Appropriate Assessment of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural

Home , Burnham Beeches, Hartslock, Naphill Common, Windsor Hill

Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Screening of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 2008-2013 for Appropriate Assessment – Baseline Report

1. Executive Summary

1.1 The purpose of this report is to determine whether there is a need to carry out a full Appropriate Assessment of the Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-13.

1.2 This report considers potential impacts arising from the AONB Management Plan alone and in combination with other plans, and with respect to the European sites’ conservation objectives. The sites in question are all, in this case, Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

1.3 Production of the AONB Management Plan is a statutory duty of the Conservation Board under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The plan outlines the Board’s policies for the management of the AONB and fulfilment of its statutory purposes which are:

a. To conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB; and b. to increase the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the AONB.

1.4 The SACs potentially affected by the AONB Management Plan are as follows:

• Aston Rowant • Chilterns Beechwoods (a composite of 9 sites) • Hartslock Wood • Burnham Beeches (outside the AONB) • Little Wittenham (outside the AONB)

1.5 All policies and proposals in the AONB Management Plan have been screened and it is considered that there are no significant environmental effects on the SACs within or in close proximity to the AONB. Consequently, a full appropriate assessment of the plan is not required.

1 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 2. Introduction

2.1 The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended by The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) (Amendment) Regulations 2007) require (Regulation 48) that a competent authority shall make an appropriate assessment of the implications for European sites in view of the sites’ conservation objectives. The purpose of this Baseline Report is to ensure that the Management Plan 2008-13 and its policies have no significant environmental impact on sites of European Interest.

2.2 The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 places a duty on Conservation Boards to produce a plan which outlines their policies for the management of the AONB and how they will carry out their functions in relation to it. Management plans must be reviewed at least every five years.

2.3 The previous management plan for the Chilterns AONB, The Framework for Action 2002 – 2007 has now been reviewed, forming the basis for the draft Management Plan 2008 – 2013.

2.4 The Plan sets out broad aims for the management of the AONB. Policies and actions within the Plan outline how these aims will be achieved by the Board and other parties with an interest in the AONB. In formulating the policies and actions within the Plan the Board seeks to fulfil its two statutory purposes which are:

a. to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB; and b. to increase the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the AONB.

2.5 This screening report is intended to determine whether there is a need to carry out a full appropriate assessment of the Chilterns AONB Management Plan (2008 -2013) and its polices in relation to sites of European Interest.

2.6 The Conservation Board, as the ‘competent authority' has to satisfy itself that, in adopting the plan, there will be no significant effect on European sites.

2.7 The Board has liaised with Natural England at an early stage regarding which sites to consider, conservation objectives and key environmental conditions for the sites concerned.

2.8 The Board recognises that the AONB management plan will be implemented in the context of changing spatial patterns and housing growth, as directed by the Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks. These are themselves subject to Appropriate Assessment. The AONB Management Plan does not propose any growth or development, and its policies promote conservation of the natural environment and sustainable use of it.

2 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 3. Sites under consideration 3.1 Summary 3.1.1 There are 3 SACs within the AONB – Aston Rowant, Hartslock Wood and Chilterns Beechwoods. Chilterns Beechwoods comprises of 9 separate sites, of which 8 are within the AONB.

3.1.3 In addition, Burnham Beeches SAC and Little Wittenham SAC have been considered as they are within 10 - 12 km of the AONB boundary and could theoretically be affected indirectly by the Management Plan.

Figure 1: Sites considered as part of the screening

3 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Table 1: Special Areas of Conservation that were assessed for significant adverse effects of the Chilterns AONB Management Plan

Name Location Area (ha) Qualifying Comments on Nature Key Environmental Possible Impacts Arising From Plan Risk of Other Plans To Be Risk of Significant Features1 Conservation Conditions to Support Significant Considered in Effect In Importance Site Integrity Effect? Combination Combination? Aston Rowant Buckinghamshire; 127.75 • Juniper on • One of the best • Regular management • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial • No Oxfordshire heaths or remaining examples to keep vegetation promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local calcareous in UK of lowland open and allow conservation objectives. Development grasslands juniper scrub seedlings to establish. Frameworks. • Beech forests on (between 1,000 and neutral to rich 2,000 individuals of • Prevention of rabbit • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial • No soils varying age classes). grazing of seedlings. promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local conservation objectives Development Frameworks.

