SAND MARTINS GOLF CLUB

ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL

Prepared for Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd by

Hankinson Duckett Associates

HDA ref: 973.1

January 2021

hankinson duckett associates t 01491 838175 f 01491 838997 e [email protected] w www.hda-enviro.co.uk The Stables, Howbery Park, Benson Lane, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BA Hankinson Duckett Associates Limited Registered in England & Wales 3462810 Registered Office: The Stables, Howbery Park, Benson Lane, Wallingford, OX10 8BA

CONTENTS Page

Executive Summary

1 Introduction 1

2 Methodology 3

3 Desk study 6

4 Phase 1 Habitat Survey 18

5 Protected and notable species 25

6 Nature conservation evaluation 29

7 Additional data requirements 32

8 Recommendations 34

9 Conclusion 48

10 References 49

HDA Document Control and Quality Assurance Record

APPENDICES

A Desk Study Results

B Phase 1 Habitat Survey: Map and Target Notes

E Evaluation Criteria

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report describes an Ecological Appraisal (including a desk study, Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey and ) of approximately 46ha of land at Sand Martins Golf Club, Wokingham, hereinafter referred to as ‘the site’. The site centre is located by National Grid Reference SU 799 664. The study was commissioned by Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd in June 2020 to inform the proposed development of two areas of the site comprising: • The 3.54ha Application 1 site, located in the central area of the golf course, which proposes an extension to the existing clubhouse to provide improved member’s facilities and restaurant and a freestanding venue building with guest accommodation; and • The 0.55ha Application 2 site, located on the central section of the northern golf course boundary, proposed for the creation of new Greenkeepers’ Compound.

No areas of international, national, regional or district nature conservation importance relate to the Application 1 or Application 2 sites. The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) Local Wildlife Site (LWS) is however located within the wider golf course site, however at a distance of at least 95m from the proposed development areas. Accordingly, adverse effects on the LWS are unlikely to arise, particularly following the implementation of the impact avoidance measures described in Section 8.2 of this report.

Although the Application 1 and Application 2 sites are located 4.7km from the Thames Basin Heaths SPA, the proposed works will not result in a net gain in residential dwellings and the guest accommodation proposed as part of the Application 1 scheme will not result in increased recreational pressure on the SPA. No mitigation or avoidance measures are therefore proposed in this regard.

The Application 1 and Application 2 schemes are not expected to result in significant losses of habitat in a local context, either alone or in combination with other projects. Where losses of secondary woodland, scrub, tall ruderal and short perennial/ephemeral vegetation will arise these could be offset through enhancement of retained habitats and creation of new habitat of high wildlife value within the application sites and the wider golf course. Measures by which the habitat resource of the site can be maintained and enhanced are set out in Sections 8.3 and 8.4 of this report and, where appropriate are reflected in the emerging landscape schemes for the Application 1 and Application 2 sites (Colvin & Moggridge, 2021). In addition, it is proposed that habitat enhancement works are extended to the wider golf course. In combination these seek to achieve a net gain for biodiversity.

Construction works should also be carried out in such a manner as to avoid impacts on ponds and retained vegetation, including the ‘locally notable’ oak tree within the Application 1 site and veteran trees beyond the application site boundaries within the wider golf course. This includes working to pollution prevention guidelines, adopting a sensitive lighting design and maintaining a suitable stand- off between construction works and sensitive receptors, as detailed in Section 8.

The application sites are considered unlikely to support an important assemblage of breeding birds and no further survey for this group has been recommended. Notwithstanding this, breeding birds are likely to use both application sites and therefore the legislation relating to this group will apply. It is recommended that all scrub/tree clearance and building demolition is carried out outside of the bird breeding season (March to September inclusive), as wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). Where this is not possible it is recommended that an ecologist carries out a check for nesting birds immediately prior to the commencement of these works.

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The Application 1 and Application 2 sites have also been identified as having potential to support other protected and notable species including bats, Dormice, reptiles and Great Crested Newts. Further surveys for these species/species groups have been instructed and these are the subject of separate reports.

In summary, the development proposals for the Application 1 and Application 2 sites have been developed to avoid harm to identified features of ecological interest and subject to the implementation of the recommended measures for habitat retention, protection, creation and enhancement, and protection of the integrity of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS, no reduction in the ecological interest of the site or its surrounds is likely to arise as a result of the proposed development. It is therefore concluded that, beyond the normal requirements to maintain the habitat resource of the site and avoid impacts on protected species, there appears to be no overriding nature conservation constraints that would preclude the proposed development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites. Furthermore, through the habitat creation and enhancement works proposed as part of the Application 1 and Application 2 schemes and extension of these improvement works to the wider golf course, it is expected that a meaningful net gain for biodiversity can be achieved.

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1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Site location and summary description 1.1.1 This report describes an Ecological Appraisal (including a desk study, to inform the proposed developments that sit within the wider golf course which extends to approximately 46ha.Sand Martins Golf Club, Wokingham, hereinafter referred to as ‘the site’ is centred on National Grid Reference SU 799 664. The study was commissioned by Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd in June 2020.

1.1.2 The site is located on the south-western edge of Wokingham and comprises an existing golf course dominated by managed grassland with bands of trees, scrub, woodland and ponds with an existing developed area comprising car parking, the clubhouse and greenkeepers’ buildings at its centre. The site is bordered to the north by Evendons Lane, beyond which is grassland fields; to the east by areas of residential development; to the west beyond the course and driving range by broadleaved woodland and residential development; and to the south by a small area of woodland, residential housing and grassland with scattered trees. The location and boundary of the site is shown in Appendix A.

1.2 Development proposals 1.2.1 Development proposals for the site include: • Application 1 (Clubhouse Improvements and Freestanding Venue Building) – This application will comprise extension of the existing clubhouse (part two storey and part single storey) to provide improved members’ facilities and a new Restaurant. A freestanding venue building comprising 39 bedrooms, function rooms, kitchen and staff room. Car parking, servicing and associated landscape enhancements. This application relates to approximately 3.54ha of land in the centre of the site and is hereinafter referred to as the ‘Application 1 site’. The southern part of the Application 1 site comprises the existing golf course buildings and parking and the northern part comprises disturbed areas of scrub, secondary woodland, tall ruderal and ephemeral/short perennial vegetation. The Application 1 site is surrounded by the wider golf course. • Application 2 (Greenkeepers’ Compound) - This application will comprise a new Greenkeepers’ building, water storage tanks, irrigation plant, service yard and parking, new access from Evendons Road, boundary fencing and associated landscaping. This application relates to approximately 0.55ha of land on the northern site boundary and is hereinafter referred to as the ‘Application 2 site’. It is focussed on an area of mown amenity grassland bordered by tall ruderal vegetation and woodland to the north. The Application 2 site is bordered to the south by the wider golf course and to the north by an

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off-site footpath beyond which lies a residential property with Evendons Road beyond.

1.2.2 The locations of the Application 1 site and the Application 2 site in the context of the wider site are shown on the plan in Appendix B.

1.3 Scope and purpose of the report 1.3.1 The aims of the study are: i. To assess the likely nature conservation importance of habitats within the site; ii. To assess the likely presence of protected species and Habitats and Species of Principal Importance identified under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act where potentially affected by the Application 1 and Application 2 works; iii. To identify any potential constraints to development due to the above; iv. To identify requirements for any additional ecological surveys in support of a planning application; and v. To identify measures to avoid and mitigate potential effects of the Application 1 and Application 2 development schemes on identified features of ecological interest.

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2 METHODOLOGY 2.1 Desk Study 2.1.1 Existing ecological and nature conservation data relevant to the site was collated from various sources including the ‘Multi Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside’ (MAGIC) online database (magic.defra.gov.uk) and Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre (TVERC). Protected species records were sought for an area of approximately 2km around the site and the check for designated sites was extended to an area of up to 10km from the site boundary. The findings of the desk study are summarised in Section 3 below and the full results are given in Appendix A.

2.2 Field Survey 2.2.1 The field survey comprised an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC, 2010) of the site carried out by Hayley Snowdon GradCIEEM on 21st July 2020. Conditions during the Phase 1 habitat survey were warm, bright, still and clear. A total of 7 hours was spent carrying out the survey.

2.2.3 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey 2.2.3.1 The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey involved walking over the site, mapping the main habitat types and compiling detailed 'target notes'. Target notes record habitat features and a list of vascular plant species noted, together with a qualitative assessment of relative abundance where appropriate. The full results of the Phase 1 habitat survey are given in Appendix B. Botanical names follow Stace (2019) for higher plants.

2.2.5 Other species 2.2.5.1 Observations on the presence, or potential presence, of other protected species were recorded as incidental information to the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey and this information should not be relied on as a comprehensive assessment of the presence or otherwise of all protected species on the site. This is because there is a wide range of

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protected species, many of them can occur on one site and most require specialist expertise to locate them and/or season-critical survey techniques to confirm their presence, and this is outside the scope of the present report.

2.3 Evaluation Criteria 2.3.1 The evaluation of the site, and the habitats within it, is based on the results of the field surveys described above, any designations pertaining to the site and existing ecological information collected during the desk study.

2.3.2 Each ecological resource (site, habitat, species or feature) was assigned a value at the following geographic scales (CIEEM, 2018): • International • National (England/ Scotland/ Wales/ Northern Ireland) • Regional • County/ Metropolitan • District/ Borough • Local/ Parish • within immediate zone of influence only (Site/ Negligible)

2.3.3 Assigning value is relatively straightforward in the case of designated sites, and undesignated sites meeting designation criteria. However, in most cases evaluation of ecological resources is not straightforward and requires a degree of knowledge, training, experience and professional judgement (Usher, 1986; Spellerberg, 1992). Evaluation of an ecological resource was based on a number of criteria (Ratcliffe, 1977; CIEEM 2018). These are summarised in Appendix E.

