Tobacco Waste Site, Formby, Sefton, L37 1PH

Ecological Assessment

Simply Ecology Limited

Ref: SE/NTQ012/01

June 2021

For

National Trust, Countryside Office, Blundell Avenue, Freshfield, Formby, Liverpool, L37 1PH

Simply Ecology Ltd, Office 7-2-6, Cameron House, White Cross, South Road, Lancaster LA1 4XF Tel: 01524 874522 - Mob: 07754 538437 - [email protected] www.simplyecology.co.uk Frontal Dunes, Formby

CONTENTS PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background Information ...... 1 1.2 Aims...... 1 1.3 Site Description and Proposed Works ...... 1 2.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY ...... 3 2.1 Desk Study ...... 3 2.2 Extended Phase 1 Survey ...... 3 2.3 Invasive Alien Plants...... 3 2.4 Amphibian Field Visit ...... 3 2.5 Reptiles...... 4 2.6 Personnel ...... 4 2.7 Timing and Constraints ...... 5 3.0 DESK STUDY RESULTS ...... 6 3.1 Nature Conservation Sites ...... 6 3.2 Protected and Noteworthy Species ...... 9 4.0 PHASE 1 SURVEY RESULTS ...... 18 4.1 Habitat Results ...... 18 4.2 Amphibians ...... 27 4.3 Reptiles...... 28 4.4 Red Squirrel ...... 29 4.5 Badger and Rabbit ...... 29 4.6 Northern Dune Tiger Beetle ...... 30 5.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 33 5.1 Statutory Nature Conservation Sites ...... 33 5.2 Non-Statutory Nature Conservation Sites ...... 33 5.3 Habitats ...... 33 5.4 Natterjack Toad ...... 34 5.5 Other Amphibians ...... 34 5.6 Sand Lizard ...... 35 5.7 Badgers and Rabbits...... 35 5.8 Red Squirrel ...... 35 5.9 Bats...... 35 5.10 Breeding Birds ...... 36 5.11 Invertebrates ...... 36 6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 37 6.1 Summary of Findings ...... 37 6.2 Designated Sites ...... 37 6.3 Habitats ...... 38 6.4 Reptiles...... 38 6.5 Amphibians ...... 39 6.6 Mammals ...... 39 6.7 Birds ...... 39 6.8 Invertebrates ...... 40 7.0 REFERENCES ...... 41

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PLANS PAGE Plan 1: Site location...... 2 Plan 2: Proposed dune notching excavation areas within the wider survey area...... 2 Plan 3: Nearby Statutorily Protected Nature Conservation Sites...... 7 Plan 4: Nearby Local Wildlife Sites...... 8 Plan 5: European Protected Species...... 10 Plan 6: UK Protected Species...... 11 Plan 7: Red Squirrel Records only...... 12 Plan 8: Phase 1 of the notching sites and surrounding area...... 26 Plan 9: All Amphibians and Reptiles records within 250m of the wider site...... 31 Plan 10: Northern Dune Tiger Beetle Recordings within 250m of the wider site...... 32

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Control Sheet

Name Position

Author: Kevin Heywood BSc ACIEEM Ecologist

Checked and Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM Director Approved by:

Version History

Version Date Modified by Approved by Comment/Reason(s)

1 N/A JR First Issue

Disclaimer This report has been prepared by Simply Ecology Limited with all reasonable skill, care and diligence, within the terms of the Contract with the Client. The actions of the surveyor on site and during the production of the report were undertaken in accordance with the Code of Professional Conduct for the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. (www.cieem.org.uk). This report has been prepared by Simply Ecology Limited for the sole use of the client and in connection with the development project described – this report cannot be relied upon by any third party without express written consent by both Simply Ecology Limited and the client. This is a technical report and does not represent legal advice/ opinion. This report remains Simply Ecology Limited property and cannot be relied upon until full payment has been made. Simply Ecology Limited retain the right to re-publish data obtained and submit those species records produced during all ecological studies to the local recording centre.

Copyright © This report is the copyright of Simply Ecology Limited. Any unauthorised reproduction or usage of material from this report is prohibited.

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background Information 1.1.1 In May 2021, Simply Ecology Limited was commissioned by the National Trust to undertake an Ecological Appraisal of land at the Nicotine Dunes, near Blundell Avenue, Formby, L37 1PH (OS grid reference SD 2726 0767). See Plan 1: Site Location, Plan 2: Proposed Notches.

1.2 Aims 1.2.1 The aims of this ecological assessment were to (see also Annex A and B):

• To provide clear advice to the client, the Local Planning Authority and third parties, on the nature conservation value of the site and surrounding area. • To confirm the presence or absence of protected species, such as badgers, bats, great crested newts, otter, etc) within the proposed development site.

• To enable the client to comply with legislation afforded to protected sites and species. • To highlight the presence of any habitats or species of ecological importance, including Habitats and Species of Principal Importance (NERC Act, 2006).

• To identify any ecological constraints on future development. • To establish the need for any further surveys and assessments.

• To make nature conservation recommendations. 1.2.2 To achieve this, an ecological appraisal of the habitats and any protected species on the site was undertaken on 26th May 2021. This submission presents the results of the ecological surveys at the site.

1.3 Site Description and Proposed Works 1.3.1 The site comprises an area of habitat that is located along the Sefton Coast east of Liverpool Bay in the Irish Sea (see Plan 1). Formby Town, Sefton was located approximately 1km east of site. The general area is known for its wildlife, including protected species and the presence of semi-natural dunes habitats along the coastline. However the site itself comprises habitat that is distinctively different to that which surrounds it. This is due to relatively nutrient rich and moisture retaining substrate upon which the site’s habitat has formed created by deposits of tobacco plant waste. The waste arose from the cigarette industry in the mid-20th Century and was transported and dumped at the site. This area was the primary focus of the survey. 1.3.2 This site is an area frequented by visitors and owned by the National Trust. The Trust plan to excavate the existing tobacco waste habitat (notching) in order to enable natural frontal dune forming processes to take place. This will transform the existing out of place habitat to transition towards more natural dune habitats, thereby restoring natural dune processes (see Plan 2). Prior to carrying out such works the local planning authority is obligated to uphold policy and to ensure there is biodiversity net gain. This report addresses these factors directly.

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Plan 1: Site location.

Plan 2: Proposed dune notching excavation areas within the wider survey area.

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2.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY

2.1 Desk Study 2.1.1 For the desk study, the application site and surrounding 2km was selected to search for any existing biological information. Consultation with commercially available datasets was undertaken to identify records of animals or plants within this search area. Merseyside Biobank supplied the relevant documentation. 2.1.2 In addition, an online search of the Multi Agency Geographical Information Centre (www.magic.gov.uk) was undertaken to identify the presence of nationally or internationally important sites receiving statutory protection. This included sites designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. This covers Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Protection Areas (SPA) and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) all of which have legal protection.

2.2 Extended Phase 1 Survey 2.2.1 The Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken by Kevin Heywood BSc (Hons) ACIEEM and Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM on 26th May 2021. The survey followed the Phase 1 habitat survey methodology (JNCC, 2010) which is a standard technique for recording and mapping habitats. During the Phase 1 survey the presence or potential for presence of protected species was recorded and assessed. 2.2.2 The survey involved walking the whole site, mapping and describing different habitats (for example: woodland, grassland, scrub). Evidence of fauna and faunal habitat is also recorded (for example droppings, tracks, or habitat such as ponds for breeding amphibians). The methods used for ecological survey are in accordance with those established and generally accepted methodologies for field survey, as published by the professional body, the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

2.3 Invasive Alien Plants 2.3.1 During the Phase 1 habitat survey, observations of invasive alien plants listed under Schedule 9 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were made. The search included species such as Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera).

2.4 Amphibian Field Visit 2.4.1 Site visits were undertaken on 26th May 2021 to determine likelihood of natterjack and great crested newt presence and whether full survey for the species was necessary in relation to the scale of the proposed works. The field visits were carried out by Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM, Paul Hudson and Kevin Heywood BSc ACIEEM. In order to assess any likely risk, the site assessment comprised the following elements: 2.4.2 A daylight walkover was undertaken to establish the exact nature of the habitat in the site and to search for suitable natterjack and great crested newt habitat on or around the site.

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2.4.3 Habitat suitability was checked against the requirements detailed in the Natterjack Toad Conservation Handbook (English Nature 1996). This included assessment against presence of preferred habitat type; “upper saltmarsh, coastal dune and inland heath”. Also, the critical habitats of “open, unshaded terrestrial habitat with extensive areas of unvegetated or minimally vegetated ground (i.e. with vertical plant growth of no more than 1 cm or so)” and “Unshaded, ephemeral ponds with shallow, gradually shelving margins and few predators or competitors, for reproduction.”

2.5 Reptiles Similarly, a site visit was carried out by Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM in order to establish any potential habitat suitability and presence of sand lizards, or other reptiles. Based upon the broad distribution of Britain’s 6 native reptiles and the habitats encountered at the site the suitability of the site for the following three species was assessed: sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), slow worm (Anguis fragilis) and common lizard (Zootoca vivipera).The assessment was conducted in accordance with standard reptile survey methods detailed in the National Amphibian and Reptile Survey (NARRS) protocol. The key elements which were assessed in undertaking the habitat assessment were as follows: Vegetation structure – ideal reptile habitat has a variable structure with a mixture of vegetation heights, tangled or thorny areas, mosaics, bare patches, lots of edges (‘ecotones’) and good basking places. Extent – must be big enough area to support a population. Small habitat patches can be sufficient for lizards, whereas snakes need larger areas (although grass snakes can cross unsuitable habitat). Aspect – sunny, sheltered locations, unshaded, south-facing Topography - undulating topography, banks, hummocks, hollows, south-facing slopes; generally not north-facing slopes. Connectivity – essential to allow colonisation when habitat is created, and recolonisation after local extinctions. For example, if an area of good habitat is surrounded by intensive improved farmland, reptiles might not be able to colonise it. History – habitat that has been recently created might look deceptively good, but it takes time for reptiles to colonise, and there must be connectivity with neighbouring areas where they are present.

