Buxton Waters

EXTENDED PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY REPORT

Final

3rd December 2010

Buxton Waters

EXTENDED PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY REPORT

Final

3rd December 2010

SKM Enviros Alberton House St Mary's Parsonage Manchester M3 2WJ Tel: +44 161 833 4883 Fax: +44 161 833 4761 Web: www.skmenviros.com

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Contents

1. Introduction 1 1.1. Introduction 1 1.2. Site Description 1 2. Methodology 2 2.1. Desk Study 2 2.1.1. Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 2 2.1.2. Habitats 2 2.1.3. Fauna 2 2.1.4. Study Limitations 3 3. Results 4 3.1. Desk Study 4 3.1.1. Statutory Designated Sites 4 3.1.2. Non Statutory Designated Sites 4 3.1.3. Species Records 5 3.1.4. Local BAP 5 3.2. Habitats 6 3.2.1. Improved Grassland 6 3.2.2. Tall Ruderals 6 3.2.3. Broadleaved Scattered Trees 6 3.2.4. Standing Water 7 3.2.5. Fences and Walls 7 3.3. Protected Species 7 3.3.1. Bats 7 3.3.2. Badger 7 3.3.3. Otter and Water Vole 7 3.3.4. Birds 7 3.3.5. Great Crested Newt 8 3.3.6. Reptiles 8 3.3.7. Other Mammals 8 4. Discussion of Potential Ecological Constraints and Recommendations 9 4.1. Designated sites 9 4.2. Habitats 9 4.2.1. Bats 9 4.2.2. Great Crested Newt 9 4.2.3. Water Vole and Otter 10 4.2.4. Reptiles 10

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4.2.5. Birds 10 4.2.6. Badgers 10 5. Habitat Creation 12 5.1. Habitat Creation 12 5.2. Pond Creation 14 Figures 16 Figure 1 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 16 Appendices 17 Appendix A HSI Scores 18 Appendix B Photographs 19 Appendix C Desk Based Survey Results 25

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Document History and Status

Revision Date issued Reviewed by Approved by Date approved Revision type A1 10/10/10 JAYRES D SELLWOOD 08/11/2010 Final Draft V2 03/12/10 D Watson D Watson Final

Distribution of Copies Revision Copy no Quantity Issued to

Printed: 3 December 2010

Last saved: 3 December 2010 02:02 PM

File name: Phase 1 Buxton Waters Final Author: Jonathan Ayres

Project manager: Nigel Robson

Name of organisation: Nestle/Buxton Waters Name of project: Buxton Waters Extended Phase 1 Habitat Report

Name of document: Buxton Waters Extended Phase 1 Habitat Report

Document version: Final Project number: UN12203.08

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1. Introduction

1.1. Introduction

SKM Enviros was commissioned in September 2010 by Nestle UK Ltd to carry out an extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey for the development of a proposed water bottling plant on land to the east of Waterswallows Lane, Buxton (SK078754). This report presents the results of the following:

Desk Based Assessment in consultation with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust; and

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

The survey objective was to assess the site for the potential to support protected species and habitats and species and habitats of conservation concern in order to identify potential constraints to the development.

1.2. Site Description

The site is located at Waterswallows Lane, Buxton. The development site is around 7ha in extent. It is situated in an area of agricultural land, used for the grazing of cattle. The site is bordered to the north, south and east by pasture land and to the west by Waterswallows Lane.

The site is currently being used for grazing cattle and consists predominantly of improved grassland habitat. The habitats to the north and east of the site contain similar grassland habitats. To the west lies the road and an electrical substation is situated to the far west. To the south the land is bordered by a vehicle depot. Within the site the fields are bound by dry stone walling and wire fences.

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2. Methodology

2.1. Desk Study

A desk study was carried out to identify protected sites and species within 1km of the site boundary. This utilised online resources including Natural England’s Nature on the Map1, MAGIC2 and NBN Gateway3. NBN Gateway data was searched and data within 1km of the site covering the last 20 years was included. A further desk based survey for information within 2km was carried out with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and the Derby Museum.