2.3.4 The potential for protected species and Habitats and Species of Principal Importance identified under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act to be present within the site has been assessed on the basis of the habitats and features present and the results of the desk study.

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2.4.2 No further limitations were encountered during the desk study or field survey and, in view of the ecological character of the habitats recorded, it is considered that this work is adequate to allow a robust assessment of the site's likely nature conservation significance and to inform the recommendations provided in Section 8.

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3 DESK STUDY 3.1 Introduction 3.1.1 The following section summarises the findings of the desk study. The original data and plans showing the locations of protected species records and designated sites are given in Appendix A. Distances of records provided during the desk study are expressed in relation to distance from the site unless otherwise stated.

3.1.2 The findings of the Phase 1 habitat survey and an assessment of the potential for the site to support protected species and Species of Principal Importance are given in Sections 4 and 5 respectively.

3.2 Designated Areas Statutory designated areas Internationally designated areas 3.2.1 One internationally designated area is located within 10km of the site, namely Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) the closest unit of which is located approximately 4.7km to the east of the site. This 8274.72ha SPA comprises open heathland, scrub and woodland habitats. The Thames Basin Heaths SPA is designated for regularly supporting 1% or more of the Great Britain populations of the following Annex 1 ground nesting bird species in any season: • 7.8% of the Great British population of Nightjar; • 9.9% of the Great British population of Woodlark; and • 27.8% of the Great British population of Dartford Warbler.

Nationally designated areas 3.2.2 There are no National Nature Reserves (NNRs) falling within 5km of the site.

3.2.3 Six Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are located within 5km of the site. These include: • Longmoor Bog SSSI located approximately 1.4km to the south-west of the site. This 14.4ha SSSI comprises base-poor valley mire with a well-developed carr of Alder, Grey Willow, Downy Birch and Alder Buckthorn and an area of wet heathland dominated by Purple Moor-grass and Cross-leaved Heath;

• Heath Lake SSSI located approximately 2.5km to the south-east of the site. This 6.1ha SSSI comprises a small, shallow lake, surrounded by Birch and Pine woodland with areas of relict heathland. The area is noted for supporting populations of some uncommon and rare aquatic plant species;

• Wellington College Bog SSSI located approximately 4.2km to the south-east of the site. This 6.2ha SSSI comprises a valley bog, with associated areas of wet heath and marsh grazing into dry heath and secondary woodland. The bog is one of the richest in the county, in terms of bryophytes and flowering plants, containing several species which are uncommon or rare in southern Britain;

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• Broadmoor to Bagshot Woods and Heaths SSSI located approximately 4.5km to the south-east of the site. This 1696.99ha SSSI forms part of the Thames Basin Heaths SPA described above and comprises an extensive habitat mosaic of broadleaved woodland, coniferous plantation, dry and wet heathland, valley mire and a series of base-poor ponds. The SSSI supports a scarce breeding invertebrate assemblage including a nationally important dragonfly and damselfly population and internationally important populations of Woodlark, Nightjar and Dartford Warbler;

• Sandhurst to Owlsmoor Bogs and Heaths SSSI located approximately 4.6km to the south-east of the site. This 85.44ha SSSI forms part of the Thames Basin Heaths SPA described above and comprises wet and dry heathland, mixed broadleaved/coniferous woodland and a shallow, spring-fed valley mire of outstanding importance. Together with the nearby Broadmoor Bottom complex this site forms the largest and most important area of heathland remaining in east Berkshire; and

• Bramshill SSSI located approximately 4.7km to the south-west of the site. This 671.99ha SSSI forms part of the Thames Basin Heaths SPA described above and comprises a series of shallow acid ponds and associated mire, which support a rich assemblage of dragonfly and damselfly, and rotationally felled conifer plantation, which provides habitat for internationally important populations of Nightjar, Woodlark and Dartford Warbler.

3.2.4 The site falls within the 1-2km Impact Risk Zone (IRZ) for Longmoor Bog SSSI, the 2-3km IRZ for Heath Lake SSSI, 4-5km and within the 4-5km and 5-7km IRZ for the Thames Basin Heath SPA (and associated SSSIs), as identified from the MAGIC online database. IRZs are used by Natural England to identify development activities in the vicinity of SSSIs, SPAs and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) which may adversely affect designated features in the absence of avoidance or mitigation measures, thereby requiring planning authorities to consult with Natural England where potentially damaging activities are proposed. The development activities proposed at the site are not identified among the list of potentially damaging activities associated with the IRZs in which the site is located. Current knowledge therefore indicates that it is unlikely that the Application 1 and Application 2 development schemes would have a detrimental effect on the integrity of any of the statutory designated areas in the sites surrounds. Notwithstanding this, measures to protect designated sites are discussed further in Section 8 below.

3.2.5 One Local Nature Reserve (LNR) is located within 2km of the site, namely Longmoor Bog LNR. This 11.75ha LNR supports forms part of the Longmoor Bog SSSI described above.

Non-statutory designated areas 3.2.6 The south-western area of the wider site falls within part of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) Local Wildlife Site (LWS). This 5.98ha LWS, of which approximately 2ha falls within the wider site boundary, supports the Section 41 Habitat of

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Principal Importance ‘deciduous woodland’, as well as wet woodland, marsh and marshy grassland habitats. Part of the golf course has been included for its long-established Sand Martin colony. The extent of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS falling within the site and adjacent land is shown in Appendix B. This identifies that Application Site 1 and Application Site 2 fall approximately 95m and 240m from the LWS, respectively.

3.2.7 In addition to The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS described above, a further five LWSs and one Local Geological Site (LGS) lie within 2km of the site.

3.2.8 Twenty-three units of woodland included in Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory are located within 2km of the site. The closest of these is an area of ancient semi-natural woodland within the Bottle Copse LWS located approximately 740m to the north of the site.

3.3 Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) and 2006 NERC Act Habitats and Species of Principal Importance 3.3.1 The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BRIG, 2011) lists habitats and species which have undergone significant declines in recent years and for which conservation is a priority in order to preserve biodiversity in the UK. The BAPs provide a list of actions to be implemented to halt or reverse these declines.

3.3.2 These habitats and species are identified as Habitats and Species of Principal Importance for the conservation of biological diversity in England under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006. Together with the 2019 NPPF and underpinning guidance (ODPM 2005), Section 40 of the 2006 NERC Act requires that these species are a material consideration in the planning process.

3.3.3 The Natural Environment in Berkshire: Biodiversity Strategy 2014 – 2020 (Berkshire Local Nature Partnership, 2014) provides both a statement of the current state of nature in Berkshire and a strategy for protecting and enhancing the natural environment of Berkshire. It lists 19 Priority Habitats and 788 Priority Species located within Berkshire, including Stag Beetle, Silver-studded Blue Butterfly, Great Crested Newt, Lapwing and Hazel Dormouse. This report considers the actual, or likely, presence of such species in the habitats identified at the site.

3.3.4 The Natural Environment in Berkshire: Biodiversity Strategy 2014 – 2020 uses the Biodiversity Opportunity Area (BOA) approach to deliver BAP habitat targets. BOAs identify the areas of the county which have a high density of Priority Habitats, and which

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have the opportunity to be developed as a habitat network to restore biodiversity at a landscape-scale.

3.3.5 The site is not located within a BOA, however the Thames Basin Heaths BOA is located approximately 510m to the south-east of the site at its closest point. The Thames Basin Heaths BOA includes the Thames Basin Heaths SPA and the area between Bracknell and Ascot including Swinley Park and Brick Pits SSSI and Englemere Pond SSSI. To the west it includes a band of land south of Crowthorne and Wokingham. Habitats associated with this BOA include heathland, bog, woodland, parkland and wood pasture and ponds.

3.4 Protected Species 3.4.1 Data provided by TVERC has shown that there are records of Great Crested Newt, Grass Snake and Stag Beetle within the site itself and records of other protected and notable species occurring in the vicinity of the site including bats, , Water Vole, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and plants. Full details of protected and notable species records are provided in Appendix A and a summary of the records is given below.

3.4.2 Bats 3.4.2.1 TVERC provided 324 records of at least nine species of bat occurring within 2km of the site, namely Brown Long-eared Bat, Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle, Nathusius’ Pipistrelle, Noctule, Leisler’s bat, Serotine, Natterer’s bat, and Daubenton’s bat as well as unidentified Long-eared bat and unidentified bat species. The closest records to the site include: • Unidentified roosting bats in a building immediately adjacent to the north-eastern site boundary dating from 2016; • A record of a Common Pipistrelle bat associated with a building along Evendons Lane immediately adjacent to the north of the site, dating from 2012; and • Droppings of an unidentified Pipistrellus sp. bat associated with a building immediately adjacent to the south-eastern site boundary, dating from 2016.

3.4.2.2 All UK bat species are protected as ‘European Protected Species’ (EPS) under the 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations. In relation to EPS, the 2019 Regulations make it an offence to: • Deliberately capture, injure or kill any wild animal of an EPS; • Deliberately disturb wild animals of any such species, in particular any disturbance which is likely to: (i) impair their ability to survive, to breed or reproduce, or to rear or nurture their young; or to hibernate or migrate; (ii) affect significantly the local distribution or abundance of the species to which they belong;

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• Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such an animal; and/or • To (a) be in possession of, or to control; (b) to transport any live or dead animal or any part of an animal; (c) to sell or exchange or (d) offer for sale or exchange any live or dead animal or part of an animal of an EPS.