2.6 Personnel 2.6.1 Surveys were undertaken by Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM and Kevin Heywood BSc (Hons) ACIEEM. Jason Reynolds MSc MCIEEM. Jason started Simply Ecology Limited in 2007. Jason is an experienced ecologist who has been continuously employed in the field of nature conservation since 1995 and has a wealth of experience in both the statutory nature conservation agencies and private consultancy. During his career has worked in Conservation Officer roles for the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, English Nature, Environment Agency, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and Durham Wildlife Trust prior to setting up Simply Ecology ecological consultancy in 2007, where he is the Lead Ecologist. He has an MSc from The

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University of Aberdeen and his thesis investigated the relationship between habitat type and complexity and the foraging behaviour of Pipistrelle bats. Jason holds protected species survey licences for all British bats, white-clawed crayfish and great crested newts. 2.6.2 Kevin Heywood BSc (Hons) ACIEEM is an Ecologist with Simply Ecology Ltd. Kevin graduated with a first-class honours degree in Ecology from Lancaster University in 2015. In addition to this, he has acquired experience since 2012 working as an ecologist in a freelance capacity and since 2015 as a full-time employee for Simply Ecology Ltd. During this time, he has developed numerous field skills and carried out a wide range of botanical and protected species surveys. His expertise predominantly lies with habitat mapping and undertaking protected species surveys including: bats, great crested newts, badgers, otters and reptiles. Kevin holds a protected species licence for all British bats and for great crested newts.

2.7 Timing and Constraints 2.7.1 The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was carried out on 26th May 2021. This timing is excellent as many plants are in flower and/or showing, allowing for accurate classification of habitats. This is an ideal time for assessing the botanical features of the site. 2.7.2 In relation to protected species, May is also an ideal time for the relevant groups at this site. Species such as northern dune tiger beetle adults are active at this time and burrows would be visible, sand lizard overall habitat assessment can be done at any time of year, amphibian habitat assessment can be done of terrestrial and aquatic habitats, and for species such as badger, the ground cover is not yet too tall or dense, so searching for setts can readily be done in a diligent manner. 2.7.3 Overall, in relation to the various habitat and species issues at this site, no constraints on conducting a through ecological baseline survey and appraisal were encountered.

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3.0 DESK STUDY RESULTS

3.1 Nature Conservation Sites 3.1.1 The search for conservation sites within and around the site included both nationally important sites, (Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and internationally important sites (Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites). Information was gleaned from the paid Desk Study provided by Merseyside Biobank, as well as the Natural England website and Magic Maps.

3.1.2 Sefton Coast SSSI, SAC and RAMSAR stretches all along the coastline from Southport to Crosby and encompasses the entirety of the site (see Annex C and D). This area is designated for the range of habitats present, including: intertidal mud and sand flats, shifting dunes, mobile dunes, humid dune slacks, fixed dunes, dune grasslands and dune heat. In addition, there is a range of dependant notable/protected species present, including: internationally important wintering waterfowl, internationally important populations of waders, sand lizard, natterjack toad, great crested newts and a selection of invertebrates and vascular and non- vascular plants.

3.1.3 Just beyond the boundary of the proposed works area (~50m to the West) lies the Ribble and Alt Estuaries Special Protection Area (SPA). This site is classified for the mud/sand flats and saltmarshes and the huge numbers of waders and wildfowl they support, especially over- winter. Further out to sea is Liverpool Bay, Marine SPA, the nearest part of which lies ~1.5km off shore.

3.1.4 South of the site, part of the Sefton Coast SSSI, SAC and Ramsar area is also designated as Local Nature Reserve (Ravenmeols Hills) and further north, is National Nature Reserve Ainsdale Dunes.

3.1.5 Non-Statutory Local Wildlife Sites were also classified all along the coast. These included the following: National Trust and Associated Fields, Lifeboat Road to St Joseph’s Hospital, Albert Road to Lifeboat Road, Range Lane to Albert Road and Formby Golf Club. National Trust and Associated Fields effectively encompassed the entire site. Designations are listed and/or referenced in Annex E.

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Plan 3: Nearby Statutorily Protected Nature Conservation Sites.

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Plan 4: Nearby Local Wildlife Sites.

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3.2 Protected and Noteworthy Species 3.2.1 Merseyside Biobank was also contacted for a full data search of all records of protected species within 2km of site, illustrated on Plan 5 to Plan 7Error! Reference source not found. and in Table 1 In addition, BAP, Red Listed and other Notable species, including Invasive Species are listed on Table 3 in Appendix 1. However, it is noted that the absence of records of other flora and fauna does not necessarily discount the possibility of protected species being on the site or in the vicinity.

3.2.2 The presence or absence within the site of any protected species was taken into account when carrying out the detailed site-specific searches as part of the extended Phase 1 survey. In addition, any habitat which had clear potential for any protected species, or protected species groups was also taken into account when undertaking the site survey.

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Plan 5: European Protected Species.

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Plan 6: UK Protected Species.

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Plan 7: Red Squirrel Records only.

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Table 1: Protected species identified within 2km of the site from Merseyside Biobank and judgement on the potential presence on site. Potential Distance Common Number of Name Taxon Group Designations Presence on from Site (m) Name Records Site BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, LBAP, No – Lack of Arvicola European Terrestrial 1670 1 RedList_GB_post2001-EN, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4.a, suitable amphibius Water Vole mammal WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c habitat No – Lack of Bucephala Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, 540 Goldeneye Bird 4 suitable clangula W(NI)O-Sch1_part2, WACA-Sch1_part2 habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bern-A3, CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, England_NERC_S.41, FEP- Limited – terrestrial 007_tab2, HabDir-A2*, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, possible 319 Chiroptera Bats 12 mammal RedList_GB_post2001-CR, RedList_GB_post2001-DD, foraging RedList_GB_post2001-EN, RedList_GB_post2001-NT, potential RedList_GB_post2001-VU, Scotti No – Lack of Clangula Long-tailed Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, 540 Bird 4 suitable hyemalis Duck RedList_Global_post2001-VU, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, Cygnus No – Lack of CMS_AEWA-A2, England NERC S.41 suppl., 540 columbianus Bewick's Swan Bird 1 suitable England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA- subsp. bewickii habitat Sch1_part1 Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, No – Lack of Whooper 540 Cygnus cygnus Bird 2 CMS_AEWA-A2, FEP-007_tab2, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, suitable Swan WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Limited – Epidalea Natterjack HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA- possible 374 amphibian 34 calamita Toad Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA- foraging Sch5Sect9.4c potential No – Lack of Falco Bern-A2, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, ECCITES-A, 1330 Merlin Bird 1 suitable columbarius FEP-007_tab2, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat

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Potential Distance Common Number of Name Taxon Group Designations Presence on from Site (m) Name Records Site No – Lack of Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, ECCITES-A, , W(NI)O- 540 Falco peregrinus Peregrine Bird 2 suitable Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Fringilla 540 Brambling Bird 2 , WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable montifringilla habitat No – Lack of Black- BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, 540 Gavia arctica Bird 2 suitable throated Diver CMS_AEWA-A2, , WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Red-throated Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, , 540 Gavia stellata Bird 11 suitable Diver W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Hyacinthoides Flowering 766 Bluebell 10 LBAP, WACA-Sch8 suitable non-scripta plant habitat No – Lack of Hydrocoloeus Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_AEWA-A2, WACA- 540 Little Gull Bird 4 suitable minutus Sch1_part1 habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, No – Lack of HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA- 392 Lacerta agilis Sand Lizard reptile 14 suitable Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA- habitat Sch5Sect9.4c No – Lack of Larus Mediterranean Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, 540 Bird 2 suitable melanocephalus Gull CMS_AEWA-A2, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Loxia Common 358 Bird 6 Bern-A2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable curvirostra Crossbill habitat

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Potential Distance Common Number of Name Taxon Group Designations Presence on from Site (m) Name Records Site BAP-2007, Bern-A2, ECCITES-A, England_NERC_S.41, No – Lack of European terrestrial FEP-007_tab2, HabDir-A2*, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, , 1660 Lutra lutra 1 suitable Otter mammal WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA- habitat Sch5Sect9.4c No – Lack of Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, 558 Melanitta fusca Velvet Scoter Bird 5 suitable RedList_Global_post2001-EN, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, No – Lack of Common 712 Melanitta nigra Bird 5 CMS_AEWA-A2, England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O- suitable Scoter Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat Limited – poor ground Eurasian Terrestrial Bern-A3, Protection_of_Badgers_Act_1992, W(NI)O- stability for 1295 Meles meles 3 Badger mammal Sch5 setts or available foraging BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, No – Lack of Nyctalus terrestrial England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, HabDir-A4, 866 Noctule Bat 12 suitable noctula mammal HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- habitat Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c No – Lack of Oceanodroma 540 Leach's Petrel Bird 1 Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, , WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable leucorhoa habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_ASCOBANS, No – Lack of Phocoena Common marine 388 6 ECCITES-A, England_NERC_S.41, HabDir-A2*, HabDir- suitable phocoena Porpoise mammal A4, HabReg-Sch2, OSPAR, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a habitat Limited – CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, HabDir-A4, HabReg- Pipistrellus Common terrestrial possible 319 76 Sch2, LBAP, WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- pipistrellus Pipistrelle mammal foraging Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c potential