2.1.1. Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

An extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was carried out in accordance with the standard JNCC Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology 4 on 27th September 2010 by Senior Ecologist, Jonathan Ayres. The survey area consisted of the entire site (see Figure 1) and adjacent land (where accessible) and a 500m buffer for great crested newts.

2.1.2. Habitats

Habitats were identified according to standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC, 2003)5 definitions. Any legally protected habitats and/or other habitats of nature conservation importance, e.g. UK or Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitats, were recorded. All patches of habitat greater than 0.1ha were mapped at 1:10000 scale (Figure 1).

2.1.3. Fauna

In conjunction with the habitat survey, the potential of the site to support any legally protected faunal species and/or other faunal species of nature conservation importance, e.g. UK or Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority species, was assessed.

A Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), developed by Oldham et al. (2000)6 was used to ascertain the suitability of water bodies on site, and within 500m as per standard guidance, where access was available, to support great crested newt. This is a method by which habitat variables can be collected and used together to predict the likely presence of breeding great crested newt.

Detailed faunal surveys were not undertaken at this time, rather the potential for the site to support each species / species group was assessed based on the known range of each species /species group and the suitability of the habitats present. In addition, field signs or sightings of such species were recorded as seen.

1 http://www.natureonthemap.org.uk

2 http://www.magic.gov.uk/

3 http://data.nbn.org.uk/

4 Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2003. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: A Technique for Environmental Audit, revised reprint 5 JNCC (2004) Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey; A technique for environmental audit

6 Oldham, R.S., Keeble, J., Swan, M.J.S. and Jeffcote, M. (2000). Evaluating the suitability of habitats for great crested newt (Triturus cristatus).

Herpetological Journal 10 pp. 143-155.

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2.1.4. Study Limitations

Surveying the site and adjacent land was limited by access constraints.

This report serves to indicate the present and potential ecological value of the study area based upon the survey data gathered. As with any survey of this kind, it cannot be seen as a definitive description of the site and its associated habitats and species.

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3. Results

3.1. Desk Study

3.1.1. Statutory Designated Sites

Internationally designated sites (SAC/Ramsar/SPA) and nationally designated sites (SSSIs) are listed in Table 1. There were no locally designated statutory sites (LNRs) within 2km of the site.

Table 1 Statutory Designated Sites Distance & Grid Site and Designation Area (ha) Direction Description Reference from site (km) Nationally Designated Sites (SSSI) Within 2km Waterswallows Quarry SK 082750 0.69 0.2 S Earth Heritage Site currently in SSSI favourable condition. Duchy Quarry SSSI SK 093767 2.4 2 Km NE Earth Heritage Site currently in favourable condition.

The Peak District National Park is located approximately 2km to the east and west of the site.

3.1.2. Non Statutory Designated Sites

No local wildlife sites were recorded during the desk study within the site boundary. The nearest local wildlife sites are listed below. The desk based survey information shows these locations in context with the site boundary.

Table 2 Local Wildlife Sites Site Reference Area (ha) Ecological Feature Local wildlife sites within 2km Longridge Lane Pond HP121 0.0224 Standing open water

Doveholes Dale HP066 6.13 Unimproved calcareous grassland

Longsidings quarry HP070 24.5269 Unimproved calcareous grassland

Peak Dale/Small Dale HP069 9.19 Unimproved calcareous Quarries grassland

Longridge Lane Fields HP082 10.48 Unimproved calcareous grassland on lime soil

Combs Moss HP023 245.91 Heather Moorland

Railway Land HP026 7.86 Habitat Mosaic Hogshaw (Former sidings)

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Site Reference Area (ha) Ecological Feature Peak Dale Grassland HP067 16.7 Unimproved Calcareous Grassland

Victory Quarry HP068 7.6 Habitat Mosaic

Dove Hole Spoil Heaps HP169 4.75 Unimproved calcareous grassland on lime spoil

3.1.3. Species Records

The National Biodiversity Network hold records for UK and Local BAP species. NBN highlighted recent records for great crested newt, song thrush and reptiles. Results are located in Table 2. Contact with the Biological Records Officer at the Derby Museum confirmed that there were no records of protected species within 1km of the development area. A detailed desk based survey, carried out by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is included within the appendix section of this report.

