 2 DIRECTION AS EXISTING GROUND (150mm TOPSOIL)

. EXISTING 0

. 0 TYPE TRP1 TREE ROOT PROTECTION CELLULAR GROUND LEVEL 0

CONFINEMENT SYSTEM 100mm THICK (25mm OVERFILL)

5 1

. 150mm EXISTING TOPSOIL DEPTH REMOVED AND WITH 4 to 20mm GRADED CLEAN ANGULAR STONE 0 STORED FOR REUSE AROUND NEW PATH PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1) 0.15 HOLLOWS IN EXISTING GROUND AROUND EXPOSED ROOTS FILLED Min. 150mm DEPTH GRANULAR MATERIAL TYPE 1 WITH CLEAN SHARP SAND - NOMINAL DEPTH 50mm (MAX. 150mm)

PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE PAVING FABRIC (TYPE G1)

ALTERNATE CROSS SECTION (TRP1) - THROUGH WOODLAND OR TYPICAL CROSS SECTION - PART LENGTH E to F (1:20) WHERE SHALLOW/EXPOSED TREE ROOTS ARE PRESENT (1:20)

ISSUED FOR TENDER

A 11.11.20 ISSUED FOR TENDER TRHSRC SRC - 18.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONAL TRAIL PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (WEST) - 10.09.20 ISSUED FOR INFORMATION & DISCUSSION TRHSRC SRC GENERAL ARRANGEMENT (Sheet 2 of 2) - 22.07.20 FIRST DRAFT TRHSRC SJF 20m 15 AREA DETAILS 10 1 : 200 1 CROSS SECTION SEE DrwgTCS0007/01/11 PATH REALIGNEDPATH WITH WIDTH OF 2.5mTO REDUCE EFFECT OF NEW CUTTING ON EXISTING WOODLAND. FORTYPICAL CUTTING 3 NoTREES. PATH TIES GRADE PATH AT IN TO TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRING 1 in 2 ANDEARTHWORKS LOSS OF CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONALTRAIL PROPOSED TO FOLLOW 3.0m PATH EXISTINGALIGNMENT PATH PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (EAST) ISSUED FOR TENDER ISSUED FOR 5 0 20m

ING K RK PA AR G C TIN XIS

E 15 SRC SRC SRC SRC ALTERNATIVE PATH ALTERNATIVECONSTRUCTION PATH - SEE TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONTRP1 ON Drwg.TCS0007/01/01 C TRH SJF TRH SRC TRH SRC TRH SRC 10 1 : 200 1 EXISTING LITTER BIN 5 EXACT N SITETO PROX. (DETAILS OF (DETAILS TIE TO IN XISTINGTREE 0007/01/03. 0 TO BE TAKEN ANDUP DISPOSED. EXISTING 1.8m x 1.1m FOUNDATION REPLACEDAS NECESSARY WITH NEW CARRIAGEWAY CONSTRUCTION FIRST DRAFT ISSUED FORTENDER ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION 'WELCOME' AND SIGNBE TO REMAIN PROTECTEDTHROUGHOUT WORKS EXISTING LAKE CHEW VALLEY PROPOSED ROAD 'GIVE WAY' MARKINGSANDTRAFFIC SIGN 11.11.20 25.08.20 10.09.20 22.09.20 - - - A MINIMAL PROPOSED 1 in 2 CUTTING CYCLEWAY ROUTED THROUGH CORNER OF EXISTING EARTH BANK. PROPOSED SOUTHBOUND 1.5m WIDE TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRINGAP TO BE TREE REMOVAL. PATH 230mmABOVE EXISTING GROUND TO MINIMISE EFFECT ON E ROOTS - SEE TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONTRP1 ON Drwg.TCS REDUNDANT SECTIONS OF EXISTING TO BE REPLANTED PATH PLANTED SPECIES TO BEAGREED WITH WATER). BRISTOL EXISTING EARTH/GRAVEL THROUGH PATH DENSE WOODLAND. ROUTE OF 3.0m WIDE CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATHAGREED TO BE O FOLLOW EXISTING BUT REALIGNEDPATH LEVEL AT LOCALLY SITE BOUNDARY

N O

P A R K IN G AND TREETRUNKS LIMIT OF EXISTING UNDERGROWTH, SCRUB

WIDE CYCLELANE SYMBOLSAND 1.5m PROPOSED CYCLE MARKINGS

N I

SITE BOUNDARY

R T

SITE COMPOUND SC5

A E

X E 'EXCEPT CYCLES' ERECTED ON PROPOSEDADDITIONAL PLATE EXISTING NO ROADENTRY SIGNS ACCOMMODATE 3.0m WIDE CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH. STRUCTUREAPPENDIX (See 25/70)TO NEW BRIDGEAPPROX. LENGTH 16m. PROPOSED DESIGN SHALL INCLUDEABUTMENTS. FOR NEW DESIGNATED OUTLINE FOR ITEM COVERAGE EXISTING FOOTBRIDGE REPLACED WITH NEW BRIDGEDESIGN) (CONTRACTOR'S PROPOSED 'GIVE WAY' ROAD MARKINGS SOUTHBOUND CYCLISTS TO USE EXISTING COACH/CARADDITIONAL PARK. ROAD MARKING PROVIDED TO GUIDE CYCLISTS.