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Potential Distance Common Number of Name Taxon Group Designations Presence on from Site (m) Name Records Site BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, Limited – Pipistrellus Soprano terrestrial England_NERC_S.41, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , possible 1323 7 pygmaeus Pipistrelle mammal WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA- foraging Sch5Sect9.4c potential BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, No – Lack of Brown Long- terrestrial England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, HabDir-A4, 1117 Plecotus auritus 35 suitable eared Bat mammal HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- habitat Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c No – Lack of Plectrophenax 540 Snow Bunting Bird 4 Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, , WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable nivalis habitat No – Lack of Slavonian Bern-A2, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA- 540 Podiceps auritus Bird 4 suitable Grebe A2, , WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Podiceps Black-necked Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, CMS_AEWA-A2, , W(NI)O- 540 Bird 2 suitable nigricollis Grebe Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 habitat No – Lack of Regulus 1912 Firecrest Bird 1 Bern-A2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable ignicapilla habitat BAP-2007, Bern-A2, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, No – Lack of Triturus Great Crested HabDir-A2*, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA- 1255 amphibian 6 suitable cristatus Newt Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA- habitat Sch5Sect9.4c No – Lack of 1445 Turdus iliacus Redwing Bird 7 Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, , WACA-Sch1_part1 suitable habitat No – Lack of Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA- 540 Turdus pilaris Fieldfare Bird 3 suitable Sch1_part1 habitat

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Potential Distance Common Number of Name Taxon Group Designations Presence on from Site (m) Name Records Site BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_ASCOBANS, No – Lack of Tursiops Bottle-Nosed marine 1211 1 ECCITES-A, England_NERC_S.41, HabDir-A2*, HabDir- suitable truncatus Dolphin mammal A4, HabReg-Sch2, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a habitat No – Lack of Bern-A2, ECCITES-A, FEP-007_tab2, , W(NI)O- 1125 Tyto alba Barn Owl Bird 6 suitable Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1, WACA:Sch9 habitat Limited – on BAP-2007, Bern-A3, England_NERC_S.41, LBAP, , the outskirts Zootoca Common 147 Reptile 24 W(NI)O-Sch5, WACA-Sch5_sect9.1(kill/injuring), WACA- where habitat vivipara Lizard Sch5_sect9.5a may be more favourable

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4.0 PHASE 1 SURVEY RESULTS

4.1 Habitat Results The wider survey area covers approximately 4.8ha of land owned by the National Trust at Lifeboat Road, Formby. This area predominantly comprised an expanse of nutrient rich habitat, out of place in the context of the surrounding coastal dune habitats landscape. The specific Phase One classified habitats recorded are detailed below and mapped on Plan 8. 4.1.1 Habitats encountered on site included the following (In no particular order):

• Tall Ruderal • Scattered Trees and Shrubs • Bare Sand • Open Dunes • Dune Grassland • Pond

Tall Ruderal 4.1.2 The vast majority of the wider survey site comprised tall ruderal species which had established upon the nicotine waste deposits. This habitat is in marked contrast to the surrounding sand dune habitats. The underlying nicotine deposits is dominated by a botanical species assemblage present which was dominated by nettle (Urtica dioica) (see Plate 1 and Plate 2). Abundant creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), bur chervil (Anthriscus caucalis) and rough meadow grass (Poa trivialis) were also present. The habitat had very limited botanical diversity. 4.1.3 Occasional specimens scattered around the margins or where the other planrs were less dominant included: ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris), spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare), gypsy flower (Cynoglossum officinale), dewberry (Rubus caesius), burdock (Arctium minus), early forget me not (Myosotis ramosissima), cleavers (Galium aparine), bugloss (Anchusa arvensis), miner’s lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata), groundsel (Senecio vulgaris), dock (Rumex obtusifolius), dandelion (Taraxacum agg.), red fescue (Festuca rubra), false oat grass (Arrenatherum elatius), cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata). 4.1.4 At the margins of the nicotine waste there was a rapid transition towards dune grassland or marram dunes. On the seaward frontal edge (western) the dense nettle habitat ended abruptly into steep faces 4-5m high that form the limit of high water and the beach (see Plate 3). The densely packed nicotine waste which forms the substrate for this ruderal habitat can be seen where it is exposed along these faces (see Plate 4)

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Plate 1: The vast majority of site was an extensive nettle bed.

Plate 2: Additional abundant species present across the nettle bed included bur chervil and rough meadow grass.

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Plate 3: The nettle bed and underlying soils come to an abrubt end at the frontals, with a steep face down on to the beach.

Plate 4: The exposed compacted nicotine spoil forms a low maritime soft cliff above the high water line.

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Scattered Trees and Shrubs 4.1.5 Amongst the extensive ruderal nettle bed there were a number of mature elder (Sambucus nigra) scattered throughout the wider site (see Plate 2, Plate 5 and Plate 6), as well as rarely encountered hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), creeping willow (Salix repens) and Corsican pine (Pinus nigra) around the edges. There were no woody shrubs present within either of the two dune notching areas.

Plate 5: Small elder shrubs were dotted around the nettle bed.

Plate 6: A view of the most dense patch of elder on site, with nettle udnerstorey.

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Bare Sand 4.1.6 Around the edges of the grassland and ruderal habitat there the was a relatively marked shift to non-vegetated ground, comprising bare sand (see Plate 7). This presence of mobile sand is the principal natural habitat forming process occurring within the wider survey area. Some relatively substantial areas of bare sand were present at the frontal edge of the site where more natural sand movement was swamping the nettlebeds. The dune notching will enhance and facilitate this process. 4.1.7 The only other areas of bare sand have been maintained as well used informal footpaths. The bare sand forms a narrow thoroughfare through the ruderal habitat in these areas.

Plate 7: In the frontal dunes on the western part of the survey area there were patches of bare sand with occasional pockets of nettle or marram.

Open Yellow Dunes 4.1.8 Surrounding the nutrient rich ruderal habitat (most notably in the north west of site), there were pockets of open yellow dunes characterised by the dominant presence of marram grass (Ammophila arenaria), and occasional accompanying herbs (see Plate 8 and Plate 9). This was located upon undulating topography with an approximate presence of 10-80% open bare sand. In some areas around the edges there were occasional pockets of locally abundant persistent nettle. Within the wider site boundary, the main area of this habitat was located in the north-west.

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Plate 8: In the north-west of site at the frontal area, the nettle ends and marram becomes prevalent. More natural dune processes are occurring.

Plate 9: A view of the marram dunes in the north which still shows signs of the underlying nicotine waste being present, as exhibited by the small dense pockets of nettle.

Dune Grassland 4.1.9 Around the perimeter of the tall ruderal, and particularly stretching to the east the habitat transitioned to natural dune grassland habitat, as might be expected in this fixed dune part of the landscape (see Plate 10 and Plate 11). This habitat hosts a wide range of species

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characterised by the low lying grasses and sedges and abundant low lying forbs including: dewberry, small flowered cranesbill (Geranium pusillum), rough hawkbit (Leontodon hispidus), common mouse ear (Cerastium fontanum), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and ladies bedstraw (Galium verum). The dune grassland lies well outside of the dune notching work areas.

Plate 10: In the north east of the wider area the nicotine remnants were absent amd dune grassland was present.

Plate 11: The dune grassland was undulating and a small pond was present.

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Pond 4.1.10 A small pond was present in the north east of the wider survey area in a artificial dune slack. This was holding water at the time but had little in the way of botanical interest. The pond was located amongst existing dune grassland and would likely have value for natterjack toad if it wasn’t surrounded by unsuitable ruderal habitat (see Plate 11).

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Plan 8: Phase 1 of the notching sites and surrounding area.

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4.2 Amphibians 4.2.1 The initial desk study indicated that natterjack toads (Epidalea calamita) had been record on site approximately 370m east of the southern excavation site. In addition, common common toad (Bufo bufo), common frog (Rana temporaria) and smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) were all recorded 139m, 1045m and 700m away respectively. Great crested newts were recorded 1060m away from site. The only species located within 250m of the proposed extraction areas was a single recording of common toad (see Plan 9). Natterjack was recorded in one located within 250m of the wider site boundary. 4.2.2 A single pond was also recorded within the wider site boundary, as well as a lined pond just outside (see Plan 9). However, neither of these ponds had suitability for great crested newts due to a distinct lack of vegetation presence for egg laying. Indeed, neither ponds were known to be used for breeding purposes by amphibians at the time of writing. 4.2.3 A GCN Habitat Suitability Index score was calculated for the pond on site (Oldham, 2000; see Table 2). The pond size was particularly small and the consequential likely permanence cannot be guaranteed every year. In addition, the most limiting factor with regards to this pond was a lack of macrophytes for egg laying. The pond was however considered excellent for a range of factors, such as: the lack of fish, waterfowl and the surrounding terrestrial habitat. Overall the pond was considered to have average suitability for great crested newts. 4.2.4 However, the terrestrial habitat around the pond within the wider site boundary (see Plan 9) was somewhat structured, on top of undulating topography with plentiful old nearby rabbit burrows and some occasionally shrubs/trees (see Plate 10 and Plate 11). Such terrestrial habitat offers ample cover and shelter for amphibians, particularly common toad, frog and newts. In addition, the short sward dune grassland here could conceivably offer suitability for natterjack toads. It was considered that there was a possibility that natterjacks could therefore be present in the north-eastern part of the wider site boundary where the dune grassland persists. However, the nettle bed that comprises the vast majority of the site was considered to offer negligible no for natterjacks. Indeed, the loss of the existing nettle bed will allow habitats such as the surrounding bare sand, semi natural pond and dune grassland to persists which could potentially increase suitability for natterjacks. 4.2.5 In summary, occasional records of amphibians have been recorded in the areas surrounding the site. However, none were located in particularly close proximity to the excavation sites, and none on the existing nettle bed to be excavated. The semi- natural pond in the north-east could conceivably offer some suitability for breeding amphibians such as natterjacks, however, this has not yet been recorded. The nettle dominated ruderal habitat which encompasses the vast majority of the site, was considered to offer poor suitability for amphibians, particularly natterjacks.