• Minimal air pollution. • Although the plan encourages • No Regional Spatial • No. Although RSS countryside recreation, the policies Strategies and Local and LDFs propose specifically encourage environmentally Development housing growth, they sustainable access including minimising Frameworks. will be subject to car use and visiting countryside close to Appropriate home. Assessment themselves, and the Management Plan policies specifically encourage environmentally sustainable access.

1 Terminology is the lay or English name as used by JNCC

4 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Burnham Beeches Buckinghamshire 382.76 • Beech forests on • Wood-pasture, with • Minimal atmospheric • No negative impacts. There are no • No Regional Spatial • No acid soils veteran trees. pollution - may policies within the AONB Management Strategies and Local • One of the richest increase the Plan to increase visits to Burnham Development sites for saproxylic susceptibility of beech Beeches. Frameworks. invertebrates in the trees to disease and UK, including 14 Red alter epiphytic Data Book species. communities. • Nationally important epiphytic • Restricted public • No negative impacts. There are no • No Regional Spatial • No communities. access (extensive policies within the AONB Management Strategies and Local public access may Plan that would impact on Burnham Development compromise ability to Beeches Frameworks. retain falling timber associated with old trees). • No negative impacts. There are no policies within the AONB Management • Maintenance of an Plan that would impact on Burnham • No Regional Spatial • No adequate and stable Beeches Strategies and Local hydrological system Development Frameworks

5 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Chilterns Buckinghamshire; 1276.48 • Beech forests on • A distinctive feature in • Minimal atmospheric • No negative impacts - policies • No Regional Spatial • No. Although RSS Beechwoods Hertfordshire; neutral to rich the woodland flora is pollution - may specifically encourage environmentally Strategies and Local and LDFs propose Oxfordshire; Windsor soils the occurrence of increase the sustainable access including minimising Development housing growth, they and Maidenhead • Dry grasslands populations of the rare susceptibility of beech car use and visiting countryside close to Frameworks will be subject to (Nine sites) and scrublands coralroot. trees to disease home. Appropriate on chalk or • Recent dry years are Assessment limestone believed to be putting themselves, and the • Stag Beetle trees under stress. Management plan policies specifically encourage environmentally sustainable access. • Managed public • No negative impacts - policies • No Regional Spatial access to forest and encourage increased public awareness Strategies and Local • No nearby dry calcareous and responsible attitudes to visiting the Development grasslands countryside. Frameworks

• Appropriate • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial • No management of promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local grasslands conservation objectives Development Frameworks .

• Absence of direct • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial • No fertilization. promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local conservation objectives Development Frameworks

6 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Hartslock Wood Oxfordshire 34.24 • Dry grasslands • One of only three UK • Appropriate • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial • No and scrublands populations of management: promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local on chalk or monkey orchid. grazing. conservation objectives Development limestone, Frameworks including important orchid sites • Minimal air pollution. • No negative impacts. Although the plan • No Regional Spatial • No. Although RSS • Yew-dominated encourages countryside recreation, the Strategies and Local and LDFs propose woodland policies specifically encourage Development housing growth, they environmentally sustainable access Frameworks will be subject to including minimising car use and visiting Appropriate countryside close to home. Assessment themselves, and the Management plan policies specifically encourage environmentally sustainable access. • Absence of direct • No negative impacts. The plan actively • No Regional Spatial fertilisation promotes management of sites to meet Strategies and Local • No conservation objectives Development Frameworks

7 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Little Oxfordshire 68.76 • Great crested • One of the best- • Suitable foraging and • No negative impacts. There are no • No Regional Spatial • No Wittenham newt studied great crested refuge habitat within policies within the AONB Management Strategies and Local newt sites in the UK. 500m of the pond. Plan which would impact on Little Development • 2 main ponds within Wittenham. Frameworks woodland that forms suitable habitat for terrestrial phase. • Relatively unpolluted • No negative impacts. There are no water of roughly policies within the AONB Management • No Regional Spatial • No neutral pH. Plan which would impact on Little Strategies and Local Wittenham. Development Frameworks

• Some ponds deep • No negative impacts. There are no enough to retain water policies within the AONB Management • No Regional Spatial • No throughout February Plan which would impact on Little Strategies and Local to August at least one Wittenham. Development year in every three. Frameworks

• In a wider context, • No negative impacts. There are no • No Regional Spatial • No great crested newts policies within the AONB Management Strategies and Local require good Plan which would impact on Little Development connectivity of Wittenham. Frameworks landscape features (ponds, hedges etc) as they often live as metapopulations in a number of ponds.