Y H ENTR NO CYCLEWAY INSTALLEDACROSS NEW ROAD MARKINGS FOR 3.0m FACE OF JUNCTION TO LIMIT OF TYPICAL FLOOD. NEW HIGH WATER (SeeAPPENDIX 25/70) TO EXTEND FROM NEW BRIDGE PROPOSED 3.0m CLEAR WIDTHTIMBER BOARDWALK BOARDWALK LENGTHAPPROX. 19m. BOARDWALK TO BE MOUNTEDABOVE FLOOD LEVEL ON CONCRETE PIERS. DESIGNATED OUTLINE FOR ITEM COVERAGE BOARDWALK (CONTRACTOR'S DESIGN) BOARDWALK (CONTRACTOR'S I SEETCS0007/01/01 Drwg SEETCS0007/01/03 Drwg FOR LOCATION DETAIL FOR LOCATION DETAIL ANDBRIDGE BOARDWALK

IT EX PROPOSED 3.0m TOTIE INTO PROPOSED PATH NEW BOARDWALKAPPROACH TO NEW BRIDGE B ALTERNATIVE PATH CONSTRUCTIONALTERNATIVE PATH - SEE TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONTRP1 ON Drwg.TCS0007/01/01 CURRENT JUNCTION LINE EXISTING ROAD 'GIVE WAY' MARKINGSAND REMOVED RELOCATED 3.0m BACK FROM

OF 2.4mABOVE NEW PATH CUT BACKANDTREES EXISTING UNDERGROWTH PRUNED TO GIVE CLEARANCE

N N Ground level TWYCROSS LANE DETAILS CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONALTRAIL

PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (EAST) ISSUED FOR TENDER ISSUED FOR

5 0 . 0 0.20 (150mmTOPSOIL) BANK AT BANK1 AT in 2 LED 0mm)

SRC SRC

0 1 . 0

N -1:20 N

TRH SJF TRH SRC 80mmAC20 BINDER COURSE

8 0 . 0

80mmAC10 POROUS SURFACE COURSE 8 0 . 0 2.50 GRANULARTYPE 1 MATERIAL Min. 150mm DEPTH

PROPOSED 3.0m CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATH

5 1 . 0 PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE (TYPE FABRIC G1) PAVING PERMEABLE GEOTEXTILE (TYPE FABRIC G1) PAVING WITH CLEAN SHARP SAND DEPTH- NOMINAL 50mm (MAX. 15 HOLLOWS IN EXISTINGAROUND EXPOSEDGROUND ROOTS FIL ISSUED FORTENDER FIRST DRAFT CROSSFALL 1 in 40 IN SAME DIRECTIONAS EXISTING GROUND 11.11.20 19.10.20 - A ALTERNATE CROSS SECTIONOR WOODLAND TRP1ALTERNATE THROUGH - WHERE SHALLOW/EXPOSED TREE ROOTS ARE PRESENT (1:20) WHEREPRESENT ARE SHALLOW/EXPOSED ROOTS TREE WITH 4 to 20mm GRADEDANGULAR CLEAN STONE TYPE TRP1TREE ROOT PROTECTION CELLULAR CONFINEMENT SYSTEM 100mmTHICK (25mm OVERFILL) 0.20 (150mmTOPSOIL) BANK AT BANK1 AT in 2 Ground level

TYPICAL PATH CROSS SECTION 1:20 - THROUGH CUTTING TYPICAL PATH

TYPICAL PATH CROSS SECTION PROTECTIO WITH ROOT TREE TYPICAL PATH N K TWYCROSS LANE FARM PATH TIES GRADE PATH AT IN TO TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRING 1 in 2 EARTHWORKSAND LOSS OF 3 NoTREES. CROSS SECTION THISON DRAWING. PATH REALIGNEDPATH WITH WIDTH OF 2.5mTO REDUCE EFFECT OF NEW CUTTING ON EXISTING WOODLAND. SEETYPICAL CUTTING C h

20 Ch 20 THROUGH CUTTING THROUGH CROSSSECTION

h EXISTING GROUND 15 Ch 15 1 in1 15 SLOPE

Ch 10 THROUGH CUTTING THROUGH CROSSSECTION 0 Ch 1 EXACT N SITETO PROX.

SECTION Ch 5 H TO TO BE H TIE TO IN XISTING WITH

5 Ch PROPOSED LEVEL PATH

Ch 0 Ch 0 59.0 58.0 57.0 SITE BOUNDARY PATH CENTRELINE 1:100 - (nat.) SECTION LONGITUDINAL PATH PLAN DETAIL - 1:100 PLAN DETAIL TWYCROSS LANE REQUIRINGAP TO BE TREE REMOVAL. PATH TREE ROOTS - SEETREETYPICAL ROOT PROTECTION CROSS 230mmABOVE EXISTING GROUND TO MINIMISE EFFECT ON E ON THIS DRAWING. REDUNDANT SECTIONS OF EXISTING PAT BRISTOL WATER). EXISTING EARTH/GRAVEL THROUGH PATH DENSE WOODLAND. ROUTE OF 3.0m WIDE CYCLEWAY/FOOTPATHAGREED TO BE O FOLLOW EXISTING BUT REALIGNEDPATH LEVEL AT LOCALLY REPLANTED (DETAILS OF PLANTED SPECIESAGREED TO BE NG KI AR P G IN D ST E XI IN E TA RE ACCESS ONTO CAR PARK 3.4m GRASS VERGE WIDTH BETWEEN PARKING RECONSTRUCTEDAS CYCLEWAY F ISSUED FOR TENDER ISSUED FOR NON-ILLUMINATED 'Manchester'TYPE BOLLARD TO DETERACCESS VEHICLE AREA DETAILS ACCESS. FOR HEDGE COMPOSITION REFER WIRE FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITHTIMBER TO APPENDIXTO 30/06. EXISTING BRISTOLAND BARBED POST WATER POSTAND 4-RAIL FENCING H.C.D.(TO Std. Drwg. H3)AND NEW HEDGE TO DETER LAKE CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONALTRAIL PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (WEST)

