Northamptonshire County Council NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 NOVEMBER 2018 INTERNAL

Northamptonshire County Council

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD Preliminary Ecological Appraisal

TYPE OF DOCUMENT (V 1.0) INTERNAL

PROJECT NO. 70045931 OUR REF. NO. NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012

DATE: NOVEMBER 2018

WSP The Mailbox Level 2 100 Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RT Phone: +44 121 352 4700

WSP.com

QUALITY CONTROL

Issue/revision First issue Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3

Remarks Final for Issue

Date 30/11/2018

Prepared by Mate Vakarcs and Cian Ó Ceallaigh

Signature

Checked by Louise Bunn

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Authorised by Paul Hill

Signature

Project number 70045931

Report number NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE- 00012

File reference \\uk.wspgroup.com\central data\Projects\700459xx\70045931 - KIERWSPNCCNSEC1819 - Northampton North-West Relief Road\02 WIP\EC Ecology\03 Document\Dallington Grange Site\Reports

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

CONTENTS

2 INTRODUCTION 1

2.2 BACKGROUND 1 2.3 SCOPE OF REPORT 2 2.4 RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND POLICY 2

3 METHODS 4

3.1 OVERVIEW 4 3.2 DESK STUDY 4 3.3 HABITAT SURVEY 4 3.4 PROTECTED SPECIES ASSESSMENT 5 3.5 PRELIMINARY EVALUATION 6 3.6 NOTES AND LIMITATIONS 6

4 RESULTS 7

4.1 DESIGNATED SITES 7 4.2 HABITAT SURVEY 9 4.3 PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES ASSESSMENT 15

5 DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 20

5.2 STATUTORY DESIGNATED SITES 20 5.3 NON-STATUTORY DESIGNATED SITES 20 5.4 HABITATS 21 5.5 PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES 21 5.6 FURTHER SURVEY REQUIREMENTS 26 5.7 PRELIMINARY AVOIDANCE, MITIGATION AND COMPENSATION MEASURES 29 5.8 ECOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES 30

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6 CONCLUSIONS 32

TABLES

Table 1 - Statutory designated sites 7 Table 2 - Non-statutory designated sites 7 Table 3 - Phase 1 Habitat Areas 9 Table 4 - Key Ecological Constraints and Further Survey Requirements 27

FIGURES

Figure 1- Site Location Plan 36 Figure 2 – Current and Previous Site Boundary 38 Figure 3a – Phase 1 Habitat Results – Northern Section 40 Figure 3b – Phase 1 Habitat Results – Southern Section 42

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND PLANNING POLICY APPENDIX B: SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL DESK STUDY DATA APPENDIX C: PLANT SPECIES RECORDED APPENDIX D: TARGET NOTES APPENDIX E: PHOTOGRAPHS

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

WSP UK Ltd (‘WSP’) was commissioned by Northamptonshire County Council (NCC) to carry out a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of an area of land north-west of the city of Northampton in connection with the proposed construction of a new relief road. This will involve the construction of a new road linking A5199 Welford Road to the A428 Harlestone Road, hereafter referred to as the ‘Proposed Scheme’ (Figure 1). A PEA of the previous Route Option 1 was carried out in 2017 (WSP, 2017) and protected species surveys in connection with this route were carried out in 2018 (WSP, 2018a-k). This report details the results of a PEA of the potential impact area (hereafter ‘the Site’), is defined as being the total land take required to facilitate the development of the newly preferred Route Option 11. A background data search (BDS) for protected and noteworthy species records was carried out as part of the desk study for the previous PEA in 2017. As this data is still considered valid, the data from the previous BDS data was incorporated into this report and no additional search was made. 1.1.1. The survey identified a range of agricultural and semi-natural habitats typical of urban fringe landscape located in the floodplains of the River Nene, including woodland, scrub, hedgerows, semi- improved and improved grassland, tall ruderal, and arable land. These habitats include Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) such as rivers, ponds, lowland grazing marsh, arable field margins, and hedgerows. Additionally, five Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) and Potential Local Wildlife Sites (pLWS) are located within the Site. 1.1.2. The Site has the potential to support a range of protected and notable species, including badgers Meles meles, bats, otter Lutra lutra, water vole Arvicola amphibius, birds (including barn owl Tyto alba and kingfisher Alceda atthis), reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Surveys for most of these species/species groups have been undertaken in 2018 and the results of these surveys are considered valid for two years. As a result, only areas not previously surveyed will require a suite of Phase 2 surveys. 1.1.3. The Proposed Scheme will result in the loss of and severance of habitats, which will affect the ability for wildlife to commute between these habitat fragments and potentially result in road mortality. As a result, recommendations to minimise these impacts are made, including retention of habitats where possible, creation of compensatory habitats or enhancing adjacent habitats, and inclusion of screening and tunnels to facilitate safe movement of wildlife over/under the road. Certain species, habitats and nature conservation sites receive legislative protection which is detailed fully within Appendix A. Specific recommendations based upon the nature of the proposed works and compliance with this legislation are referenced within this PEA.

Contact details (0) 121 352 4700

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2. INTRODUCTION

2.1.1. WSP UK Ltd (‘WSP’) was commissioned in April 2018 to carry out a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of a 100ha area of land north-west of the city of Northampton in connection with the proposed construction of a new relief road, known as the Northampton North-West Relief Road. This will involve the construction of a new dual carriageway that will connect the A5199 Welford Road to the A428 Harlestone Road. As part of this it will include the construction of a new bridge and round about crossing the River Nene that will connect the A5199, Sandy Lane and Brampton Lane to the new relief road. This is hereafter referred to as the ‘Proposed Scheme’. 2.1.2. The current preferred route option is route ‘Option 11’ and the Proposed Scheme will also encompass the surrounding land required to facilitate the development, including flood mitigation (area of impact), hereafter ‘the Site.’ A location plan of the Site is given in Figure 1. BACKGROUND PROJECT BACKGROUND 2.1.3. The original red line route of route ‘Option 1’ extended the full length of the Proposed Scheme from A5199 Welford Road at its northern end to A428 at its southern end. A PEA of this route was carried out in 2017 (WSP, 2017) and protected species surveys in connection with this route were carried out in 2018 (WSP, 2018a-k). Since the time of the initial survey, the red line route south of Dallington Grange Farm is no longer within the scope of works to be covered by WSP. The red line route of the Proposed Scheme between A5199 Welford Road and Dallington Grange Farm, approximately 2.3km in length, was used as the basis for the survey effort of these surveys. A plan showing route ‘Option 1’ in comparison to the Site and current preferred Route Option 11 is given in Figure 2. 2.1.4. The protected species surveys were undertaken less than 2 years prior to the issuing of this PEA, and thus the results of those surveys are considered valid. As such, any protected species surveys recommended in this report are mainly focused on the additional areas not already covered by these surveys. 2.1.5. This report will be used to inform the ecology chapter of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Proposed Scheme that is to be submitted in March 2019. ECOLOGICAL BACKGROUND 2.1.6. The landscape surrounding the Site comprises arable farmland and grassland, mostly used as grazing land (primarily cattle near to the Site and horses to the north of the Site). Specific habitats include amenity grassland, rough grassland, mixed woodland, scattered and parkland trees, scrub, and standing waterbodies, as well as a number of linear features such as hedgerows, brooks, and ditches. In the wider landscape, two golf courses lie to the west of the Site, the city of Northampton and associated suburbs lie to the east and south, and the villages of Chapel Brampton and Church Brampton to the north. 2.1.7. Protected species and habitat surveys undertaken in 2017 and 2018 include: ▪ Phase 1 habitat survey and protected species assessment of the previous preferred option (WSP, 2017) ▪ Badger survey (WSP, 2018a)

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▪ Bat activity surveys (WSP, 2018c) ▪ Bat emergence / re-entry survey (WSP, 2018c) ▪ Bat crossing point survey (WSP, 2018d) ▪ Otter survey (WSP, 2018j) ▪ Water vole survey (WSP, 2018j) ▪ Barn owl survey (WSP, 2018b) ▪ Kingfisher habitat assessment (WSP, 2018i) ▪ Reptile survey (WSP, 2018k) ▪ Great crested newt survey (WSP, 2018g) ▪ Hedgerow survey (WSP, 2018h). SCOPE OF REPORT 2.1.8. Northamptonshire County Council commissioned WSP to complete a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of the Site and 50m surrounding area, hereafter ‘the Survey Area’ in October 2018. The brief was: ▪ To provide baseline ecological information about the Survey Area and a surrounding study area with particular reference to whether legally protected and/or notable sites, species or habitats are present or likely to be present; ▪ To provide recommendations to enable compliance with relevant nature conservation legislation and planning policy; and ▪ If necessary, to identify the need for avoidance, mitigation, compensation or enhancement measures and/or further ecological surveys. RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND POLICY 2.1.9. The appraisal has been compiled with reference to the following relevant nature conservation legislation, planning policy and the UK Biodiversity Framework from which the protection of sites, habitats and species is derived in England. The context and applicability of each item is explained as appropriate in the relevant sections of the report and additional details are presented in Appendix A. ▪ The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (Habitats Regulations); ▪ The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (WCA); ▪ Countryside Rights of Way Act 2000; ▪ The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006; ▪ The Protection of Badgers Act 1992; ▪ The Hedgerow Regulations 1997; ▪ The Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996; ▪ The UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework (2011-2020) (JNCC and DEFRA, 2012); ▪ Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services (DEFRA, 2011);

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▪ UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP)1; ▪ The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2018 (DCLG, 2012); and ▪ Environment Act 1995.

1 The UK BAP has now been replaced by the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, however, it contains useful information on how to characterise important species assemblages and habitats which is still relevant.

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3. METHODS

3.1. OVERVIEW 3.1.1. This appraisal has been prepared with reference to current good practice guidance published by the Chartered Institute for Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM, 2013 and 2015), and Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2010); and guidance contained in the British Standard - Code of Practice for Biodiversity and Development BS42020:2013 (British Standards Institute (2013). 3.1.2. This PEA is based on the following data sources: ▪ An ecological desk study; ▪ A habitat survey; and ▪ A protected/notable species assessment. 3.2. DESK STUDY 3.2.1. The desk study was undertaken in August 2017 as part of the original PEA (WSP, 2017) to review existing ecological baseline information available in the public domain and to obtain information held by relevant third parties. This data was reviewed with the revised Site boundary. For the purpose of the desk study exercise, records were collated within various radii around the Site. This approach is consistent with current good practice guidance published by the CIEEM, 2013 and 2015. To provide the baseline data for the ecological desk study, the following information was requested from Northamptonshire Biological Records Centre (NBRC): ▪ Records of legally protected and notable species within 2km of the Site; ▪ Bat records within a 5km radius of the Site; and ▪ Records of non-statutory sites designated for nature conservation value within 2km of the Site. 3.2.2. Freely downloadable datasets (available from Natural England) were consulted for information regarding the presence of statutory designated habitats within 2km of the Site, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Local Nature Reserves (LNR). This search was extended to 10km for Natura 2000 sites (Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA)) of European importance and internationally designated Ramsar sites. 3.2.3. The findings of the desk study have been incorporated within Section 3 and Appendix B of this report. 3.2.4. The ecological desk study was carried out by a Consultant Ecologist and Seasonal Ecologist, both Graduate member of CIEEM, who have both completed ecological desk studies. 3.3. HABITAT SURVEY 3.3.1. A Phase 1 habitat survey of the Survey Area was carried out on the 27th and 28th September 2018, in clear skies with a light breeze, approximately 15˚C and no rain. The survey covered the Site and a 50m surrounding buffer (i.e. the Survey Area), including boundary features. Consideration was given to surrounding habitats using aerial photograph imagery. The Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken by two Graduate Ecologists, and led by one with extensive botanical knowledge and two years’ experience undertaking Phase 1 surveys.

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3.3.2. Habitats were described and mapped following the standard Phase 1 habitat survey methodology (JNCC, 2010). Phase 1 habitat survey is a standard technique for classifying and mapping British habitats. The dominant plant species are recorded and habitats are classified according to their vegetation types. Where appropriate consideration was given to whether habitats qualify, or could qualify, as a Habitat of Principal Importance (HPI) following habitat descriptions published by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2008). 3.3.3. A list of plant species was compiled (Appendix C), with relative plant species abundance estimated using the DAFOR scale2. The scientific names for plant species follow those in the New Flora of the British Isles (Stace, 2010) and are also listed in Appendix C. 3.3.4. Habitats were described and mapped following the standard Phase 1 habitat survey methodology (JNCC, 2010). Phase 1 habitat survey is a standard technique for classifying and mapping British habitats. The dominant plant species are recorded and habitats are classified according to their vegetation types. Where appropriate consideration was given to whether habitats qualify, or could qualify, as a Habitat of Principal Importance following habitat descriptions published by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2008). 3.3.5. Target notes (TN) were made to provide information on specific features of ecological interest (e.g. a badger Meles meles sett) or habitat features too small to be mapped. These are included in Appendix D. 3.3.6. Any invasive plant species listed on Schedule 9 of the WCA which were evident during the Phase 1 habitat survey were also target noted. Detailed mapping of such species; or a full survey of the Survey Area for all invasive plant species is beyond the scope of this commission. 3.3.7. Data collected as part of this Phase 1 habitat survey is suitable for use in retrospective biodiversity unit calculations, if required. 3.4. PROTECTED SPECIES ASSESSMENT 3.4.1. The potential for the Site to support legally protected and notable species was assessed using the desk study results and combined with field observations during the habitat survey. The assessment of habitat suitability for protected and notable species was based on professional experience and judgement. This was supplemented by standard sources of guidance on habitat suitability assessment for key faunal groups including: birds (Gilbert et al, 1998 and Bibby et al, 2000), great crested newt Triturus cristatus (Gent and Gibson, 2003 and English Nature, 2001); reptiles (Froglife, 1999 and Gent and Gibson, 2003); bats (Collins, 2016 and Mitchell-Jones, 2004); badger (Harris et al, 1991 and Roper, 2010); otter (Chanin, 2003); water vole (Dean et al, 2016) and invertebrates (Drake et al, 2007 and Kirby, P, 2001).

2 The DAFOR scale has been used to estimate the frequency and cover of the different plant species as follows: Dominant (D) - >75% cover, Abundant (A) – 51-75% cover, Frequent (F) – 26-50% cover, Occasional (O) – 11-25% cover, Rare (R) – 1-10% cover., The term ‘Locally’ (L) is also used where the frequency and distribution of a species are patchy and ‘Edge’ (E) is also used where a species only occurs on the edge of a habitat type.