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Table 2: GCN Habitat Suitability Index Score for the single pond on site. Factors Habitat Suitability Index Geographic Location 1 Pond Area 0.4 Permanence 0.1 Water Quality 0.67 Shade 1 Waterfowl 1 Fish 1 Pond Count 0.6 Terrestrial Habitat 1 Macrophytes 0.3 HSI Score: 0.56

4.3 Reptiles 4.3.1 The desk study revealed common and sand lizard records within 2km surrounding the wider site boundary (see Plan 9). No recordings had been made within the notching sites, and the closest recordings comprised common lizard approximately 415m north of the northern extraction site. No recordings of sand lizards were found within 250m of the notching site boundaries. 4.3.2 Sand lizards prefer areas of dune heath or marram dominated areas with plenty of dense marram cover as well as open sand on south facing slopes as they require shelter and suitable basking sites. The ruderal dominated vegetation at he notching sites had a severe lack of these features and was therefore considered to offer poor suitability for this species (see Plate 1 to Plate 6 and Plate 11). The only area where there was any suitability within the wider survey site, was in the north-western frontal area where there was some open dune habitat, with reasonable amounts of open sand areas (~10-80%) amongst abundant marram. However, this is located outside of the extraction areas (see Plate 9). 4.3.3 Common lizards and slow worms are known to be less exacting in terms of their specific habitat requirements. However, the extensive cover of the nettle offers and the relatively limited undulating topography relatively little in the way of potential basking sites. It is however conceivable that this species could be present around the outskirts of this habitat or in the north-western open dunes. 4.3.4 It was therefore concluded that the nettle dominated habitat to be removed offered negligible realistic potential as habitat for protected reptile species, due to a poor aspect, which was lacking in basking opportunities.

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Plate 12: The habitat where the dune notching will occur was unsuitable for reptiles.

4.4 Red Squirrel 4.4.1 The desk study returned many records of this species from the surrounding coniferous plantation woodlands which lie in-land. However no records were present within the proposed notching areas, or within the wider site boundary. Indeed there was a stark lack of trees on the site and absolutely no suitability for this species. As such, it is considered that there is no realistic likelihood of this species being present or impacted by the works.

4.5 Badger and Rabbit 4.5.1 The wider site had numerous rabbit holes present in the east amongst the dune grassland, as well as underneath the scattered elders amongst the ruderal vegetation. However, none of the holes encountered were of the dimensions indicative of badger (Meles meles) activity and all were attributed to rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). No records or signs of badger or rabbit were recorded from the notching site and it was

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concluded that no setts were present and that the notching site had negligible suitability for either species.

4.6 Northern Dune Tiger Beetle 4.6.1 Historic records of this species were recorded in the wider surrounding areas, and at the closest point, approximately 100m north of the northern notching site. This is also within the wider red line boundary illustrated on Plan 10. This species has similar habitat requirements to those of the sand lizard, requiring bare sand as well as a degree of cover afforded by habitat. 4.6.2 The bare sand at the notching sites was highly mobile and had a clear transition to nettle bed. There were no sandy faces with suitable aspect or habitat. The survey was carried out in May when other dune tiger beetles were finding burrows and active adults at Victoria Road which lies just to the North. As such, given the absence of suitable habitat it was considered that there was no realistic likelihood of this species being present within the open sand and ruderal habitat where the notching will occur.

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Plan 9: All Amphibians and Reptiles records within 250m of the wider site.

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Plan 10: Northern Dune Tiger Beetle Recordings within 250m of the wider site..

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5.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

5.1 Statutory Nature Conservation Sites 5.1.1 The entire survey area comprised a mixture of statutorily designated nature conservation sites and non-designated land. 5.1.2 The designations encountered encompass both National and International Levels of protection. This arises through the inclusion of the Sefton Coast Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the survey area, which affords the site protection at a National Level, primarily via The Wildlife and Countryside Act. 5.1.3 Within the survey area, the same ground as the SSSI is also designated as Sefton Coast Special Area of Conservation (SAC), which affords the site additional protection via The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations, reflecting its international importance. 5.1.4 The sites are designated for the range of coastal habitats primarily associated with sand dunes and support a variety of rare wildlife species such as sand lizard, natterjack toad, great crested newts and a selection of invertebrates and vascular and non-vascular plants. The proposed dune notching and excavation of the nicotine waste will occur in two locations (See Plan 2). The habitats within these areas predominantly comprise tall ruderal vegetation dominated by nettle. This is an area of heavily modified habitat which is abnormal in the context of the surrounding dune habitats that make up the designated coastal sites. The proposed works are designed to remove the nutrient rich nicotine waste to enable natural geomorphological dunes processes to re-establish. This will result in a transition from nettle dominated ruderal habitat back to active sand dune forming habitat which will benefit the nature conservation sites that are afforded special protection. 5.1.5 The aim of the project, therefore, is to directly benefit the designated sites and increase the value in relation to key ecological features. This will also potentially have positive impacts for dependent protected species (such as sand lizard and Northern Dune Tiger Beetle) through better connection of the dunes either side of the ruderal habitat, as well as a net increase in habitat availability over time. It is therefore considered that the proposals will have a net positive impact upon the SSSI. This also translates to positive impacts in terms of the Ribble and Alt Estuary Ramsar and the Sefton Coast SAC designated site.

5.2 Non-Statutory Nature Conservation Sites 5.2.1 The entire wider survey area lay within a Local Wildlife Site (LWS) named National Trust and Associated Fields. This affords the site a level of protection within National and Local Planning Policy. The proposed benefits for the statutory protected sites are equally anticipated for the non-statutory designation, as this values the same dune habitats and dependant flora/fauna.

5.3 Habitats The habitats in the wider survey comprised predominantly tall ruderal dominated by nettle. Other habitats present around the perimeters included dune grassland, open yellow sand dunes and bare sand. Given the targeting of the ruderal habitat and specifically the underlying soil, the key habitat to be negatively affected comprises the tall ruderal vegetation. This area

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has relatively low ecological value and the removal of this habitat is considered to be compensated for through the long term perceived dune re-establishment. This represents a major impact on a habitat valued at the site level. 5.3.1 Surrounding habitat such as open dunes and dune grassland habitats are valued at the District Level (see Annex B). The excavation works are taking place for the most part away from these habitats, however, the northern proposed excavation site will be in close proximity to existing open dunes. Rather than negative implications however, this is considered to likely have positive implications and allow for the sand dunes to positively increase in size. 5.3.2 Given the long term implications of the proposed works, which directly positively impacts the key recognised habitats of international ecological value, this represents an overall positive impact on a statutorily protected habitat at the International level.

5.4 Natterjack Toad 5.4.1 There are no waterbodies within the notching work areas, but there was one pond present within wider the survey area. This was locate d some 100m+ east of proposed work areas. This was a small and shallow pool, with a surface area of only a few square metres during the height of summer. The absence of fish meant that the pond looked potentially well suited to natterjack for spawning though no signs of use had been recorded to date. It is likely that the nettle beds which surround this habitat make it potentially inaccessible. Nonetheless, there remains is a small possibility of natterjack being present in the wider site, in the short dune grassland. This area is north-east of the notching sites, separated by the nettle bed- which is effectively considered as a barrier to this species. 5.4.2 It was concluded that there is no reasonable likelihood of the notching works directly injuring or killing any natterjack toads. In addition, in the long term, the works will increase the proportion of dune habitats within the area, potentially increasing available habitat and connectivity for this species. As such, it is concluded that there will be a long term positive impact upon a species of International importance.

5.5 Other Amphibians 5.5.1 The desk study returned records of four additional species within the surrounding 2km of site: great crested newt, smooth newt, common frog and common toad. Only common toad had been recorded within 250m of the notching areas and/or the wider site boundary. No GCN records were present from within the survey area and the nearest GCN records are from ponds over a kilometre from the notching areas. 5.5.2 There are no ponds within the notching work area, and the pond within the wider site boundary was considered to have average suitability for breeding great crested newts due to its small size and isolation. The habitats between the notching work area and the pond comprised the nettle bed. It was considered that this relatively uniform and dominant habitat type was not likely to offer particularly high quality habitat for these species. It is also worth noting that the notching area is located in an exposed coastal area, which does not lie within any realistic route between ponds for amphibians such as GCN, common toad, frog or smooth newt.

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5.5.3 Taking into account the absence of ponds from the notching areas, the low suitability of the nearest pond and the intervening habitat, as well as the general lack of records of these species in this area (which is an otherwise well recorded area); it is concluded that the risk of harming other amphibian species, including protected GCN, was negligible.