Table 3 Species Records Data Distance (km) and Species Year Notes direction from site Song Thrush 500 metres 2009 SK088764 north east Great Crested Newt 1km south 1976 - Several of the site 2007 locations around grid ref SK0774 Grass snake 500 2005 SK0877 metres north of site Common Lizard 100 metres 2002 SK0876 to the north east

3.1.4. Local BAP

Species and habitats listed on the Derbyshire BAP list, and recorded on site and adjacent land, are:

Great crested newt;

Song thrush;

Standing open water;

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3.2. Habitats

A total of five habitat types, as defined in the Phase 1 Habitat Survey Handbook4, were identified within the site and found on adjacent land. These are shown in Figure 1 (Phase 1 habitat map).

Improved Grassland;

Scattered Trees;

Tall Ruderal;

Wall;

Standing water.

3.2.1. Improved Grassland

The site is located within an area of improved grassland intensively grazed by cattle. The different sections of fields have varying sward heights depending on where cattle are grazing at the time, although only in the field adjacent to Waterswallows Lane was the sward height greater than 150mm. Dominant grass species within the sward include cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), common bent (Agrostis capillaris), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus). In the less heavily grazed areas other species such as common nettle (Urtica dioica), creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), common sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and broad leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius) occurred.

Grazing land is included in the local BAP, however this specifically refers to lowland grazing marsh, and the habitats found in the site do not represent this priority habitat type. Agriculturally improved grasslands such as those foundon site, account for 90% of grasslands in the UK. Countrywide their area has increased over the last 50 years. This habitat is therefore considered to be locally common and of poor species diversity. This habitat should therefore be considered of value in the context of the site only.

3.2.2. Tall Ruderals

Tall ruderal species occur on the boundary of the site, predominantly within the road verge on the western side. However, where grazing is less intense and access for cattle is limited this habitat may also be found. Common species recorded were rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium), nettle, hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium), yarrow and cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris).

3.2.3. Broadleaved Scattered Trees

Broadleaved scattered trees were recorded on the site boundaries but are sparse and low in numbers. None of the trees were considered of suitable maturity or condition to support bat roosts. Species recorded included sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), willow (Salix sp.) and elder (Sambucus nigra). Off site, scattered broadleaved trees occur, with frequent mature sycamore and ash to the south and west.

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3.2.4. Standing Water

A number of ponds were shown in close proximity to the site on the OS data; however, only one pond was encountered during the site survey. This pond was recorded in the far south-eastern corner of the site, where the land is much lower lying and the ground heavily poached by cattle leading to water logging of the soil. The pond area was approximately 15m2 with a depth of no more than 100mm. No emergent vegetation was recorded and it is unlikely that this pond is of a permanent nature.

HSI scoring criteria carried out on the pond suggested it to be of low suitability for great crested newt.

3.2.5. Fences and Walls

Barbed-wire stock fences line the outer perimeter of the site, as well as traditional dry stone walls that occur on the boundary of each of the individual field margins.

3.3. Protected Species

3.3.1. Bats

No evidence of bat habitation was recorded during the survey, either on site or within the adjacent area. The site lacks any suitable roosting habitat as it contains no buildings or mature trees. Mature trees and buildings do occur to the north and west but, given the distance from the site, any roosts within these areas are unlikely to be directly affected by the proposed development. Farmland habitat, such as that found within the site, does provide potential foraging habitat for bat species that may occur in the area. Similar habitats occur in the immediate surroundings and the loss to of this area of improved pasture is unlikely to have a negative impact on foraging bats. However, consideration of the impacts of lighting from the scheme should be taken into account in order to prevent disturbance to foraging bats. The document ‘Bats and lighting in the UK’ produced by the Bat Conservation Trust provides guidance on lighting.

3.3.2. Badger

No evidence of badger usage of the site was recorded during the survey. Badgers do make use of the types of habitat present as potential foraging areas and it is possible that badgers may frequent the site at certain times of the year for feeding. It is therefore recommended that a site walkover to look for evidence of badger usage is carried out immediately prior to construction works to ensure that no badgers will be affected by the proposed works.

3.3.3. Otter and Water Vole

The site provides no suitable habitat areas for otter or water vole. Therefore, it is considered extremely unlikely that these species will be affected by the proposals.