EXISTING DEER FENCING TO BE REPLACED WITHTIMBER POSTAND 4-RAIL FENCING TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H3

ACCESS TO EXISTING FOOTPATH I THROUGH WOODS WITH MAINTAINED GATE GATE TYPE 1 TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H23 NEW PEDESTRIANTIMBER WICKET

NEW 3.6m STEELAND POSTS FIELD GATE

INSTALLED (TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H17) A

N I

TIMBER POSTAND FENCING 4-RAIL TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H3 K

C A

X E ED BETWEEN BRISTOL BOUNDARYWATER AND FENCE PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED EXISTING DEER FENCINGADJACENT WITHINFIELD

ALTERNATE TRACK CONSTRUCTION AROUND EXISTINGTREE ROOTS SYSTEM N TRP1 ON DrwgTCS0007/01/05 SEEALTERNATE CROSS SECTION I TA SRC SRC SRC ACCESS (TYPICAL CONSTRUCTION ASDETAIL E to PATH F) 4.0m GRASS VERGE WIDTH SRC BETWEEN PARKING RECONSTRUCTEDAS NEW FIELD E R G IN RK A 1 P C TRH SRC TRH SRC TRH SRC NG S TRH SJF TI EA S R XI A E D N U PO M O C TE SI ROAD MARKINGSTO DELINEATE CYCLISTS' ROUTE 4.5m WIDE FIELD GATE TO H.C.D.Std. Drwg. H17 SITE BOUNDARY ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION FIRST DRAFT ISSUED FORTENDER AND TREE REQUIREDTO OVERGROWN HEDGE CREATE NEWACCESS REMOVAL OF SCRUB, 10.09.20 18.09.20 22.07.20 11.11.20

- - A

CYCLEWAY 'GIVE WAY' ROAD MARKINGS

C D

SITE COMPOUND SC3 AREA F

R T

E N

E E

D C

DELINEATE CYCLISTS' ROUTE ROAD MARKINGSTO N D I

N T A

X E SITE BOUNDARY BETWEEN BRISTOL BOUNDARYWATER AND FENCE PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED EXISTING DEER FENCINGADJACENT WITHINFIELD 20m WAY' ROADWAY' MARKINGS SIGNAND POST PLUS 'GIVE NEW 'GIVETRAFFIC WAY' ACROSSTRACK FOR SECURE NEW 4.5m STEEL (TO FIELD GATE H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H17) INSTALLED BRISTOLACCESS WATER 15 NS OF TO rwg WITH 10 1 : 200 1 B SIMILAR TO B&NES Std. Drwg. HSD/500/210 MAIN CROSS DRAIN FOR LONGITUDINAL EXISTING DITCH/GULLY TO BEAS PIPED DRAIN ON SIDE.UPHILL NEW HEADWALL 5 SITE COMPOUND SC2 AREA 0 AS DETAILED ON CROSS SECTION CYCLEPATH ANDCYCLEPATH EMBANKMENT CONSTRUCTED USING TREE ROOT PROTECTION SYSTEMTRP2 Drwgs.TCS0007/01/23 and 24 TIMBER POSTAND FENCING 4-RAIL TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H3 TIMBER POSTAND FENCING 4-RAIL TO POSITION CYCLISTS FOR (TO H.C.D. Std. Drwg. H3) INSTALLED IMPROVEDTRAFFIC VISIBILITY NEW 150mmØ filter PIPE,TYPE H BEDDING (SURROUNDED PERMEABLE GEO-TEXTILE SIMILAR TO H.C.D. MATERIAL) D Drwg. TCS0007/01/32 DOWNSTREAM END OFAT CROSS DRAI LONGITUDINALAND CROSS DRAINS ONFILTER SIDEUPHILL F2.APPROX DEPTH OF PIPE 600mm.TYPE 1 RODDING EYE EMBANKMENTAND CROSSING INTERVALSAS SHOWN. AT

RE2

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Ch 115 7/01/32 OF rwg F2. WITH

Ch 110 RISE - 1 in 20 FIRST DRAFT ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION ISSUED FORTENDER ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION

Ch 105 22.07.20 10.09.20 11.11.20 18.09.20 - - - A RE4

RISE - 1 in 20 Ch 100

Ch 95 WITH CONCRETE SURROUND TO Std. Drwg.TCS0007/01/32 NEWTYPE 1 RODDING EYES RE3 20m APPROX DEPTH OF PIPE 600mm.TYPE 1 RODDINGAT EYE DOWNSTREAM END OF CROSS DRAINS TO Std. Drwg.TCS000 EMBANKMENTAND CROSSING INTERVALSAS SHOWN. AT NEW 150mmØ filter PIPE,TYPE H BEDDING (SURROUNDED PERMEABLE GEO-TEXTILE SIMILAR TO H.C.D. MATERIAL) D LONGITUDINALAND CROSS DRAINS ONFILTER SIDEUPHILL Ch 90 NEW MANHOLE TO Std. Drwg. HCD TYPEF11 7 CHAMBER 15