3.4.2.3 In addition, all UK bats are protected under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). All species are listed on Schedule 5 of the Act and are subject to the provisions of Sections 9.4b and 9.4c, which make it an offence to: • Intentionally or recklessly disturb a bat while it is occupying a structure or place which it uses for shelter or protection; and/or • Intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any structure or place used for shelter or protection by a bat.

3.4.2.4 If works are planned that are likely to constitute an offence under the current legislation, then works should be carried out under an appropriate Natural England licence.

3.4.2.5 Seven species of bat (Barbastelle, Bechstein’s, Noctule, Soprano Pipistrelle, Brown Long-eared, Greater Horseshoe and Lesser Horseshoe) are also included as priority species on the UKBAP and listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act. Section 40 of the Act requires planning authorities to regard these species as a material consideration in the planning process.

3.4.3 Otter 3.4.3.1 No records of Otter were received during the desk study.

3.4.3.2 The Otter is protected through its inclusion on Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (see Section 3.4.2.3) and as a European Protected Species through the 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (see Section 3.4.2.2). It is also a priority species on the UKBAP and listed as a Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

3.4.4 Hazel Dormouse 3.4.4.1 No records of Hazel Dormouse were provided during the desk study.

3.4.4.2 The Hazel Dormouse is protected through its inclusion on Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (see Section 3.4.2.3) and as a European Protected Species through the 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (see Section 3.4.2.2). It is also a priority species on the UKBAP and listed as a Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

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3.4.5 Water Vole 3.4.5.1 TVERC provided four records of Water Vole for the desk study area. All records are associated with waterbodies within the California Country Park, the closest of which is approximately 1.4km to the south-west of the site, dating from 1996 to 1998.

3.4.5.2 The Water Vole is protected through its inclusion on Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). Unless permitted under a licence issued by Natural England this makes it an offence to: • Intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take Water Voles; • Possess or control live or dead specimens or anything derived from a Water Vole; • Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any structure or place which Water Voles use for shelter or protection; and/or • Intentionally or recklessly disturb Water Voles while they are using such a place.

3.4.5.3 The Water Vole is also a priority species on the UKBAP and listed as a Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

3.4.7 Birds 3.4.7.1 TVERC provided 461 records relating to 51 bird species for the desk study area, none of which pertain directly to the site. All nesting birds are afforded a basic level of protection under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). Species listed on Schedule 1 of the Act receive additional protection against disturbance when breeding. Table 1 below details the protected and notable bird species recorded within the search area.

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Table 1: Specially protected and notable bird species recorded within desk study area

Annex WCA NERC BOCC4 Common Name Scientific Name 4 I1 12 413 (2015) Barn Owl Tyto alba Green Chroicocephalus Black-headed Gull Amber ridibundus Brambling Fringilla montifringilla Green Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Amber Common Gull Larus canus Amber Common Tern Sterna hirundo Amber Crossbill (Common) Loxia curvirostra Green Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Red Dunnock Prunella modularis Amber Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Red Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Green Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Amber Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Red Greylag Goose Anser anser Amber Herring Gull Larus argentatus Red Hobby Falco subbuteo Green House Martin Delichon urbicum Amber Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Amber Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Amber Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Red Lesser Black-backed Larus fuscus Amber Gull Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret Red Lesser Spotted Dendrocopos minor Red Woodpecker Linnet Carduelis cannabina Red Little Egret Egretta garzetta Green Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Amber Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis Amber Mealy (Common) Carduelis flammea Amber Redpoll Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Red Mute Swan Cygnus olor Amber Caprimulgus Nightjar Amber europaeus Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Green Pintail Anas acuta Amber Red Kite Milvus milvus Green Redwing Turdus iliacus Red Emberiza Reed Bunting Amber schoeniclus Shoveler Anas clypeata Amber Skylark Alauda arvensis Red Snipe Gallinago gallinago Amber Song Thrush Turdus philomelos Red Starling Sturnus vulgaris Red Stock Dove Columba oenas Amber Swift Apus apus Amber Tawny Owl Strix aluco Amber

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Annex WCA NERC BOCC4 Common Name Scientific Name 4 I1 12 413 (2015) Teal Anas crecca Amber Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Red Phylloscopus Willow Warbler Amber trochilus Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Red Woodlark Lullula arborea Green Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Red

Notes: 1 Species listed in Annex I of Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds 2 Species specially protected under Schedule 1 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) 3 Species included in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and Species of Principal Importance under the NERC Act 2006 4 Species included in the Birds of Conservation Concern Red and Amber lists (RSPB, 2015)1

3.4.7.2 A full list of the bird records received for the search area is provided in Appendix A.

3.4.8 Reptiles 3.4.8.1 TVERC provided forty-four records of reptiles for the desk study area, including records for Grass Snake, Slow-worm, Common Lizard and Adder. One record of Grass Snake was provided for a location in the south-western area of the site, dating from 2009.

3.4.8.2 All native reptiles are protected against killing and injuring under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) and are listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act. Due to their rarity, Sand Lizards and Smooth Snakes have additional protection.

3.4.9 Great Crested Newt 3.4.9.1 TVERC provided nineteen records of Great Crested Newt for the desk study area, the majority of which pertain to the site itself and its immediate vicinity including: • Fourteen records of Great Crested Newt within ponds in the northern area of the site, dating from 2002 and 2014; • Three records of Great Crested Newts within off-site ponds located in woodland to the west of the site, all of which are within 150m of the site boundary. These off-site records date from 2012; and • One record of Great Crested Newt from an off-site pond located within a garden approximately 30m to the north of the site, dating from 2012.

1 Red Listed (RSPB, 2015): Red list species are those that are Globally Threatened according to IUCN criteria; those whose population or range has declined rapidly in recent years; and those that have declined historically and not shown a substantial recent recovery. Amber Listed (RSPB, 2015): Amber list species are those with an unfavourable conservation status in Europe; those whose population or range has declined moderately in recent years; those whose population has declined historically but made a substantial recent recovery; rare breeders; and those with internationally important or localised populations.

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A further Great Crested Newt record pertains to an off-site garden located approximately 725m to the north of the site, dating from 2019.

3.4.9.2 The Great Crested Newt is protected through its inclusion on Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (see Section 3.4.2.3) and as a European Protected Species through the 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (see Section 3.4.2.2). It is also a priority species on the UKBAP and listed as a Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

3.4.9.3 Other amphibian species recorded within 2km of the site include Common Frog, Common Toad, and Smooth Newt. Common Toad is listed as a Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

3.4.10 Invertebrates 3.4.10.1 TVERC provided eighty-seven records of eight protected and notable invertebrate species occurring within the desk study area, three records pertaining to Stag Beetle are located within the site, dating from 2006. Stag Beetle, Lucanus cervus, is protected against commercial exploitation under Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) and is listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act. Stag Beetle is also included on the 1992 EC Habitats Directive: Annex II and V(a) which allow the setting up of SACs where key populations exist. Further invertebrate species recorded in the vicinity of the site include: • White-letter Hairstreak Satyrium w-album which is also protected against commercial exploitation under Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) and is listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act. In addition, White-letter Hairstreak is listed as ‘Endangered’2 on the IUCN Red List; and • Small Heath, Wall, Cinnabar and Shaded Broad-bar which are listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act and UK BAP Priority Species. In addition, Small Heath and Wall are also listed as ‘Near Threatened’3.

3.4.10.2 A full list of the invertebrate records received for the search area is provided in Appendix A.

2 Endangered (IUCN Red List, 2012): A taxon is Endangered when it is considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in Great Britain. 3 Near Threatened (IUCN Red List, 2012): A taxon is Near Threatened when it does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future in Great Britain.

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3.4.11 Plants 3.4.11.1 TVERC provided 108 records of protected or notable flowering plant species for the desk study area, none of which pertain to the site. The records include: • Small Fleabane which is protected against commercial exploitation under Schedule 8 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). In addition, Small Fleabane is listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act and as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List; • Bluebell which is protected against commercial exploitation under Schedule 8 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended); • Broad-fruited Cornsalad, Coral-necklace and Red Hemp-nettle which are all listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act and UK BAP Priority Species. Red Hemp-nettle is also listed as ‘Critically Endangered’4 and Broad-fruited Cornsalad and Coral-necklace are listed as ‘Endangered’; • Lesser Spearwort which is listed as ‘Vulnerable’5 in England; and • Bell Heather, Corn Mint, Cornish Heath, Creeping Willow, Cross-leaved Heath, Field Mouse-ear, Heath Speedwell, Heather, Marsh Cinquefoil, Marsh Pennywort, Marsh Ragwort, Ragged Robin, Round-leaved Sundew, Star Sedge, Tormentil, Wild Strawberry and Wood-sorrel which are all listed as ‘Near Threatened’ in England.

3.4.11.2 A review of the Ancient Tree Inventory (http://www.ancient-tree-hunt.org.uk), provided records of ten veteran trees within the site. These include: • A veteran Pedunculate Oak located in the central area of the site, within the Application 1 site. This tree has subsequently been subject to detailed assessment by SJA Trees in the context of the 2019 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Natural England Standing Advice for veteran trees6 and has been found not to qualify for veteran status in this regard. This tree has however been assessed as being ‘locally notable’ by SJA Trees and is identified as T8 in the Arboricultural Implications Report (SJA Trees, 2021); • A veteran Ash and a veteran Field Maple located in the north-east of the site, located approximately 100m east of the Application 2 site; • Three veteran Pedunculate Oak trees along the eastern site boundary located approximately 70m from the Application 1 site; and • Four veteran Pedunculate Oak trees along the south-eastern site boundary located approximately 300m from the Application 1 site.