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3.5. PRELIMINARY EVALUATION 3.5.1. A preliminary evaluation of all ecological features within the Survey Area was undertaken with reference to guidance issued by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM, 2016). In evaluating the relative importance of ecological features, the following factors were considered; nature conservation designations, species/habitat rarity, naturalness, fragility, connectivity to other habitats and relevant nature conservation aims and objectives for a given area as contained in national and local biodiversity action plans and planning policies. 3.6. NOTES AND LIMITATIONS 3.6.1. Every effort has been made to provide a comprehensive description of the Survey Area; however, the following specific limitations apply to this assessment: ▪ Ecological survey data is typically valid for two years unless otherwise specified, for example if conditions are likely to change more quickly due to ecological processes or anticipated changes in management’. ▪ Records held by local biological record centres and local recording groups are generally collected on a voluntary basis; therefore, the absence of records does not demonstrate the absence of species, it may simply indicate a gap in recording coverage. ▪ Botanical surveys are seasonally limited, and throughout the spring and summer period certain species will be more or less evident at different times (i.e. depending on the flowering season). However, it is considered that sufficient information was gathered to enable an assessment of the habitat types present, in line with standard Phase 1 habitat categories and the potential for these to support protected or notable species. ▪ A number of locations within the Survey Area could not be accessed, including Brampton Grange to the north of the Site and the area to the east of the River Nene. These were areas outside of the Site (but within the Survey Area) and will not be directly impacted by the Proposed Scheme. These areas cover a limited portion of the Survey Area, as on shown in Figure 3a. Aerial imagery was used to identify which habitats were present in these areas. It is, therefore, considered that the Phase 1 habitat types were accurately identified. It is not considered to be a significant constraint on the survey results. ▪ The Phase 1 Habitat survey was carried out over the period of two consecutive days, as such only a selection of all species that occur within the Survey Area will have been recorded. However, through use of desk study information to supplement site survey data, it is considered that an accurate assessment of the potential for the Site to support protected species or those of conservation concern was possible. ▪ The extended Phase 1 Habitat map (Figure 3a and 3b) has been reproduced from field notes and plans. Whilst this provides a sufficient level of detail to fulfil the requirements of a PEA, the maps are not intended to provide exact locations of key habitats. ▪ A number of ornamental plant species were present within the Survey Area. These have been identified to species level where possible; however, owing to the large number of horticultural varieties some plants could not be identified. Ornamental plants may be of value to wildlife; however, none are characterised as rare or notable from a native biodiversity conservation perspective. Thus, this limitation does not affect the overall conclusions of this appraisal.

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4. RESULTS

4.1. DESIGNATED SITES STATUTORY SITES 4.1.1. The desk study identified a single statutory nature conservation site of European and International importance within 10km of the Site, and one nature conservation site of national and local importance within 2km of the Site. Descriptions of the sites are detailed in Table 1 below. Table 1 - Statutory designated sites

Site Name Designation Size Approximate Description (ha) Distance and orientation from Site

Upper Nene Ramsar, and 1382 5.5km south-east The site is designated for its assemblage of Valley SPA bird species, which include twelve species; Gravel Pits northern lapwing Vanellus vanellus and gadwall Anas strepera. The range of habitats and the varied topography of the lagoons regularly provide valuable resting and feeding conditions for more than 20,000 wintering water birds, especially ducks and waders.

Kingsthorpe LNR 15 0.9km south-east The site is an important part of the green corridor network. Species recorded from the site include kingfisher Alcedo atthis, cuckoo Cuculus canorus, fox Vulpes vulpes and a number of different dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly species. Habitats present on the site include scrub and hedges.

NON-STATUTORY SITES 4.1.2. The desk study identified 24 non-statutory nature conservation sites within 2km of the Site, including Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) and Potential LWS (pLWS). A description of these sites is detailed in Table 2 below. Table 2 - Non-statutory designated sites

Site Name Designation Size Distance and Description (ha) orientation from Site

Kingsthorpe Ditch LWS 0.24 Within Site A ditch with a good wetland flora

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Northamptonshire LWS 71.7 0m W A golf course with areas of acid County Golf grassland, gorse and heather Course

Kingsthorpe North LWS 6.06 20m E A mixture of wet of grassland and wetland Meadows habitats

Boughton Cold LWS , 2.85 25m NW An open area with some scattered shrubs Store – Pitsford country park and trees. Some areas with both Station calcareous and acidic grassland indicators

Kingsthorpe LWS 4.01 80m SE An area of swamp vegetation to the west Tussocks of the river Nene

Harlestone Firs LWS 118.5 500m W An area of mixed woodland on former heathland. Small area of heathland remains

Dallington Heath LWS 10 520m SW An area of open sandy ground with some varied vegetation

Harlestone Heath LWS, 4.38 650m W A mixture of habitats in a Wildlife trust site Nature Reserve Wildlife trust reserve

Heath Spinney and LWS 3.1 1.1km SW A narrow strip of woodland with Brook numerous ancient woodland indicator species

Dallington Brook LWS 1.03 1.2km SW A small area of species rich grassland Grassland

Slatepit Plantation LGS, pLWS Not 1.9km SW A geological site, with no ecological given features noted

421 pLWS Not Within Site Not given category 1 given

438 pLWS Not Within Site Not given category 1 given

Grange Farm pLWS Not Within Site Not given Fields category 1 given

437 pLWS Not 0m E Not given category 1 given

Bouhton – Kings pLWS Not 50m E A disused railway with some hedgerow. Heath Railway given Largely in poor condition

Kings Heath pLWS Not 60m W An abandoned pasture field which is Pasture given unlikely to qualify as a LWS

420 pLWS Not 420m N Not given category 1 given

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Dallington Heath pLWS Not 680m SW Not given West category 1 given

254 pLWS Not 1.9km SE Not given category 1 given

Sandy Lane Verge pLWS Not 1.9m SW Not given category 1 given

OTHER HABITATS OF CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE 4.1.3. No ancient woodlands are located within 2km of the Site. Within 1km, five HPI exist, including: ▪ Numerous areas of deciduous woodland primarily to the west (within Northamptonshire County Golf Club) and east of the Site; ▪ Two areas of lowland fen to the east of the Site, along the River Nene; ▪ A large area of lowland heath to the west of the Site (within Northamptonshire County Golf Club); ▪ An area of coastal and floodplain grazing marsh lying within the Site and smaller areas along the River Nene to the south-east; and ▪ Four areas of lowland dry acid grassland (within Northamptonshire County Golf Club). 4.2. HABITAT SURVEY OVERVIEW 4.2.1. The Site sits within the River Nene valley and gently slopes toward the river to the east. The habitats and their management vary considerably across the Survey Area. These range from arable land planted with wheat and heavily grazed horse pasture, to amenity areas associated with the two golf courses to the west, to rough, tussocky grassland and scrub that appeared to be subject to minimal management to the east. The River Nene runs north-south alongside the eastern boundary of the Site, and tributaries and agricultural ditches/drains (lined by hedgerows) run perpendicular to the river through the Survey Area. The Survey Area is also intersected by the West Coast Mainline railway [Rugby to Northampton branch] and also includes the agricultural buildings associated with Dallington Grange Farm. 4.2.2. The following account summarises the findings of the Phase 1 habitat survey. Twenty- three Phase 1 habitat types were identified in the Survey Area. They are mapped on Figure 3a and 3b and are listed in Table 3 along with areas in hectares (or length for linear features). A description of the dominant and notable species, the composition and management of each habitat is provided below and an indicative species list is provided in Appendix C. Target notes are provided in Appendix D and photographs in Appendix E. Alpha-numeric codes used in this section cross-refer to the JNCC Phase 1 habitat survey classification (JNCC, 2010). The order of the habitat descriptions below reflects their ordering in the Phase 1 habitat survey manual and does not reflect habitat importance. Table 3 - Phase 1 Habitat Areas

Phase 1 habitat Area (ha) Length (m) % of Site

A1.1.1 - Broadleaved Woodland - Semi-Natural 0.31 0.31

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A1.1.2 - Broadleaved Woodland - Plantation 1.05 1.05

A2.1 - Scrub - Dense/Continuous 1.51 1.50

A3.1 - Broadleaved Parkland/Scattered Trees 0.65 0.65

A3.2 - Coniferous Parkland/Scattered Trees 0.05 0.05

A3.3 - Mixed Parkland/Scattered Trees 1.79 1.79

B3.2 - Poor Semi-Improved Grassland 29.21 29.20

B4 - Improved Grassland 2.35 2.35

C3.1 - Other Tall Herb and Fern - Ruderal 13.25 13.25

F2.1 - Marginal & Inundation Vegetation 3377.59 0.00

G1 - Standing Water 0.08 0.08

G2 - Running Water 3603.30 0.00

I2.2 - Spoil 0.06 0.06

J1.1 - Arable Land 33.63 33.62

J1.2 - Amenity Grassland 4.86 4.85

J1.3 - Ephemeral/Short Perennial 0.44 0.44

J1.4 - Bare Ground 0.71 0.71

J1.4 - Introduced Shrub 0.08 0.08

J2.1.1 - Intact Hedge - Species-Rich 350.11 0.00

J2.1.2 - Intact Hedge - Species-Poor 956.93 0.00

J2.2.1 - Defunct Hedge - Species-Rich 479.76 0.00

J3.6 - Buildings 0.12 0.12

Hardstanding 2.02 2.02

Areas not surveyed 7.88 7.87

TOTAL 100.03 8767.69 100.00

A1.1.1 – BROADLEAVED WOODLAND – SEMI-NATURAL 4.2.3. A small area of woodland exists in the northern end of the Site and consisted of a mixture of mature deciduous trees, none appearing dominant. The canopy comprises of an even mixture of abundant lime Tilia sp., frequent sweet chestnut Castanea sativa, and occasional English elm Ulmus procera

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and pedunculate oak Quercus robur. The shrub layer consists of occasional young English elm and rare crab apple Malva sylvestris. The ground flora had a typical nutrient rich - species poor composition with abundant common nettle Urtica dioica, cleavers Galium aparine and ivy Hedera helix. A1.1.2 – BROADLEAVED WOODLAND – PLANTATION 4.2.4. An area of plantation broadleaved woodland, appearing to be of planted origin, occurs in the southern half of the Site immediately north of the railway on the western boundary. It consists of a mixture of semi-mature to mature trees approximately 10-12m tall. They are all very similar in size and evenly spaced. The canopy comprises frequent alder Alnus glutinosa and English elm with occasional pedunculate oak and rare ash Fraxinus excelsior. Grey willow Salix cinerea and Lombardy poplar Populus nigra ‘italica’ are occasional but locally abundant in places. The shrub layer comprises abundant English elm, occasional elder and rare common hawthorn Crataegus monogyna. The ground layer consists of abundant common nettle and ground ivy Glechoma hederacea, frequent cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris, occasional wood avens Geum urbanum and rare red campion Silene dioica. There is a dry ditch along the woodlands eastern boundary running north to south. Here there are a number of additional ground flora species which are rare throughout the rest of the woodland. These included male fern Dryopteris filix-mas, hart’s tongue Asplenium scolopendrium, and black horehound Ballota nigra. A2.1 – SCRUB – DENSE/CONTINUOUS 4.2.5. The scrub on Site was found mostly on the edge of other habitats, in this manner it acts as a buffer zone between two different areas, and is largely seen on the edge of roads or beside tall ruderal herb. It is formally described as an area that can be a seral or climax community usually dominated by native shrubs, generally less than 5m tall, with a few scattered trees. Scrub communities vary on Site and include abundant blackthorn Prunus spinosa and hawthorn, and frequent bramble Rubus fructicosus agg, all of which are dominant locally. The understorey is generally species poor due to low light levels and in places includes frequent ivy and ground ivy. Where bramble is the dominant scrub this is typically intermitted with tall ruderal and grassland species. A2.2 – SCATTERED SCRUB 4.2.6. Scattered scrub is present throughout the Site with abundant hawthorn throughout the Site. Butterfly bush Buddleja davidii and elder are occasional on Site, being mainly constricted to the railway and areas of disturbance. Grey willow Salix cinereal is frequent in wet areas, mainly along the watercourses. A3.1 - BROADLEAVED PARKLAND/SCATTERED TREES 4.2.7. Broadleaved trees are frequent throughout the Site and comprise birch Betula pendula, ash and white willow. Alder and pedunculate oak are occasional with the latter becoming locally dominant in a narrow strip of woodland just north of the railway line. Where dense enough, the understorey comprised of frequent bramble and hawthorn. The ground flora comprises frequent bramble and common nettle, occasional sedge species Carex spp, male fern and bittersweet. A3.2 – CONIFEROUS PARKLAND/SCATTERED TREES 4.2.8. An area dominated by coniferous trees is present in the north-western corner of the Survey Area within the golf course. This area was not fully assessed due to health and safety limitations and is

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not considered a significant constraint. It is dominated by a non-native conifer which was not identified to species level. A3.3 - MIXED PARKLAND/SCATTERED TREES 4.2.9. Areas mapped as mixed scattered trees consist of a very variable canopy. Throughout this habitat an unidentified non-native conifer is abundant. Silver birch and a whitebeam species Sorbus sp. are frequent. white poplar Populus alba, pedunculate oak and a cherry species Prunus sp. are occasional with rare sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus. The ground flora generally consists of species listed in poor semi-improved grassland (see below). In an area where the canopy is more closed woodland flora becomes more prominent with locally frequent upright hedge parsley Torillis japonica and broad-leaved helleborine Epipactis helleborine (TN11), both being rare elsewhere on site. B3.2 - POOR SEMI-IMPROVED GRASSLAND 4.2.10. Areas of poor semi-improved grassland are abundant throughout the Site, predominantly in the southern half. Frequently managed areas are dominated by a mixture of meadow grass species Poa sp., creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera, and perennial rye grass Lolium perenne. Where this habitat persists as a verge habitat it is tusskocky with a tall sward typically dominated by false oat grass Arrhenatherume elatius, cocks foot Dactylis glomerata and brome species (Bromopis and Anisantha sp.). Grazed pastures in the north-western portion of the Site have frequent hairy sedge Carex hirta. Forb diversity is generally species poor with frequent yarrow Achillea millefolium and ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata, occasional dovesfoot cranesbill Geranium molle, autumn hawkbit Leontodon autumnalis, bulbous buttercup Ranunculus bulbosus, creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, common ragwort Senecio jacobaea, germander speedwell Veronica chamaedrys and common vetch Vicia sativa. Meadowsweet Fillependula ulmaria, mouse-ear hawkweed Hieracium pilosella, and creeping cinquefoil Potentiall reptans are all rare in this habitat, though locally abundant in places. B4 - IMPROVED GRASSLAND 4.2.11. A single field of improved grassland was identified on Site and comprised of a lush green field with a tall sward. Species diversity is low and grasses consisted of dominant perennial rye grass, with locally frequent false oat grass. Broad leaved dock Rumex obtufifolius is occasional and silverweed Potentilla anserina is rare throughout the habitat. C3.1 - OTHER TALL HERB AND FERN – RUDERAL 4.2.12. Tall ruderal is abundant through the Site. It is mainly present as part of the field margin and along watercourses in strips between 1 – 10m wide. A field just north of the centre part of the Site is nearly fully composed of this habitat as a result of no recent management. The main species in this habitat are abundant common nettle, and frequent false oat grass, creeping thistle Cirsium arvense, common mugwort Artemesia vulgaris, greater willowherb Epilbium hirsutum bindweed Calystegia sp. and common hogweed Heracleum sphondyliym. Occasionals include greater burdock Artcium lappa, dovesfoot cranesbill, prickly ox tongue Picris echioides and broad-leaved dock. On the Sites’ northern boundary by the road there is an area where butterbur Petasites hybridus is locally abundant.