3.3.4. Birds

No evidence of nesting birds or protected bird species was recorded during the survey. However the bird nesting season in the UK is from mid-March to mid-August, therefore species that have nested on site may well have left prior to this survey being carried out. A number of meadow pipits were recorded roosting in the dense grass during the survey, a buzzard was recorded overflying the site and a small flock of black headed gulls were feeding in the adjacent fields.

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3.3.5. Great Crested Newt

There was one pond recorded on site and no others observed on adjacent land. The results of the HSI survey suggest that the pond is of poor suitability for great crested newts. The dry stone walls surrounding the site do provide suitable hibernacula area for the species and suitable wet grassland habitats occur in the fields off site to the far east. Therefore, the likelihood of GCN presence within the site is considered to be low.

3.3.6. Reptiles

No reptiles were recorded during the survey. The dry stone wall and road verge grassland do provide suitable habitat for reptile species such as common lizard, however, these habitats will not be impacted upon by the development. A watching brief should be kept on site during construction and, if any reptiles are found during the works, a suitably qualified ecologist should be consulted to provide further advice.

3.3.7. Other Mammals

No other protected species or species of conservation concern were recorded during the survey.

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4. Discussion of Potential Ecological Constraints and Recommendations

4.1. Designated sites

There are two statutory designated sites within 2km of the proposed development. These are both geological sites; Waterswallows Quarry (SSSI) and Duchy Quarry (SSSI). These sites have been selected due to their geological features and given their nature are unlikely to be affected in any negative way by the proposed development.

4.2. Habitats

No rare, scarce or protected habitats have been recorded on site and therefore the habitats present pose no constraint to development.

4.2.1. Bats

No evidence of bat roosting was recorded during the survey. All UK bat species are listed under Annexes IIa and IVa of the EC Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, also known as the Habitats Directive. They are consequently identified as European Protected Species (EPS) and protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c) Regulations 1994 and recent amendments, as presented in the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c) (Amendment) Regulations 2010.

The Amendment Regulations state that a person commits an offence if they:

”deliberately capture, injure or kill any wild animal of a European protected species;

deliberately disturb wild animals of any such species in such a way as to be likely significantly to affect: the ability of any significant group of animals of that species to survive, breed, or rear or nurture their young or the local distribution or abundance of such an animal.

deliberately take or destroy the eggs of such an animal; or

damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such an animal”.

Under these Regulations it is an offence to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place, whether the animal is in occupation or not, and protection extends to all life stages of the animal in question. There are additional offences relating to possession, control and sale of a live or dead bat or part of such an animal.

4.2.2. Great Crested Newt

No GCN were recorded on site, however land 1km to the south is known to support GCN. The HSI survey suggested that the pond found on site is of poor quality for GCN. GCN are a European protected species listed on Schedule 2 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 2010 (as amended) and are also included on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). It is therefore an offence to “deliberately capture or kill a great crested newt, deliberately disturb a great crested newt, deliberately take or destroy the eggs of a great crested

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newt and damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a great crested newt”. GCN are listed as a UKBAP species and are also listed as a Derbyshire BAP priority species.

The proposed development is likely to result in the loss of grazing land. Within the local area there is a significant proportion of this habitat remaining; therefore the development is unlikely to impact on GCN habitat. However, in the event that GCN are found on site all works should cease until a suitably qualified ecologist can be contacted and advice sought.

4.2.3. Water Vole and Otter

No evidence of water vole or otter was recorded during the survey and no suitable habitat exists on site to support these species. No further surveys are required.

4.2.4. Reptiles

No evidence of reptile habitation was recorded on site during the survey. Suitable habitat does exist in the form of dense grass on the boundary of the site and associated dry stone walls. Should any reptiles be found during the site works then a suitably qualified ecologist should be consulted prior to re-commencement of works.

4.2.5. Birds

Although the site is considered very unlikely to support any rare bird species or large numbers of

BAP-listed bird species, the site potentially represents suitable habitat for ground nesting birds such as lapwing and skylark, which are both BAP-listed birds.