4 Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List, 2012): A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in Great Britain. 5 Vulnerable (IUCN Red List, 2012): A taxon is Vulnerable when it is considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in England. 6 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ancient-woodland-and-veteran-trees-protection-surveys-licences

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3.4.11.3 In addition five notable trees are listed within the site boundary with species including Pedunculate Oak, Poplar, Monterey Cypress and Ash, none of which are located within the Application 1 or Application 2 sites.

3.4.11.4 The approximate locations of trees included on the Ancient Tree Inventory are given in Appendix A.

3.4.12 Other species 3.4.12.1 Other records of notable species provided by TVERC for the desk study area included thirty records of Hedgehog which is listed as Species of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act.

3.4.12.2 Two records of Bullhead were also provided for the desk study area, within streams in the wider area not directly connected to the site. This fish is protected under Annex II of the EC Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC which provides for the establishment of SACs where key populations occur.

3.4.12.3 No records of other protected or notable species were provided.

3.5 Planning policies 3.5.1 Relevant policies from the Wokingham Borough Local Development Framework: Adopted Core Strategy Development Plan Document (2010) relating to nature conservation and the environment include:

CP7 - Biodiversity ‘Sites designated as of importance for nature conservation at an international or national level will be conserved and enhanced and inappropriate development will be resisted. The degree of protection given will be appropriate to the status of the site in terms of its international or national importance.

Development: A) Which may harm county designated sites (Local Wildlife Sites in Berkshire), whether directly or indirectly, or B) Which may harm habitats or, species of principle importance in England for nature conservation, veteran trees or features of the landscape that are of major importance for wild flora and fauna (including wildlife and river corridors), whether directly or indirectly, or C) That compromises the implementation of the national, regional, county and local biodiversity action plans, will be only permitted if it has been clearly demonstrated that the need for the proposal outweighs the need to safeguard the nature conservation importance, that no alternative site that would result in less or no harm is available which will meet the need, and: i) Mitigation measures can be put in place to prevent damaging impacts; or ii) Appropriate compensation measures to offset the scale and kind of losses are provided.’

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CP8 - Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area ‘Development which alone or in combination is likely to have a significant effects on the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area will be required to demonstrate that adequate measures to avoid and mitigate any potential adverse effects are delivered.’

3.5.2 Relevant policies from the Wokingham Borough Development Plan, Adopted Managing Development Delivery Local Plan (2014) include: Policy CC03: Green Infrastructure, Trees and Landscaping 1. Green Routes and Green Route Enhancement Areas are defined on the Policies Map. 2. Development proposals should demonstrate how they have considered and achieved the following criteria within scheme proposals: a. Provide new or protect and enhance the Borough’s Green Infrastructure networks, including the need to mitigate potential impacts of new development b. Promote accessibility, linkages and permeability between and within existing green corridors including public rights of way such as footpaths, cycleways and bridleways c. Promote the integration of the scheme with any adjoining public open space or countryside d. Protect and retain existing trees, hedges and other landscape features e. Incorporate high quality, ideally, native planting and landscaping as an integral part of the scheme. 3. Development proposals which would result in the loss, fragmentation or isolation of areas of green infrastructure will not be acceptable. 4. Development proposals within the River Valley areas shall improve or contribute toward: a. The establishment of a Loddon/ Blackwater riverside footpath and bridleway, as defined on the Policies Map, to accommodate dual use b. The establishment of a riverside footpath and cycleway to accommodate dual use along the Emm Brook c. Opportunities for improvements to green infrastructure to help minimise flood risk

Policy TB23: Biodiversity and Development 1. Sites of national or international importance are shown and sites of local importance are defined on the Policies Map. 2. Planning permission for development proposals will only be granted where they comply with policy CP7 – Biodiversity of the Core Strategy and also demonstrate how they: a. Provide opportunities, including through design, layout and landscaping to incorporate new biodiversity features or enhance existing b. Provide appropriate buffer zones between development proposals and designated sites as well as habitats and species of principle importance for nature conservation c. Ensure that all existing and new developments are ecologically permeable through the protection of existing and the provision of new continuous wildlife corridors, which shall be integrated and linked to the wider green infrastructure network.

3.5.3 An updated Local Plan to guide planning in Wokingham Borough up to 2036 is currently underway and is expected to be adopted in 2021.

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4 PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY 4.1 General description 4.1.1 The results of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey are presented in map form with target notes (represented by numbered dots) in Appendix B. A brief non-technical description of the site’s habitats and features is given below. Numbers in brackets refer to target notes.

4.1.2 In general terms the site is dominated by an existing golf course comprised of amenity and rough grassland, scrub, woodland and scattered trees bordered by woodland and treelines. The central area of the site comprises hardstanding and a small collection of buildings.

4.1.3 The Application 1 site extends to approximately 3.54ha of land in the centre of the site. The southern part of the Application 1 site comprises the existing golf course buildings and parking (4, 2, 34) with associated areas of amenity grassland (3), ornamental planting (41) and bare ground (38). The northern part of the Application 1 site comprises disturbed areas of scrub (9), secondary woodland (36, 37), tall ruderal (35) and ephemeral/short perennial vegetation (5). In addition, scattered trees are present throughout the area and an overgrown and heavily silted pond is located in the central area of the Application 1 site (8). Other ponds are located around the Application 1 site boundary (18, 22, 51). The Application 1 site is surrounded by the wider golf course.

4.1.4 The Application 2 site extends to approximately 0.55ha of land on the northern site boundary. It is focussed on an area of mown amenity grassland (49) bordered by tall ruderal vegetation (59) and woodland (58) to the north. The Application 2 site is bordered to the south by the wider golf course and to the north by an off-site footpath beyond which lies a residential property with Evendons Road beyond.

4.1.5 A more detailed description of the habitats across the site, including those within the Application 1 and Application 2 sites, is given below.

4.2 Broadleaved woodland 4.2.1 Small areas and bands of broadleaved dominated woodland are present throughout the site, including: • A small woodland copse along the south-eastern site boundary (28) comprising Pedunculate Oak with Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Holly understorey. Ground flora comprises Common Ivy, Wood Avens, Herb Robert and Common Nettle; • Bands of woodland are present along the eastern, south-eastern and south- western site boundaries (32) with species including Pedunculate Oak, Silver Birch, Willow, Ash, Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Holly, Holm Oak, Alder, Hazel and

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Swedish Whitebeam. Ground flora is limited with occasional Common Nettle and Bracken; • A small area of woodland in the centre of the site (36) dominated by Willow with occasional Pedunculate Oak, Hawthorn, English Elm, Holly and Goat Willow. The ground flora is relatively sparse, but where present species include Common Nettle, Common Ivy, Wood Avens, Dog’s Mercury, Herb Robert, Hogweed, Greater Stitchwort, Cocksfoot, Bracken, Hedge Woundwort and Harts Tongue Fern. Rubbish and debris is scattered within the woodland; • Broadleaved dominated open woodland copse located in the east of the site (43) with species present including Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Pine, Willow, Plum and Sycamore. The woodland extends northwards becoming a narrow band of trees with dense scrub below (42) with species including Cherry, Field Maple, Pine, Cypress, False Acacia, Ash, Eucalyptus, Sycamore and White Poplar, Blackthorn, Broom, Field Maple, Bramble, Hawthorn, Willow, Guelder Rose and immature Pedunculate Oak. Ground flora is limited with species including Common Nettle and Bracken; • Woodland edge habitat in the west of the site (48) which forms part of a larger area of off-site woodland beyond the western site boundary (60) comprising Beech, Silver Birch, Pedunculate Oak, Willow, Cherry and Holly with Bramble and Bracken below; and • A narrow band of scrubby woodland (58) along the north-western site boundary dominated by Willow and White Poplar with Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Blackthorn, Dog-rose and Hawthorn. The ground flora is dominated by Bramble and Common Nettle with occasional Lords and Ladies.

4.3 Scattered trees 4.3.1 Scattered trees are present throughout the golf course (20 and 46) with species including Beech, Corkscrew Willow, Pedunculate Oak, Turkey Oak, Hornbeam, Prunus sp., Large Leaved Lime, Small Leaved Lime, Common Lime, Sycamore, Silver Birch, Weeping Willow, Horse Chestnut, Holm Oak, Wild Service Tree, Hazel, Field Maple, Hybrid Black Poplar, Lombardy Poplar, Alder, Cherry Laurel, Hawthorn, Ash, Monterey Cypress, Scots Pine, Cypress sp., Pine sp. and English Elm. The trees range in age from immature to very mature and include potential veteran specimens as identified on the Ancient Tree Inventory7 (see Section 3.4.11.2).

4.3.2 A treeline with scrub below is present along the south-eastern site boundary (25) and connects two small areas of woodland. Species present include Beech, Holly,

7 The ‘veteran’ Pedunculate Oak located within the Application 1 site identified on the Ancient Tree Inventory has been subject to detailed assessment by SJA Trees in the context of the 2019 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Natural England Standing Advice for veteran trees. The assessment found that the tree does not qualify for consideration as a ‘veteran’ in this regard (SJA Trees, 2021).

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Hawthorn, Elder, Pedunculate Oak, Holm Oak, Corsican Pine, Field Maple, Hazel, Dog- rose and Silver Birch with Common Nettle, Common Ivy and Stinking Iris below.