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F2.1 - MARGINAL & INUNDATION VEGETATION 4.2.13. Linear strips of marginal vegetation are abundant throughout the Site due to the abundance of watercourses on Site. These are no more than a couple of meters wide in most instances. The habitat is dominated by reed sweet grass Glyceria maxima and has frequent associated tall herbs such as greater willowherb and meadowsweet. Water mint Mentha aquatica, field horsetail Equisetum arvense and a bur reed species Sparganium sp. are occasional. Reed canary grass Phalaris arundinacea is occassioanal and locally abundant in places. Soft rush and common club- rush Schoenoplectus lacustris are rare in the habitat. Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera is rare in this habitat but where present is typically frequent never becoming dominant. It was recorded on two watercourses in the southern half of the site (TN7 and TN12), where it is scattered along these. G1 - STANDING WATER 4.2.14. Two waterbodies were identified within the Site. One of these, which consists of three separate sections all connected via a watercourse north of, is located in the north-eastern corner of the Site. Two of these are fenced and one, the most easterly section, is not and is subject to poaching and has poor water quality. The second waterbody is located in the southern part of the Site immediately south of the railway. Species composition consists of abundant brooklime Veronica beccabunga, frequent sedges Carex spp., and occasional floating sweet grass Glyceria fluitans, soft rush, celery- leaved buttercup Ranunculus scleratus, marsh woundwort Stachys palustris and water forget-me- not Myosotis scorpioides. Hard rush Juncus inflexus is rare in this habitat. New Zealand pygmyweed Crassula helmsii is rare in this habitat recorded only on the second waterbody (TN6) where it is locally abundant. G2 - RUNNING WATER 4.2.15. Running water is present throughout the Site. The River Nene runs along the eastern boundary of the Site and in places, tributaries and ditches connected to the river run through the centre of the Site. The river Nene’s water quality is thought to be good. Flow speed is moderate to slow and the depth is variable throughout the watercourse. Macrophytes were not identified in the survey but were occasional throughout. The habitat is bordered by marginal vegetation (see description above) and scattered trees, mainly occasional white willow and grey willow. The trees shade the watercourse in places. A number of bales of hay are present in the watercourse. (TN 8). I2.2 – SPOIL 4.2.16. An area of tarmac and gravel spoil was noted (TN4) in the southern half of the site adjacent to the single lane road leading up to Grange farm. It is mainly bare but has a good diversity of forbs, mostly weedy species some of which were not recorded elsewhere on Site. Common mugwort, common centaury Centaurium erythraea, white dead nettle Lamium album and ribwort plantain are frequent. False oat grass, black horehound Ballota nigra, cleavers Galium aparine, common hogweed, Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus, perforated st Johhns wort Hypericum perforatum, least lettuce Lactuca salgina and dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. are occasional. Greater burdock Arctium lappa, prickly ox tongue, and weld Reseda luteola are rare. The habitat offers basking opportunity for reptiles and is a potential hibernacula feature for reptiles and amphibians. It also has potential to contain asbestos.

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J1.1 - ARABLE LAND 4.2.17. Arable land is the main habitat in the northern half of the Site. At time of survey it was bare but was formerly wheat Triticum sp. The habitat now consists of a sparse cover of ruderal species. Unidentified brassicaceous weeds and common couch Elytrigia repens are abundant. Groudnsel Senecio vulgaris, fat hen Chenopodium album, prickly lettuce Lactuca serriola, cut-leaved cranesbill Geranium dissectum and a mayweed species Tripleurospermum sp. are occasional throughout. Red-dead nettle Lamium purpurea is rare. J1.2 - AMENITY GRASSLAND 4.2.18. Amenity grassland is present along the western boundary of the Site, mainly in the northern section where the golf course is present. It is dominated by grasses including dominant perennial rye grass and a frequent meadow grass. White clover Trifolium repens is frequent. Scattered trees and are occasional throughout the habitat. J1.3 - EPHEMERAL/SHORT PERENNIAL 4.2.19. Ephemeral/short perennial vegetation is present is a weedy plant community that is present in areas of recent disturbance. On Site it is present in three places; in the south-western corner beside Grange farm and two places in the centre, one target noted (TN10) for having mammal tracks (deer and rabbit). The community is very variable on Site. Equal-leaved knotgrass Polygonum arenastrum is abundant in the south-western area. Redshank Polygonum maculosa is rare but locally abundant in the centre of the Site. Many-seeded goosefoot Chenopodium polyspermum, ribwort plantain, greater plantain, common chickweed Stellaria media, white clover and a mayweed are frequent in the habitat. Common mugwort, mouse-ear chickweed Cerastium fontanum, greater willowherb, Yorkshire fog, prickly lettuce, groundsel and dandelion are occasional. Marsh cudweed is occasional and locally frequent. Common vetch, broad-leaved dock, creeping buttercup and spear leaved orache Atriplex prostrata are rare. J1.4 - BARE GROUND 4.2.20. Bare ground habitat is present a railway track running north-west to south-east through the southern half of the Site. Vegetation is sparse. Some scattered scrub is present along the edges of this habitat (see A2.2 scattered scrub section). J1.4 - INTRODUCED SHRUB 4.2.21. A patch of introduced scrub is present by the road in the northern part of the Site. It is dominated by snowberry Symphoricarpos alba, a non-native naturalised shrub species. The canopy is thick and as such the ground flora has a low diversity being dominated by ivy with abundant ground ivy and rare cow parsley. J2.1.1 - INTACT HEDGE - SPECIES-RICH 4.2.22. Two species rich hedges are present in the centre of the Site. These have a higher number of woody species than the species poor hedge and are in higher abundances. Common hawthorn is abundant. Occasional species include field maple Acer campestre, wild cherry Prunus avium, a rose species, a willow species, elder and guelder rose Vibernum opulus. Pedunculate oak and ash are frequent as scattered trees in the hedges. The field layer mainly consists of a grassland and tall ruderal verge (see descriptions above). However as there is a wet ditch associated with these two

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hedges marginal vegetation also exists. This consists of abundant reed canary grass and frequent meadowsweet and bittersweet Solanum dulcamara. J2.1.2 - INTACT HEDGE - SPECIES-POOR 4.2.23. Four species poor hedges are present in the Site. Three of these are dominated by hawthorn and one is dominated by blackthorn. Other woody species include frequent elder, occasional rose Rosa sp. and rare scattered trees; pedunculate oak and ash. Wild cherry is also rare here. The field layer mainly consists of a grassland and tall ruderal verge (see descriptions above). The hedge in the south-western corner of the Site consists of tightly grazed grassland with occasional forbs such as white campion Silene latifolia and common nettle. J2.2.1 - DEFUNCT HEDGE - SPECIES-RICH 4.2.24. A species-rich defunct hedge is present in the south-eastern part of the Site. A very high number of woody species were recorded here. Common hawthorn was abundant and elder was frequent. Field maple and hazel Coryllus avellana are occasional. Wild cherry and English elm are rare as part of the hedge, the latter often partially dead as a result of dutch elm disease. Crab apple is also rare though locally frequent in a section. Trees are frequent throughout the hedge with ash, pedunculate oak, white willow and white poplar being rare. The field layer mainly consists of a grassland verge (see descriptions above). White campion is also frequent and horse radish is locally frequent. J3.6 – BUILDINGS 4.2.25. A number of buildings are present on Site which include the Grange Farm barns and out buildings and a pumping station within the semi-natural woodland at the northern boundary of the Site. These have been assessed for bat roost potential as part of a suite of surveys already carried out in the 2018 survey season (WSP, 2018c). HARDSTANDING 4.2.26. Hard-standing is present on Site in the form of roads along the northern border of the Site and a single lane road running up to Dallington Grange farm in the southern part of the Site. 4.3. PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES ASSESSMENT 4.3.1. The potential for the Survey Area to support legally protected species and notable species has been assessed using the results of the desk study and observations made during the site survey of habitats within and immediately surrounding the Site. A summary of desk study information is included within Appendix B. Desk study records have only been considered below if they are recent (from the last 10 years) and/or if they relate to species that may be supported by habitats within the Survey Area. Habitats present within the Survey Area are suitable for the following species; further consideration is given below to the likelihood for these species to be present within the Survey Area: ▪ Badger ▪ Bats ▪ Dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius ▪ Otter Lutra lutra ▪ Water vole Arvicola amphibius ▪ Birds ▪ Reptiles ▪ Amphibians

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▪ Fish ▪ Invertebrates 4.3.2. The Survey Area does not provide suitable habitat for other protected or notable species and other species, beyond those listed above, will not be considered further in this PEA. BADGER 4.3.3. The background data search returned two records of badgers within 2km of the Site in the last 10 years. However, due to the inaccuracy of these points, it is unclear whether they occur within the Site. Information was not given on the nature of these records. 4.3.4. Signs of badgers were identified during the field survey and during previous surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018 (WSP, 2018a). Potential badger setts were recorded along the farm track leading to Dallington Grange Farm (Appendix D, TN2 and TN3). Furthermore, fresh dung pits were recorded along the edges of one of the arable fields within the Site (TN14 through TN16). 4.3.5. The woodland, scrub, hedge banks and the railway embankment within the Survey Area are considered suitable for sett creation and signs of activity from other mammals such as rabbit were noted. Habitat such as the arable land, amenity grassland and semi-improved grassland provide potential foraging areas for badgers and due to relatively good ecological connectivity within the two sections of the Survey Area (either side of the railway), the area is considered to support this species. BATS 4.3.6. The background data search returned 50 records of bats within 5km of the Site. Returned records were roosts and foraging and grounded bats. These records consist of eight species, including: barbastelle Barbastella barbastellus, brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus, common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Daubenton’s bat Myotis daubentonii, Leisler’s bat Nyctalus leisleri, noctule Nyctalus noctula, soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus, and Whiskered bat Myotis mystacinus. All bat records are found within 5km but none lie within the Survey Area itself. 4.3.7. Trees within the Survey Area (including scattered trees, trees within hedgerows and those within woodland), in addition to structures such as the Church Brampton Pump House and Grange Farm have the potential to support roosting bats. The woodland, water courses, scrub and grassland provide foraging opportunities for these species. In addition, the network of connecting features such as hedgerows, tree lines, the stream and woodland edges, which are also present within the Survey Area, have the potential to provide commuting and foraging habitats. 4.3.8. Surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018 have confirmed the use of the Site by bats for foraging, commuting, and roosting (WSP, 2018c-e), including one tree roost in the north of the Site and roosts within the buildings of Dallington Grange Farm. DORMOUSE 4.3.9. No records for hazel dormouse were returned by the desk study for the last 10 years. 4.3.10. The Site is located near the northern extent of the range of this species and is considered to be scarce throughout Northamptonshire. Additionally, the habitats within the Site are generally unsuitable and the Site lacks connectivity between areas of suitable woodland habitat (largely due to its location on an urban fringe).

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4.3.11. As a result, dormice are considered to be likely absent from the Survey Area and will not be considered further in this report. OTTER 4.3.12. A single record of otter was returned by the desk study, located within the Site in Grange Farm Fields LWS. 4.3.13. The habitats within the Survey Area, particularly the River Nene, are suitable for use by otters for foraging. Additionally, dense vegetation along certain areas of the riverbank are suitable for holt creation. 4.3.14. An otter survey undertaken by WSP in 2018 found evidence of otter, including live sightings, otter holts, feeding remains, and scats throughout the Site (WSP, 2018j). As a result, otters are considered present within the Site. WATER VOLE 4.3.15. The background data search returned no records of water vole within 2km of the Site in the last 10 years. 4.3.16. No signs of water vole were identified during the field survey. However, ditches and bankside habitat within the Survey Area are considered suitable for burrow excavation. The Survey Area is also considered to have the potential to support water vole due to the abundance of food plants, including sedges, rushes and grasses along the banks of the stream. 4.3.17. Water vole surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018 did not find evidence of this species (WSP, 2018j). Evidence of mink Neovison vison was found. BIRDS 4.3.18. The background data search returned numerous records of birds within 2km of the Site. This included 29 records of 19 different species. Schedule 1 bird species returned include kingfisher Alcedo atthis, hen harrier Circus cyaneus, red kite Milvus milvus, redwing Turdus iliacus, and fieldfare, Turdus pilaris. Records for Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) red listed species including lesser redpoll Acanthis cabaret, yellowhammer Emberiza citronella, linnet Linaria cannabina, house sparrow Passer domesticus, woodcock Scolopax rusticola, and lapwing Vanellus vanellus, were also returned. 4.3.19. The Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA, located approximately 5.5km south-east of the Site, contains a wintering bird assemblage consisting of 12 different species. These include shoveler Anas clypeata, wigeon Anas penelope, mallard Anas platyrhynchos, gadwall Anas strepera, common pochard Aythya ferina, tufted duck Aythya fuligula, European bittern Botaurus stellaris, Eurasian coot Fulica atra, cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo, golden plover Pluvialis apricaria, great crested grebe Podiceps cristatus, and lapwing. 4.3.20. The Survey Area has the potential to support the majority of the species returned by the desk study. The Survey Area features multiple trees and vegetation suitable for supporting widespread nesting birds, including redwing and fieldfare, due to a good mix of semi-natural and hedgerow habitats. 4.3.21. The grassland areas have the potential to support ground nesting birds such as skylark Alauda arvensis and lapwing. The watercourses that pass within the Survey Area have the potential to support species such as kingfisher and grey wagtail Motacilla cinerea (red listed BoCC). Tussocky

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grassland, particularly, found between Brampton Heath Golf Centre and the stream, featured numerous small mammal burrows and has the potential to be used by owls (including the Northamptonshire LBAP barn owl Tyto alba) and raptors such as red kite, buzzard Buteo bute and kestrel Falco tinnunculus. In addition, trees in close proximity to the Survey Area are of sufficient size and age to possess features that could be used by barn owl. 4.3.22. Barn owl nest sites have been found within the Survey Area in previous surveys undertaken by WSP (WSP, 2018b). REPTILES 4.3.23. The background data search returned two records of grass snake Natrix helvetica Helvetica3 and one record of common lizard Zootoca vivipara within 2km of the Site in the last 10 years. 4.3.24. The Survey Area is considered likely to support widespread species of reptile (common lizard, grass snake and slow worm Anguis fragilis) due to the presence of a mosaic of habitats that include tussocky grassland, scrub, wet habitat (the river, brook, ponds, ditches and surrounding habitat), and woodland, providing suitable foraging habitat and refuge. Further, the land surrounding Grange Farm featured large compost and rubble piles that have begun to become vegetated, adjacent to grassland field margins. These provide additional potential reptile refugia and (in the case of the compost heaps) could be used by grass snake for egg laying. 4.3.25. Reptile surveys undertaken in 2018 found small populations of grass snake along the River Nene and near the buildings of Dallington Grange Farm and common lizards along the ditch to the north of the railway (WSP, 2018k). AMPHIBIANS 4.3.26. A single amphibian record was returned in the background data within 2km of the Site within the last 10 years. This is a record of common toad Bufo bufo. 4.3.27. Seven waterbodies are present within the Survey Area with still or very slow-moving water, including three ponds at the base of the bridge carrying the A5199 in the north of the Site, a meander of the River Nene, two ditches in the south of the Site, and a pond within the horse fields near Dallington Grange Farm. In the wider landscape, several additional ponds are present, including ponds to the north-east and to the west, within the golf courses. 4.3.28. The field survey identified suitable terrestrial habitat within the Survey Area for amphibians, including woodland, scrub, hedgerows and wet/rough grassland. 4.3.29. A great crested newt survey was undertaken by WSP in 2018 on all ponds except the pond near Dallington Grange Farm, as this was only discovered during the field survey in 2018 (and is not visible on aerial or OS mapping). The surveys found that this species was likely absent from the

3 Formerly classified as Natrix natrix and may be referred to as such in legislation that has not yet been reprinted since the reclassification of the species.