8 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 3.2 Site characteristics

3.2.1 All terrestrial SACs in England are also Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). Conservation objectives define the desired state for each site in terms of the features for which they have been designated.

3.2.2 In assessing the impact of the AONB Management Plan on these SACs we have considered their qualifying features, conservation objectives for each feature of European interest, management /ownership and environmental status and trends. Table 1 summarises the assessment of likely impacts of the plan’s policies against each SAC, and Appendix 1 shows the detailed screening against each policy.

3.3 Aston Rowant

3.3.1 Qualifying features

• Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands – considered to be one of the best areas in the UK. • Asperulo-Fagetum beech forests, for which the area is considered to support a significant presence.

Figure 2: Aston Rowant and Aston Rowant Woods (part of Chilterns Beechwoods )

9 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

3.3.2 Conservation objectives for the features of European Interest:

Subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the beech forest habitat (Asperulo-Fagetum) and lowland juniper scrub.

3.3.3 Environmental Status and Trends

Aston Rowant consists of 7 units, all of which were considered at last inspection (2004 – 2006) to be in favourable or recovering condition. Deer browsing and its potential impact on woodland regeneration was identified as an issue to be monitored in one unit (4), and scrub encroachment is an ongoing concern on several of the units containing calcareous grassland.

10 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 3.4 Burnham Beeches

3.4.1. Qualifying Features

• Atlantic acidophilous beech forests with Ilex and sometimes also Taxus in the shrub layer – for which this is considered to be one of the best areas in the country.

3.4.2 Conservation Objectives

Subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition Beech forests with Ilex and Taxus rich in epiphytes.

Figure 3: Burnham Beeches

11 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

3.4.3 Environmental status and trends Burnham Beeches consists of 4 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable condition or unfavourable recovering at the last inspection (2000 – 2006).

3.5 Chilterns Beechwoods

Table 2: Composite sites within the Chilterns Beechwoods SAC

Within Chilterns SSSI AONB? Ashridge Common and Woods Yes Aston Rowant Woods Yes Bisham Woods No Bradenham Woods, Park Wood and The Coppice Yes Ellesborough and Kimble Warrens Yes Naphill Common Yes Tring Woodlands Yes Windsor Hill Yes Hollowhill & Pullingshill Woods Yes

Figure 4: Hollowhill and Pullingshill Woods, and Bisham Woods(part of Chilterns Beechwoods)

12 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Figure 5 – Ellesborough and Kimble Warrens, and Windsor Hill – part of Chilterns Beechwoods

3.5.1. Qualifying Features

• Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrublands on chalk. • Asperulo – Fagetum beech forests – for which this is considered to be one of the best areas in the United Kingdom. • Stag beetle, Lucanus cervus, for which the area is considered to support a significant presence.

3.5.2 Conservation Objectives

The conservation objective for the European interest on Ashridge Commons and Woods, Naphill Common, Tring Woodlands, Hollowhill and Pullingshill Woods and Aston Rowant Woods is, subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the beech forest habitat.

The conservation objective for the European interest on Bisham Woods is, subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the beech forest habitat and habitat for the stag beetle, Lucanus cervus.

13 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report The conservation objective for the European interest on Bradenham Woods, Park Wood and The Coppice, Ellesborough and Kimble Warrens and Windsor Hill are, subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the beech forest habitat and the lowland calcareous grassland.

Figure 6 – Bradenham Woods, Park Wood and the Coppice, and Naphill Common – part of Chilterns Beechwoods

3.5.3 Environmental status and trends

Ashridge Commons and Woods comprises of 7 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last inspection (2000- 2008). Bracken control, grazing and deer control are issues that are raised in the condition assessment.

14 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

Figure 7 – Tring Woodlands and Ashridge Commons and Woods, part of Chilterns Beechwoods

Aston Rowant Woods comprises of 8 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable condition at the last assessment in May 2006.

Bisham Woods comprises of 2 units, both of which were considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last assessment in July 2003.

Bradenham Woods, Park Wood and The Coppice comprise of 5 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last assessment in September 2003. Ongoing scrub management and an appropriate grazing regime are highlighted as issues which need addressing in order to achieve favourable condition on the calcareous grassland units.