5.6 Sand Lizard 5.6.1 No sand lizard records were recorded within the notching areas, or the wider survey area. The closest record was ~415m north of the northern notching site (see Plan 9). Given the poor quality habitat to be extracted, the proposed works are set to result in long term benefits for this species as they will deliver an increase in sand dune habitat. Bare sand will be exposed and locally native marram will proliferate. In addition, given that the notching work is specifically targeting the deep soils covered with dominant nettle, which effectively excludes sand lizard, the realistic likelihood of individuals being harmed is considered to be negligible. As such, it is concluded that there will be a long term positive impact a species of International importance.

5.7 Badgers and Rabbits 5.7.1 No badger setts or rabbit burrows were observed within either of the notching sites. Rabbits were however present throughout the wider survey site. It is not anticipated that badgers or rabbits are likely to be obstructed from access their setts/burrows or have them affected in any way. Tunnels may extend up many metres underground, but we are confident that no direct impacts upon either species would arise as a result of the proposed notching and extraction works and any effect would be neutral.

5.8 Red Squirrel 5.8.1 No red squirrels were observed within the survey area and there was a total lack of suitable habitat for the species on the site or in either of the dune notching areas. As such, we are confident that there are no realistically feasible impacts likely to occur upon this species and any effect would be neutral.

5.9 Bats 5.9.1 The desk study returned no records of bats from within the extraction or the wider survey areas, but overall a range of species comprising common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared and noctule have all been recorded from the wider environs. The site provides no roosting potential for bats due to a complete lack of suitable roosting features within the dune grassland and ruderal habitat. However, there is a slim possibility that individuals may pass over the site when they are engaged in commuting or foraging. Despite this, given the context of the location and the surrounding landscape, the realistic impact upon foraging habitat as a result f the notching is considered to be negligible. 5.9.2 It was concluded that the impacts upon protected bat species are likely to amount to short term disturbance of low grade foraging habitat at the site level. There is no risk of harm to individual bats or their roosts, and any effect would be neutral.

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5.10 Breeding Birds 5.10.1 The site was not considered suitable for ground nesting bird species due to the levels of public disturbance and the overgrown nature of the tall ruderal vegetation. However, there were some scattered elders which incidental observation confirmed were used by wood pigeons and goldfinches on the day of the survey. These shrubs will not be directly affected by the proposed works. In the long-term, should they become affected by the onset of shifting dunes, this would be considered to represent a minor impact upon of foraging habitat for common bird species. The notching works will have no impact upon breeding birds. In the long-term the re-establishment of sand mobilisation might result a minor loss of trees used by birds for foraging at the Site Level.

5.11 Invertebrates 5.11.1 There were records for several Priority invertebrate species in the desk study, such as grayling butterfly, Podalonia hirsuta and Graphiphora augur, which may well have suitable habitat within the overall survey area. Survey effort for invertebrates is generally only required when a site, by virtue of its habitat/topographic/substrate diversity, is likely to afford value to this group. 5.11.2 Given that the area to be extracted is dominated by nettle there is little suitability for the species assemblage typically present in the wider SSSI. The need for further invertebrate surveys were therefore negated in this case. 5.11.3 The desk study returned a record of northern dune tiger beetle from within the wider red line survey area in the north-west. The dune habitat with areas of dense marram and open sand were considered suitable for this species. In contrast, within the proposed notching sites the topography was relatively flat amongst the nettle and there was no habitat and bare sand offering any habitat suitability. 5.11.4 Given that the proposed notching works will take place upon nettle bed where the habitat effectively excludes them, no realistic direct impacts are likely to occur. In the long-term the works will deliver a positive effect for this species at the National level.

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6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Summary of Findings 6.1.1 In May 2021 Simply Ecology Limited was commissioned by The National Trust to undertake an Ecological Appraisal of land at Formby, Sefton, L37 2EB. It is understood that the proposed works comprises two working areas where the removal of nicotine waste and accompanying sand/soil and overlying ruderal vegetation will take place. This has the aim of restoring natural dune processes in this area which has heavily modified by previous dumping of industrial nicotine waste. Site surveys were carried out in May 2021 and comprised extended phase 1 habitat survey and assessment for protected species. 6.1.2 The site lies within the Sefton Coast SSSI, SAC and RAMSAR site as well as the Ribble and Alt Estuary SPA. A range of overlapping classifications were also identified, including: Ravenmeols Hills Local Nature Reserve and Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve as well as a range of Local Wildlife Sites, most notably ‘National Trust and Associated Fields’ LWS which encompasses the entire survey area. Consideration upon the likely effects, was therefore required. 6.1.3 The extraction areas were situated on fixed moist/nutrient-rich substrate, indicated by the dominance of nettle on the overlying tall ruderal habitat. Occasional elder shrubs were also present and a small selection of largely common ruderals were also present. North of the extraction areas was an area of dune habitat with exposed bare sand and undulating aspect. North-east of the extraction area was a small pond with dune grassland present further eastwards. South of the site comprised bare sand. Overall, the ruderal habitat was considered to represent a very common and widespread habitat with negligible ecological value, which is a stark contrast to the Internationally recognised habitats surrounding. The proposed works are targeting directly towards only the poor quality habitat, with a view to transition it to habitat of the same value of those surrounding. As such, this proposal is considered to represent a major impact to habitat of negligible value, to result in a net increase on effectively, habitat of International value. 6.1.4 No evidence of presence of protected, or notable species was found during the PEA survey within the extraction areas. In addition, given the habitat present and the effective likelihood of it excluding species present in the surrounding dunes landscape, it is considered that there is not likely a realistic there is no need to conduct further site surveys before impacts can be fully understood. Recommendations with respect to these nature conservation issues follow:

6.2 Designated Sites 6.2.1 The SSSI, SAC and Ramsar sites are afforded strict protection and any proposed development works are usually discouraged from these areas. However, the proposed sand notching is designed to directly benefit the nature conservation sites, and transition it towards a feature that resembles the habitats for which it is protected. As such clear benefits to these sites will arise from carrying out the works.

• It is advised that the proposed extraction works will result in a direct long term positive outcome by removing waste material and enabling the re-establishment of Coastal Sand

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Dune habitat. This will increase the special interest of the site as described under the Sefton Coast SSSI definition. This also represents a beneficial effect upon the SAC at an International level. Reason: Carrying out these works will be compliant with the aims of The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (As amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2017 (as amended). • It is advised that no Habitats Regulations Assessment is required for these works as the prime reason they are being undertaken is for nature conservation purposes that are directly connected with the management of the site. Reason: This advice will deliver compliance with Regulation 63 (1) of The Conservation of habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended).

6.3 Habitats 6.3.1 Development proposals should seek to enhance its long-term ecological interest and provide new opportunities for protected and notable species in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework (2019), and the NERC Act (2006). • It is advised that the works represent excellent Ecological Enhancement Measures. The removal of nutrient rich ruderal vegetation and the nicotine waste will enable native flora and fauna to proliferate in these areas. The re-establishment of shifting dune processes will further enhance the immediate surrounding area to further resemble the features for which the SSSI/SAC are designated. Reason: This advice will deliver compliance with Regulation 63 (1) of The Conservation of habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended).

• It is advised that no further botanical surveys are required for this site. This is because the proposed works are deliberately targeting the existing nettle dominated habitats of limited ecological value. Reason: This advice will deliver compliance with the Local Authority’s biodiversity duty under the NERC Act, as reflected in the National Planning Policy Framework and the Local Plan.

6.4 Reptiles 6.4.1 The desk study revealed that sand lizard and common lizard, which are protected reptiles, have been recorded within the local area. However, the habitat to be affected is unsuitable for these species as it does not offer habitat typically used by any of these species. In addition, the proposed works are directly targeted towards creating more suitable habitat for these species, directly positively impacting upon them through habitat availability and connectivity along the coast. • It is advised that the works can go ahead and no further surveys need to be carried out. There is negligible likelihood that reptiles will be present within the working area and there is no reasonably foreseeable likelihood that direct harm will arise. In the long term it is anticipated that there will be a positive benefit through direct increase in habitat availability and connectivity for Internationally protected species. Reason: This advice is in compliance with The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (As amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2017 (as amended).

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6.5 Amphibians 6.5.1 The desk study revealed that Natterjack toads, great crested newts and a range of other protected amphibians, have been recorded within the surrounding 2km. However, there were no recordings of amphibians on any ponds in the surrounding 250m of site. In addition, the nearest pond had some suitability for natterjacks, however, this was situated on the far side of the dominant nettle bed, which offers poor suitability for this species. It was therefore considered that overall, the risk of direct harm to protected amphibians was negligible. In addition, the proposed works are set to potentially increase habitat availability for Natterjacks in the surrounding area, resulting in direct positive impacts for this strictly European designated species.

• It is advised that the works can go ahead and no further surveys need to be carried out. There is negligible likelihood that amphibians will be present within the working area and there is no reasonably foreseeable likelihood that direct harm will arise. Overall, this is a project which may potentially benefit Natterjacks in the long term through the facilitation of dune slack reestablishment arising from natural dune processes being restored. Reason: This advice is in compliance with The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (As amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2017 (as amended).

6.6 Mammals 6.6.1 The desk study revealed that a range of bat species have been recorded in the surrounding area near to site. In addition, many recordings of red squirrel in the wider area, as well as some records from the site. However, the site offered zero suitability for roosting bats or for dreys. The only realistic likelihood of this site being used by bats could be for limited foraging purposes. The dune notching will not result in significant adverse impacts. No signs of badgers or rabbits or other mammals were found in or near to site and there was no risk of impact anticipated. • It is advised that all works can go ahead and no further mammal surveys need to be carried out. There is negligible likelihood that mammals will be present within the working area and there is no reasonably foreseeable likelihood that direct harm will arise. Reason: This advice is in compliance with The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (As amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2017 (as amended).