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Survey Area. Smooth newts Lissotriton vulgaris, common toads, and common frogs Rana temporaria were recorded during these surveys (WSP, 2018g). FISH 4.3.30. No records of fish were returned by the desk study. 4.3.31. Habitats within the Survey Area are suitable for fish, particularly the River Nene and associated ditches/streams. These habitats are suitable for notable fish species, including coarse fish, salmonid fish, eels and brook lamprey Lampetra planeri. 4.3.32. Evidence of fish were found during the riparian mammal surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018, within feeding remains and scats (WSP, 2018j). INVERTEBRATES 4.3.33. Numerous invertebrate records of 19 different species were returned within the 2km background data search. This did not include more protected species such as white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes. 4.3.34. The habitats within the Survey Area are suitable for notable invertebrate species, including Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) terrestrial invertebrates such as knot grass Acronicta rumicis, dusky thorn Ennomos fuscantaria, shaded broad-bar, Scotopteryx chenopodiata, blood-vein Timandra comae, and cinnabar moth Tyria jacobaeae. Food plants for these species (ragwort, clovers, vetches, docks, ash, bramble, etc) were recorded in the Survey Area. The river and ditches are suitable for aquatic species, in particular crayfish. 4.3.35. Evidence of signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus was found during the riparian mammal surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018, within feeding remains and scats (WSP, 2018j). As a result, the native white-clawed crayfish is deemed likely absent from the Survey Area and will not be considered further in this report. NON-NATIVE INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES 4.3.36. Record of three invasive plant species within 2km of the Site were returned by the desk study. These include Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica and two aquatic species; parrots feather Myriophyllum aquaticum and New Zealand pygmyweed Crassula helmsii. All three are listed on schedule 9 of the WCA. 4.3.37. The field survey identified Himalayan balsam along the banks of the River Nene (TN 7) and the brook that originated from the golf course and joins the River Nene (TN 12). Additionally, New Zealand pygmyweed was identified within the pond near Dallington Grange Farm (TN 6). ANIMAL SPECIES LISTED ON SCHEDULE 9 OF WCA 4.3.38. Although no evidence of animals listed on Schedule 9 were recorded during the site visit, evidence of signal crayfish was recorded on previous surveys (WSP, 2018j). This was in the form of otter feeding remains and scat along the River Nene.

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5. DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1.1. This section considers the potential for effects on designated sites, legally protected species, notable species and notable habitats as a consequence of the Proposed Scheme. Where further surveys or detailed assessment of potential effects are required in order to design suitable mitigation this is identified. 5.2. STATUTORY DESIGNATED SITES 5.2.1. The Habitats Regulations, 2017 provide strict protection to sites of European and/or international importance. This includes requiring projects or plans to be screened for likely significant effects upon SPA, SAC and candidate SACs (cSACs). Guidance also requires potential SPAs (pSPAs) and Ramsars are subject to the same assessment. Therefore, due to the presence of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA (and Ramsar and SSSI), the Proposed Scheme must be screened by the Local Planning Authority to determine whether significant effects are likely to result. If the local authority is unable to conclude that significant effects are not likely, the Proposed Scheme must be subject to additional assessment in accordance with the Habitats Regulations. 5.2.2. The SPA is located approximately 5.5km south east from the Site. This means no direct loss in habitat will occur as a result of the Proposed Scheme. However, it is possible for the Proposed Scheme to affect the SPA by means of ecological or hydrological connections. This is because the River Nene intersects sections of the Proposed Scheme and also flows adjacent to the SPA at certain points. It is recommended that a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) Stage 1 Screening assessment is undertaken to determine whether a full Appropriate Assessment is required by the competent authority. Birds listed for the SPA will be discussed under section 5.5 below. 5.2.3. LNR is a statutory designation made under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, and amended by Schedule 11 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, by principal local authorities. A LNR can be given protection against damaging operations. It also has protection against development on and around it. This protection is usually given via the Local Plan, (produced by the planning authority), and often supplemented by local by-laws. The Proposed Scheme has the potential to affect Kingsthorpe LNR due to its connection to the Survey Area via River Nene; therefore, recommendations have been made within Sections 5.5, 5.6, 5.7 and 5.8. 5.3. NON-STATUTORY DESIGNATED SITES 5.3.1. There are 14 non-statutory sites within 1km of the site. Five of these lie within the Site boundary. These include LWS, pLWS, country parks and wildlife trust reserves. These sites have been designated for their ecological importance. The Proposed Scheme will directly affect the five within the Site by means of habitat loss and the others may be affected indirectly. 5.3.2. Non-statutory designated sites are declared by local authorities and usually managed by local wildlife trusts or private owners. These sites are afforded protection through Local Planning Policy. 5.3.3. The Proposed Scheme has the potential to significantly affect non-statutory designated sites. The preferred route should aim to minimise these impacts where possible and consultation with the relevant authority (Northamptonshire County Council and Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust) will be required prior to any works that will affect non-statutory designated sites.

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5.4. HABITATS 5.4.1. HPI within the Survey Area include floodplain grazing marsh, ponds, rivers, arable field margins and hedgerows. In accordance with Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. Under Section 40 of this legislation, every public body (including planning authorities) 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’. 5.4.2. Hedgerow habitats will be lost to the Proposed Scheme. A hedgerow survey was undertaken in 2018 to ascertain the value of all hedgerows within the Site (WSP, 2018h), with the exception of two hedgerows in the south east of the Site. As these may be impacted by the Proposed Scheme, a hedgerow survey of these two features will be required. 5.4.3. Watercourses and waterbodies will be impacted and/or lost as a result of the Proposed Scheme, including through crossing of these features (e.g. culverts or bridges), alteration to the flow rate and/or pollution or increased sedimentation. As the Site is located within the floodplains of a network of ditches, streams, and rivers, impacts on one feature may have knock-on effects to other habitats. Therefore, a River Habitat Survey (RHS) is recommended of all watercourses with flowing water to assess the condition of these features and to determine whether further aquatic invertebrate or fish surveys are required. 5.4.4. The preferred route should aim to minimise these impacts where possible and consultation with the relevant authority, such as the Environmental Agency (EA) will be required prior to any works that will affect a main watercourse. 5.4.5. The other habitats identified within the Phase 1 habitat survey are considered to be negligible ecological value. No negative impacts are envisaged on all other Phase 1 habitat types identified in Section 3.2 of this PEA as these habitats are all of low nature conservation interest; or will not be affected by proposals. 5.5. PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES 5.5.1. The results of the desk study, Phase 1 habitat Survey and protected species assessment highlighted the potential presence of several protected species or species of conservation concern within the Survey Area. These include amphibians, badgers, bats, birds, fish, invertebrates, otter, reptiles, and water vole. The legal protection afforded to these species is outlined below and, where appropriate, the requirement for further survey and/ or mitigation measures is identified. BADGER 5.5.2. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 makes it illegal to wilfully kill, injure or take any badger, or attempt to do so. It also makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any part of a badger sett. Activities that would otherwise constitute an offence under this legislation may be licensed by Natural England for certain purposes. 5.5.3. Due to the suitability of habitats on Site and the evidence of badgers (including setts) found through the badger survey undertaken by WSP in 2018, it is possible that badger setts will be impacted by the works. Additionally, the Proposed Scheme may result in the severance of badger territories and therefore potentially cause road mortality and/or reduce the area of available foraging habitat for a badger clan.

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5.5.4. As a result, the additional area not covered by the surveys in 2018 should be surveyed for badgers. Should more than one main sett be identified, a badger bait marking survey should be undertaken to ascertain the number and extent of badger territories within the Survey Area to ascertain the need for badger tunnels under the road. BATS 5.5.5. All species of bats recorded within the UK are protected from killing, injury and disturbance4 and their roosts protected from damage or destruction under the Habitats Regulations. Protection is also afforded under the WCA with respect to disturbance of individuals occupying places of rest or shelter and obstruction of access to these. Activities that would otherwise constitute an offence under this legislation may be licensed by Natural England for certain purposes. 5.5.6. Certain species of bats, including the Bechstein’s bat Myotis bechsteinii, greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, lesser horseshoe bat Rhinolophus hipposideros, noctule, brown long- eared bat and soprano pipistrelle are also listed as Species of Principal Importance (SPI) for the conservation of biodiversity in England in accordance with Section 41 of the NERC 2006. Section 40 obliges public bodies (including local planning authorities) to have regard for the conservation of biodiversity (including SPI) when discharging their duties (including determining planning applications). 5.5.7. The desk study returned records for eight species of bat which included foraging, groundings and roost records. Additionally, surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018 found evidence of roosting in the buildings at Dallington Grange Farm and in a tree at Brampton Grange, and evidence of foraging and commuting along the linear features that intersect the Site (WSP, 2018c, WSP, 2018d). The Proposed Works are considered likely to impact bats as habitat with the potential to support roosting bats, foraging areas and commuting routes require clearance as part of the Proposed Works. The results of surveys undertaken in 2018 are deemed valid for 2 years and as a result a re-survey of the roosts, transects, and crossing points is not required. However, the areas outside of the previous survey area for bats will require further survey (as detailed in Table 4) to ascertain any additional potential roosting features and the level of activity in the area in the south of the Site. OTTER 5.5.8. The European otter is protected from killing, injury and disturbance5 and its place of rest or shelter (holt) is protected from damage or destruction under the Habitats Regulations. Protection is also afforded under the WCA with respect to disturbance of individuals occupying places of rest or shelter and obstruction of access to these. Activities that would otherwise constitute an offence under this legislation may be licensed by [Natural England / Natural Resources Wales / Scottish Natural Heritage] for certain purposes.

4 Disturbance is defined within the Habitats Regulations, 2017 as that which is likely to impair a species ability to survive, breed or reproduce, hibernate or migrate or to significantly affect the local distribution or abundance of the species. 5 Disturbance is defined within the Habitats Regulations as that which is likely to impair a species ability to survive, breed or reproduce, hibernate or migrate or to significantly affect the local distribution or abundance of the species.

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5.5.9. Otters are also listed as SPI in accordance with Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. Public bodies have an obligation under Section 40 to have regard for these species when carrying out their functions. 5.5.10. Otters were recorded during the survey undertaken by WSP in 2018, and the results of this survey is deemed accurate for 2 years. As a result, these areas will not require re-survey. The area in the south of the Site and south of the railway line, along the River Nene, was previously outside of the survey area for otter and therefore further survey of this area should be undertaken to identify any additional potential holts or resting places (Table 5). WATER VOLE 5.5.11. The water vole is protected from killing and injury and its place of rest or shelter (burrow) is protected from damage, destruction or obstruction under the WCA. Additional protection from disturbance is extended to individuals occupying places of rest or shelter. Activities that would otherwise constitute an offence under this legislation may be licensed by Natural England for certain purposes. 5.5.12. The water vole is also listed as SPI in accordance with Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. Public bodies have an obligation under Section 40 to have regard for these species when carrying out their functions. 5.5.13. No evidence of water vole has been found during riparian mammal surveys in 2018, and evidence of mink was recorded along the river. This is likely of American mink. It is therefore considered unlikely that water voles are present in the Survey Area; however it is recommended that the additional area not previously surveyed is subject to a water vole survey, for completeness. BIRDS 5.5.14. The Habitat Regulations 2017 Part 1 Regulation 10(2) & (3) state that local authorities ‘must take such steps in the exercise of their functions as they consider appropriate to contribute to…the preservation, maintenance and re-establishment of a sufficient diversity and area of habitat for wild birds in the UK including by means of the upkeep, management and creation of such habitat…’. The legislation continues to state that economic and recreation requirements must be taken into consideration in considering which measures are appropriate. 5.5.15. Under the WCA all wild birds are protected from killing and injury, and their nests and eggs protected from taking, damage and destruction whilst in use. Additional protection is extended to species listed under Schedule 1 of the Act, meaning it is also an offence to disturb these species at or near the nest, or whilst they have dependent young. 5.5.16. Previous surveys undertaken by WSP in 2018 include a breeding bird mitigation strategy (WSP, 2018f), a barn owl survey (WSP, 2018b) and a kingfisher survey (WSP, 2018i) The barn owl survey found two observed breeding sites (OBS) and as the 1.5km survey area for barn owl will not be altered significantly by the revised Site boundary, further survey for this species is not deemed necessary. The kingfisher survey found no evidence of kingfisher; however, there was suitable foraging and nesting habitat for this species along the River Nene and there are records of this species along the river. Therefore, the additional area along the river to the south of the former survey area will require survey for kingfisher.