Ellesborough and Kimble Warrens comprise of 4 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last assessment in June 2004. More intensive grazing and control of regrowth are highlighted as factors in achieving favourable condition on several of the calcareous grassland units.

15 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Naphill Common comprises of 1 unit considered to be in favourable condition at the last assessment in December 2005.

Tring Woodlands comprise of 1 unit considered to be in recovering condition at the last assessment in March 2005. Recovery of a more balanced species composition was highlighted as important to achieving favourable condition.

Windsor Hill comprises of 2 units considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last assessment in February 2008.

Hollowhill and Pullingshill Woods comprise of 2 units considered to be in favourable condition at the last assessment in November 2003.

3.6 Hartslock

3.6.1. Qualifying Features

• Semi-natural dry grassland and scrubland on chalk. • Yew-dominated woodland

Figure 8 - Hartslock

16 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

3.6.2 Conservation Objectives

The conservation objective for the European interest on this site is, subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the calcareous grassland and scrubland, and yew woodland habitat.

3.6.3 Environmental status and trends

This site comprises of 4 units, all of which were considered to be in favourable or recovering condition at the last assessment in August 2004. Improved grazing regime was cited as important to achieving favourable condition on unit 4 (calcareous grassland).

3.7 Little Wittenham

3.7.1. Qualifying Features

• Great Crested Newt - Triturus cristatus

Figure 9 – Little Wittenham

3.7.2 Conservation Objectives

Subject to natural change, to maintain in favourable condition the habitat for the Great Crested Newt, Triturus cristatus

3.7.3 Environmental status and trends

The site comprises of one unit which was considered to be in favourable condition at last assessment in August 2004.

17 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

4. Trends and other plans

4.1 It is important to take into account other strategies, plans and policies which may affect the integrity of the SACs in combination with the Management Plan. The Management Plan takes into account many of these plans, including the emerging Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents.

4.2 South East and East of England Plans

4.2.1 The South East and East of England Plans will set the overarching frameworks for planning and development across the South East and East of England to 2026 and 2021 respectively and will provide the context for Local Authorities to develop their own local land use policies and proposals. They cover topics such as housing, the economy, health and education, transport and the environment.

4.2.2 The Regional Spatial Strategies (RSSs) are subject to their own Appropriate Assessments. For the South East four of the SACs are considered to be at risk of region-wide air pollution (Little Wittenham is not at risk), and Burnham Beeches is also at risk of increased recreational pressure, local traffic generated air pollution and urbanisation.

4.2.3 The RSSs identify major growth (housing and employment provision) within various sub-regions. Although a number of these are in close proximity to the AONB the Appropriate Assessments for the RSSs find that any effects on the integrity of the SACs arise from an ‘in combination’ effect with the adjacent RSS (and therefore associated local development documents from the Local Planning Authorities) due to housing provision.

4.2.4 The RSSs also apportion requirements for waste and minerals and these will be dealt with in the Minerals and Waste Development Documents which are also subject to Appropriate Assessments.

4.3 Transport Plans

4.3.1 The Local Transport Plans that affect the AONB have sustainable transport and the minimisation of traffic growth as key themes. In terms of tackling congestion further development of urban public transport is focused on. Other improvements that are promoted include: a bus and coach network, promotion and increase in rail use, development of cycle routes and taxis are to be used to supplement transport in rural areas.

4.3.2 The protection and conservation of the environmental designations of the area will be sought by addressing air quality, noise pollution and by protecting rural areas from negative and disproportionate effects of transport plans. As the SACs are all based in the rural areas this promotion of sustainable transport is an important part of their protection from potential future traffic increases.

18 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report

4.4 Population

4.4.1 The Department for Communities and Local Government issues population projections for all areas at regular intervals. These projections are based on past trends and therefore assume that the factors governing population change will continue unaltered in the future. The County Councils then produce population estimates based on the projections. The estimates are trend based forecasts, and take account of the impact of house building. Although they are not completely comparable, both projections and estimates indicate that the total population is unlikely to change very much in the next 20 years.

4.4.2 Although the population is expected to remain at about the same level, the number of households is expected to increase with more people living alone (especially older people staying in their own house for longer), more one parent families, and young couples delaying having children until later and having smaller families. So whilst there shouldn’t be direct impacts on the SACs in the form of increased demand (e.g. dog walking) there will be an increase in house building to accommodate these extra households.