6.7 Birds 6.7.1 Habitats near to the site, including occasional elder shrubs, provide some limited habitat suitable for nesting birds. However, no trees or shrubs were present within either of the notching locations. It was concluded that no direct impacts upon breeding birds will arise.

• It is advised that the works can go ahead without any timing restriction as no removal of trees and shrubs will occur and no suitable ground-nesting habitat is present. In the unlikely event that a bird nest in current use is discovered during the works then an appropriate buffer zone around the nest should be created where works can only

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continue after the nest is vacated. Reason: This advice will deliver compliance with The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

6.8 Invertebrates 6.8.1 The desk study revealed that Northern Dune Tiger Beetle was recorded some 100m north of the wider survey site. In addition, a range of other notable invertebrate species were also identified in the desk study. The proposed notching works were proposed to take place on the ruderal habitat however, and therefore the habitat was not suitable for this species. Other invertebrates dependent upon surrounding dune habitat were considered likely to benefit directly from carrying out the works to enhance the dunes.

• It is advised that no further invertebrate surveys are required in conjunction with the site extraction proposals. This is because the likely impacts upon invertebrates dependent upon the surrounding Dunes habitat are unlikely to be present when the notching of the nettle habitat is undertaken. Overall, the proposed works are considered to represent a long term beneficial impact upon invertebrate species present within the Dunes habitats, protected under the SSSI/SAC. Reason: This advice is in compliance with The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (As amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulation 2017 (as amended).

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7.0 REFERENCES

Oldham R.S. et al. (2000) Evaluating the suitability of habitat for the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) Herpetological Journal 10 (4), 143-155. DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (2019) National Planning Policy Framework. HMSO. London

JOINT NATURE CONSERVATION COMMITTEE Mitchell-Jones, A.J. & McLeish, A.P. [Eds.] (2004) The Bat Workers Manual (3rd edition). Joint Nature Conservancy Council, Peterborough.

Natural England (2001) Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. Natural England. NARRS Survey Protocol: http://www.narrs.org.uk/survey.php

Merseyside Biodiversity Group (2018) North Merseyside Biodiversity Action Plan: Northern Dune Tiger Beetle. http://www.merseysidebiodiversity.org.uk/download/sap2008-ndtb/

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006: http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ukpga_20060016_en_1 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2017/1012/pdfs/uksi_20171012_en.pdf Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/contents

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ANNEX A: STATUTORY AND PLANNING CONTEXT A.0.1 The client is advised that many species of British wildlife are legally protected. The following section provides a brief overview of the protection afforded to species commonly encountered during development. The Recommendations at the end of this report will advise as necessary, but it is also useful for the client to have an understanding of the legal protection as this helps to ensure that the law is complied with.

A.1 Badgers A.1.1 Badgers are protected under Schedule 6 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (WCA), and the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. It is illegal to: • Kill, injure, take, possess or cruelly ill-treat a badger or to attempt to do so;

• Interfere with a badger sett by damaging or destroying it;

• Obstruct access to or any entrance of a badger sett; • Disturb a badger when it is occupying a sett A.1.2 A badger sett is “any structure or place that displays signs indicating current use by a badger”. Natural England, the Government’s statutory nature conservation body, classifies a sett as active if it has been occupied within the last 12 months. A.1.3 Operations that might cause disturbance of an active sett entrance can be carried out under licence from Natural England. If any badgers are found during the course of the survey, this will be highlighted in this report.

A.2 Birds A.2.1 All wild birds are protected against killing or injury under The WCA 1981 (as amended). This protection extends to bird’s nests during the breeding season, which makes it an offence to damage or destroy nests or eggs. Birds that are listed on Schedule 1 of the Act receive additional protection against intentional or reckless disturbance during the breeding season. This makes it an offence to disturb these species at or near to their nesting site.

A.3 European Protected Species (includes bats, otter, hazel dormouse, great crested newts, and others) A.3.1 The client is advised that all bats and great crested newts are European Protected Species (EPS). These EPS are protected under European legislation that is implemented in England via The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (Regulation 41). A full list of EPS is provided in Schedule 2 of the Regulations. In addition, these EPS also receive the protection of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) in respect of Section 9 (4)(b & c) and (5). A.3.2 If both national and international legislation are taken together, the legislative protection afforded to these species makes it an offence to: • Intentionally/ deliberately kill, disturb, injure or capture them.

• Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any breeding site or resting place. • Possess or control any live or dead specimen or anything derived from a European Protected Species.

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A.3.3 If an activity is likely to result in any of the above offences, derogation from the legal protection can be issued in the form of a European Protected Species licence issued by Natural England. Licences for development purposes are issued under The Conservation Of Habitats And Species Regulations (2017) and only allow what is permitted within the terms and conditions of the licence. If any EPS are found during the course of the survey, this will be highlighted in this report.

A.4 Protected Mammals and Reptiles (includes water vole, red squirrel, reptiles and others) A.4.1 All native reptiles and a variety of British mammals also receive protection under The WCA 1981 (as amended). Schedule 5 of The WCA lists animals that are protected. The degree of protection varies. Water voles and red squirrel are examples of species with full protection. The Act makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure, take, possess, or trade in any wild animal listed in Schedule 5, and prohibits interference with places used for shelter or protection, or intentionally disturbing animals occupying such places. A.4.2 All native reptiles in the UK are protected. The commoner species such as grass snake, common lizard, slow worm and adder are protected only from unlawful killing and injuring. In practice this may require a reptile protection scheme before implementing a planning permission but no specific licence is required. Sand lizard and smooth snake listed as EPS (see A3.3 above). A.4.4 If any protected species are found during the course of the survey, this will be highlighted in this report.

A.5 Non-native invasive species A.5.1 A number of non-native plant species growing wild in the UK are listed on Schedule 9 of the WCA due to their invasive nature and the detrimental impact they can have on native habitats and wildlife. This legislation makes it an offence to plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild any plant species which is included in Part II of Schedule 9. A.5.2 This legislation should be considered during site clearance works which could lead to the spread of Schedule 9 listed plant species from the site if plant material is not properly handled and disposed of. Development proposals should also consider the removal of invasive species from areas of site that would otherwise remain unaffected by works in order to avoid the risk of these invasive plants spreading from the site in the future and enhance habitats within the site. This would in turn free up space for wildlife friendly planting, prioritising use of native species within planting schemes where appropriate.

A.6 Planning Considerations A.6.1 When considering each planning application, the presence of protected species, such as those listed above, is a material consideration which must be fully considered by the Local Authority when granting planning permission. If a licence from Natural England is required, then prior to issuing any planning consent, the local planning authority will need to be satisfied that there is no reason why such a licence would not be issued. Therefore, in reaching the planning decision the local planning authority will need to have regard to the requirements of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. The three licensing tests given in the Regulations must be considered. In summary, these are that: 1. The development is required for the purpose of: • Preserving public health or public safety;

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• For other imperative reasons of over-riding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature and beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment;

• For preventing serious damage to property. 2. There is no satisfactory alternative. 3. The proposal will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the population of the species at a favourable conservation status. A.6.2 All necessary information would need to be provided to the planning authority as part of the planning application in order to address the above tests. A.6.3 The Natural Environment and Communities Act (NERC Act) 2006 extended the biodiversity duty set out in the Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act to public bodies and statutory undertakers to ensure due regard to the conservation of biodiversity. The Duty is set out in Section 40 of the Act, and states that: "Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity" A.6.4 The Duty applies to all local authorities, community, parish and town councils, police, fire and health authorities and utility companies. Section 41 (S41) of this Act (the ‘England Biodiversity List’) also requires the Secretary of State to publish a list of habitats and species that are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England. This list is used to guide decision-makers such as public bodies, including local and regional authorities, in implementing their duty under section 40(1) of the Act. A.6.5 Also, Local Authorities must follow the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which provides guidance on the interpretation of the law in relation to wildlife issues and development. For each development proposal considered by the Local Planning Authority the NPPF states that the authority must aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity. If significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused. UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) A.6.6 The UK BAP, which was first published in 1994, was the UK government response to the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity. It sets priorities for nationally important ‘Priority pecies’ and ‘Priority habitats’. Each species and habitat action plan has costed actions and targets, and is used to inform the compilation of national lists such as the Section 41 List described above.

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ANNEX B: IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Table 1: Valuing Ecological Features Level of Value Examples International An internationally designated site or candidate site (SPA, pSPA, SAC, cSAC, pSAC, Ramsar site, Biogenetic Reserve). A viable area of a habitat type listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive, or smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. Any regularly occurring population of an internationally important species, which is threatened or rare in the UK, i.e. it is a UK Red Data Book species or listed as occurring in 15 or fewer 10km squares in the UK (Categories 1 and 2 in the UK BAP) or of uncertain conservation status or of global conservation concern in the UK BAP. A regularly occurring, nationally significant population of any internationally important species. National A nationally designated site (SSSI, ASSI, NNR, Marine Nature Reserve) or a discrete area, which meets the published selection criteria for national designation. A viable area of a Priority habitat identified in the UK BAP, or of smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important species which is threatened or rare in the region or county (see local BAP). A regularly occurring, regionally or county significant number of a nationally important species. Regional Viable areas of key habitat identified in the Regional BAP or smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. Viable areas of key habitat identified as being of Regional value in the appropriate Natural Area profile. Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important species which is not threatened or rare in the region. Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species listed as being nationally scarce which occurs in 16-100 10km squares in the UK or in a Regional BAP or relevant Natural Area on account of its regional rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a regionally important species. County Semi-natural ancient woodland greater than 0.25ha. County/Metropolitan sites and other sites which the designating authority has determined meet the published ecological selection criteria for designation, including Local Nature Reserves selected on County/metropolitan ecological criteria. A viable area of habitat identified in the County BAP. A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a County/Metropolitan ‘red data book’ or BAP species, designated on account of its regional rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a County/Metropolitan important species. District/Borough Semi-natural ancient woodland smaller than 0.25ha. Areas of habitat identified in a sub- County (District/Borough) BAP or in the relevant Natural Area profile. Sites/features that are scarce within the District/Borough or which appreciably enrich the District/Borough habitat resource. A diverse and/or ecologically valuable hedgerow network. A population of a species that is listed in a District/Borough BAP, because of its rarity in the locality or in the relevant Natural Area profile because of its regional rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a District/Borough important species during a critical phase of its life cycle. Site Areas of habitat or populations/communities of species considered to appreciably enrich the habitat resource within the context of the parish or neighbourhood, e.g. species-rich hedgerows. NB: Where species or habitats occur in more than one category, the highest value is applicable.