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5.5.17. A breeding bird survey was not undertaken as the extent of habitat loss at the time of the initial PEA (WSP, 2017) was not determined. The current Site includes all habitats to be impacted by the Proposed Scheme, which will result in a significant area of habitat potentially used by ground nesting and farmland birds. Therefore, further survey in the form of a breeding bird survey is recommended to ascertain the assemblage of the bird species present within the Site to determine appropriate mitigation for this species group (see Table 4). REPTILES 5.5.18. Native widespread reptile species (common or viviparous lizard, adder, grass snake and slow worm) are partially protected under Schedule 5 of the WCA. This includes protection from killing and injury. 5.5.19. All reptile species are also listed as SPI in accordance with Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. Public bodies have an obligation under Section 40 to have regard for these species when carrying out their functions. 5.5.20. Suitable habitat is present within the Site for native widespread species of reptiles. Additionally, previous surveys (WSP, 2018k) found grass snake and common lizard within the Site; however, this survey area did not extend to the additional areas in the south-east of the Site and the golf course edge along the north-western boundary. As such, these are will require a survey to ascertain the presence and size of population of reptiles in the Site (see Table 4). AMPHIBIANS 5.5.21. Great crested newts are protected from killing, injury and disturbance and their places of rest or shelter (occupied habitat) protected from damage or destruction under the Habitats Regulations. Protection is also afforded under the WCA with respect to disturbance of individuals occupying places of rest or shelter and obstruction of access to these. Activities that would otherwise constitute an offence under this legislation may be licensed Natural England for certain purposes. 5.5.22. Great crested newts and common toad are also listed as SPI in accordance with Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006. Public bodies have an obligation under Section 40 to have regard for these species when carrying out their functions. 5.5.23. Habitat suitability and presence/likely absence surveys for great crested newts have been under in 2018 by WSP on all ponds within 500m of the Site. Great crested newts were found to be likely absent from the Survey Area and these results are considered valid for 2 years. As a result, the ponds surveyed do not require re-survey. However, a small number of additional ponds are within 500m of the new Site boundary (including the field pond discovered during the Phase 1 field survey). 5.5.24. Although it is considered unlikely that great crested newts are present within this revised survey buffer, further survey is recommended on the additional ponds in the form of HSI surveys and subsequent environmental DNA (eDNA) tests detailed further in Table 4. Should any waterbody return a positive result for great crested newt eDNA, full presence/absence survey will also be required on the pond(s). FISH 5.5.25. The Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries Act, 1975 contains provisions relating to the prohibition of certain modes of taking or destroying fish and obstruction of fish passage in watercourses relation to the management and enforcement of salmon fishing in England and Wales:

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5.5.26. In addition, the Eel Regulations, 2009 afford new powers to the Environment Agency (EA) to implement measures for the recovery of European eel stock, apply to all freshwater and estuarine waters in England and Wales, aim to achieve 40% escapement of adult eels relative to escapement levels under pristine conditions, will implement measures to reduce fishing pressure, improve access and habitat quality and reduce impacts of entrainment l Provide guidance through the ‘The Eel Manual’ (EA April 2011) including ‘Screening at intakes & outfalls’. 5.5.27. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) can be notified if they include qualifying features under the fish criteria outlined in section 2 and 3 of Chapter 16 ‘Freshwater and Estuarine Fish’ of the Guidelines for Selection of Biological SSSIs. The breeding sites of certain nationally rare species, including vendace Coregonus albula, whitefish Coregonus lavaretus, allis shad Alosa alosa, twaite shad Alosa fallax and burbot Lota lota are qualifying features for SSSI, though the last is now probably extinct. Certain breeding and spawning sites of smelt Osmerus eperlanus, a nationally uncommon species, also qualify for SSSI site notification. 5.5.28. Fish listed on Annex II of the EC Habitats Directive, and thereby qualifying as features for the selection of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), are: Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus, river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis, brook lamprey, spined loach Cobitis taenia, bullhead Cottus gobio, allis shad and twaite shad. 5.5.29. Of the above, bullhead, brook lamprey, and European eel are likely to be present in the watercourses within and adjacent to the Site. The Proposed Scheme will impact the watercourses through the requirement to pass over these features, and there is potential for the River Nene to be impact as through the north of the Site. 5.5.30. At this stage it is unknown whether culverts will be installed, although a clear span is the preferred option. Discussions with the EA may be required to determine the level of assessment required. In addition to the river corridor survey outlined above, it is recommended that all flowing watercourses within and adjacent to the Site should be subject to a Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessment. INVERTEBRATES 5.5.31. White-clawed crayfish receive partial protection under Schedule 5 of the WCA. This prohibits the taking of any native crayfish for any purpose except under licence. They are listed on Annex II and V of the European Communities Habitats Directive (1992), which allows sites to be designated on the basis of the species being present. 5.5.32. White clawed crayfish and a number of terrestrial invertebrates returned by the desk study are also a SPI in England and Wales under Section 41 and Section 42 respectively of the NERC. They can therefore be considered a material consideration in a planning application. 5.5.33. No records of white-clawed crayfish were returned by the desk study, and evidence of the non- native signal crayfish were found during riparian mammal surveys in 2018. Signal crayfish are generally not found in the same watercourses as the native species as they carry crayfish plague to which the native species is highly susceptible. It is therefore deemed that white-clawed crayfish are likely absent and as such no surveys are recommended for this species. 5.5.34. Aquatic invertebrates are likely to be present within the watercourses and ditches within the Site. The WFD detailed above will inform the need for and extent of aquatic invertebrate surveys to determine any notable assemblages and to ascertain the level of mitigation required.

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5.5.35. Habitats within the Site are suitable to support notable and LBAP terrestrial invertebrates, primarily moths. These habitats are scattered, however, and are primarily concentrated along the hedgerows that intersect the Site. Due to the level of protection these species receive, a full terrestrial invertebrate survey is not required; however, recommendations for habitat creation (including specific plant species) are made in Sections 5.6 and 5.7. 5.6. FURTHER SURVEY REQUIREMENTS 5.6.1. Potential ecological constraints for which further surveys are required to ensure legal and planning policy compliance are listed in Table 4.

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Table 4 - Key Ecological Constraints and Further Survey Requirements

Ecological Receptor Potential Constraints Further Survey Requirements Seasonal Constraints

Badger The Proposed Scheme has the potential to A badger survey to include a thorough inspection of the Survey Area Can be undertaken at any time of year but are most conclusive between damage or destroy badger setts, and/or not already covered by surveys in 2018 (WSP, 2018a) for badger setts February and April, when territorial activity is at its peak but vegetation cover is result in the loss of a significant proportion and signs of badger activity. at a minimum. of foraging habitat and severance of

badger territories Should more than one main sett be located within the Survey Area, a Optimal time for bait marking is between late February and late April, but can bait marking survey of all confirmed badger setts will be required to also be undertaken between early September and mid-October. determine the number and extent of social group territories.

Bats Demolition or works to structures, in Potential Roost Assessment (PRA) of any trees and structures External inspections can be undertaken at any time of year but for trees addition to felling or pruning of trees (e.g. the pump house) not surveyed in 2018 (WSP, 2018b) within are most conclusive in the autumn and winter months where no leaf may result in the damage/destruction the Survey Area. This will determine the levels of bat roost cover exists. of a bat roost. potential and inform any further surveys required of suitable

features. Removal of grassland, scrub or linear features such as tree lines or hedgerows Potential presence / likely absence surveys on trees with may result in the loss of bat foraging and potential roosting features in the form of aerial inspections and/or Dusk emergence/ dawn re-entry surveys must be undertaken between commuting habitat, which in turn could dusk emergence / dawn re-entry surveys. May and September and are optimal between May and August. result in the functional loss of a bat roost. Activity surveys in the south of the Site not covered by previous survey should also be undertaken, to comprise one survey visit per month, in appropriate weather conditions for bats. At least one survey visit should comprise a dusk and pre-dawn survey within one 24-hour period. This One activity survey should be undertaken per month from April to October. should include walked transect surveys and two static detectors should Static detectors should also be deployed within this period. also be deployed per transect to collect data on five consecutive nights in appropriate weather conditions for bats.

Otter Works in close proximity to the An otter survey of the suitable watercourses within the Survey Surveys can be undertaken at any time of the year. However, can be watercourses may result in Area (not already covered by previous surveys, (WSP 2018j)), to carried out between May and September when water levels are less disturbance to otter and/or damage to look for signs of otter activity and any holts that may be present. variable. Surveys should not be carried out during periods when there is an otter holt or resting place. heavy rain. Ideally there should be a period of at least five days without rain before surveying.

Water vole Works in close proximity to the Water vole survey of the suitable watercourses within the Survey Surveys should take place within the water vole breeding season, when watercourses may result in Area (not already covered by previous surveys, (WSP 2018j)), to field signs are most evident. For this Site, this is considered to be from disturbance to water vole and/or look for signs of water vole activity and burrows. mid-April to the end of September. A survey should be conducted in both damage to water vole burrows. May and August, so that they are amply spaced in the survey season.

Birds Loss of habitat due to construction5.6.2. A breeding bird survey (BBS) undertaken of all suitable habitats Surveys to be undertaken monthly in April, May and June. footprint, particularly lengths of within 30m the Site. A single transect will be sufficient to cover

hedgerow, which may impact the local the Survey Area and 3 morning visits between April and June will breeding bird assemblage. be undertaken. The survey work followed methods adapted from standard methods used within the British Trust for Ornithology’s Potential to damage or destroy the (BTO’s) Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) and Common Bird Census nest and/or eggs of kingfisher (CBC), both as summarised by Gilbert et al. (1998).

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Reptiles Works impacting vegetation such as Reptile surveys include placement of felt mats and corrugated Surveys to be undertaken between March and September, excluding the grassland, scrub, woodland and tins as artificial refugia in and alongside suitable habitat. warm periods in July and August. ponds have the potential to kill or Following deployment of mats, 7 visits are required throughout injure widespread reptile species. the summer season.

Amphibians Potential to disturb, injure or kill GCN and Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) assessment of all ponds within 500m of Any time of year, although certain indices (such as shade and plant cover) are best the Northamptonshire LBAP species the Site not already surveyed in 2018 (WSP, 2018g), to determine measured during summer months. palmate newt Lissotriton helveticus. suitability for great crested newts.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) survey waterbodies deemed suitable for eDNA surveys can be undertaken between mid-April and 30th June, preferably great crested newts. early in the year to allow for any follow-up surveys in the event of a positive eDNA result. Should eDNA surveys return a positive result for great crested newts, presence/absence surveys of the pond(s) will be required, including a

minimum of 4 visits, increased to 6 once presence has been confirmed to determine population size estimate. Presence / absence surveys can be undertaken between March and mid-June.

Fish/Aquatic invertebrates Impact on watercourses over which the River Corridor Survey of all flowing watercourses. Any time of year. Proposed Scheme will pass through

restricted flow, increase shading, and potential sediment pollution. Water Framework Directive Assessment, including a desk-based assessment and potential fish and aquatic invertebrate surveys. Any time of year.

Designated sites Potential indirect impacts on Natura 2000 A HRA Stage 1 Screening is recommended to determine whether the Any time of year sites through impacts on habitat Proposed Works are likely to impact any Natura 2000 sites. comparable to those found in the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Ramsar site and SPA

Hedgerows Potential impacts on hedgerows. Hedgerow survey to ascertain importance of hedgerows (of those not Between April and October, with the optimal period being June and July. already surveyed in 2018 (WSP, 2018h)

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5.7. PRELIMINARY AVOIDANCE, MITIGATION AND COMPENSATION MEASURES 5.7.1. The direct effects of the Proposed Scheme include the clearance of habitats for the construction of the road (for example reduction of habitat size and fragmentation). Indirect secondary effects of a road scheme include the increase in disturbance and road traffic collisions, which also have the potential to have significant detrimental effects on wildlife populations. In the first instance, impact avoidance measures should be employed. 5.7.2. The primary impact avoidances should therefore be retention of as much of the higher quality habitat as is practicable and including measures to aid wildlife in avoiding the road. 5.7.3. To enable compliance with relevant legislation and planning policy, as described above within Sections 5.2 through 5.5, the following avoidance, mitigation and compensation measures should be designed in to the Proposed Scheme. These will be refined following completion of further survey recommended in Table 4 above. 5.7.4. Retention of as much higher quality habitat as possible. This includes habitats such as hedgerows, field margins, tree lines, marginal habitat of the watercourses, areas of semi-improved grassland and woodland. Where features require removal, they should be replaced by planting. Where features will be temporarily severed (i.e. until new planting matures), dead hedging using the arisings from clearance works should be used to maintain connectivity in the interim. 5.7.5. Where avoidance is not possible, no net loss of biodiversity should be achieved. This can be undertaken through compensatory habitat creation, particularly for any unavoidable impacts on LWS or pLWS. The wet grassland habitats within the river valley, such as the strip of area between Northampton and the River Nene, offer suitable areas for habitat enhancement for the benefit of both wildlife and the public. ▪ Avoidance of vegetation clearance during the main bird nesting season (taken to be from March to September, inclusive). ▪ Methods for reducing the risk of wildlife road mortality will be refined in line with the results of the recommended surveys (Table 5), to be detailed within the relevant reports. These may include: ▪ the provision of ‘hop-overs’ for bats; ▪ low-flight prevention screening (dense hedgerows or lines of closely spaced dense shrubs or trees at least 2-3m high) for barn owl and other birds; ▪ mammal tunnels for badgers, deer, foxes, etc, and amphibians and reptiles to reduce road mortality; and ▪ mammal ledges in any structures that are used to pass over ditches and streams (e.g. culverts) to reduce otter road mortality. ▪ Use of clear span bridges over culverts to cross watercourses to minimise impacts on aquatic fauna. ▪ Lighting use on Site should be sensitively designed to avoid disturbance to bats and other nocturnal wildlife and works associated with the construction phase should only be carried out during daylight hours. Direct illumination of hedgerows, tree lines and water courses should be avoided, both during and after the construction phase. To achieve this, lighting should be directed to where it is needed and spillage avoided via the use of accessories such as baffles, hoods or louvres. Reducing the height of lighting columns as far as possible (unless a taller column will

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allow light to be directed downwards at a more acute angle) will also help minimise the impact of light disturbance. ENVIRONMENTAL BEST PRACTICE 5.7.6. In addition, general environmental protection measures must be implemented during the construction phase of the proposed scheme. Such measures include best environmental practice guidance outlined by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association guidance (CIRIA, 2015). The following minimum standards must be adhered to prevent ecological impacts beyond the Site boundary: ▪ Measures must be taken to prevent dust and other emissions from construction affecting land beyond the Site. ▪ Chemicals and fuels must be stored in secure containers located away from watercourses or water bodies. Spill kits must be available. ▪ Excavations must be covered or securely fenced (with no potential access points beneath fencing) when the Site is closed (e.g. overnight) to prevent entrapment of animals. ▪ Retained trees must be protected in accordance with BS5837; ▪ Noise and vibration must be controlled and kept to the minimum necessary. ▪ Lighting used for construction must be switched-off when not in use and positioned so as not to spill on to adjacent land or retained vegetation within the Site. 5.8. ECOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES 5.8.1. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (2018) states that at an overview level the ‘planning system should contribute to and enhance the national and local environment by… minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures’. 5.8.2. At a local level, the Local Plan states that ‘[Northamptonshire] wildlife is experiencing one of the highest levels of pressure from development in the whole of the UK. This development pressure, coupled with the fact that Northamptonshire has one of the lowest proportions of protected areas for biodiversity in the country, means that it is extremely important that steps are taken to ensure our remaining biodiversity is not further degraded or destroyed. Instead, new development should be seen as an opportunity, within which biodiversity can be integrated and enhanced to safeguard its future, whilst providing a naturally functioning environment for local communities to enjoy’. 5.8.3. Ecological enhancements will also deliver other green infrastructure benefits such as storm water attenuation, reducing flood risk, and reducing the urban heat island effect. 5.8.4. To encourage compliance with planning policy the following measures are recommended for inclusion within the Proposed Scheme; where possible: ▪ Creation of a green bridge to link habitats on the golf courses to those along the River Nene, and to benefit all wildlife by reducing road mortality, should be considered. ▪ In combination with retaining habitat such as hedgerows and semi-improved grassland, additional planting, particularly within areas currently comprising arable or improved grassland habitat, would increase biodiversity within the Survey Area. Specific species should be included for the invertebrates listed in section 3.3, including vetches and docks. Good horticultural practice should be employed, for example the use of peat-free composts, mulches and soil conditioners, using

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native plants of local provenance and avoidance of the use of invasive species listed on Schedule 9 of the WCA. ▪ Bird and bat boxes (with the number and type to be determined by the recommended further surveys) to be installed on new and existing trees and buildings. ▪ Planting of a mix of native fruit trees and the creation/retention of short grassland areas (managed without the use of chemicals that kill worms) to provide accessible foraging areas for badgers. ▪ Creation of ponds with ecological connectivity to existing ponds and enhancing existing waterbodies for wildlife. This should focus on increasing invertebrate abundance and improving the suitability of the pond for use by breeding amphibians. Plants such as water forget-me-not and starwort Callitriche spp. would provide egg-laying sites for newts and the inclusion of slopes as well as shelved areas for plants (such as spearwort Ranunculus flammula, water mint Mentha aquatica and yellow flag iris Iris pseudacorus would create a mixture of bankside habitats. Submerged species such as curled pondweed Potamogeton crispus and hornwort Ceratophyllum demersum will oxygenate the water. ▪ The creation of habitat piles and/or hibernacula from the arisings of any vegetation clearance within undisturbed areas of the Site. This would provide shelter and foraging habitat for species groups such as reptiles and amphibians. ▪ Improvements to the River Nene bank, including the thinning of trees and scrub and management of reeds and sedges to create more area of open water.