4.4.3 Overall the stable population (despite continued house building) should not result in increasing indirect pressures (e.g. from informal recreation) on the SACs. The ageing population may increase pressures for informal recreation to some extent though in the long term this could also be affected by changes to retirement age.

4.5 Local Development Documents

4.5.1 The Local Planning Authorities throughout the AONB are in the process of preparing their Local Development Frameworks (LDFs), which will also address minerals and waste issues. The LDFs contain Core Strategies and a series of Local Development Documents which will all be prepared in the light of growth and other development required by the relevant RSS. All such documents will need to be subject to Appropriate Assessment should any designated sites fall within the areas affected and the effects should be considered in combination with the relevant RSS. The Management Plan itself does not propose any growth or development.

19 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 5. Analysis of the Management Plan

5.1 The Management Plan is considered to have no significant direct effects on the European Protected Sites for a number of reasons, both general and site specific.

5.2 General Issues

5.2.1 The Board’s first purpose is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB. Policies and actions relating to this purpose will have only positive or neutral effects on the European Protected Sites. These include policies to support:

• delivery of BAP targets (NC1) • management and protection of all designated wildlife sites and European protected species to maintain favourable status (NC 2) • effective monitoring of the impact of visitor pressure and climate change on key habitats and species (NC8).

5.2.2 The Board’s second purpose is to increase the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the AONB. This includes policies to:

• make visitors aware of their rights and responsibilities when visiting the countryside (UE3) • encourage non-car use – including walking, cycling, horse riding (UE7), (UE10), (UE11) • encourage people to contribute to the area’s conservation (UE9)

5.2.3 Minimal air pollution is a Key Environmental Condition to support site integrity at all but one of the sites (Little Wittenham). Although the management plan encourages countryside recreation, the policies are specifically designed to encourage environmentally sustainable access, minimise car use and encourage visits to countryside close to home.

5.2.4 There are no policies in the plan designed to specifically increase visits to the European Protected Sites. Policy NC 2 specifically supports their management and protection.

5.2.5 The Management Plan supports the ongoing development of initiatives designed to monitor and disperse visitor pressure to less sensitive sites - for example D7 and NC8. Strategic Green Infrastructure Plans are in place in Bucks and in Bedfordshire/ Luton. These provide a coherent framework to identify and establish additional green infrastructure facilities to accommodate increased demand for public open space resulting from housing growth.

20 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report 5.3 Site Specific Issues

Burnham Beeches

5.3.1 Burnham Beeches is publically owned, and managed sympathetically by the Corporation of London. A large part of the site is designated as a National Nature Reserve and is managed to restore grazed pasture woodland and heathland.

5.3.2 The AONB Management Plan contains no proposals to encourage visits to Burnham Beeches which is outside the AONB, nor is there anything in the plan which the Board considers would result in increased visits to the site.

Chilterns Beechwoods

5.3.3 Chilterns Beechwoods SAC is a composite of nine sites, each of which is a SSSI. Ownership is a mixture of public and private across the nine sites. Those subject to the greatest visitor pressure – for example Ashridge Commons and Woods - are managed by public bodies such as the National Trust, who are actively developing strategies to seek to disperse visitor pressure away from sensitive areas and to encourage non-car alternatives for example the Ashridge cycling strategy.

5.3.4 The Management Plan promotes such approaches, for example policy UE4. It is considered that there would be no significant impacts arising out of the general policies in the management plan encouraging countryside access.

Aston Rowant

5.3.5 The site is managed and largely owned by Natural England and has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. The management of the site is designed to increase public access whilst controlling it to prevent harm to the site’s special interest.

5.3.6 The site is divided into two parts by the M40 motorway. It is considered that there would be no significant impacts arising out of the general policies in the management plan encouraging countryside access.

Hartslock Wood

5.3.7 The site is mostly in private ownership, with no public access. Part of the site is a local Wildlife Trust Reserve and Open Access land. The chalk grassland is an important orchid site, supporting one of only three populations of the monkey orchid (Orchis simian) in the UK.

5.3.8 Visitor pressure is generally modest, apart from during the orchid flowering season when numbers increase. The wildlife trust manages this through voluntary wardening. The potential for increased visits by car is negligible as parking is extremely limited. It is considered that there would be

21 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report no significant impacts arising out of the general policies in the management plan encouraging countryside access.