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Table 2: Impact Magnitude Impact Magnitude Examples Major Loss of over 50% of a site feature, habitat or population. Adverse change to all of a site feature, habitat or population. For benefits, an impact equivalent in nature conservation terms to gain of over 50% of a site feature, habitat or population. Moderate Loss affecting 20-50% of a site feature, habitat or population. Adverse change to over 50% of a site feature, habitat or population. For benefits, an impact equivalent in nature conservation terms to a gain of 20-50% of a site feature, habitat or population. Slight Loss affecting 5-19% of a site feature, habitat or population. Adverse change to 20- 50% of a site feature, habitat or population. For benefits, an impact equivalent in nature conservation terms to a gain of 5-19% of a site feature, habitat or population. Negligible Loss affecting up to 5% of a site feature, habitat or population. Adverse change to less than 20% of a site feature, habitat or population. For benefits, an impact equivalent in nature conservation terms to a gain of up to 5% of a site feature, habitat or population.

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ANNEX C: IMPACT RISK ZONES FOR SSSIs

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ANNEX D: SSSI DESIGNATION

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ANNEX E: NON-STATUTORY DESIGNATIONS

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APPENDIX 1: ADDITIONAL NEARBY NOTABLE SPECIES Table 3: BAP, Red Listed and other Notable species, including Invasive Species, recorded within 2km of site. Name Common Name Taxon Group Legislation Acanthocardia Spiny cockle mollusc Marine-NR aculeata Acronicta psi Grey Dagger insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Acronicta rumicis Knot Grass insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Adscita statices Forester insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, insect - Aeshna cyanea Southern Hawker dragonfly LBAP (Odonata) insect - Aeshna mixta Migrant Hawker dragonfly LBAP (Odonata) Agabus insect - beetle Agabus biguttatus Notable-B, NS-excludes biguttatus (Coleoptera) Brown-spot Agrochola litura insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Pinion Agrochola Beaded Chestnut insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, lychnidis Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, England NERC Alauda arvensis Skylark bird S.41 suppl., England_NERC_S.41, FEP- 007_tab2, LBAP, Amara Amara insect - beetle Notable-B praetermissa praetermissa (Coleoptera) Amphipoea Ear Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, oculea Amphipyra Mouse Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, tragopoginis insect - Emperor Anax imperator dragonfly LBAP Dragonfly (Odonata) Anthicus Anthicus insect - beetle Notable-A, RedList_GB_post2001-VU bimaculatus bimaculatus (Coleoptera) Apamea remissa Dusky Brocade insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Aplasta ononaria Rest Harrow insect - moth RedList_GB_Pre94-R Apus apus Swift bird Bird-Amber, LBAP, Arctia caja Garden Tiger insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Dark Green insect - Argynnis aglaja LBAP Fritillary butterfly BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, FEP- Arvicola European Water terrestrial 007_tab2, LBAP, RedList_GB_post2001- amphibius Vole mammal EN, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4.a, WACA- Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c Atethmia Centre-barred insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, centrago Sallow

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BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, Aythya marila Scaup bird England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O- Sch1_part2, WACA-Sch1_part1 BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Blysmus flowering Flat-sedge RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, compressus plant RedList_GB_post2001-VU, Bombus Red-tailed (Hill) insect - (Psithyrus) Notable-B Cuckoo Bee hymenopteran rupestris Brachylomia Minor Shoulder- insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, viminalis knot BAP-2007, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A2.2, Branta bernicla Dark-bellied CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, England bird subsp. bernicla Brent Goose NERC S.41 suppl., England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2 Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, Bucephala Goldeneye bird CMS_AEWA-A2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part2, clangula WACA-Sch1_part2 BAP-2007, Bern-A3, Bufo bufo Common Toad amphibian England_NERC_S.41, , WACA- Sch5_sect9.5a Calamotropha Bulrush Veneer insect - moth Notable-B paludella Caradrina Mottled Rustic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, morpheus Centaurium flowering Seaside Centaury NS-excludes, W(NI)O-Sch8_part1 littorale plant Ceramica pisi Broom Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Cheilosia Cheilosia insect - true fly Notable, NS-excludes mutabilis mutabilis (Diptera) Chiasmia clathrata Latticed Heath insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, clathrata Chionodes Eastern insect - moth Notable-B distinctella Groundling BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bern-A3, CMS_A2, CMS_EUROBATS-A1, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, HabDir-A2*, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, terrestrial Chiroptera Bats LBAP, RedList_GB_post2001-CR, mammal RedList_GB_post2001-DD, RedList_GB_post2001-EN, RedList_GB_post2001-NT, RedList_GB_post2001-VU, Scotti BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, FEP- Northern Dune insect - beetle Cicindela hybrida 007_tab2, LBAP, RedList_GB_post2001- Tiger Beetle (Coleoptera) VU Cicindela insect - beetle FEP-007_tab2, Notable-B, Dune Tiger Beetle maritima (Coleoptera) RedList_GB_post2001-NT Cirrhia icteritia Sallow insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Simply Ecology Limited –Ecological Appraisal – June 2021 78

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Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, Clangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck bird RedList_Global_post2001-VU, WACA- Sch1_part1 Large Thistle insect - beetle Cleonis pigra Notable-B Weevil (Coleoptera) insect - Coenagrion puella Azure Damselfly dragonfly LBAP (Odonata) Coenonympha insect - BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Small Heath pamphilus butterfly RedList_GB_post2001-NT, Cossus cossus Goat Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Cotoneaster Hollyberry flowering WACA:Sch9 bullatus Cotoneaster plant Scarce Grass- Crambus pratella insect - moth Notable-B veneer New Zealand flowering Crassula helmsii NBNFreq, WACA:Sch9 Pigmyweed plant Crocosmia pottsii flowering x aurea = C. x Montbretia WACA:Sch9 plant crocosmiiflora BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, Cygnus BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, columbianus Bewick's Swan bird England NERC S.41 suppl., subsp. bewickii England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O- Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, FEP- Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan bird 007_tab2, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA- Sch1_part1 Cynoglossum flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-NT, Hound's-tongue officinale plant RedList_GB_post2001-NT Dasypolia templi Brindled Ochre insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Delichon urbicum House Martin bird Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, LBAP Dendrocopos Lesser Spotted Bern-A2, Bird-Red, England NERC S.41 bird minor Woodpecker suppl., FEP-007_tab2 Small Square- Diarsia rubi insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, spot Ecliptopera Small Phoenix insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, silaceata Emberiza BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Red, Yellowhammer bird citrinella England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Emberiza BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, Reed Bunting bird schoeniclus England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, insect - Enallagma Common Blue dragonfly LBAP cyathigerum Damselfly (Odonata) Ennomos erosaria September Thorn insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Ennomos Dusky Thorn insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41 fuscantaria

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BAP-2007, Bern-A2, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Epidalea calamita Natterjack Toad amphibian HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c flowering ECCITES-B, LBAP, NR-excludes, Epipactis dunensis Dune Helleborine plant RedList_GB_post2001-DD Epipactis Narrow-lipped flowering ECCITES-B, NS-excludes, leptochila Helleborine plant RedList_GB_post2001-DD, Epipactis Green-flowered flowering ECCITES-B, NS-excludes, W(NI)O- phyllanthes Helleborine plant Sch8_part1 Equisetum Variegated horsetail NS-excludes variegatum Horsetail BAP-2007, Bern-A3, Erinaceus West European terrestrial England_NERC_S.41, europaeus Hedgehog mammal RedList_GB_post2001-VU, flowering Erodium lebelii Sticky Stork's-bill NS-excludes, plant Eugnorisma Autumnal Rustic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, glareosa Eulithis mellinata Spinach insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Euphrasia flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-NT, Eyebright tetraquetra plant RedList_GB_post2001-DD Euxoa nigricans Garden Dart insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Euxoa tritici Dusky Dart insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Bern-A2, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A1, Falco columbarius Merlin bird CMS_A2, ECCITES-A, FEP-007_tab2, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, Falco peregrinus Peregrine bird ECCITES-A, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 Japanese flowering Fallopia japonica WACA:Sch9 Knotweed plant Common flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-NT, Filago vulgaris Cudweed plant RedList_GB_post2001-NT, Fringilla Brambling bird , WACA-Sch1_part1 montifringilla BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, FEP- Purple Ramping- flowering Fumaria purpurea 007_tab2, LBAP, NS-excludes, fumitory plant RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, Black-throated Gavia arctica bird BirdsDir-A1, CMS_AEWA-A2, , WACA- Diver Sch1_part1 Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_A2, Red-throated Gavia stellata bird CMS_AEWA-A2, , W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, Diver WACA-Sch1_part1 Gelechia nigra Black Groundling insect - moth Notable-B Graphiphora Double Dart insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, augur