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6. CONCLUSIONS

6.1.1. Following an initial PEA of the red line route (WSP, 2017) and a suite of protected species surveys (WSP, 2018a-k), an extended Site boundary was surveyed by WSP to identify the types of habitats present and their potential to support protected species. 6.1.2. The survey identified a range of agricultural and semi-natural habitats typical of urban fringe environments, located in the floodplains of the River Nene. These habitats include HPI such as rivers, ponds, lowland grazing marsh, arable field margins, and hedgerows. Additionally, five LWS and pLWS are located within the Site. 6.1.3. The Site has the potential to support a range of protected and notable species, including badger, bats, otter, water vole, birds (including barn owl and kingfisher), reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Although surveys for a number of species/species groups have been undertaken in 2018, some areas of the Site fall outside of the previously surveyed areas. As a result, this additional area will require a suite of Phase 2 surveys. 6.1.4. The Proposed Scheme will result in the loss of habitat between the River Nene and the golf courses, which will affect a number of protected species. Additionally, habitats will be severed and the road will affect the ability for wildlife to commute between these habitat fragments and result in road mortality. As a result, recommendations to minimise these impacts have been made, including retention of habitats where possible, creation of compensatory habitats or enhancing adjacent habitats, and inclusion of screening and tunnels to facilitate safe movement of wildlife over/under the road.

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7. REFERENCES

▪ Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the United Kingdom (2010). ARG UK Advice Note 5: Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index. ARG UK, UK ▪ The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) (2012a). Encouraging Bat – A Guide for Bat-friendly Gardening and Living. BCT, London. ▪ BCT (2014b). Artificial Lighting and Wildlife – Interim Guidance: Recommendations to help minimise the impact of artificial lighting. BCT, London. ▪ British Standards Institution (2012) BS 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction – Recommendations. BSI, London. ▪ BSI (2013). Biodiversity code of practice for planning and development: BS42020. BSI. London. ▪ BSI (2015). Surveying for bats in trees and woodland – Guide: BS8596:2015. BSI, London. ▪ Barn Owl Trust (2012). Barn Owl Conservation Handbook, Pelagic Publishing, Exeter. ▪ Bibby C.J, Burgess N.D, Hill D.A, Mustoe S.H. (2000). Bird Census Techniques. Second Edition. Elsevier Ltd. ▪ Chanin P (2003). Monitoring the Otter Lutra lutra. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No. 10, English Nature, Peterborough ▪ Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) (2013). Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. CIEEM, Winchester. ▪ CIEEM (2015).. Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing. CIEEM, Winchester. ▪ CIEEM (2016). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland, Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal. CIEEM, Winchester. ▪ CIRIA (2015). Environmental good practice on site (fourth edition) (C741) Charles, P., Edwards, P (eds). CIRIA, London. ▪ Collins J. (ed.) (2016). Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists, Good Practice Guidelines (3rd Edition). The Bat Conservation Trust, London. ▪ Dean, M., Strachan, R., Gow, D. and Andrews R. (2016). The Water Vole Mitigation Handbook (The Mammal Society Mitigation Guidance Series). Eds. Fiona Matthews and Paul Chanin. The Mammal Society, London. ▪ Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) (2007). Hedgerow Survey Handbook: A Standard Procedure for Local Surveys in the UK, 2nd edition. Defra, London. Available at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/publications/files/pb11951-hedgerow-survey-handbook- 070314.pdf ▪ Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (2011). A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services. DEFRA, London. ▪ Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) (2018). The National Planning Policy Framework. DCLG, London. ▪ Drake CM, Lott DA, Alexander KNA and Webb J (2007). Surveying terrestrial and freshwater invertebrates for conservation evaluation. Natural England Research Report NERR005. Natural England, Peterborough. ▪ Eaton MA, Aebischer NJ, Brown AF, Hearn RD, Lock L, Musgrove AJ, Noble DG, Stroud DA and Gregory RD (2015). Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man. British Birds 108, 708–746. [Available online: britishbirds.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/BoCC4.pdf] ▪ English Nature (2001). Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough.

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▪ English Nature (2006). The Dormouse Conservation Handbook. 2nd Edition. Natural England. Peterborough ▪ Froglife (1999). Reptile Survey: an introduction to planning, conducting and interpreting surveys for snake and lizard conservation. Froglife Advice sheet 10. Froglife, Halesworth ▪ Gent, A. and Gibson, S. (2003). Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC. Peterborough ▪ Gilbert , G., Gibbons, D.W. and Evans, J. (1998). Bird Monitoring Methods: A Manual of Techniques for Key UK Species. RSPB ▪ Harris S, Cresswell P and Jefferies D (1991). (Report) Surveying Badgers. The Mammal. Society, Bristol. ▪ Highways Agency (1997). Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 10, Section 4, Part 7: Nature Conservation Advice in Relation to Reptiles and Roads. ▪ Highways Agency (1997). Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 10, Part 5, Mitigating against effects on badgers. ▪ HMSO (Her Majesty’s Stationary Office) (1981). Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000). HMSO, Norwich. ▪ HMSO (1992). The Badgers Act. HMSO, London. ▪ HMSO (1996). The Wild Mammals (Protection) Act. HMSO, London. ▪ HMSO (1997). The Hedgerows Regulations, SI 1997/1160. HMSO, London. ▪ HMSO (2006). Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act. HMSO, Norwich. ▪ HMSO (2010). The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (the Habitat Regulations) ▪ Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey – a technique for environmental audit. JNCC, Peterborough. ▪ JNCC Biodiversity Reporting and Information Group (2008). UK Biodiversity Action Plan ▪ JNCC and DEFRA (2012). UK Post 2010 Biodiversity Framework. Available online: http://jncc.defar.gov.uk/page-6189. [Accessed July 2014]. ▪ Kirby, P. (2001). Habitat Management for Invertebrates: A Practical Handbook. RSPB Management Guides ▪ Langton, T.E.S., Beckett, C.L., and Foster, J.P. (2001). Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook, Froglife, Halesworth ▪ Mitchell- Jones, A.J (2004). Bat Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature. ▪ Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) (2005). Government Circular: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation – Statutory Obligations and their Impacts within the Planning System. ▪ Oldham R.S., Keeble J., Swan M.J.S., and Jeffcote M. (2000). Evaluating the suitability of habitat for the great crested newt. Herpetological Journal 10: 143-155 ▪ Roper, T.J. (2010). Badger. Harper Collins. ▪ Stace, C., (2010). New Flora or the British Isles, 3rd Edition, Cambridge University Press. ▪ WSP (2017). North-west relief road. Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018a). NWRR Badger Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018b). NWRR Barn Owl Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018c). NWRR Bat Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018d). NWRR Bat Crossing Point Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018e). NWRR Bat Summary Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018f). NWRR Breeding Bird Mitigation Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018g). NWRR Great Crested Newt Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK.

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▪ WSP (2018h). NWRR Hedgerow Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018i). NWRR Kingfisher Site Appraisal Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK. ▪ WSP (2018j). NWRR Otter and Water Vole Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK ▪ WSP (2018k). NWRR Reptile Survey Report. WSP UK Limited. Birmingham, UK.

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8. FIGURES

Figure 1- Site Location Plan

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Figure 2 – Current and Previous Route Options and Area of Impact

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Figure 3a – Phase 1 Habitat Results – Northern Section

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Figure 4b – Phase 1 Habitat Results – Southern Section

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RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND PLANNING POLICY

ENGLAND & WALES LEGISLATION AND POLICY CONTEXT This report has been compiled with reference to relevant wildlife legislation, planning policy and the UK Biodiversity Framework. An overview and context of relevant legislation is provided, with the relevant protection each species groups or species receives summarised in Table 1. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, (as amended) (WCA) Protected birds, animals and plants are listed under Schedules 1, 5, 8 and 9 respectively of the WCA, a description of these Schedules and their meaning is provided below. Under the WCA (England and Wales) all birds, their nests and eggs (with exception of species listed under Schedule 2) are protected by the WCA. It is an offence to: ▪ Intentionally kill, injure, or take any wild bird, ▪ Take or destroy an egg of any wild bird. ▪ Damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird (whilst being built, or in use). Under the WCA the clearance of vegetation within the survey area boundary, or immediately adjacent to the survey area during the bird nesting season could result in an offence occurring by the disruption or destruction of nest sites. The bird breeding season can be taken to occur between March - August inclusive, although is subject to variations based on species, geographical and seasonal factors.

Schedule 1 Birds listed under Schedule 1 of the WCA6 are afforded additional protection with regard to intentional or reckless disturbance whilst nest-building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird. Schedule 5 Species listed in Schedule 5 can either be fully protected or be partially protected under Section 9, which makes it unlawful to intentionally: ▪ Part 1: kill, injure or take; ▪ Part 2: possess or control (live or dead animal, part or derivative); ▪ Part 4 (a): damage or destruct any structure used for shelter or protection; ▪ Part 4 (b): disturb them in a place of shelter or protection; ▪ Part 4 (c): obstruct access to place of shelter or protection; ▪ Part 5 (a): sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part or derivative); ▪ Part 5 (b): advertise for buying or selling. Schedule 8 The Act makes it an offence (subject to exceptions) to pick, uproot, trade in, or possess (for the purposes of trade) any wild plant listed in Schedule 8, and prohibits the unauthorised intentional uprooting of such plants. Schedule 9 Invasive species listed under Schedule 9 are prohibited from release into the wild and the Act prohibits planting or “causing to grow” in the wild of any plant species listed in Schedule 9. It should be noted that certain bird species listed on Schedule 1 of the WCA are also listed on Schedule 9 to prevent release of non-native and captive individuals, this includes barn owl, red kite, goshawk and corncrake. Countryside Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act) The CRoW Act has amended the WCA in England and Wales strengthening the protection afforded to Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the legal protection for threatened species. It adds the word ‘reckless’ to the wording of the offences listed under Section 9(4) of the WCA. This alteration makes it an offence to recklessly commit an offence, where previously an offence had to be intentional to result in a breach of legislation.

6 To view the current list of Schedule 1 listed birds visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/1 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

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Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 Species and Habitats of Principal Importance in England and Wales are listed under Section 41 and Section 42 respectively of the NERC Act. The Section 41 and 42 lists detail species that are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England and Wales, and should be used to guide decision-makers such as local and regional authorities when implementing their duty to have regard for the conservation of biodiversity in the exercise of their normal functions – as required under Section 40 of the NERC Act 2006. The Environment (Wales) Act 2016 The Environment (Wales) Act 2016 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/anaw/2016/3/contents/enacted) puts in place the legislation needed to plan and manage Wales’ natural resources in a more proactive, sustainable and cohesive way. Section 7 replaces the duty in Section 42 of the NERC Act 2006 and it places a duty on the Welsh Ministers to publish, review and revise lists of living organisms and types of habitats which they consider are of key significance to sustain and improve biodiversity in Wales. The species and habitat lists are identical to those in Section 42 but it should be noted it is currently under review (23.03.2017). The Protection of Badgers Act (1992) It is an offence to wilfully take, kill, injure, possess or ill-treat a badger. Under the Act their setts are protected against intentional or reckless interference. Sett interference includes damaging or destroying a sett, obstructing access to any part of the sett, or disturbance of a badger whilst it is occupying a sett. The Act defines a badger sett as ‘any structure or place, which displays signs indicating the current use by a badger’ and Natural England (NE) takes this definition to include seasonally used setts that are not occupied but that show sign of recent use by badgers (Natural England, 20097).

If impacts to badgers or their setts are unavoidable then authorised sett disturbance requires a licence. The UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework (2011-2020) (JNCC and DEFRA, 2012) This Framework lists the UK’s most threatened species and habitats and sets out targets and objectives for their management and recovery. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) process is delivered nationally, regionally and locally and should be used as a guide for decision-makers to have regards for the targets set by the framework and the goals they aim to achieve. The UK BAP has now been replaced by the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, however, it contains useful information on how to characterise important species assemblages and habitats which is still relevant (UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, 20128). The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 consolidate the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 with subsequent amendments. The Regulations transpose Council Directive 92/43/EEC, on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (EC Habitats Directive), into national law. They also transpose elements of the EU Wild Birds Directive in England and Wales. The Regulations came into force on 30th November 2017, and extend to England and Wales (including the adjacent territorial sea) and to a limited extent in Scotland (reserved matters) and Northern Ireland (excepted matters). In Scotland, the Habitats Directive is transposed through a combination of the Habitats Regulations 2010 (in relation to reserved matters) and the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994. The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995 (as amended) transpose the Habitats Directive in relation to Northern Ireland. All species listed under Annex IV of the Habitats Directive require strict protection and are known as European Protected Species (EPS). Under Regulation 42 of the Habitats Regulations it is unlawful to: ▪ Deliberately kill, capture or disturb; ▪ Deliberately take or destroy the eggs of; and ▪ Damage or destroy the breeding site/resting place of any species protected under this legislation. If the Ecologist determines that impacts to an EPS are unavoidable then the works may need to be carried out under a site specific mitigation licence from Natural England (NE) or Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Low Impact Class licences are also available in both England and Wales for bats and great crested newts. This enables Registered Low Impact Consultants to undertake certain low impact activities reducing the EPS application paperwork and process length.

7 Natural England, June 2009, Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (as amended), Guidance on ‘Current Use’ in the definition of a Badger Sett WMLG17, Natural England, Peterborough. 8 JNCC and Defra (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group), July 2012, UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, Available from: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/pdf/UK_Post2010_Bio-Fwork.pdf [Accessed 18/10/2018].

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Certain EPS are also listed under Annex II of the Habitats Directive and are afforded protection by the establishment of core areas of habitat known as Special Areas of Conservation. This means these species are a relevant consideration in a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA).