4.4 Hedgerows 4.4.1 Defunct and outgrown hedgerows border a footpath in the centre of the site (7) with species including Hawthorn, Field Maple, Willow, English Elm, Horse Chestnut, Hazel and Pedunculate Oak standards. Trees and scrub extend beyond the hedgerows and form an area of woodland to the north and east. The ground flora below the hedgerows includes Common Ivy, Pendulous Sedge, Wood Spurge, Rough Chervil, Bramble, Ribwort Plantain, Ground Elder, Wood Avens, Cleavers, Field Horsetail, Hogweed, Wood Dock, Dog-rose and Herb Robert.

4.4.2 An unmanaged hedgerow between approximately 1.5-3m wide and 8m tall with standards up to approximately 12m is present along the northern site boundary (13). Species within the hedgerow include Field Maple, Bramble, Dog-rose, Ash, Blackthorn, Pedunculate Oak, Sycamore, Black Poplar Hybrid, Hawthorn, Swedish Whitebeam, Wayfaring Tree and Beech. The ground flora below the hedgerow includes Pendulous Sedge, Common Ivy, Stinking Iris, False Brome, Bracken and Perforate St John’s Wort.

4.5 Scrub 4.5.1 Bands of relatively dense scrub interspersed with scattered trees are present across the site, including: • Trees and scrub bordering areas of cleared ground in the central northern areas of the site (5, 7, 9 and 35). Species present include Alder, Willow, Apple, Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Dogwood, English Elm, Bramble, Dog-rose, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Gorse, Broom and Wayfaring Tree; • Bands of trees and scrub border a public footpath in the north-east of the site (17). Species present include Holly, Yew, Hawthorn, Field Maple, Willow, English Elm, Horse Chestnut, Hazel, Oak and Ash with Bracken and Bluebell below; and • An area of scattered trees and scrub in the south-west of the site with a high presence of Gorse and Broom (62).

4.6 Tall ruderal, Bracken and Ephemeral/Short Perennial vegetation 4.6.1 Areas of bare ground in the central-northern areas of the site have become colonised with ephemeral, short perennial and ruderal vegetation (5, 35 and 38). Species present include Rosebay Willowherb, Cock’s-foot, False Oat-grass, Red Fescue, Yorkshire Fog, Annual Meadow-grass, White Dead-nettle, Common Nettle, Hedge Bindweed, Spurge sp., Greater Plantain, Black Medick, Scentless Mayweed, Common Ivy, Common Mallow, Mugwort, Nipplewort, Ragwort, Creeping Thistle, Perforate St John’s Wort, Rough

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Chervil, Hedge Woundwort, Swine Cress, Cleavers, Cow Parsley, Ribwort Plantain, Self- heal, Doves-foot Cranesbill, Teasel, Spear Thistle, Prickly Lettuce, Prickly Sow-thistle, Yarrow, Field Horsetail, Hogweed, Field Poppy, White Campion, Fumitory, Hare’s-foot Clover, Creeping Cinquefoil, Canadian Fleabane, Scentless Mayweed, Redshank, Common Cat’s-ear, Green Alkanet, Doves-foot Cranesbill, Autumn Hawkbit and Herb Robert. Arable plants including Oil-seed Rape and Wheat are also present.

4.6.2 Tall ruderal vegetation is scattered throughout the less managed areas of grassland across the site and is particularly prevalent along the woodland edge in the north of the site (59) with Common Nettle, Hogweed and Creeping Thistle present.

4.6.3 Bracken is scattered throughout the site and is at its densest along woodland margins to the east and south-east of the site (27 and 48).

4.7 Grassland Semi-improved grassland 4.7.1 Patches of rough species-poor semi-improved grassland are scattered throughout the site and are managed as part of the golf course (16, 23, 24, 33 and 48). Species present within these areas of grassland include Creeping Bent, Common Bent, False Oat-grass, Yorkshire Fog, Perennial Rye-grass, Cock’s Foot, Timothy, Creeping Buttercup, White Clover, Red Clover, Common Vetch, Lesser Trefoil, Greater Plantain, Perforate St John’s Wort, Field Horsetail, Daisy, Ragwort, Dandelion, Creeping Cinquefoil, Hares-foot Clover, Lesser Stitchwort, Birds-foot Trefoil and Ragwort and Autumn Hawkbit.

4.7.2 Small areas of species-poor semi-improved grassland border the large pond in the north of the site (54), comprising Red Clover, Birds-foot Trefoil, White Clover, Yarrow, Ox-eye Daisy, Common Spotted Orchid, Hares-foot Clover, Common Fleabane, Creeping Buttercup, Common Cat’s-ear, Ribwort Plantain, Common Vetch, Common Mouse-ear and Alder saplings.

Amenity grassland 4.7.3 The majority of the site is dominated by heavily managed, species-poor amenity grassland associated with the golf course (15, 19, 46 and 49). The sward is cropped very short and dominated by grasses with a very occasional presence of forb species including White Clover, Birds-foot Trefoil and Creeping Buttercup.

4.7.4 A further area of amenity grassland is present in the central area of the site, within the Application 1 site, and is used occasionally as an overflow car park (3). The grassland was cropped short at the time of survey and comprised species including Annual Meadow-grass, Common Bent, Perennial Rye-grass, Yorkshire Fog, Common Mouse-

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ear, Common Cat’s-ear, White Clover, Hare’s-foot Clover, Red Clover, Creeping Buttercup, Greater Plantain, Field Horsetail and Common Ivy.

4.8 Waterbodies and ditches 4.8.1 There are sixteen ponds with an associated ditch network located within the site, these include: • A large ‘U’ shaped pond in the north-west of the site with steep sided earth banks and a small island at its southern end (53). The pond is bordered by trees including Willow, Birch and Alder. Aquatic and marginal vegetation within the pond includes Soft Rush, Bulrush, Yellow Flag Iris, Water Lily, and occasional Hemlock Water-dropwort. A ditch leads into the northern edge of the pond, which was dry at the time of survey. Small numbers of Mallard, Coot and Canada Geese were recorded using the pond, and it is likely fish are present; • A large pond in the north-west of the site (52) with earth banks. Aquatic and marginal vegetation within the pond includes Soft Rush, Pond Sedge, Bulrush, Yellow Flag Iris, Water Lily, Water Mint and New Zealand Pygmyweed. Small numbers of Mallard and Canada Geese were recorded using the pond at the time of survey; • Shallow pond in the north-west of the site with a dense coverage of Parrot Feather (56); • Pond located in the north of the site (10) which is heavily shaded by trees including Willow, Oak, Birch and Field Maple. Approximately half of the pond is overgrown with Bulrush with the remainder having a dense covering of Parrot Feather; • Two ponds along the woodland edge on the central northern area of the site (18 and 22) to the east of the Application 1 site, both of which are partially shaded by Willow and Alder trees and have sparse marginal and aquatic vegetation limited to occasional Pond Sedge, Soft Rush and algae. Mallard and Moorhen were recorded using the ponds at the time of survey; • Shallow woodland pond located in the central northern part of the site within the Application 1 site (8). This pond has earth banks and an earth base densely covered in leaf litter. The pond is heavily shaded which has resulted in limited aquatic and marginal vegetation with small amounts of Pond Sedge and Pendulous Sedge present; • A pond located in the middle of the golf course in the north-eastern area of the site (21). The pond has mown grass banks with occasional Soft Rush and there is abundant New Zealand Pygmyweed within the pond; • Large pond (51) to the east of the Application 1 site with a seasonally wet ditch flowing into its north-western end, which held a small amount of water at the time

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of survey (50). The pond is bordered by Willow trees resulting in heavy shading at its eastern end. Bulrush, Juncus sp. and Lesser Duckweed were present; • Collection of three ponds in the south of the site which are connected by a ditch system, which was dry at the time of survey (61). Aquatic and marginal species present include Bulrush, New Zealand Pygmyweed, Celery-leaved Buttercup, Lesser Duckweed and Juncus sp. with algae on the surface; • Pond with steep sided, reinforced banks comprising wooden boards located adjacent to woodland edge habitat in the south-west of the site (64). Lesser Bulrush, Yellow Flag Iris, Soft Rush and Parrot Feather are present within the pond; and • Two ponds located in the south-west of the site (63 and 65) which support species including New Zealand Pygmyweed, Lesser Duckweed, Bulrush, sedges, rushes, and pondweed.

4.8.2 In addition three possible seasonal ponds are present, including: • A seasonal pond which was dry at the time of survey, located within woodland in the north-east of the site (29). The depression is approximately 10 x 5m with gently sloping earth banks and an earth base. A small island is present which supports immature Willow. The pond is bordered by Willow trees on all sides; • A seasonal pond, dry at the time of survey, with steep-sided earth banks and an earth base located in the north-east of the site (30). The pond is bordered by Willow and Pedunculate Oak; and • Depressed area of ground within woodland in the central-northern area of the site (36). The depression is approximately 10 x 5m, with steep sided earth banks creating a basin approximately 1m in depth. The depression may form a seasonal pond, but at the time of survey the area was dry and colonized by grasses and Willow trees.

4.8.3 In addition to the ditches associated with the ponds described above, a small number of further ditches are present within the site, mostly associated with hedgerows and bands of scrub. These include: • A seasonally wet ditch which was dry at the time of survey, which runs from the north into the Application 1 site (7) where it flows into the pond (8). Further sections of dry ditch are present to the west of the footpath at the northern end. All ditches are approximately 1m wide and 50cm deep, with steep sided earth banks; • A dry ditch, approximately 1m wide and 1m deep with a steep sided earth bank to the south and a more gently sloping earth bank to the north, is present along the northern edge of the footpath in the north-east of the site (17). The ditch joins a pond at its western end; and

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• A short section of dry ditch within the golf course in the north-east of the site (26).