Little Wittenham

5.3.9 The site is managed by the Northmoor Trust as a nature reserve. The areas which are most important to the population of great crested newts have restricted access which is designed to prevent conflicts between the visiting public, the newts and their habitat.

5.3.10 The Management Plan contains no proposals to encourage visits to Little Wittenham, which is outside the AONB.

6. Conclusion

6.1 The screening process concludes that an appropriate assessment of the Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008 -13 is unnecessary as its policies will have no significant adverse effects on European Protected Sites within or in close proximity to the AONB.

22 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1

Appendix 1: AONB Management Plan Review – Matrix for Policy against European Protected Sites

KEY CODE: NLSE No Likely Significant Effect(s) LSE Likely Significant Effect(s) – A likely significant effect on the site’s conservation objectives requiring modification or dropping of the policy , plan or proposal U Uncertain - cannot determine if NLSE or LSE (see above) so may require modification or dropping of the policy , plan or proposal

Landscape

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham L1 Recognise and manage positively those elements NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE of the landscape that contribute to the overall identity and character of the Chilterns. L2 Promote greater understanding and awareness of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE local landscape character and those elements which contribute to local distinctiveness. L3 Resist developments which detract from the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE Chilterns’ special character. L4 Enhance the landscape by restoring degraded NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE landscapes, and encouraging the removal or mitigation of intrusive developments and features. L5 Ensure the impact of development adjacent to the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE AONB is sympathetic to the character of the Chilterns and maintains the quality of views from it and of it. L6 Conserve and enhance the distinctive character of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE buildings, rural settlements and their landscape setting. L7 Encourage local pride in the landscape and special NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE sense of place to promote concern for their

1 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 conservation. L8 Manage landscapes close to existing and new NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE areas of development so as to be capable of absorbing higher levels of recreation whilst maintaining local character and biodiversity interest. L9 Manage landscapes sustainably to provide multiple NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE benefits, which could include landscape character, biodiversity, opportunities for recreation and access, production of commodities, storage of carbon and water. L10 Promote management of the landscape to enable NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE it to adapt to climate change and help mitigate the causes. L11 The design and management of transport NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE infrastructure and services should conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Chilterns and reduce their harmful impacts including green house gases.

Farming and Forestry

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham FF1 Work with farmers and other landowners to NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE conserve and enhance the landscape, and the archaeological and ecological attributes of their land. FF2 Support agricultural and forestry practices which NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE assist adaptation to climate change and mitigate damaging impacts on the environment. FF3 Promote sustainable management of woodland NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE and farmland to provide multiple benefits, where appropriate, including amenity, production, wildlife

2 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 conservation, recreation, carbon storage, water resources, conservation of historic heritage and other environmental benefits. FF4 Promote co-operative approaches to NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE management of woodland and fragmented farmed habitats and landscapes to achieve landscape scale action. FF5 Support the viability of farming, forestry and other NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE forms of land management by enhancing the marketing of produce based on environmentally- sensitive production methods. FF6 Encourage forms of diversification and new NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE business ventures that will contribute to the conservation, enhancement and enjoyment of the AONB. FF7 Promote a wider public understanding of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE importance of farming and forestry and the contribution they make to the Chilterns landscape. FF8 Resist fragmentation of farmland and woodland NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE into small plots. FF9 Resist the potentially damaging impacts on NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE landscape and wildlife of large scale conversion of farmland to equestrian uses.

Biodiversity

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham NC1 Support delivery of local, regional and national NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) targets. NC2 Support management and protection of all NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE designated wildlife sites and European protected

3 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 species to maintain favourable status. NC3 Promote management of non-designated sites to NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE enhance their value of biodiversity. NC4 Increase public awareness, understanding and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE involvement in conservation of the Chilterns’ wildlife and habitats NC5 Maximise the area covered by environmental NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE land management agreements. NC6 Develop landscape scale approaches to buffer, NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE extend and link fragmented sites of nature conservation importance. NC7 Promote the sharing of information on key NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE species and habitats (BAP priority and characteristic species/habitats). NC8 Develop effective monitoring of the extent and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE condition of key habitats and species, and the impact of visitor pressure and climate change on them. NC9 Promote the improved management for NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE conservation of farmland habitats, hedgerows, ancient woodland, veteran trees, arable plant communities and common land. NC10 promote management to help vulnerable NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE species and habitats to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Water Environment

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham WE1 Seek the reduction of abstraction of water from NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE catchments where rivers are affected by low flows due to over-abstraction.