All wild birds in the UK are protected under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which makes it an offence to ‘intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird or take, damage or destroy the nest (whilst being built or in use) or its eggs’. In order to ensure compliance with the relevant section of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), any works affecting potential bird nesting habitat should be carried out outside the breeding season (March to August inclusive), in order to avoid damaging any nests which may be present. If this is not possible, nesting habitat should be checked for nests by a suitably qualified ecologist immediately prior to its removal. If nests are found, clearance of the relevant vegetation will need to be delayed until the young have fledged.

4.2.6. Badgers

No badger activity was recorded within the site boundary, although the site contains potentially suitable badger foraging habitat. Whilst badger is not a rare animal in most of England, there is specific legislation for the protection of badgers under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, as badgers have been the victim of persecution and cruelty over many years. With certain exceptions it is unlawful to:

”wilfully kill, injure, take or possess a badger;

attempt to kill, injure or take a badger;

cruelly ill-treat a badger; and

‘interfere with a badger sett”.

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Prior to commencement of works on site a walkover survey should be carried out to ensure that no badger setts are present.

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5. Habitat Creation

The proposed site lies within an area of intensive grazing that through agricultural management regimes has lead to a vegetation type dominated by a small number of grass species with a number of arable weeds. The habitats represent poor species diversity and are common across the UK. Following the development it would be appropriate to incorporate significant habitat management works on the site to improve the quality of local habitats. The creation of ponds within the site will also benefit aquatic invertebrates and increase the potential for biodiversity gain.

5.1. Habitat Creation

The current habitat across the site consists of improved pasture, of poor species quality; the land is heavily grazed by cattle. Following construction of the development habitats should be managed to improve species richness. Changes to the grazing regime by removing cattle and replacing them with sheep will allow different species to flourish. Habitat planting that includes tree species will benefit vertebrate species such as bird and bats. Sowing a suitable seed mix of local provenance will introduce a variety of species to the site that will in turn provide habitat for a range of invertebrates and bring increased visual amenity to the site.

Preparation of the ground prior to seeding is essential if the plantings are to be successful, some scarification of the ground will be necessary prior to seeding, growths of persistent perennial weeds may be need to be controlled by herbicide treatment such as glyphosate. Where possible, cultivation using machinery may be used to remove vegetation to ensure a good surface substrate for seeding.

As with any seeding, it is important to select the species sown, and their origin, to fit in with the nature of the surrounding vegetation. In most landscaping situations a standard mixture of British origin seed will be appropriate, selecting species that are suited to the prevailing soil type, location and conditions.

Seeds need both warmth and moisture to grow and may be sown at any time of year when these conditions are met. August-September and March-April usually produce the best conditions for sowing outside in most parts of the UK. May to July sowings also work well in wetter western regions. Late autumn sowings should be avoided on sites prone to water-logging in winter and late spring and summer sowings should be avoided on droughty sites. Sowings into existing grass work best in autumn.

Some plants need to be sown at particular times to fit in with their life cycles or biology. Cornfield Annuals need to be sown in the autumn or before May in the following spring to get a flowering display. Yellow rattle must be sown in autumn.

In an area of improved grazing such as this careful management in the first year will need to be observed to encourage seeds to develop and discourage growth of perennial weeds and dominant grass species. A combination of mowing and light grazing will provide a good mix of management practices to promote diversity and create varying sward heights.

For new sowings on bare soil the first summer will be dominated by a flush of annual weeds arising from the soil seed bank and by grass growth. This annual growth should be controlled by mowing or grazing throughout the first year to minimise competition and weed seed production. Cutting should be frequent enough to disperse the cuttings, or if less frequent remove the cuttings. Sowings into existing grass can be managed as an established meadow, with perhaps extra cutting or grazing where growth is lush.

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The main cut each year is the summer "hay cut". This is when the main part of the year's growth is cut back in one operation heavy duty strimmer, reciprocating knife or other suitable mower. The growth should be cut back to a height of 50-75mm. The cut grass should be dried on site, turning it to assist drying and disperse seeds. The dried 'hay' should be removed within 7 days of cutting.