4.9 Ornamental planting 4.9.1 Ornamental planting including flower/shrub beds and ornamental hedgerows are present within the site, mostly in the vicinity of the Clubhouse and car parks within the Application 1 site. Species such as Cherry Laurel, Bird of Paradise and Lonicera are present.

4.10 Other habitats 4.10.1 Buildings occurring within the site include the Clubhouse and a number of ancillary buildings, sheds and shipping containers (2, 34 and 44). These are located within the Application 1 site.

4.10.2 Patches of bare ground and hardstanding are associated with access roads, footpaths, areas of car parking, patio areas and storage (1, 2, 4, 5, 11, 34 and 40), particularly within the Application 1 site.

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5 PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES 5.1 Bats Roosting habitat 5.1.1 A number of buildings within the Application 1 site provide features that are potentially suitable for roosting bats, such as lifted tiles, gaps under ridge tiles and boarding. Mature trees are also present throughout the site with features such as trunk and branch cavities, Woodpecker holes and broken limbs.

Foraging and commuting habitat 5.1.2 The open areas of amenity and semi-improved grassland habitat provide limited opportunities for bats in isolation. Opportunities for foraging and commuting bats are however enhanced by the woodland, scrub, scattered trees, hedgerows, ponds and ditches occurring along the site boundaries and within the site, which also provide connective habitat with the wider area.

5.2 Dormouse 5.2.1 Although the grassland areas dominating the site are unsuitable for Dormice, the woodland, hedgerows, scrub and treelines occurring within the site and along site boundaries provide areas of potential Dormouse habitat in their own right and connect to other areas of more extensive suitable Dormouse habitat in the wider area.

5.3 Otter and Water Vole 5.3.1 The ponds and wet ditches within the site provide highly sub-optimal habitat for Otter and Water Vole due to their small size and lack of connectivity to more suitable waterbodies/watercourses in the surrounding area. It is therefore highly unlikely that these species are present within the site.

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5.5 Birds 5.5.1 Woodland, trees, scrub, hedgerows, grassland, pond and ditch habitats offer nesting opportunities for a number of bird species within the site and it is likely that the site supports an assemblage of breeding birds typical of garden, scrub, wetland and woodland habitats. The Application 1 and Application 2 sites are however unlikely to support a significant assemblage or number of nesting birds in a local context, either

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alone or in combination, as similar habitat is relatively abundant in the wider area. Notwithstanding this, measures to maintain opportunities for birds within the development proposals for the site and to protect nesting birds during the works are provided in Section 8 below.

5.6 Reptiles 5.6.1 Records of Grass Snake within the site were provided during the desk study. Potential habitat for common and locally recorded reptiles such as Common Lizard, Slow-worm, Adder and Grass Snake are provided by the woodland edges, hedgerows, scrub, semi- improved grassland, pond and ditch habitats found across the site.

5.7 Great Crested Newts 5.7.1 Sixteen ponds located within the site have potential to support breeding Great Crested Newts and a review of an OS 1:10,000 scale map and aerial photographs suggest that there are five additional ponds within 300m of the site. Suitable terrestrial habitat for Great Crested Newts occurs across the site in the form of woodland, scrub, hedgerows, ditches and rough grassland. Records of Great Crested Newt within the site were provided during the desk study and it is therefore likely that Great Crested Newts are present within the site during both terrestrial and aquatic phases.

5.8 Invertebrates 5.8.1 Habitats of some interest for invertebrates are provided by hedgerows, woodland, mature (including some potential veteran) trees, semi-improved grassland and pond habitats. The extent of such habitats within the Application 1 and Application 2 sites is however limited and similar habitat is relatively widespread in the surrounding area. The Application 1 and Application 2 sites are subsequently unlikely to be of local interest for this group, either alone or in combination.

5.9 Plants 5.9.1 The only protected plant species recorded at the site is native Bluebell which was recorded below trees and scrub in the northern area of the site. Bluebell is listed on Schedule 8 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) and is protected against sale only. The habitats present in the Application 1 and Application 2 sites are relatively common and widespread in the surrounding area recently established and/or subject to intensive management and disturbance and are unlikely to support protected or notable plant species.

5.9.2 The desk study identified 10 trees listed on the Ancient Tree Inventory (http://www.ancient-tree-hunt.org.uk) as ‘veteran trees’, one of which is located in the central area of the Application 1 site. This tree, a Pedunculate Oak, has been subject to

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detailed assessment by SJA Trees in the context of the 2019 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Natural England Standing Advice for veteran trees8 and the tree has subsequently been found not to qualify for veteran status in this regard (SJA Trees, 2021).

5.9.3 New Zealand Pygmyweed and Parrot Feather were recorded within ponds at the site. These species are listed as non-native invasive species on Schedule 9 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). It is an offence to release, plant or cause to grow in the wild any plant included on this schedule of the Act.

8 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ancient-woodland-and-veteran-trees-protection-surveys-licences

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6 NATURE CONSERVATION EVALUATION 6.1 The habitats within the site have been assessed with consideration given to the criteria summarised in Appendix E of this report (Ratcliffe 1977; CIEEM 2018). A summary of the site habitat evaluation is given in Table 2. Numbers in brackets refer to target notes.

Table 2: Site habitat evaluation Value Habitats present International None National None Regional None County None • The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) District Local Wildlife Site. High: - Network of ponds and ditches (7, 8, 10, 17, 18, 21, 22, 29, 30, 40, 50, 51-53, 55, 56, 57, 61, 63, 64 and 65).

Moderate: - Mature and potential veteran trees - On site woodland [in combination] (28, 29, 32, 36, 37, 42, Local 43, 48, 58) - Network of hedgerows, scrub, treelines and scattered trees [in combination] (5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13, 17, 20, 25, 42, 45, 46, 48, 58, 62, 66).

Low: - Species-poor semi-improved grassland (16, 23, 24, 33, 48, 54 and 62). Site/ Negligible All other habitats recorded

6.2 There are no habitats of International, National, Regional or County nature conservation value within or adjacent to the site.

6.3 The habitats of highest nature conservation interest within the site are the area of woodland, woodland edge, grassland and ponds in the south-west of the site which form part of the wider The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS. In combination with the off-site area of The Moors LWS to the west, which includes an area of broadleaved woodland listed as BAP Priority Habitat as well as wet woodland and marsh habitats, this area of the site is considered to be of district value. It should be noted however that the habitats within the site appear to be of lower ecological value than the larger off-site woodland to the west, limited to a small band of woodland, heavily managed grassland and ponds of relatively limited value to wildlife. Notwithstanding this, the onsite woodland within the LWS is considered to be of moderate local value, in combination with other areas of woodland across the site, as it provides supporting habitat to the adjacent off-site woodland and provides habitat for a range of species and combines with further areas of woodland, treelines and scrub to form a network of semi-

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natural habitats across the site, providing habitat connectivity within the site and contributing towards that of the wider area. The ponds also contribute to a wider network of wetland habitats, which in combination with waterbodies within the wider site are considered to be of high local value. It should be noted that the Sand Martin population for which the golf course is recorded as supporting within The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS Citation (1996) no longer seems to be present, with no records of Sand Martins provided for the local area during the desk study. The Application Site 1 and Application Site 2 fall approximately 95m and 240m from the LWS respectively.

6.4 Outside of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS, the habitats of highest nature conservation interest located within or adjacent to the site are the sixteen ponds and associated network of seasonally wet ditches. In combination, the ponds and ditches are considered to be of high local value. Although in some instances these are of limited ecological interest individually and similar features are relatively widespread in the surrounding landscape, they provide habitat for a range of wildlife and due to the number of waterbodies present provide a key component to a network of ponds on which amphibian metapopulations may be dependent. In addition, they provide complement the wet woodland habitat within The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS. Ponds are also identified as a Habitat of Principal Importance under Section 41 of the 2006 NERC Act. One pond is located within the Application 1 site and a further three ponds are located in its immediate vicinity.

6.5 The locally notable Pedunculate Oak, Ash and Field Maple trees located across the site are considered to be of moderate local value. Although veteran trees are relatively widespread in the area, due to their age true veteran trees are regarded as irreplaceable habitats, noted for their aesthetic appeal and biological importance providing conditions suitable for a wide range of lichens, fungi and animals, many of which are specialist and confined to veteran trees. Subsequently old trees, as a consequence of their rarity, can harbour rare and threatened species. No veteran trees are located in or immediately adjacent to either the Application 1 or Application 2 sites (SJA Trees, 2021).

6.6 Other habitats of moderate local value within the site include: • The bands of broadleaved dominated woodland along the site boundaries and the small area of Willow dominated woodland in the north of the site. These woodland areas are not exceptionally diverse, have a limited ground flora and are not listed as BAP Priority Habitat on the MAGIC online database. Notwithstanding this, these woodland areas have some inherent interest in combination and in their own right and complement other areas of woodland bordering the site, including the wet woodland associated with The Moors

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(including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS. A limited area of woodland is located within the Application 1 site and woodland borders the Application 2 site to the north. • Also of moderate local value is the network of hedgerows, scrub, treelines and scattered trees bordering and crossing the site. Although in some instances these are of limited ecological interest individually and similar features are widespread in the surrounding landscape, together they provide habitat for a range of species and combine to form a network of semi-natural habitats across the site, providing habitat connectivity within the site and contributing towards that of the wider area. A proportion of these habitats occur in the Application 1 site.