5 Ch 8 EXISTING GROUND PROPOSED PATH 10 MH1 1 : 200 1

Ch 80 5

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0 6 RE2 Ch

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Ch 40

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Ch 20 SAG

Ch 15 RISE - 1 in 100

Ch 10 EXISTING TO CARRIAGEWAY BE PERFORATED UNDER NEW EMBANKMENT Ch10 Ch20 Ch30 Ch40 Ch50 Ch60 Ch70 Ch80 Ch90 Ch100 RISE - 1 in 100 D WOODFORD LANE STOPPED UP AT THISAT UP POINT THROUGH SIDE OF NEW FILTER DRAIN TO OUTFALL HEADWALL

Ch 5

Ch 0

LONGITUDINAL SECTION ON PROPOSED PATH CENTRELINELONGITUDINAL SECTION (1 ON PROPOSED PATH

Ch0 65 60 70 N PLAN (1:200) PLAN PROPOSED 3.0m WIDE CYCLETRACK LOCATED BETWEEN BRISTOL BOUNDARYWATER AND FENCE EXISTING DEER FENCINGADJACENT WITHINFIELD F NT TO NT ISSUED FOR TENDER ISSUED FOR TCCS0007/01/05 CHEW VALLEY RECREATIONALTRAIL PROPOSED CYCLEWAY/FOOTWAY (WEST) PLAN and LSEC Sections D-E-F (Sheet 2 of 2) FALL - AS FALL - EXIST GROUND (1 in 43) 200 Ch210 Ch220 CREST SRC FALL - AS FALL - EXIST GROUND (1 in 43) SRC SRC SRC TRH SJF TRH SRC TRH SRC TRH SRC SEEALTERNATE (TRP1) TYPICAL CROSS SECTION ON Drwg EXISTING OAK TREE MATURE - PROPOSED CYCLETRACK WITH GEOWEBADJACE CONSTRUCTION

5 21 Ch

0 21 Ch ISSUED FORTENDER ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION ISSUED FOR &INFORMATION DISCUSSION FIRST DRAFT

5 20 Ch 11.11.20 18.09.20 10.09.20 22.07.20 - - - A

0 20 MAX. CUTAPPROX. DEPTH 0.60m Ch

5 RISE - 1 in 20 19 Ch

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C h 170 0 EXISTING GROUND PROPOSED PATH RISE - 1 in 20

Ch CUT-LINE CP2 1 65 TCS0007/01/21 ContinuedDrwg. on SITE BOUNDARY

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Ch 115 RISE - 1 in 20 CUTTINGAS SHOWN. LONGITUDINALAND CROSS DRAINS ONFILTER SIDEUPHILL EMBANKMENTAND DOWNHILL WHERE IN SIDE OF PATH NEW 150mmØ filter PIPE,TYPE H BEDDING (SURROUNDED PERMEABLE GEO-TEXTILE SIMILAR TO H.C.D. MATERIAL) D F2.APPROX DEPTH OF PIPE 600mm.

Ch 110

Ch 105 RISE - 1 in 20

0 Ch 10

Ch 95 PLAN (1:200) PLAN

0 Ch 9 Ch80 Ch90 Ch100

85 Ch N E LONGITUDINAL SECTION ON PROPOSED PATH CENTRELINELONGITUDINAL SECTION (1 ON PROPOSED PATH Wessex Ecological Consultancy 28 Egerton Road Bishopston Bristol BS7 8HL

CHEW VALLEY LAKE

PROPOSED RECREATIONAL TRAIL

BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

JULY 2018

CHEW VALLEY LAKE PROPOSED RECREATIONAL TRAIL BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

1 INTRODUCTION This plan describes habitat management, restoration and creation measures that will be taken if the trail is constructed. Proposals have been informed by the current site Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) and the opportunities that arise to contribute to the targets in the plan.

2 HEDGES New hedges will be planted at the locations shown on the attached plan. Two planting mixes will be used, both avoiding thorny species to prevent conflicts with trail users. One mix consists of fast growing species, in order to screen sensitive sections of lake from visual disturbance:

Hazel (Corylus avellana) 60% Osier (Salix viminalis) 20% Grey sallow (Salix cinerea) 20%

Alder (Alnus glutinosa), aspen (Populus tremula) and white willow (Salix alba) will be planted either as single specimens or in small groups.

Once these hedges have reached a height of 3 metres they will be flailed to a height of 2 metres. They will then be flailed annually to maintain this height.

The other mix, to be used in other locations, consists of species typical of hedges in the surrounding area:

Hazel (Corylus avellana) 60% Field maple (Acer campestre) 20% Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) 10% Wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare) 10%

All material will be locally sourced, using locally native stock. All new hedges will be double rows 300mm apart at 400mm centres and material will be planted as whips between 600mm and 900mm high and between November and March avoiding periods of extreme cold or when soil is waterlogged. Ground will be cleared of vegetation manually before planting and mulched immediately after planting. Rabbit guards will be fitted to all plants.

New hedges will be monitored for the five years after planting and failed planting will be replaced as necessary. Guards will be removed at the end of the five year period.

The lengths of hedge shown on the attached plan will be allowed to grow higher than at present. They will not be flailed until they have reached a height of 2m. They will then be flailed annually, as at present, to maintain this height, will be flailed less frequently in order to enhance the screening function.

Lengths of hedge on the east shore have become gappy at the base due to under management. Reversing this trend to promote a dense base, which is of greater value for nesting birds, is a target of the BAP. It is therefore proposed that short lengths will be laid, and other stretches will be flailed every two years to a height of 2 metres. Where there are substantial gaps in hedges these will be planted up using the second species list above.

3 GRASSLAND The management of most grasslands through which the trail passes, notably at areas C, F, G and H, will continue as at present, consisting of one annual hay cut without any input of nutrients. In places there are opportunities to enhance species-rich grassland: extending the area of this designated feature of the SSSI is one of the targets of the BAP.