The timing of the hay cut may be varied (July-Sept) to favour early or later flowering plants. If cut in sections at different times the flowering interest and workload can be spread across the season. Generally meadows should not be cut for hay before 14th July. Hay cutting should not take place in May or June because of the harm this causes to breeding birds and insects. Thin open swards that stand well and retain interest can be left longer than dense or collapsing vegetation. If the grass collapses because it is too lush or because of bad weather a hay cut needs to be taken sooner (this is most likely with young swards on fertile soils). To maintain flowering interest and balance it is best to complete hay cutting by the end of August. However, parts of the meadow may be left occasionally (one year in three) into September so that late flowering species can seed. Leaving some patches uncut through winter will also provide winter refuge for insects.

Spring cutting to remove the first flush of grass can produce a later flowering meadow that is shorter, more open and less prone to collapse. Spring cutting or grazing is particularly useful on more fertile soils and in the early years of newly sown grassland; on settled infertile sites this may be unnecessary. The need to mow can be assessed by the amount and type of growth in the spring. Mow with a rotary, flail or other suitable mower to 40-75mm. After the main cut, additional mowing or grazing during late summer and autumn is very effective in removing excessive grass growth and encouraging flowers, particularly on more fertile sites. Mow with a rotary flail or other suitable mower to 40-75mm. Ideally cut at least twice from the time the hay is removed to the end of November, aiming to leave the grass short through winter. The amount of mowing required will again depend on the fertility of the site; areas can be mown regularly (weekly) if a more tidy appearance is wanted. If any cut produces significant quantities of material this should be removed.

With the exception of the annual hay-cut, grazing with animals is always better than mechanised mowing. Most grazing animals can produce some benefits to sward structure and development through recycling of nutrients and opening gaps with their hooves. Meadows and grassland can be maintained by grazing alone. Grazing should either be maintained at a low stocking density through the season, or close the meadow to stock from spring to July /August for more flowers.

A suitable mix of seeds for the site is outlined below based on locality and soil types (loamy soils typical of those overlying Millstone grit);

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Latin name Common name Achillea millefolium Yarrow Centaurea nigra Common Knapweed Galium verum Lady's Bedstraw Geranium pratense Meadow Cranesbill Knautia arvensis Field Scabious Leontodon hispidus Rough Hawkbit Leucanthemum vulgare Oxeye Daisy Lotus corniculatus Birdsfoot Trefoil Malva moschata Musk Mallow Plantago lanceolata Ribwort Plantain Plantago media Hoary Plantain Primula veris Cowslip Prunella vulgaris Selfheal Ranunculus acris Meadow Buttercup Rhinanthus minor Yellow Rattle Rumex acetosa Common Sorrel Silene vulgaris Bladder Campion Agrostis capillaris Common Bent Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass Briza media Quaking Grass Cynosurus cristatus Crested Dogstail Festuca ovina Sheep's Fescue Festuca rubra Slender-creeping Red-fescue Phleum bertolonii Smaller Cat's-tail Trisetum flavescens Yellow Oat-grass

5.2. Pond Creation

Farm ponds were once abundant in the countryside and provided a habitat for a large number of species such as great crested newts. Over the years the number of ponds has decreased, as such ponds are now listed as a UK priority habitat and now have their own habitat action plan. It is likely that ponds on this site will be created as part of a SUDS scheme for the site, provided suitable measures to trap any potential sources of pollution are included, as part of their design, no adverse affects from water obtained from sources such as surface runoff should be encountered.

It is recommended that any aquatic plants to be included in the pond are sourced locally to ensure local provenance, care should also be take not to introduce foreign material into the pond with these plants. Un-planted ponds can also be of high biodiversity interest and can benefit those species of aquatic animals or plants that cannot compete in more ‘developed’ ponds, however if

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ponds are to be designed to look finished the careful selection of appropriate plants should be used. Plant selection should follow a simple structure:

Tall emergents – Branched bur-reed, reed sweet grass, lesser pond sedge;

Floating leaved plants – amphibious bistort, broad leaved pondweed, yellow water- lily;

Low growing wetland grasses – creeping bent, marsh foxtail;

Marginal herbs and rushes – water mint, water forget me-not, common spike rush.

Submerged plants – curled pondweed, water starwort, spiked water milfoil.