6.7 The less managed areas of species-poor semi-improved grassland present throughout the golf course provide limited opportunities for wildlife, being relatively improved with only limited species diversity, and similar habitats are abundant in the wider area. Due to the extent of this habitat within the site however the species-poor semi-improved grassland areas are considered collectively to be of low local value. There are no significant areas of species-poor semi-improved grassland in either the Application 1 site or the Application 2 site.

6.8 The remaining habitats recorded within the site, including the amenity grassland, tall ruderal vegetation, areas of bare ground, hardstanding and buildings are regarded as being of no more interest than at the ‘site’ level and are assessed as being of negligible value in a local context in their own right. Where appropriate, consideration of the potential presence of protected or notable species is given below.

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7 ADDITIONAL DATA REQUIREMENTS 7.1 In light of the findings of the ecological desk study and Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, additional survey work has been recommended in support of the planning applications for the Application 1 and Application 2 sites to identify species protected under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended) and 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations that have been identified as possibly occurring within the site, and that could potentially be impacted by development proposals. These further surveys are underway and will be the subject of separate reports. The further survey work undertaken is identified below.

Bats 7.2 Buildings and trees within and on the boundaries of the site were identified as having possible potential to support roosting bats during the Phase 1 Habitat Survey. Phase 1 bat scoping surveys of buildings and trees with potential to be affected by the proposed development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites were subsequently carried out to assess the likely impact of the development on roosting bats. The Phase 1 bat scoping survey of buildings and trees determined the need for further Phase 2 emergence/re- entry surveys or climbed inspections.

7.3 In addition, the woodland, ponds, hedgerows, treelines, scattered trees, scrub and rough grassland interfaces provide suitable bat foraging and commuting habitat. As such, bat activity surveys have been undertaken to determine the use of the site by foraging and commuting bats.

Hazel Dormouse 7.4 The hedgerows, woodland and scrub within the site, including that within and/or adjacent to the Application 1 and Application 2 sites, provide suitable habitat for Dormice. As such, a Dormouse nest-tube survey is being carried out to determine the status of this species within the site.

Great Crested Newt 7.5 Potential Great Crested Newt breeding habitat is provided by sixteen waterbodies identified within the site boundary and a further five ponds within 300m of the site. These include ponds within the Application 1 site. Suitable habitat for Great Crested Newts during terrestrial phases occurs across the site, including within the Application 1 and Application 2 sites, in the form of hedgerow bases, scrub, rough grassland, woodland and tall ruderal habitats.

7.6 A Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) and eDNA survey has therefore been carried out to determine the presence/likely absence of this species in waterbodies

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within the site and the surrounding area and inform an assessment of whether newts are likely to be present within the site during both terrestrial and aquatic phases.

Reptiles 7.7 Suitable reptile habitat is found throughout the site, including the Application 1 site and Application 2 site, in the form of woodland edges, hedgerow bases, rough grassland, tall ruderal vegetation and scrub. A reptile survey was therefore carried out to establish the status of this group within the Application 1 site and Application 2 site.

Consideration of other habitats and species 7.8 A number of mature trees are present throughout the site, a number of which are listed as veteran trees on the Ancient Tree Inventory. A BS5837 Tree Survey and Arboricultural Impact Assessment of the Application 1 and Application 2 development schemes has subsequently been undertaken by SJA Trees, together with an assessment of trees within and immediately adjacent to the development areas against criteria for the identification of veteran and ancient trees (SJA Trees, 2021).

7.9 No further surveys for birds or invertebrates are recommended prior to development of the Application 1 site and Application 2 site. Although breeding birds and notable species of invertebrates may occur at the site, it is unlikely that locally significant populations of either of these groups would be affected by the proposed development. Nature conservation legislation relating to nesting birds would however still apply, and measures to maintain opportunities for invertebrates and birds should be incorporated into the Application 1 and Application 2 development schemes. Measures to ensure compliance with legislation and to maintain opportunities for birds and invertebrates are set out in Section 8 below.

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8 RECOMMENDATIONS 8.1 This section reviews the possible implications of the proposed developments on features of ecological interest and outlines recommended measures for the avoidance and mitigation of potential effects. In addition, opportunities are identified by which development of the site can enhance its current value, and that of the wider area, for species of conservation concern in accordance with planning policy and the 2006 NERC Act.

8.2 Designated sites Thames Basin Heaths SPA 8.2.1 The area of highest nature conservation value associated with the site is the Thames Basin Heaths SPA which is located approximately 4.7km to the east of the site at its closest point. The SPA was designated under EC Habitats Directive 1992 (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) transposed into UK law by the 2019 Conservation of Habitats and Species (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations which requires decision making authorities to consider the effects of development both alone and in combination with other plans and projects.

8.2.2 Any development proposals for the site will therefore need to consider potential effects on the integrity of the ground nesting bird populations for which the SPA is designated and ensure that there are no overall adverse effects as a result of development by implementing avoidance and mitigation measures as appropriate. A full description of the constraints of the Thames Basin Heaths SPA to development and required approach to mitigation is provided in the Impact Avoidance Strategy (including local and strategic measures) for Residential Development upon the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (WBC, 2010).

8.2.3 Proposals for the Application 1 site include an extension to the clubhouse, a new restaurant and a venue building including new guest accommodation and additional car parking and it is therefore considered unlikely that the proposed development would result in increased recreational pressure on the Thames Basin Heaths SPA9. The Impact Avoidance Strategy (including local and strategic measures) for Residential Development upon the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (WBC, 2010) does not identify hotels as having an impact on the SPA. The more recent Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area Avoidance Supplementary Planning Document (BFC, 2018)10 which has been prepared for development in the neighbouring authority, Bracknell Forest Council, explicitly states that that mitigation measures are generally not required for hotels, stating:

9 The existing flat will be retained and the staff unit provides temporary accommodation for duty staff only. There will therefore be no net gain in residential units as part of the Application 1 or Application 2 schemes. 10 Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area Avoidance Supplementary Planning Document (BFC, 2018).

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3.3.7 Hotels: For traditional hotels offering short stay accommodation avoidance and mitigation measures will generally not be required. However, for hotels located within 400m of the SPA with a new car park11, measures may be required to ensure that the car park cannot be made available to the general public wishing to access the SPA.

8.2.4 As such, it is considered that no likely significant effects on the Thames Basin Heaths SPA or any of the associated SSSIs will arise as a result of the proposed development of the Application 1 or Application 2 sites, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects.

The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS 8.2.5 The habitat of highest nature conservation interest directly associated with the site is the non-statutory designated The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS which falls partially within the south-western area of the site. In combination with the off- site area of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS to the west, which includes woodland, wet woodland and marsh, this area of the site is considered to be of district value.

8.2.6 Although LWSs are non-statutory designated sites, and The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS is not considered to be of more than district value, LWS’s are non-statutory wildlife sites defined in local plans under the Town and Country Planning system and are a material consideration in the planning system.

8.2.7 With regard to the above, consideration of the potential implications of the proposed development on the LWS are given below, together with measures to ensure that the integrity of the LWS is maintained during both the construction and operational phases of the proposed development in accordance with planning policy and guidance, and the 2006 NERC Act.

8.2.8 The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS is located well beyond the boundaries of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites, at a distance of approximately 95m and 240m from the LWS respectively. Direct loss of habitat is therefore extremely unlikely to occur. Similarly, adverse effects of additional recreational pressure are unlikely to arise as a result of the proposed development in the Application 1 site as the area of the LWS within the wider golf course is already managed and used as part of a golf course.

8.2.9 Notwithstanding the above, the measures described below are recommended to ensure that indirect effects of development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites is avoided.

11 At a distance of 4.7km to the nearest area of the SPA, this does not apply to the proposed hotel at the Application 1 site.

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Several of these would generally be required in any event to ensure protection of retained habitats in closer proximity to the development works.

8.2.10 Any lighting proposals during the construction and operational phases should be designed to avoid light spill onto the LWS margins. This could be achieved through use of hooded, directional and low-level lighting as appropriate, together with use of narrow spectrum and low-UV bulbs, fitted with automatic timers, dimmers and/or motion detectors where appropriate. Detailed lighting proposals should be reviewed by a suitably qualified ecologist at an appropriate stage.

8.2.11 The design of the surface water drainage scheme should also seek to maintain the quality, quantity and constancy of water entering The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS throughout the construction and operational phases of the proposed development through the positioning of appropriately located sediment traps, swales, ponds and/or detention basins, as required.

8.2.12 As discussed above, The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS is located well beyond the Application 1 and Application 2 sites and therefore it is unlikely that any loss of habitat from the LWS, or direct damage through movement of vehicles or storage of materials, would be expected to arise during the construction phase of the proposed development. Notwithstanding this, it is recommended that the following measures are implemented to avoid any potential indirect effects on The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS during construction works: • Where possible, construction activities should maintain a minimum 15m stand-off from the edge of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS. This includes storage of materials and movement of vehicles. Where appropriate, the exclusion area should be fenced throughout the construction phase. It is understood that no construction activities are currently proposed within the 15m zone. • Where construction works within 15m are unavoidable (e.g. for construction of sympathetically designed attenuation ponds or path provision), these works should be subject of an agreed Method Statement and supervised by a suitably qualified ecologist. It is understood that no construction activities are currently proposed within the 15m zone. • Compound areas should be located away from the buffer area to avoid indirect effects of noise and lighting (see above). • Construction works should be carried out in accordance with the Pollution Prevention Guidance, which can be accessed from https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pollution-prevention-for-businesses.