Area B: The grassland here is different in character to that elsewhere in the SSSI and scrub has gradually encroached across the grassland, reducing its nature conservation value, despite occasional management. Grassland is now concentrated in a patch to the west of the anglers’ path, whilst previously there were patches of a similar size to the east (lakeside) of the path. There is also grassland interest, including plants of dyer’s greenweed, on the steep clay banks below the area, which are within the sailing club compound. Mowing of the grasslands is not practical due to the terrain and access problems, and would be damaging to the anthills that are a feature of the area. Scrub removal and control is therefore proposed.

Year Year Year Year Year Ongoing 1 2 3 4 5 Ecologist to mark out areas of scrub to be removed Oct Remove specified areas of scrub, and all scrub and tree Oct saplings encroaching across remaining grassland. Pile arisings in nearby plantation Flail scrub across grassland areas Oct Oct Repeat every two years Ecologist to mark up trees and scrub to remove from bank Oct over sailing club Remove all marked trees and scrub Oct Oct Repeat every three years Carry out botanical survey of area and submit findings to June June Repeat every local authority two years

At areas F, G and H, between the southern picnic site and Hollow Brook, measures to protect grassland during path construction are detailed in the existing planning consent. The diverse grassland here is threatened by trees that have been planted within the grassland; these shade grassland and interfere with management. As they grow the area of grassland lost will increase. The smaller trees should be removed and the lower branches of a larger tree in the southern area, H, should be trimmed back to promote a narrower growth. Bramble, other scrub and sedges and reed have encroached across the edges of these areas, reducing the area available for hay cutting. These areas, as defined by an ecologist, will be cut back and then in future years included in the hay cut.

These works will be carried out in year 1 of the management plan period.

Semi-improved grassland is present off Stichings Shord Lane. It was previously cut for hay but has not been cut for several years: vehicular access to the area is now difficult but will be improved by trial construction. The grassland here has not been as diverse as many other areas around the lake since it was first surveyed in the mid-1980s, but it has frequent cowslip and in the late summer is characterised by tall herb species such as meadow-sweet and meadow cranesbill. A biennial hay cut should therefore be carried out, to retain tall grassland habitat. In the first year a remedial cut will be required to reduce scrub growth around the area’s edges and to return the sward to a condition suitable for hay cutting.

The area will be monitored in order to determine the success of management. Surveys will cover both plants and insects.

Year Year Year Year Year Ongoing 1 2 3 4 5 Mow entire area, including patches of scrub on the edge of Sept the grassland. Gather arisings and either remove or pile under poplars. Mow northern half of area. Sept Sept Repeat every two years Mow southern half of area Sept Repeat every two years Carry out ecological survey and submit report to planning June June Repeat every authority two years

4 Woodland An area of land to the north of Watery Lane that is currently grazed by sheep will become available for mitigation. Grassland creation here would require significant works to remove nutrient-rich topsoil and access problems would make long term management difficult. It will therefore be used for creation of wooded habitat; the majority of planting will consists of shrub species, partly in order to provide mitigation for the loss of woodland understorey during trail construction and partly because there are large areas of semi-mature woodland around the lake but only small areas of scrub. An adjacent area was planted with trees and shrubs approximately 20 years ago and would benefit from management.

The following planting mix will be used:

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) 15% Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) 15% Hazel (Corylus avellana) 15% Wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare) 10% Spindle (Euonymus europaeus) 10% Wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana) 10% Dog rose (Rosa canina) 10% Field maple (Acer campestre) 5% Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) 5% Crab apple (Malus sylvestris) 5%

New planting will be monitored for the five years after planting and failed planting will be replaced as necessary. Guards will be removed at the end of the five year period.

A five metre wide strip on the eastern and northern fringes of the area will be left unplanted and allowed to develop as tall grassland and bramble.

The adjacent area of tree planting, which is approximately twenty years old, has been under-managed and will be thinned and coppiced in order to promote a better structure: Year Year Year Year Year Ongoing 1 2 3 4 5 Remove all remaining tree guards Jan Thin trees by 30%. Jan Coppice shrubs in two areas Jan Jan Re-coppice each area on a ten approximately 8m by 5m year rotation

Bristol Water plc are currently preparing a woodland management plan, which will contain measures aimed at promoting structural and species diversity in other woodlands around the lake.

There is a former pond in the area, which has been dry for several years and is now a grass-lined hollow. This pond will be restored by excavating to a depth of between 1.5 and 2 metres below the current level. Water from the nearby water course will be diverted into the pond and a sluice will control the water level at an overflow. The pond will be cleaned out every five years, leaving 20% undisturbed as a refuge area.

5 Reedbed Management

Bristol Water plc will develop a new programme of reedbed management as part of the BAP renewal process in 2019. This report deals with measures sufficient to mitigate any adverse impacts the recreational trail may have on reedbed birds. The main issue that will be dealt with is invasion of reedbeds by willows.

Willows will be cleared from the areas shown on the attached map, and repeated as willow regrowth occurs. Before any works in the southern part of the lake are carried out a site meeting will be held with the ringing station and areas of working will be clearly defined to avoid sites that need to be retained for ringing.

Reeds will be cut, using a tractor, on the area of Moreton Bank shown.

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Ongoing Hold site meeting with ringing station Sept Clear willows from areas shown Oct Repeat every five years Mow reeds in areas shown Oct Oct Repeat every two years NB: these works require low water levels, so in years when levels are high will be held out until the next year.