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Figures

Figure 1 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

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| 5 REV. DESCRIPTION | | 5 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

7 Draft A |

| 3 | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | NESTLE WATERS, BUXTON | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | – PROJECT MERLIN | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | FIGURE 1 | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | EXTENDED PHASE 1 | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | HABITAT SURVEY | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | | | I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | | || | || | || | || I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I | I I I ||I I I I I I I I I I I I | ||| SCALE PROJECT CODE | || | || | ||| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I| ||| I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1:3,000 @ A3 UN12203.08 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I CONTENT DRAWN I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I MR MR I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I CHECKED DATE s ! JA 04/10/10 o r ! i I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I v n ! E

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

M !

K I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I !I I I I I I I I S t h I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I g i r y p I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I !I I I I I I o

C ! ! Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copIyrighIt anId daItabaIse rIight I2010I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I !I !I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

Appendices

SKM Enviros PAGE 17

Appendix A HSI Scores

Great Crested Newt HSI Assessment Scores (%) Fish Fish Quality Quality Number Location Waterfowl Shade (%) Prediction Prediction Pond Name Pond Name Area (sq m) Water Body Body Water Pond Density Pond Density Water Quality Grid Reference Final HSI Score Score HSI Final Terrestrial Habitat Macrophyte Cover Cover Macrophyte Pond Permanence Pond Permanence (Likelihood of GCN) of (Likelihood

Pond on P1 1 1 0.05 0.1 0.33 1 1 1 0.7 0.67 0.3 0.43 Poor site

SKM Enviros PAGE 18

Appendix B Photographs

SKM Enviros PAGE 19

Photograph 1 – Adjacent to the site looking north along Waterswallows Lane.

Photograph 2 - Lay-by opposite the site looking north along Waterswallows Lane.

SKM Enviros PAGE 20

Photograph 3 - Improved grassland in the south west corner of the site.

Photograph 4 - Looking north from the southwest corner of the site, showing off-site trees.

SKM Enviros PAGE 21

Photograph 5 - Looking north west from the dry stone wall in the southern corner of the site.

Photograph 6 - Looking east from the centre of the site.

SKM Enviros PAGE 22

Photograph 7 - Looking north from the centre of the site, showing farmhouse and trees off- site.

Photograph 8 - Looking east from southern boundary showing off-site areas.

SKM Enviros PAGE 23

Photograph 9 - Showing ponded area in the south eastern corner of the site.

SKM Enviros PAGE 24

Appendix C Desk Based Survey Results

SKM Enviros PAGE 25 Page 1 of 4 Results of ecological data search for SK081756 land off Waterswallows Road, Buxton

Great crested newt records OS Grid Ref Location Date SK09607610 Longsidings Quarry, Buxton 1996 SK0774 Buxton, Fairfield Golf Course 1976 SK087746 Buxton, Green Lane 1976

UK BAP Bird species Species Location OS Grid Ref Date Carduelis cannabina Linnet Victory Quarry SK07707700 1980 Alauda arvensis Skylark Dove Holes Spoil Tips SK082775 1992 Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Buxton SK068742 2006

UK BAP Mammal species Species Location OS Grid Ref Date Lepus capensis Brown Hare Dove Holes SK074753 2004

UK BAP species Grass snake OS Grid Ref Location Date Natrix natrix SK085775 Doveholes 2005

UK BAP species Common lizard OS Grid Ref Location Date Lacerta vivipara SK08687667 Peak Dale, Buxton, 10 Batham Gate Rd 2002

UK BAP butterfly species Species Location OS Grid Ref Date Tyria jacobaeae Cinnabar Dove Holes Spoil Tips (HP169) SK082775 1992

UK BAP habitats lowland swamp and tall herb fen semi natural grassland sites - see below

Ponds (not necessarily UK BAP habitat)

SSSI Duchy Quarry Waterswallows Quarry

RIGS (Regionally Important Geological Sites) Name Interest Buxton Bridge RIGS Lower Millers Dale Lava Waterswallows Quarry (SSSI) RIGS shows part of an loivine-pyric dolerite sill intruded into

Produced for SKM Environs 8 October 2010 Page 2 of 4 Results of ecological data search for SK081756 land off Waterswallows Road, Buxton

Nationally Scarce (DRDB) plant species

Latin Common Location OS Grid Ref Date Potentilla Spring Cinquefoil unspecified SK0774 1996 neumanniana