The Birds Directive seeks to maintain populations of all wild bird species across their natural range (Article 2). All bird species listed under Annex I9 of the Birds Directive are rare or vulnerable and afforded protection by the classification of Special Protection Areas (SPAs), these are also designated under all regularly occurring migratory species, with regard to the protection of wetlands of international importance (Article 4). This means these bird species and communities are a relevant consideration in HRA.

9 To view birds listed under Annex I visit: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/wildbirds/threatened/index_en.htm [accessed 18/10/2018]

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Table A:1: Key Species and National Wildlife Legislation, Policy and Biodiversity Framework Applicable in England & Wales

Species Legislation, Planning Policy and UK Biodiversity Framework

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), (WCA) The Conservation of /Habitats and Natural Environment and Rural The Protection of The UK Post-2010 Species Regulations 2010 (as Communities (NERC) Act 2006 / The Badgers Act 1992 Biodiversity Framework amended) (Habitats Regulations) - Environment(Wales) Act (2016) 2011-2020 (JNCC and Regulation 41 DEFRA, 2012)

Schedule1 Schedule 5 Schedule 8 Schedule 9 European Protected Species (Annex IV of the EC Habitats Directive),

Badger

Bats 10(part) 11 12 13

Hazel Dormouse 5(part)

Otter 5(part)

Water vole 14(full)

Birds 15 16 17

10 These species are partially protected under section 9(4)(b), (4)(c) and (5). 11 Only Barbastelle (Barbastella barbastellus), Bechstein’s bat (Myotis bechsteinii), greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) are listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. 12 Greater horseshoe bat, lesser horseshoe bat, Bechstein’s bat, noctule (Nyctalus noctula), soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus), brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus) and barbastelle are listed as Species of Principal Importance in England with the addition of common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) in Wales listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act (2016) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/contents. 13 Barbastelle bat, Bechstein’s bat, noctule, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared bat, greater horseshoe bat, lesser horseshoe bat are listed as UK BAP species of bat. 14 Class Licences are available to Registered Consultants to intentionally disturb, damage or destroy water vole burrows or to displace water voles from their burrows in relation to a development proposal where the licensed action provides a conservation benefit for water voles. Certain displacement operations may be carried out under a Class licence by a registered person in England, however in Wales all displacement operations must be carried out under a site specific licence. 15 To view plants and animals listed on Schedule 9 Part 1 visit http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/9 [accessed 6 April 2017] 16 There are 49 species of birds listed as Species of Principal Importance in England in Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and 51 species in Wales under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act (2016) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/contents. 17 To view the current list of UK BAP priority birds visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5163 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

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Reptiles 9 19 20 21 18(part)

Amphibians 26 22(part) 23 24,25

White-clawed 28 Crayfish 27(partial)

Invertebrates 32 33 29(full/part) 30,31

18 The four common reptile species, Adder (Vipera berus), Grass snake (Natrix natrix), Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) are offered partial protection under section 9(5). The rarer UK reptile species (Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis)) are partially protected under section 9(4)(b) and (c) and (5). 19 Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) are the only reptiles to be designated as European Protected Species. 20 All 6 reptile species are listed as Species of Principal Importance in England listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and 5 species, excluding smooth snake, listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act (2016) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/contents. 21 To view the current list of UK BAP priority herptile species visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5166 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 22 The four common reptile species, Adder (Vipera berus), Grass snake (Natrix natrix), Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) are offered partial protection under section 9(5). The rarer UK reptile species (Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis)) are partially protected under section 9(4)(b) and (c) and (5). 23 Common frog (Rana temporaria), Common toad (Bufo bufo), Smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and Palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) are offered partial protection under section 9(5). Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and Natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) are offered partial protection under section 9(4)(b) and (c) and (5). Pool frog (Pelophylax lessonae) is offered partial protection under section 9(4)(b) and (c)(1) only and with respect to England only. 24 Great crested newt, Natterjack toad and Pool frog are the only amphibians to be designated European Protected Species. 25 Great crested newt is the only amphibian listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. 26 Great crested newt, Natterjack toad and Common toad are listed as Species of Principal Importance in England in Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act (2016) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/contents. 27 Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act it is illegal to take or sell white clawed crayfish under the WCA. A licence is required to survey (hand net or trap) for the species. To undertake work within WCC inhabited rivers a Class Licence maybe issued by the relevant authority to move WCC away from harm prior to works. Although WCC are not protected from killing or injury Natural England state in their Class licence that due to declining numbers all efforts should be made to conserve the species. 28 White clawed crayfish are listed under Annex II and V of the Habitats Directive. 29 To view the current list of invertebrates that are protected under this Act either in part or full visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/5 [Accessed 18/10/2018 ]. 30 The Large blue butterfly (Maculinea arion), Fisher’s estuarine moth (Gortyna borelii lunata) and Lesser whirlpool ram’s-horn snail (Anisus vorticulus) are the only invertebrates to be designated European Protected Species. 31 There are currently twelve invertebrates listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive; White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), Southern damselfly (Coenagrion mercuriale), Marsh fritillary butterfly (Eurodryas aurinia), Violet click beetle (Limoniscus violaceus), Stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), Narrow-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo angustior), Round-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo genesii), Geyer’s whorl snail (Vertigo geyeri), Desmoulin’s whorl snail (Vertigo moulinsiana), Lesser whirlpool ram’s-horn snail (Anisus vorticulus) and Fisher’s estuarine moth (Gortyna borelii lunata). 32 There are currently 379 invertebrate species (not including marine species) listed as Species of Principal Importance in England http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&ved=0ahUKEwivvu7J9trSAhXiCsAKHX4TBGcQFggvMAM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpublications.naturalengland.org.uk%2Ffile%2F6518755878240256&usg=AFQjCNEpiUWYuOqhVcfSDvi_3iK2TJytfQ and 188 species in Wales http://www.eryri-npa.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/486156/SpeciesList.pdf listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and listed under Section 7 of the of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016. [Accessed 18/10/2018] 33 To view the current list of UK BAP priority invertebrates visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5169 [Accessed 18/10/2018 ].

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Fish 34 9 37 38 (full/part) 35,36

Plants 39 9 40,41 42 43 THE CONSERVATION OF HABITATS AND SPECIES REGULATIONS 2017 (HABITATS REGULATIONS) All species protected under this legislation are European Protected Species and licensing is required for the undertaking of certain activities affecting these species. The protection is applied to all stages of the animals’ life.

Under Regulations 39 of the Habitats Regulations it is unlawful to: ▪ Deliberately kill, capture or disturb; ▪ Deliberately take or destroy the eggs of; and ▪ Damage or destroy the breeding site/resting place of any species protected under this legislation. If impacts to protected species are considered unavoidable then the works may need to be carried out under a site specific licence from Natural England (NE) or Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Certain displacement operations may be carried out under a Class licence by a registered person in England, however in Wales all displacement operations must be carried out under a site specific licence. In both England and Wales projects must provide a net benefit for the protected species affected, as site specific licences are issued for the purpose of conservation.

Species listed on Annex II of the Habitats Regulations are attributed further protection which means that Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) may be designated to internationally important sites for these species.

THE PROTECTION OF BADGERS ACT (1992) It is an offence to wilfully take, kill, injure, possess or ill-treat a badger. Under the Act their setts are also protected against intentional or reckless interference. Sett interference includes damaging or destroying a sett, obstructing access to any part of the sett, and disturbing a badger whilst it is occupying a sett. The Act defines a badger sett as ‘any structure or place, which displays signs indicating the current use by a badger’ and

34 To view the current list of fish either part or fully protected under the Act visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/5 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 35 Sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) is the only fish to be designated a European Protected Species. 36 There are eight fish species listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. To view the current list visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-1523 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 37 There are 35 species of fish listed as Species of Principal Importance in England listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and 10 species in Wales listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016. 38 To view the current list of UK BAP priority fish visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5164 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 39 To view the current list of Schedule 8 listed plants visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/8 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 40 There are nine plant species designated as European Protected Species. To view the current list visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/490/schedule/5/made [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 41 To view the current list of plant species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-1523 [Accessed insert]. 42 There are currently 152 vascular plants listed as Species of Principal Importance in England listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act 2006 and 77 species in Wales listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016.31 To view the current list of UK BAP priority plants visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5171 and http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5168 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 43 To view the current list of UK BAP priority plants visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5171 and http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5168 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

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Natural England (NE) takes this definition to include seasonally used setts that are not occupied but that show sign of recent use by badgers (Natural England, 200944). In Scotland the WANE Act 2011 has made to amendments to the Protection of Badgers Act (1992).

If impacts to badgers or their setts are unavoidable then authorised sett disturbance requires a licence.

WILDLIFE AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ACT (2011) In Scotland the WANE Act makes amendments to previous legislation including; ▪ The Protection of Badgers Act (1992).  "Knowingly causes or permits” are added to further sections of the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 to cover offences relating to taking, injuring, killing, cruelty, sale, possession, marking and ringing.  The Bill also amends the available penalties for offences in the 1992 Act. Currently offences relating to digging for a badger can be dealt with by summary procedure or on indictment. The Bill allows for other offences relating to taking, injuring, killing and possession to be dealt with by summary ▪ Non-native species listed under Schedule 9 of the WCA 1981 (as amended)  The Bill adopts the internationally recognised approach to dealing with invasive non-native species. New offences are based on a general 'no-release' approach.  It will be an offence to release, allow to escape, or cause any animal to be outwith its native range.  It will be an offence to plant or cause to grow in the wild any plant outwith its native range.  Scottish Ministers can also specify native animals that would be subject to these offences.  Other offences relate to the keeping, notification and sale of invasive animals and plants.  A Code of Practice to support the Bill is currently out for public consultation. ▪ The WANE Act also provides a mechanism for licensing activities which would otherwise be an offence under the WCA, for the purposes of development.

This report has been compiled with reference to relevant wildlife legislation, planning policy and the UK Biodiversity Framework.

Table A 1: Key Species and National Wildlife Legislation, Policy and Biodiversity Framework

Species Legislation, Planning Policy and UK Biodiversity Framework

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017(Habitats Regulations) Wildlife and Natural The Protection Scottish Biodiversity amended), (WCA) Environment of Badgers Act Strategy 2011-2020 (Scotland) Act 2011 1992 (Scottish Government)

44 Natural England, June 2009, Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (as amended), Guidance on ‘Current Use’ in the definition of a Badger Sett WMLG17, Natural England, Peterborough.

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Schedule Schedule Schedule Schedule European Protected Species Annex II 1 5 8 9

Badger 1 2

Bats 3 (part)

Otter 3 (part)

Water Vole 4 (full)

Wildcat (full)

Pine Marten (full)

Red Squirrel (full)

Birds 5 6

Reptiles 7 (part) 8 9

Amphibians 10 (part) 11 12 13

White-clawed (partial) Crayfish

Invertebrates 14 15 16 17 (full/part)

Fish 18 19 20 21 (full/part)

Plants 22 23 24 25 26

1 In Scotland the WANE Act 2011, makes amendments to The protection of Badgers Act 1992. For the full list of amendments visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2011/6/section/33/enacted?view=interweave [Accessed 18/10/2018.]

2 In Scotland this act is amended by the WANE Act.

3 These species are partially protected under section 9(4)(b), (4)(c) and (5).

4 In Scotland the legal protection associated with this listing is currently restricted to the water voles’ places of shelter or protection and does not extend to the animals themselves.

5 Schedules 1A and A1 apply in Scotland. A list of species within Schedules 1, 1A and A1 can be viewed here: http://www.snh.gov.uk/docs/B469673.pdf [Accessed 18/10/2018.]

6 To view the current list of Scottish Biodiversity Strategy bird species visit: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/16118/Biodiversitylist/SBL [Accessed 18/10/2018.]

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7 The three common reptile species found in Scotland, Adder (Vipera berus), Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) are offered partial protection under section 9(5).

8 The only reptile species afforded this protection occurring in Scotland are marine turtles (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae). Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) only occurs in Scotland as an introduced species to the Island of Coll and therefore this colony is not afforded EPS protection due to its introduced status. However, since it is listed on Annex IVa of the Habitats Directive, it is illegal to possess, control, transport, sell or offer for sale or exchange wild specimens.

9 To view the current list of Scottish Biodiversity Strategy herptile species visit: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/16118/Biodiversitylist/SBL [Accessed 18/10/2018.]

10 Common frog (Rana temporaria), Common toad (Bufo bufo), Smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and Palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) are offered partial protection under section 9(5). Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and Natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) are offered partial protection under section 9(4)(b) and (c) and (5). Pool frog (Pelophylax lessonae) is offered partial protection under section 9(4)(b) and (c)(1) only and with respect to England only.

11 Great crested newt and Natterjack toad are the only amphibians to be designated European Protected Species that occur in Scotland.

12 Great crested newt is the only Annex II amphibian.

13 To view the current list of Scottish Biodiversity Strategy amphibian species visit: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/16118/Biodiversitylist/SBL [Accessed 18/10/2018.]

14 To view the current list of invertebrates that are protected under this Act visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/5 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

15 None of the species designated as European Protected Species occur in Scotland; Large blue butterfly (Maculinea arion), Fisher’s estuarine moth (Gortyna borelii lunata) and Lesser whirlpool ram’s-horn snail (Anisus vorticulus).

16 There are currently twelve invertebrates listed in Annex II; White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), Southern damselfly (Coenagrion mercuriale), Marsh fritillary butterfly (Eurodryas aurinia), Violet click beetle (Limoniscus violaceus), Stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), Narrow-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo angustior), Round-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo genesii), Geyer’s whorl snail (Vertigo geyeri), Desmoulin’s whorl snail (Vertigo moulinsiana), Lesser whirlpool ram’s-horn snail (Anisus vorticulus) and Fisher’s estuarine moth (Gortyna borelii lunata).

17 To view the current list of Scottish Biodiversity Strategy invertebrate species visit: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/16118/Biodiversitylist/SBL [Accessed 18/10/2018]

18 To view the current list of fish visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/5 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

19 Sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) is the only fish to be designated a European Protected Species.

20 There are eight fish species listed as Annex II. To view the current list visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-1523 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

21 To view the current list of Scottish Biodiversity Strategy fish species visit: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/16118/Biodiversitylist/SBL [Accessed 18/10/2018].

22 To view the current list of Schedule 8 listed plants visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/8 [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 23 To view the current list of Schedule 9 listed plants visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69/schedule/9 [Accessed 18/10/2018] 24 There are nine plant species designated as European Protected Species. To view the current list visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/490/schedule/5/made [Accessed 18/10/2018]. 25 To view the current list of Annex II plant species visit: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-1523 [Accessed 18/10/2018].

26 In Scotland the WANE Act 2011 makes amendments to Section 14 of the WCA 1981 (as amended) with regard to invasive species listed within Schedule 9 of the WCA 1981 (as amended). The full list of amendments can be viewed here: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2011/6/pdfs/asp_20110006_en.pdf [Accessed 18/10/2018].