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Halichoerus marine Bern-A3, CMS_A2, HabDir-A2*, HabDir- Grey Seal grypus mammal A5, HabReg-Sch4, W(NI)O-Sch5 Hepialus humuli Ghost Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, insect - BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, LBAP, Hipparchia semele Grayling butterfly RedList_GB_post2001-VU, Hippodamia insect - beetle Adonis' Ladybird Notable-B variegata (Coleoptera) Hippophae flowering Sea-buckthorn FEP-001, NS-excludes rhamnoides plant Hoplodrina Rustic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, blanda Hyacinthoides flowering Bluebell LBAP, WACA-Sch8 non-scripta plant Hydraecia Rosy Rustic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, micacea Hydrocoloeus Bern-A2, BirdsDir-A1, CMS_AEWA-A2, Little Gull bird minutus WACA-Sch1_part1 Hygrotus Hygrotus insect - beetle Notable-B, NS-excludes parallelogrammus parallelogrammus (Coleoptera) flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, Hyoscyamus niger Henbane plant RedList_GB_post2001-VU, Hypocaccus Hypocaccus insect - beetle dimidiatus subsp. dimidiatus subsp. Notable-B (Coleoptera) maritimus maritimus LBAP, RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, Hypochaeris flowering Smooth Cat's-ear RedList_GB_post2001-VU, , W(NI)O- glabra plant Sch8_part1 Impatiens flowering Indian Balsam WACA:Sch9 glandulifera plant insect - Blue-tailed Ischnura elegans dragonfly LBAP Damselfly (Odonata) BAP-2007, Bern-A2, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Lacerta agilis Sand Lizard reptile HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, LBAP, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_AEWA- Larus argentatus Herring Gull bird A2, England NERC S.41 suppl., Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, Larus Mediterranean bird CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, WACA- melanocephalus Gull Sch1_part1 Lasiommata insect - BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Wall megera butterfly RedList_GB_post2001-NT, terrestrial BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, FEP- Lepus europaeus Brown Hare mammal 007_tab2, LBAP, Shoulder-striped Leucania comma insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Wainscot insect - Broad-bodied Libellula depressa dragonfly LBAP Chaser (Odonata) Simply Ecology Limited –Ecological Appraisal – June 2021 81

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Bern-A2, Bird-Red, England NERC S.41 Linaria cannabina Linnet bird suppl., FEP-007_tab2, Lissotriton Bern-A3, W(NI)O-Sch5, WACA- Smooth Newt amphibian vulgaris Sch5_sect9.5a Litoligia literosa Rosy Minor insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Grasshopper BAP-2007, Bird-Red, Locustella naevia bird Warbler England_NERC_S.41, Hairy Bird's-foot- flowering Lotus subbiflorus NS-excludes trefoil plant Common Bern-A2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA- Loxia curvirostra bird Crossbill Sch1_part1 Luperina nicklerlii Sandhill Rustic insect - moth LBAP, RedList_GB_Pre94-VU gueneei BAP-2007, Bern-A2, ECCITES-A, England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, terrestrial Lutra lutra European Otter HabDir-A2*, HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, , mammal WACA-Sch5_sect9.4b, WACA- Sch5_sect9.5a, WACA-Sch5Sect9.4c Meconopsis flowering Welsh Poppy NS-excludes cambrica plant Melanchra Dot Moth insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, persicariae Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, Melanitta fusca Velvet Scoter bird RedList_Global_post2001-EN, WACA- Sch1_part1 BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, Melanitta nigra Common Scoter bird England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O- Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 Mniotype adusta Dark Brocade insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Monotropa flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-EN, Yellow Bird's-nest hypopitys plant RedList_GB_post2001-EN, , W(NI)O- Sch8_part1 Spotted BAP-2007, Bern-A2, Bird-Red, CMS_A2, Muscicapa striata bird Flycatcher England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Mycetoporus Mycetoporus insect - beetle Notable punctus punctus (Coleoptera) BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, Numenius CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, Curlew bird arquata England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, RedList_Global_post2001_NT, Oceanodroma Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, BirdsDir-A1, , Leach's Petrel bird leucorhoa WACA-Sch1_part1 Orthosia gracilis Powdered Quaker insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Papaver flowering FEP-007_tab3, RedList_ENG_post2001- Prickly Poppy argemone plant EN, RedList_GB_post2001-VU, BAP-2007, Bird-Red, Passer domesticus House Sparrow bird England_NERC_S.41, LBAP,

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BAP-2007, Bird-Red, Passer montanus Tree Sparrow bird England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, Pelurga comitata Dark Spinach insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Pemphredon Pemphredon insect - (Ceratophorus) Notable-B morio hymenopteran morio BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.1, Perdix perdix Grey Partridge bird England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, LBAP, Perizoma albulata Grass Rivulet insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, albulata BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_ASCOBANS, ECCITES-A, Phocoena Common marine England_NERC_S.41, HabDir-A2*, phocoena Porpoise mammal HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, OSPAR, , WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a BAP-2007, Bird-Red, Phylloscopus Wood Warbler bird England_NERC_S.41, , W(NI)O- sibilatrix Sch1_part1 Pinus sylvestris Scots Pine conifer NS-excludes Plectrophenax Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, , WACA- Snow Bunting bird nivalis Sch1_part1 insect - Podalonia hirsuta Hairy Sand Wasp Notable-B hymenopteran Bern-A2, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A1, Podiceps auritus Slavonian Grebe bird CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2, , WACA- Sch1_part1 Podiceps Black-necked Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, CMS_AEWA-A2, , bird nigricollis Grebe W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 Bern-A2, Bird-Red, England NERC S.41 Poecile palustris Marsh Tit bird suppl. Prunella Bern-A2, Bird-Amber, England NERC Dunnock bird modularis S.41 suppl. Psammodius Psammodius insect - beetle Notable-A, RedList_GB_post2001-NT asper asper (Coleoptera) Common flowering Pyrola minor LBAP, RedList_ENG_post2001-NT Wintergreen plant Bird-Amber, England NERC S.41 suppl., Pyrrhula pyrrhula Bullfinch bird FEP-007_tab2, Bern-A3, HabDir-A5, WACA- Rana temporaria Common Frog amphibian Sch5_sect9.5a Regulus Bern-A2, W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA- Firecrest bird ignicapilla Sch1_part1 Rhizedra lutosa Large Wainscot insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Rhododendron Rhododendron flowering WACA:Sch9 ponticum ponticum plant flowering Rosa rugosa Japanese Rose FEP-001, WACA:Sch9 plant

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Salix purpurea x flowering repens = S. x Donian Willow FEP-001, LBAP plant doniana Salix viminalis x flowering repens = S. x Willow FEP-001, LBAP plant friesiana BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Satyrium w- White-letter insect - RedList_GB_post2001-EN, WACA- album Hairstreak butterfly Sch5_sect9.5a Scopula Mullein Wave insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, marginepunctata flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, Spergula arvensis Corn Spurrey plant RedList_GB_post2001-VU Spilosoma White Ermine insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, lubricipeda Spilosoma lutea Buff Ermine insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Stilbia anomala Anomalous insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, England NERC Sturnus vulgaris Starling bird S.41 suppl., FEP-007_tab2, LBAP insect - Sympetrum Ruddy Darter dragonfly LBAP sanguineum (Odonata) insect - Sympetrum Common Darter dragonfly LBAP striolatum (Odonata) Tholera cespitis Hedge Rustic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Tholera decimalis Feathered Gothic insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Timandra comae Blood-vein insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Tulostoma Scaly Stalk fungus BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41 melanocyclum Puffball Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, , WACA- Turdus iliacus Redwing bird Sch1_part1 Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, England NERC Turdus philomelos Song Thrush bird S.41 suppl., FEP-007_tab2, LBAP, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, W(NI)O- Turdus pilaris Fieldfare bird Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1 BAP-2007, Bern-A2, CMS_A2, CMS_ASCOBANS, ECCITES-A, Tursiops Bottle-Nosed marine England_NERC_S.41, HabDir-A2*, truncatus Dolphin mammal HabDir-A4, HabReg-Sch2, , WACA- Sch5_sect9.5a Tyria jacobaeae Cinnabar insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, Bern-A2, ECCITES-A, FEP-007_tab2, , Tyto alba Barn Owl bird W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1, WACA:Sch9 Bern-A2, ECCITES-A, FEP-007_tab2, , Tyto alba bird SD282072 W(NI)O-Sch1_part1, WACA-Sch1_part1, WACA:Sch9 BAP-2007, Bird-Red, BirdsDir-A2.2, Vanellus vanellus Lapwing bird CMS_A2, CMS_AEWA-A2,

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England_NERC_S.41, FEP-007_tab2, LBAP, flowering RedList_ENG_post2001-VU, Viola canina Heath Dog-violet plant RedList_GB_post2001-NT flowering Vulpia fasciculata Dune Fescue NS-excludes plant Watsonalla Oak Hook-tip insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, binaria Xanthorhoe Dark-barred insect - moth BAP-2007, England_NERC_S.41, ferrugata Twin-spot Carpet BAP-2007, Bern-A3, England_NERC_S.41, LBAP, , W(NI)O- Zootoca vivipara Common Lizard reptile Sch5, WACA-Sch5_sect9.1(kill/injuring), WACA-Sch5_sect9.5a

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