Nationally Threatened (DRDB) plant species Latin Common Location OS Grid Ref Date Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Grassland Site HP067SK0876 1984 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Grassland SK0976 1984 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Grassland SK097765 1985 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Longsidings Quarry SK088767 1996

Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996

Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Quarry SK095761 1996

Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Station (monad) SK0976 1996 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale (monad) SK0876 1996 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Buxton Bridge (Wormhill) (monadSK0975 1996 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Peak Dale Playing Field (old) SK088767 1996 Coeloglossum viride Frog Orchid Longsidings Quarry SK095762 1998 Minuartia verna Spring Sandwort Small Dale, disused tip SK092768 1990 Polemonium Jacob's-ladder Doveholes Dale (monad) SK087773 1996 caeruleum Polemonium Jacob's-ladder unspecified SK0777 1998 caeruleum

Produced for SKM Environs 8 October 2010 Page 3 of 4 Results of ecological data search for SK081756 land off Waterswallows Road, Buxton

Locally Scarce or Declining (DRDB) plant species Latin Common Location OS Grid Ref Date Dactylorhiza Early Marsh- Peak Dale, old quarry SK095762 1983 incarnata orchid Dactylorhiza Early Marsh- Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996 incarnata orchid Dactylorhiza Early Marsh- Longsidings Quarry SK095762 1998 incarnata orchid Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings SK095762 1996 orchid coccinea Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996 orchid coccinea Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings Quarry SK0976 1996 orchid incarnata Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings Quarry SK095762 1998 orchid incarnata Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996 orchid pulchella Dactylorhiza an early marsh- incarnata ssp. Longsidings Quarry SK095762 1998 orchid pulchella Asplenium viride Green Spleenwort Ashwood Dale SK0974 1980 Campanula Clustered Green Fairfield SK0874 1991 glomerata Bellflower Slender Tufted- Carex acuta Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996 sedge Slender Tufted- Carex acuta Longsidings Quarry SK095761 1996 sedge Potentilla palustris Marsh Cinquefoil Fairfield SK064749 1970

Local Wildlife Sites Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature HP023 Combs Moss 245.91 Heather moorland Railway Land Hogshaw HP026 7.86 Habitat mosaic (former sidings) Unimproved calcareous HP066 Doveholes Dale 6.13 grassland Unimproved calcareous HP067 Peak Dale Grassland 16.7 grassland HP068 Victory Quarry 7.6 Habitat mosaic Unimproved calcareous HP069 Peak Dale/Smalldale Quarries 9.19 grassland Unimproved calcareous HP070 Longsidings Quarry 24.53 grassland Unimproved calcareous HP082 Longridge Lane Fields 10.48 grassland on lime spoil HP121 Longridge Lane Pond 0.02 Standing open water Unimproved calcareous HP169 Dove Holes Spoil Heaps 4.75 grassland on lime spoil

Produced for SKM Environs 8 October 2010 Page 4 of 4 Results of ecological data search for SK081756 land off Waterswallows Road, Buxton

Potential Local Wildlife Sites (Potential Local Wildlife Sites are sites that have been identified as having nature conservation interest, but where that interest has not been fully assessed against the Wildlife Site Selection Guidelines.) Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature Batham Gate Road Sandpit HP CWS 9.7933 Birds Lagoon HP R6506 land adj Waterswallows Quarry 6.5981

Semi natural grassland sites (regarded as Potential LWSs unless already designated as a LWS)

Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature Semi-improved neutral HP067 PEAK DALE GRASSLAND 16.6967 grassland Unimproved calcareous HP082 Longridge Lane Fields 10.4826 grassland

Other recorded sites of interest Name Ref No Area (ha) Pells Dam HP028/3 0.06 Waterswallows Lane Pond HP131/3 0.029 Upper End, Buxton HP132/4

Produced for SKM Environs 8 October 2010

Site Check Map Page 1 of 1

Site Check Map

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Counties, Metropolitan Districts and Unitary Authorities (GB) Geographic Level Name COUNTY DERBYSHIRE

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Sites of Special Scientific Interest (England) Citation Name Reference 1001725 WATERSWALLOWS QUARRY 1002266 1003889 DUCHY QUARRY 1002646

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