6 Boat Control

Part of the mitigation for construction of the trail involves extension of the zone from which anglers boats are excluded at the southern end of the lake. Bank angling, sailing and other recreational activities are already banned in this area, with access limited to bird ringers; bird watchers using hides only; and Bristol Water plc staff.

The new exclusion zone will be enforced using methods that are already well established in managing recreation at Chew Valley Lake. A new line of buoys will be extended across the line shown below and the restriction will be explained verbally to anglers and included in written material, as at present. The measure will be monitored by Bristol Water plc staff, who are able to see the area from their base at Woodford Lodge, and by voluntary bird wardens and other bird watchers. This part of the lake is under very frequent observation by birdwatchers from Stratford Bay hide and the hide will include contact details for Woodford Lodge. Birdwatchers will be encouraged to report any transgressions to Bristol Water plc. This is the system currently in place for the smaller exclusion zone and it is generally effective. Sanctions against anglers who transgress will depend on the nature of the transgression but will include at least removal from the lake that day.

7 Monitoring of Disturbance

The monitoring of disturbance will have three main elements: monitoring of the fenceline, gates and other structures; surveillance of the lake’s shoreline, to detect trespass; and monitoring of bird numbers and distribution.

7.1 Structures The fences and other structures associated with the trail will be monitored by Bristol Water plc staff weekly throughout the year. Repairs to broken fences and other structures will be made as soon as possible.

7.2 Surveillance Bristol Water plc staff and voluntary bird wardens will, as at present, maintain a watch over the lake’s shoreline. Other legitimate users of the lake, including anglers and bird watchers, will also be encouraged to do so. Any trespassers will be escorted from the lake shore. The route by which the lake was reached will be identified. Repairs to the fence or other structures will be made. If access was achieved through intact structures then the deficiency will be identified and the necessary adaptations will be made to ensure that the barriers are impenetrable.

7.3 Bird Monitoring It is proposed that any impacts of the trail will be identified by continuation of existing bird monitoring programmes, since these provide an existing baseline against which future changes can be identified. These surveys are:

Monthly Wetland Bird Survey counts, which record the distribution as well as the numbers of water bird species around the lake; An annual survey of singing warblers (excluding reed warblers), reed buntings and other selected species within the lake enclosure; An annual survey of wildfowl broods; and Monitoring activities carried out by the Ringing Station, which include constant effort sites, monitoring of nesting birds in natural sites and nest boxes; and monitoring of migratory birds.

Information from these surveys, including subjective observations from the surveyors as well as quantitative data, will be collated in a report annually in December. The report will include an analysis of any impacts of the trail and any additional measures that are required to mitigate adverse impacts. A copy of this report will be submitted to Bath and North-east Somerset Council.

Wessex Ecological Consultancy 28 Egerton Road Bishopston Bristol BS7 8HL

CHEW VALLEY LAKE

PROPOSED RECREATIONAL TRAIL 18/02543/FUL

SUPPLEMENT TO ECOLOGICAL REPORT

JULY 2018

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this report is to provide ecological information additional to that contained in the Ecological Report (7th June 2018) in response to requests from the Bath and North East Somerset Ecology Officer.

HEDGES

The following table shows total lengths of hedgerow lost, planted and enhanced. The calculation of lengths that would be lost has taken account of the construction of drainage channels and other engineering works. The gapping up column shows the is based on planting of 20% of the total length of hedge that will be gapped up. This is an estimate based on field observations rather than an exact observation.

The location of hedges is shown on drawings numbered 11164-ES-GA-201, 202 & 203.

Removal of sections hedgerow to accommodate the trail passing through will be limited to the width of the path base course (normally 3.5 metres) unless otherwise indicated on the drawings.

Hedge Status Lost Planted Gapped up Important 36m 58m Other hedge 540m 68m

GRASSLANDS

The following maps show areas of grassland that will be affected and proposed mitigation measures.

Sailing Club Grassland

The trail route avoids areas of interest here, and mitigation for impacts elsewhere will be provided by reversing scrub encroachment that has reduced the area of unimproved grassland.

Photograph 1: Part of area shown edged red on map above.

Photograph 2: Southern part of area shown edged green on map above.

Photograph 3: Northern part of area shown edged green on map above.

Photograph 4: Bank above sailing club, shown edged blue on map above.

. Grassland South of Wallycourt Road

The trail would cross an area of species-rich semi-improved grassland here. The alignment has been moved to the eastern edge of the field in order to minimise the area that would be separated from the rest of the field.

Denny Plantation Grasslands

The trail has an extant planning consent here. The proposed works involve widening of an existing path through the plantations and grasslands. The strips to either side of the path, which will be directly affected by the widening, are currently degraded and have species-poor grassland. Degradation of further grassland will be avoided by very careful definition of the working corridor; not disposing of material cleared in works

4 onto adjacent grassland; and creation of a wider path with properly defined kerbs, which will reduce the tendency to stray onto the adjacent grassland.

Grassland at Herriotts Bridge Road Verge

The trail passes through semi-improved grassland on the northern road verge.

Enhancement Area at Stitchings Shord Lane Grassland that has not been managed for several years, largely because access is now difficult, will be returned to management and moderately species-rich grassland restored using a biennial cut in order to protect invertebrate interest. .