4 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1

WE2 Promote the planning and sustainable NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE management of water resources at a catchment scale. WE3 Seek improvements to water quality and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE reduction in pollution levels. WE4 Promote best practice in riparian management. NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE WE5 Promote development and long-term NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE management of sustainable drainage systems. WE6 Maintain, enhance, protect and monitor BAP NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE priority habitats – including chalk rivers, ponds and other wetlands, and key species such as water voles, water crowfoot and water shrews. WE7 Promote restoration schemes to restore natural NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE flow conditions and improve connectivity of rivers. WE8 Safeguard and promote appropriate NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE management on all sites designated for nature conservation (statutory and non-statutory), and pursue the designation of further sites. WE9 Increase public awareness of the link between NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE demand for water, climate change and environmental quality. WE10 Increase the involvement of local communities NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE in the conservation and enhancement the water environment. WE11 Encourage greater public enjoyment of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE water environment of the AONB and promote sustainable access to it.

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Historic Environment

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham HE1 Improve the understanding of the character, and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE conservation and management needs of the historic environment to assist site and property management. HE2 Resist land use changes and management NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE practices which would harm nationally designated and locally important historic assets and their settings. HE3 Promote best practice for the conservation of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE historic environment. HE4 Support economic and social activity, benefiting NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE local communities, based on the sustainable management of the historic environment. HE5 Ensure the design and location of new NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE development is sympathetic to the character of the historic environment. HE6 Promote community involvement in the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE conservation and interpretation of the historic environment. HE7 Support the preparation and implementation of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE conservation plans for appropriate areas and sites. HE8 Promote public awareness and enjoyment of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE historic environment and involvement in its conservation and stewardship. HE9 Promote the management of sites and properties NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE to enable them to adapt to the impacts of climate change and mitigate the causes.

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Development

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham D1 Conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE Chilterns AONB, by reinforcing the local distinctiveness of the built environment. D2 Promote the highest standards of development NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE which respect vernacular architectural styles and represent high environmental standards in terms of energy and water efficiency. D3 Promote best practice in the use of traditional NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE materials, namely flint, brick and roofing materials. D4 Support the sustainable use of local natural NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE resources, notably timber, clay (bricks and tiles) and flint, for local building purposes. D5 Seek a reduction in the damaging impacts of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE telecommunications infrastructure. D6 Seek enhancement of the quality of the landscape NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE of the AONB by the removal or mitigation of existing visually intrusive developments. D7 Pursue opportunities for landscape improvement NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE and creation of green space (green infrastructure) when development is proposed in, or adjacent to, the boundaries of the AONB. D8 Encourage appropriate development, especially on NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE previously developed land, that will improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of the area, whilst having regard to the special qualities of the AONB. D9 Encourage appropriate densities on new housing NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE developments which reflect the local context, whilst having regard to the special qualities of the AONB

7 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 and to policies in Development Plans. D10 Encourage the use of renewable energy, in NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE appropriate circumstances, and particularly of wood fuel, solar, hydro-power and ground source heat pumps. D11 Promote measures which assist adaptation to NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE climate change which are compatible with the character of the built environment of the AONB. D12 Seek a reduction in the level of noise and other NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE forms of pollution caused by all types of aircraft flying over the Chilterns and associated vehicle traffic using the airports. D13 Promote the restoration and management of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE redundant quarries into the landscape whilst conserving and enhancing their biodiversity, geological and archaeological features. D14 Encourage the continuation of the local brick NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE making industry, to ensure a continued supply of high quality, traditional building materials, consistent with the principles of environmental sustainability. D15 Support the demand for local building materials NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE by seeking their use in new developments, in accordance with the Chilterns Buildings Design Guide and related Supplementary Technical Notes. D16 Promote the reduction of waste by supporting NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE policies which result in re-use, reduction and recycling of waste materials. D17 Seek to minimise the environmental impacts on NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE the Chilterns of quarrying and management of landfill sites adjacent to the AONB, including the impacts of through traffic.