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SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL DESK STUDY DATA

Table 5 - Protected and notable species (excluding bats and birds) for which records have been identified within 1km

Species common Species Latin name No. of records Legal / Conservation name Status 45

Amphibian

Common Toad Bufo bufo 2 NERC s.41, LBAP

Invertebrate

Knot Grass Acronicta rumicis 1 NERC s.41, LBAP

Scarce Alder Slender Caloptilia 1 Medium priority falconipennella

Black-stigma Case- Coleophora 1 Medium priority bearer hemerobiella

Southern Dwarf Cosmiotes stabilella 1 Medium priority

Dusky Thorn Ennomos fuscantaria 1 NERC s.41, LBAP

Butterbur Hydraecia petasitis 2 Very locally restricted

Melanogaster aerosa Melanogaster aerosa 1 Notable

Scarce Cosmet Mompha jurassicella 1 Medium priority

Horehound Long-horn Nemophora fasciella 1 NERC s.41

Straw Obscure Oegoconia caradjai 1 Notable

Pipizella virens Pipizella virens 7 Notable

45 HabReg = Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), W&CA = Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), NERC = Schedule 41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006), LBAP = Local Biodiversity Action Plan, RD1 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing based on IUCN guidelines, RD2 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing not based on IUCN guidelines (Nationally Rare and Scarce).

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Shaded Broad-bar Scotopteryx 1 NERC s.41 chenopodiata

Shaded Broad-bar Scotopteryx 1 NERC, UKBAP, LBAP chenopodiata

Banded General Stratiomys potamida 1 Notable

Blood-Vein Timandra comae 1 NERC s.41, LBAP

Cinnabar Tyria jacobaeae 4 NERC s.41, LBAP

Volucella inanis Volucella inanis 2 Notable

Mammal

European Otter Lutra lutra 1 NERC s.41, LBAP, W&C

Eurasian Badger Meles meles 2 Protection of Badgers Act (1992)

Plant

Brown Bent Agrostis vinealis 1 Locally rare

Smooth Brome Bromus racemosus 2 Locally scarce

Climbing Corydalis Ceratocapnos 4 Locally rare claviculata

Climbing Corydalis Ceratocapnos 4 Locally rare claviculata

Wavy Hair-grass Deschampsia flexuosa 3 Locally scarce

Wavy Hair-grass Deschampsia flexuosa 3 Locally scarce

Cross-leaved Heath Erica tetralix 1 Locally rare

Cross-leaved Heath Erica tetralix 1 Locally rare

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Bluebell Hyacinthoides non- 5 W&C scripta

Bluebell Hyacinthoides non- 5 W&C scripta

Marsh Pennywort Hydrocotyle vulgaris 2 Locally scarce

Marsh Pennywort Hydrocotyle vulgaris 2 Locally scarce

Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris 1

Marsh Thyme-moss Plagiomnium 1 ellipticum

Jacob's-ladder Polemonium 1 caeruleum

Knotted Pearlwort Sagina nodosa 2 Locally scarce

Reptile

Grass Snake Natrix natrix 2 NERC s.41, W&C

Common Lizard Zootoca vivipara 1 NERC s.41, W&C

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Table 6 - Protected bats for which records have been identified within 5km

Species common Species Latin name No. of records Legal / Conservation name Status 46

Barbastelle Barbastella 1 NERC s.41, W & C, barbastellus HabReg, LBAP

Daubenton's bat Myotis daubentonii 2 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Whiskered bat Myotis mystacinus 1 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Leisler's bat Nyctalus leisleri 1 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Noctule Nyctalus noctula 5 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Common Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus 9 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus 4 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg, LBAP

Pipistrelle Pipistrellus sp. 13 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg

Brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus 14 NERC s.41, W & C, HabReg, LBAP,

46 HabReg = Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), W&CA = Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), NERC = Schedule 41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006), LBAP = Local Biodiversity Action Plan, RD1 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing based on IUCN guidelines, RD2 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing not based on IUCN guidelines (Nationally Rare and Scarce).

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Table 7 - Protected and notable birds for which records have been identified within 2km

Species common Species Latin name No. of records Legal / Conservation name Status 47

Lesser Redpoll Acanthis cabaret 1 NERC s.41, Red listed

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 1 W&C, Amber listed

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 1 Amber listed

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus 1 Amber listed ridibundus

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus 1 NERC s.41, W&C, Red listed

House Martin Delichon urbicum 1 Amber listed

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella 2 NERC s.41, Red listed

Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus 1 NERC s.41, LBAP Amber listed

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 2 Amber listed

Linnet Linaria cannabina 1 NERC s.41, Red listed

Red Kite Milvus milvus 2 W&C

House Sparrow Passer domesticus 3 NERC s.41, LBAP Red listed

Dunnock Prunella modularis 3 NERC s.41, LBAP Amber listed

47 HabReg = Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), W&CA = Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), NERC = Schedule 41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006), LBAP = Local Biodiversity Action Plan, BoCC Red = Birds of Conservation Concern Red List, BoCC Amber = Birds of Conservation Amber List.

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Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula 1 NERC s.41, LBAP, Amber listed

Woodcock Scolopax rusticola 1 Red listed

Redwing Turdus iliacus 2 W&C, Red listed

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos 2 NERC s.41, LBAP, Red listed

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris 2 W&C, Red listed

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus 1 NERC s.41, LBAP, Red listed

Table 8 – Invasive plant species for which records have been identified within 2km

Species common Species Latin No. of Legal / Conservation Status name name records 48

Parrot's-feather Myriophyllum 2 Sch 9 aquaticum

Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica 1 Sch 9

New Zealand Crassula helmsii 1 Sch 9 Pigmyweed

48 HabReg = Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), W&CA = Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), NERC = Schedule 41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006), LBAP = Local Biodiversity Action Plan, RD1 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing based on IUCN guidelines, RD2 (UK) = UK Red Data Book listing not based on IUCN guidelines (Nationally Rare and Scarce).

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PLANT SPECIES RECORDED

Frequency (DAFOR) within each habitat parcel49

Commo Latin

n name name

A1.1.1 A1.1.2 A2.1 A2.2 A3.1 A3.2 A3.3 B3.2 B4 C3.1 F2.1 G1 G2 I2.2 J1.1 J1.2 J1.3 J1.4 J1.4 J2.1.1 J2.1.1 J2.2.1

Alder Alnus glutinosa F O

Ash Fraxinus R F F R R excelsior

Autumn Leontodon O hawkbit autumnalis

Bindweed Calystegia sp. F species

Bittersweet Solanum O F dulcamara

Black Ballota nigra R O horehound

Blackthorn Prunus spinosa A, LD F, LD R

Bramble Rubus F, LD F A F fructicosus agg.

49 Please see Figure 3 Phase 1 habitat plan for locations of each habitat parcel.

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Brassicaceo (unidentified) A us species- unidentified

Broad- Rumex O O O R leaved dock obtufifolius

Broad- Epipactis R, LF leaved helleborine helleborine

Brome Anisantha sp. F F species

Brome Bromopis sp. F F species

Brooklime Veronica A beccabunga

Bulbous Ranunculus O buttercup bulbosus

Bulrush Typha latifolia O

Bur reed Sparganium sp. O species

Butterbur Petasites R, LA hybridus

Butterfly Buddleja davidii F bush

Celery Ranunculus O leaved scleratus buttercup

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Cherry Prunus sp. O species- unidentified

Cleavers Galium aparine A O F

Cocks foot Dactylis F O glomerata

Common Centaurium F centaury erythraea

Common Stellaria media R F chickweed

Common Schoenoplectus R club-rush lacustris

Common Elytrigia repens R A F couch

Common Crataegus R, LF A, LD O F A A A hawthorn monogyna

Common Heracleum F O F hogweed sphondylium

Common Polygonum R knotgrass aviculare

Common Artemesia F F O mugwort vulgaris

Common Urtica dioica A A F F R A A F nettle

Common Senecio O ragwort jacobaea

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Common Dipsacus R, LF teasel follanum

Common Vicia sativa O R vetch

Conifer (unidentified) D F species- unidentifed

Cow parsley Anthriscus F R sylvestris

Crab apple Malus sylvestris R R, LF R, LF

Creeping Agrostis O bent stolonifera

Creeping Ranunculus O R buttercup repens

Creeping Potentilla R, LF cinquefoil reptans

Creeping Holcus mollis R soft grass

Creeping Cirsium arvense O thistle

Curled dock Rumex crispus R

Cut-leaved Geranium O O cranesbill dissectum

Dandelion Taraxacum O O O officinale agg.

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Dovesfoot Geranium O O cranesbill molle

Elder Sambucus nigra O O F F O F F

English elm Ulmus procera O F (Canopy layer)

English elm Ulmus procera O A R, LF (shrub layer)

Equal- Polygonum A leaved arenastrum knotgrass

False oat Arrhenatherum A F F O A A grass elatius

Fat hen Chenopodium R O album

Field Equisetum O O O horsetail arvensis

Field maple Acer campestre O O

Field pansy Viola arvensis R

Floating Glyceria O sweetgrass fluitans

Germander Veronica O speedwell chamaedrys

Greater Acrtium lappa O R burdock

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

Greater Plantago major F plantain

Greater Epilobium F F O F willowherb hirsutum

Grey willow Salix cinerea O, LA F F

Ground ivy Glechoma A F A hederacea

Groundsel Senecio O O vulgairs

Guelder Vibernum O rose opulus

Hairy sedge Carex hirta O, LA

Hard rush Juncus inflexus R

Harts Asplenium R tongue scolopendrium

Hazel Coryllus O avellana

Hedge Geranium O cransebill pyrenacium

Himalayan Impatiens R balsam glandulifera

Honeysuckle Lonicera R periclymenum

Horse radish Armoracia R, LF R, LA rusticana

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

Ivy Hedera helix A O F D F

Least lettuce Lactuca salgina O

Lime Tillia sp. A species- unidentified

Lombardy Populus nigra R, LA O poplar 'italica'

Male fern Dryopteris filix- R O mas

Many Chenopodium F seeeded polyspermum goosefoot

Marsh Gnaphalium O, LF cudweed uliginosum

Marsh Stachys O woundwort palustris

Mayweed Tripleurosperm R O F species um sp.

Meadow Poa sp. A F grass species

Meadowswe Fillependula R, LF F F et ulmaria

Mouse-ear Cerastium O chickweed fontanum

Mouse-ear Hieracium R, LF hawkweed pilosella

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

New Crassula R, LA zealand helmsii pygmyweed

Pedunculate Quercus robur O O O, O F R R oak LD

Peforated st Hypericum O Johns wort perforatum

Perennial Lolium perenne F D D rye grass

Prickly Lactuca serriola O O lettuce

Prickly ox Picris echioides O R tongue

Rapeseed Brassica napus R, LF

Red Silene dioica R campion

Red dead Lamium R nettle purpurea

Red fescue Festuca rubra O, LA

Redshank Polygonum R, LA maculosa

Reed canary Phalaris O, LA F grass arundinaceae

Reed sweet Glyceria D F grass maxima

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

Ribwort Plantago F F F plantain lanceolata

Rose species Rosa sp. O O O

Rosebay Chamerion R,LF willowherb angustifolium

Rough Poa trivialis A A leaved meadowgra ss

Sedge Carex sp. O F species

Silver birch Betula pendula F

Silverweed Potentilla R, LF R anserina

Snowberry Symphoricarpo D s alba

Soft rush Juncus effusis R O

Spear Atriplex R, LF leaved prostrata orache

Spear- Cirsium vulgare O F leaved thistle

Sweet Castanea sativa F chestnut

Sycamore Acer R pseudoplatinus

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

Tare species Vicia sp. R, LF - unidentifed

Tufted hair Descampsia R, LF grass cespitosa

Upright Torillis japonica R, LF hedge parsley

Wall barley Hordeum R, LF muralis

Water Myosotis O forget-me- scorpioides not

Water mint Mentha O O aquatica

Weld Reseda luteola R

White Silene latifolia R, LF F campion

White clover Trifolium F F repens

White dead Lamium alum F nettle

White Populus alba R poplar

White Salix alba R F R willow

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

Whitebeam Sorbus sp. F species

Wild cherry Prunus avium O R R

Wild privet Ligustrum R vulgare

Willow Salix sp. R O species

Wood avens Geum urbanum O

Yarrow Achillea F millefolium

Yorkshire Holcus lanatus O O O fog

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

TARGET NOTES

Target notes

Target Note (TN) Description

TN1 Tall ruderal surrounding barn, 2m wide and pile of wood 4m wide within.

TN2 Potential badger sett (Grid reference SP 732 638).

TN3 Potential badger sett; two entrances and paw print (Grid reference SP 733 637).

TN4 Tarmac & gravel spoil. Mostly bare but some weedy vegetation in parts.

TN5 Dead elm with low potential for roosting bats (Grid reference SP 735 634).

TN6 Pond in the north-west corner of field by railway. Very shallow, muddy and no woody vegetation surrounding. Used by horses for drinking. New Zealand pygmyweed present and abundant. Fauna present include dragon flies, water boatmen and pond skaters. Snipe also recorded.

TN7 Himalayan balsam present, SP 73786 63983. Small, scattered stand, roughly 2x2m

TN8 A number of hay bales present in river.

TN9 Four large Alder trees, hornet nest present in one.

TN10 Area of bare ground with abundant Muntjac and rabbit prints. Ephemeral/short perennial vegetation present here.

TN11 Mixed parkland/scattered trees with grassy understorey and frequent Broad leaved helleborine.

TN12 Himalayan balsam (Grid reference SP 732 642) present near running water. Scattered trees (grey willow), and wide verges either side. Invertebrate present: Brown lipped snail abundant, mainly on the tall umbellifers in the tall ruderal

TN13 Three mature ash trees. Middle one had barn owl sighting form different WSP ecology survey

TN14 Four badger dung pits (Grid reference SP 733 647)

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

TN15 Two badger dung pits (Grid reference SP 734 644) and path going north through ditch. Both dung pits fresh (<1 day old)

TN16 Additional two badger dung pits (Grid reference SP 734 646) approximately 15m north-west of TN15

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

PHOTOGRAPHS

River Nene running along the Site A typical arable field /riparian margin in the north of the Site.

Arable landscape to the south of the railway. Horse grazed pasture to the south of the railway, and the River Nene flood plain beyond.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

Target Note 1 – Tall ruderal on wood pile Target Note 2 – Potential badger sett

Target Note 3 – Potential badger sett Target Note 4 – Spoil with weedy vegetation

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

Target Note 5 – Dead elm Target Note 6 – Previously unidentified pond

Target Note 7 – Himalayan balsam Target Note 8 – Bale in river

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

Target Note 9 – Four large alder trees, one with a Target Note 10 – Area of bare ground with muntjac hornet’s nest and rabbit prints

Target Note 11 – Scattered trees with grassy Target Note 12 – Running water with Himalayan understory including broad leaved helleborine balsam

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 November 2018 Northamptonshire County Council

Target Note 13 Large ash with potential barn owl Target Note 14,15 & 16 – Badger dung pits use

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD November 2018 Project No.: 70045931 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-EBD-0000-RP-LE-00012 Northamptonshire County Council

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