CETTI’S WARBLER

Some concern has been expressed over potential impacts on Cetti’s warbler. Potential impacts on Cetti’s warbler were considered, although the report does not fully reflect this. The route passes close to sites at which two male Cetti’s warblers were singing in spring 2018. This species is frequently polygamous so the presence of two males may indicate the presence of more than two females. The birds were singing in this species’ favoured habitat, dense scrub on the edge of the reedbed. The trail would not directly affect this habitat, since it would pass through drier woodland on the outer edge of the lake enclosure. It is likely that the birds feed in this drier woodland, but it would be extremely atypical if they bred here or if it formed a core part of their territory. Potential impacts therefore relate to disturbance rather than habitat loss. Cetti’s warbler is very tolerant of disturbance; this can be seen at Chew Valley Lake where they breed successfully in locations very close to areas heavily used by the public and frequently cross well used paths to access feeding habitat. Examples include the southern picnic site and Hollow Brook. This tolerance is at least in part due to their preference for dense scrub, which is impenetrable to people and dogs. The existing path at Hollow Brook is unfenced, whereas the proposed trail would be fenced, providing additional protection against disturbance. There is no reason to believe that the trail would have an adverse impact on Cetti’s warbler. The comments regarding this species apply to other birds, such as reed warbler, great spotted woodpecker, spotted flycatcher and sparrowhawk, which have continued to breed close to the existing Bittern Trail to the south of Hollow Brook.

BATS

Although trail design has avoided direct impacts on trees with the potential for roosting bats, it is possible that trees might become suitable before works commence, and highly likely that works to trees will be required for health and safety reasons once the trail becomes operational. This is particularly likely in the poplar plantation on the East Shore, where many trees are unstable and falls of limbs or entire trees occur currently.

 Before any works to trees are proposed, in either the construction phase or whilst the trail is in use, any tree affected will be assessed by a licensed bat worker.  These checks will be carried out as soon as possible; if there is an immediate risk to health and safety then the affected section of the trail will be closed. Under no circumstances will works be carried out before checks are made.  The ecologist will in the first instance check the tree from the ground, using binoculars to check for features that might support roosting bats, and for nesting birds.  If the ecologist judges it to be necessary, he/she will climb the tree to inspect holes and similar features.  If bats are present, or possibly present, the ecologist will specify measures that are necessary to avoid harm. These may include sectional felling of the tree to retain cavities intact, and relocation of these sections to nearby trees, soft felling techniques, or delays to works.  Appropriate licenses will be applied for, and conditions fully implemented.  Where holes and cavities are lost, whether or not evidence of bat use is seen, bat boxes will be fitted to nearby trees. In order to provide long term mitigation plantations will be managed to provide large standard trees of suitable species in the future, either by replanting or selection and promotion of natural regeneration.

Rupert Higgins

Wessex Ecological Consultancy

25th July 2018

CHEW VALLEY LAKE RECREATIONAL TRAIL - PROGRAMME revised 13/11/2020 month August September w/c 2020 07/09/20 Prepare tenders and drawings for off road works Ecological Management plan Draft Ecological Management plan for Tender Draft Arborcultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan for Tender Tender off road works Detailed design of highway works Stopping up highway application for Woodford Lane Tender report/ Approval to award Appoint contractor for off road works Arborcultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan Finalise draft land agreement with private landowner Planning approval for pre-construction conditions- Advertise TRO’s for speed limit reduction Tree and vegetation removal Off road pathway contractor mobilisation Construction works Visitor Management Plan Launch event Monitoring September October November 14/09/20 21/09/20 28/09/20 05/10/20 12/10/20 19/10/20 26/10/20 02/11/20 09/11/20 16/11/20 November December 2020 January 2021 23/11/20 30/11/20 07/12/20 14/12/20 21/12/20 28/12/20 04/01/21 11/01/21 18/01/21 25/01/21 February March April May June July August 01/02/21 08/02/21 15/02/21 22/02/21 Sept

CHEW VALLEY LAKE

PROPOSED RECREATIONAL TRAIL 18/02543/FUL

BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN NORTH WEST SECTION

AUGUST 2018 REVISED SEPTEMBER 2020

CHEW VALLEY LAKE PROPOSED RECREATIONAL TRAIL, NORTH WEST SECTION BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

1 INTRODUCTION This plan describes habitat management, restoration and creation measures that will be taken if the north- western section of the trail is constructed. Proposals have been informed by the current site Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), which was updated in 2019, and the opportunities that arise to contribute to the targets in the plan. This section of the trail has potential ecological impacts, but these are less significant than those that would be associated with the southern sections, which pass closer to parts of the lake that are of key importance for waterbirds and also have potential impacts on habitats such as reedbed and on legally protected species, including great crested newt.

A separate Construction Ecological Management Plan, dealing with potential impacts during construction of the trail, has also been prepared.

Hazel (Corylus avellana) 60% Osier (Salix viminalis) 20% Grey sallow (Salix cinerea) 20%

Alder (Alnus glutinosa), aspen (Populus tremula) and white willow (Salix alba) will be planted either as single specimens or in small groups.

Once these hedges have reached a height of 3 metres they will be flailed to a height of 2 metres. They will then be flailed annually to maintain this height.

The other mix, to be used in other locations, consists of species typical of hedges in the surrounding area:

Hazel (Corylus avellana) 60% Field maple (Acer campestre) 20% Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) 10% Wild privet (Ligustrum vulgare) 10%

New hedges will be monitored for the five years after planting and failed planting will be replaced as necessary. Guards will be removed at the end of the five year period.

3 GRASSLAND The management of most grasslands through which the trail passes will continue as at present, consisting of one annual hay cut without any input of nutrients. In places there are opportunities to enhance species- rich grassland: extending the area of this designated feature of the SSSI is one of the targets of the BAP.

Between here and the dam the trail runs along the western edge of an area of unimproved grassland. Measures to mitigate the loss of this area are dealt with in the CEMP. The area occupied by the trail and an adjoining strip of grassland have been unmanaged for several years. In order to facilitate the return of mowing to this area encroaching scrub and tall herbs will be cut. Hay cropping of the remainder of the area will continue.