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Understanding and Enjoyment

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Wood Little Beeches Beechwoods Wittenham UE1 Provide special encouragement to non NLSE – the site is NLSE – this NLSE – those sites NLSE – the site is NLSE – this traditional visitors including the less mobile, young, managed by Natural policy does within the SAC which mostly in private policy does urban-based and ethnic minorities, to visit the England as an NNR. not are subject to the ownership with no not promote countryside. Management is promote greatest visitor public access. The visits to designed to ensure visits to pressure are managed part of the site that Little that public access Burnham by public bodies such is Open Access land Wittenham, does not harm the Beeches, as the National Trust, is managed by the which is site’s special which is who are actively Local Wildlife Trust. outside the interest. outside the developing strategies Visitor pressure is AONB. AONB. to disperse visitor generally modest pressure away from and this is not sensitive areas and to expected to change encourage non‐car other than during alternatives for orchid flowering example the Ashridge season, when the Cycling Strategy. The site is managed Management Plan through voluntary promotes such wardening. The approaches. potential for increased visits by car is negligible as parking adjacent to site is extremely limited. UE2 Enhance the quality of welcome given to visits NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE including the development of new facilities and services where appropriate. UE3 Promote and support management of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE

9 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 countryside suitable for recreation whilst conserving its environmental quality and assisting all visitors to behave responsibly. UE4 Develop environmentally sustainable access and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE recreational opportunities which strengthen links between town and country. UE5 Enhance the accessibility of the countryside and, NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE in particular, address the special needs of those with mobility and other impairments and in so doing conserve environmental quality. UE6 Promote the use of public rights of way and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE improve routes by covering gaps in the network. UE7 Promote management of highways to encourage NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE their use for walking, cycling and horse riding. UE8 Encourage more effective co-ordination of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE countryside services, volunteers and other partnerships across the Chilterns in order to enhance service delivery and quality of environmental management. UE9 Raise the level of understanding and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE appreciation amongst visitors of the area’s special qualities and the quality of their experience and encourage them to contribute to the area’s conservation. UE10 Promote the health and other benefits of NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE visiting the countryside and in particular by walking, cycling and horse riding. UE11 Encourage visits to the countryside and local NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE villages without travelling by car. UE12 Enhance appreciation of the Chilterns by NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE residents and visitors by conserving tranquillity and resisting noisy or damaging activities. UE13 Enhance the contribution to the local economy NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE from all types of visitor trips.

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UE14 Promote the interest of young people in the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE countryside to help them appreciate and enjoy its natural beauty and develop a concern for caring for the environment. UE15 Promote a sense of responsibility amongst NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE users and visitors and their willingness to care for the environment. UE16 Promote the use of the River Thames and NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE – the site is NLSE Grand Union Canal for quiet leisure activities mostly in private consistent with maintenance of environmental quality. ownership with no public access. The part of the site that is Open Access land is managed by the Local Wildlife Trust. Visitor pressure is generally modest and this is not expected to change other than during orchid flowering season, when the site is managed through voluntary wardening. The potential for increased visits by car is negligible as parking is extremely limited. UE17 Seek a reduction in the level of noise and other NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE forms of pollution caused by transport of all types including aircraft flying over the Chilterns.

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Social and Economic Well-Being

Management Plan Policies SAC Names Aston Rowant Burnham Chilterns Hartslock Little Beeches Beechwoods Wood Wittenham SE1 Support an increase in the provision of affordable NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE housing which respects local landscape and settlement character. SE2 Promote the provision and use of public transport NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE to assist local people to gain access to services and facilities. SE3 Promote the rural economy by supporting rural NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE diversification and innovation which add value to local products and services which contribute to environmental sustainability. SE4 Encourage buying policies which reduce or NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE minimise the impact on the environment generally, and the Chilterns in particular. SE5 Promote the sustainable development of the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE local tourist economy, to increase the contribution of visitors, in particular the increased provision of accommodation for visitors. SE6 Promote the special distinctiveness of local NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE towns and villages to help develop their visitor appeal. SE7 Promote the role of villages and market towns as NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE centres in the rural economy. SE8 Promote healthy lifestyles by using the NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE countryside for exercise and opportunities for volunteer work. SE9 Provide opportunities for local people and visitors NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE to learn about the Chilterns and to help care for its environment and heritage. SE10 Advise local communities on how climate NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE NLSE change might affect the Chilterns and on courses of

12 Chilterns AONB Management Plan 2008-2013 Screening for Appropriate Assessment - Baseline Report Appendix 1 action to help them adapt to the effects and mitigate the causes.