At areas F, G and H, between the southern picnic site and Hollow Brook the diverse grassland is threatened by absence of management and by trees that have been planted within the grassland. The grassland retains significant ecological interest, but this is threatened by the spread of rank grasses and scrub, particularly blackthorn suckers. The planted trees shade grassland and make management more problematic. As they grow the area of grassland lost will increase. The smaller trees and a larger grey alder in the southern area, H, should be removed. Bramble, other scrub and sedges and reed have encroached across the edges of these areas, reducing the area available for hay cutting. These areas, as defined by an ecologist, will be cut back and then in future years included in the hay cut.

These works will be carried out in year 1 of the management plan period. Arisings will be removed after all cuts.

4 REEDBED MANAGEMENT Bristol Water plc will develop a new programme of reedbed management as part of the BAP renewal process in 2019. This report deals with measures sufficient to mitigate any adverse impacts the recreational trail may have on reedbed birds. The main issue that will be dealt with is invasion of reedbeds by willows. The section of trail currently proposed does not traverse the southern part of the lake and has no impact, either direct or indirect, on reedbed habitats. There are, however, opportunities to carry out enhancement works to nearby areas of shoreline.

Willows will be cleared from the areas shown on the attached map, and repeated as willow regrowth occurs. Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Ongoing Clear willows from areas shown Oct Repeat every five years NB: these works require low water levels, so in years when levels are high will be held out until the next year.

5 MONITORING

5.1 Structures The fences and other structures associated with the trail will be monitored by Bristol Water plc staff weekly throughout the year. Repairs to broken fences and other structures will be made as soon as possible.

5.2 Surveillance Bristol Water plc staff and voluntary bird wardens will, as at present, maintain a watch over the lake’s shoreline. Other legitimate users of the lake, including anglers and bird watchers, will also be encouraged to do so. Any trespassers will be escorted from the lake shore. The route by which the lake was reached will be identified. Repairs to the fence or other structures will be made. If access was achieved through intact structures then the deficiency will be identified and the necessary adaptations will be made to ensure that the barriers are impenetrable.

5.3 Bird Monitoring It is proposed that any impacts of the trail will be identified by continuation of existing bird monitoring programmes, since these provide an existing baseline against which future changes can be identified.

The most significant potential impact is on water birds, which are particularly vulnerable to disturbance. The monthly Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) counts provide a detailed baseline stretching back over many years. It is proposed that these be used to monitor impacts in the future: this will be important both in identifying any impacts associated by this section of the trail and in identifying mitigation measures but also in providing further clarity on potential impacts if future construction of the trail is proposed in other parts of the lake. The current WeBS methodology involves counting birds in eleven different sectors of the lake, reflecting visibility of different parts of the lake from different viewpoints. Three of these sectors cover areas that might be vulnerable to impacts caused by this section of the trail: 1, from the northern point of Denny Island to the dame; 2, the area to the east of Denny Island; and 3, the area around Hollow Brook. The

6 ecological assessment predicted an insignificant impact on water birds, because area 1 supports relatively low numbers of birds, apart from semi-tame mallards, and because the trail will be well shielded from areas 2 and 3 an run through areas that are currently used by the public.

WeBS Count Zones

In order to monitor the impact of the trail a baseline analysis will establish the proportion of the population of each of the key species using the lake that is present in each of these areas at different times of year. It is important that this analysis includes the maxima of these proportions, rather than just a mean, to cover periods at which the areas are of their greatest importance. The ongoing monitoring will then seek to establish whether there is any reduction in bird numbers on the lake as a whole and also whether the proportion of the lake’s populations using these areas changes. It would take account of other factors affecting the lake’s bird populations, notably differences in water levels. A reduction in either would suggest that the impacts of the trail are greater than anticipated.

The results will be collated in a report annually in December and copies will be submitted to Bath and North-east Somerset Council and Natural England.

5.4 Grassland The trail passes adjacent to and through areas of unimproved grassland, a feature for which the SSSI is designated. The CEMP details measures by which grassland will be protected and additional areas created.

A grassland monitoring will be made annually in June. The condition of grasslands along the trail will be noted and species lists drawn up. Photographs will be taken. The report will identify any management issues, including any evidence of damage from either authorised or unauthorised access, and will make recommendations for remedial measures where appropriate. Copies will be submitted to Bath and North- east Somerset Council and Natural England.

Business Support - Finance Bath & North East Somerset Council Lewis House Manvers Street Bath BA1 1JG

Telephone: 01225 477103 Malcolm Coe Email: [email protected] bathnes.gov.uk Director of Investment and Corporate Services West of England Combined Authority 3 Rivergate, Temple Way BRISTOL BS1 6ER Date: 11 November 2020

Dear Malcolm

Re: Chew Valley Recreational Trail Full business case submission

I can confirm that I have approved the final Full Business Case for submission to the West of England Combined Authority and LEP.

This includes:

• All relevant financial approvals are in place within the Sponsoring Body to deliver the project as set out in the Full Business Case.

• All appropriate financial due diligence has been undertaken by the Sponsoring Body in respect of the Full Business Case.

• The Council are responsible and accountable for ensuring that the project delivers good value for money in the use of public resources, that being the suitability and effectiveness of the project as well as the economic growth and wider societal outcomes achieved in return for the public resources received.

• I have reviewed and endorse the value for money statement within the business case

Yours sincerely

Andy Rothery Director of Finance (S151 Officer)

Bath and North East Somerset – The place to live, work and visit