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• Similarly, it is not expected that significant levels of noise or dust would be generated during the construction phase that might otherwise have an impact on The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS. Notwithstanding this, where appropriate, dust suppression and quiet methods of working will be employed (as would likely be required with respect to nearby residential development in any event). • It is also recommended that a ‘toolbox’ talk is provided to construction workers to make them aware of the LWS, in addition to the measures to avoid indirect effects described above.

8.2.13 Development of the Application 1 site and Application 2 site may also provide opportunity to increase the value of retained habitats for wildlife within the area of LWS within the wider golf course. This could be achieved through enhancement and management of the habitats present together with the creation of new habitats of high nature conservation value. Examples of such opportunities are given below: • Provision of a landscape buffer along the edge of the woodland habitat would provide opportunity to create ecotone habitat. Ecotones provide a gradation from woodland to scrub to rough and meadow grassland habitats which are noted for the high diversity of species and biomass they support. This would enhance the existing woodland edge habitat and, subject to securing long-term management, development proposals could potentially enhance this area of the site and complement the off-site woodland in the long-term. • The ponds located within the LWS could also be enhanced through the removal of wooden boards on the banks, reprofiling of the banks to make the ponds more accessible to wildlife, removal of non-native invasive species and establishment of native aquatic and marginal planting.

8.2.14 Further measures to maintain and enhance the ecological interest of the site and complement the woodland habitat within any development scheme are given in Section 8.5 below.

8.2.15 With implementation of the above measures, it is considered unlikely that significant effects on the integrity of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS would arise from the proposed development.

Other sites 8.2.15 No other statutory or non-statutory sites within the wider area have been identified as being likely to be affected by indirect effects arising from the proposed development of the Application 1 site or Application 2 site, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects. This is due to a combination of distance from the sites, the nature of the

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proposed development, the ecological character of the development areas, limited ecological connectivity with the sites and robustness of the habitats present.

8.3 Habitats Ponds and ditches 8.3.1 The ponds and associated ditch network are, in combination, considered to be of high local interest. One of the ponds is located within the Application 1 site and a further 2 ponds are located on the Application 1 site boundary. No ponds are located within or immediately adjacent to the Application 2 site.

8.3.2 Although the pond within the Application 1 site is in poor condition being heavily silted and shaded by adjacent trees and scrub, and the ponds across the wider site are unlikely to support a diverse flora and invertebrate assemblage, they provide opportunities for a range of wildlife and contribute to a network of ponds on which amphibian metapopulations may be dependant. Development proposals should seek to retain, maintain and enhance the ecological function of the ponds and ditch network within the site. Where retention of these habitats is not possible, similar opportunities should be re-created elsewhere. Measures to enhance the on-site ponds for wildlife are provided in Section 8.5 below.

8.3.3 Construction works in the vicinity of ponds and ditches should maintain a suitable stand-off from retained areas of habitat and be carried out in accordance with Pollution Prevention Guidance which can be accessed from https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pollution-prevention-for-businesses. The design of the surface water drainage scheme for the proposed development should also seek to maintain the quality, quantity and constancy of ponds and other wetland habitats within and adjacent to the site.

8.3.4 The proposals for the Application 1 site show that the pond within this area of the site will be retained and enhanced through reprofiling, management of adjacent vegetation to reduce shading and planting of native aquatic vegetation. The retained and proposed adjacent terrestrial habitats, including areas of woodland/scrub and meadow grassland planting will also complement the enhanced pond (Extended Clubhouse and Venue Building Landscape Plan, Colvin & Moggridge 2021a). The above works would be expected to improve the value of the Application 1 site pond for wildlife in the long-term.

‘Locally notable’ and veteran/ancient trees 8.3.5 The veteran trees occurring across the site are collectively considered to be of moderate local value. Veteran trees are noted for their aesthetic appeal and biological importance

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providing conditions suitable for a wide range of plants and animals, many of which are specialist and confined to veteran trees.

8.3.6 Ancient or veteran trees are regarded as irreplaceable under the 2019 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Natural England and the Forestry Commission have provided Standing Advice for veteran trees to guide Planning Authorities’ considerations in relation to developments in proximity to these habitats. The Standing Advice is a material consideration which should be taken into account when determining planning applications. The advice states:

“Ancient woodland, and trees classed as ‘ancient’, ‘veteran’ or ‘aged’ are irreplaceable.”

“You should refuse planning permission for developments unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the: • loss or deterioration of ancient woodland; • loss of veteran trees”

8.3.7 The standing advice goes on to identify potential effects of development on ancient woodland and veteran trees including indirect loss, damage to rooting zones of woodland trees, pollution, effects on hydrology, fragmentation, loss of supportive habitat, disturbance and introduction of invasive species. The advice goes on to identify possible mitigation measures:

‘Mitigation measures will depend on the development but could include:

• putting up screening barriers to protect woodland or veteran trees from dust and pollution • noise reduction measures • leaving an appropriate buffer zone of semi-natural habitat between the development and the ancient woodland or tree (depending on the size of the development, a minimum buffer should be at least 15 metres) • leaving a buffer zone at least 15 times larger than the diameter of a veteran tree or 5m from the edge of its canopy, if that’s greater • protecting veteran trees by designing open space around them • identifying and protecting trees that could become veteran trees in the future.’

8.3.8 Although detailed assessment by SJA Trees has identified that there are no veteran or ancient trees within or immediately adjacent to the Application 1 site or Application 2 site, there is a ‘locally notable’ Pedunculate Oak within the proposed Application 1 development area which may go on to qualify as a veteran or ancient tree in the future (identified as T8 in the SJA Trees Arboricultural Implications Report). In addition, there is a number of potential veteran trees across the wider site including those listed on the Ancient Tree Inventory.

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8.3.9 It is recommended that special consideration be given to the ‘locally notable’ Pedunculate Oak tree within the Application 1 site and that measures are implemented to avoid any direct and/or indirect damage to habitat associated with this tree or the potential veteran trees located within the wider site during the construction and operational phases through maintaining an appropriate buffer zone. Buffer zones for the ‘locally notable’ oak tree in the Application 1 site12 and potential veteran trees located in the wider golf course would depend on the individual tree and the advice of a suitably qualified arboriculturalist has been sought in this regard (SJA Trees, 2021). Natural England guidance states that buffer zones for veteran trees should be ‘at least 15 times larger than the diameter of a veteran tree or 5m from the edge of its canopy, if that’s greater’.

8.3.10 It is recommended that the measures listed in Section 8.2 in regard to avoiding effects of pollution, lighting, noise and dust on the LWS are also implemented in relation to works in the vicinity of the ‘locally notable’ oak tree in the Application 1 site and potential veteran trees located in the wider golf course, in order to minimise any potential indirect effects on ‘locally notable’ or veteran trees during the construction and operational phases of the proposed development of the Application 1 site and Application 2 site. Further protection measures for the ‘locally notable’ and potential veteran trees should include: • Where construction works are to be carried out in the vicinity of the ‘locally notable’ or potential veteran trees, buffer zones should be clearly demarcated prior to construction works commencing, using appropriately robust fencing (e.g. Heras) as required. No development works including storage of materials and movement of vehicles should be carried out within the buffer zone. The exclusion area should be fenced throughout the construction phase. • Where construction works within the buffer zone is unavoidable for the ‘locally notable’ tree within the Application 1 site, (e.g. for enhancement of the pond and its surrounds and construction of the internal access road), these works should be subject of an agreed Arboricultural Method Statement and supervised by a suitably qualified arboriculturalist. In addition, works should be carried out in accordance with BS5837 ‘Trees in relation to Construction’ and avoid significant incursion into the rooting areas of the tree. • It is also recommended that a ‘toolbox’ talk is provided to construction workers to make them aware of the presence of the ‘locally notable’ tree within the Application 1 site and the potential veteran trees in the wider site, in addition to the measures to avoid indirect effects described above.

12 Identified as T8 in the SJA Trees Arboricultural Implications Report.

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8.3.11 The proposed landscape works in the vicinity of the ‘locally notable’ Pedunculate Oak tree in the Application 1 site include removal of competing young trees and scrub, enhancement of the pond and creation of meadow grassland. It is considered that this will maintain complementary habitats for wildlife associated with the tree (Extended Clubhouse and Venue Building Landscape Plan, Colvin & Moggridge 2021a).

8.3.12 Through implementation of the above measures, it is considered unlikely that significant effects on the integrity of any ‘locally notable’ or veteran trees would arise as a result of the Application 1 and Application 2 development schemes.

Other habitats

8.3.13 The network of woodland habitats and the hedgerows, scrub, treelines and scattered trees (in combination) across the site are considered to be of moderate local value as they form a network of habitat allowing the movement of wildlife across the site and the wider area.

8.3.14 The emerging development proposals for the Application 1 site and Application 2 site show that areas of woodland, scrub and scattered trees habitat will be lost: • The development proposals for the Application 1 site will result in the loss of a proportion of the secondary woodland and scrub habitats, in addition to a number of scattered trees; and • The development proposals for the Application 2 site will result in the loss of a number of Poplars and Myrobean Plum trees.

8.3.15 Although the above works are unlikely to have a significant effect on the woodland, scrub and tree resource at the local level, where loss of these habitats is unavoidable measures should be taken to minimise effects on the network as a whole, such as prioritising loss of habitats of lowest interest, reducing effects of fragmentation where possible, and/or re-creating these habitats elsewhere within the site such as through the planting of new species-rich hedgerows, woodlands, scrub belts and treelines affording suitable buffers where possible.

8.3.16 Retained woodland, trees and hedgerows within and adjacent to the Application 1 and Application 2 sites should be protected during the course of development, with works carried out in accordance with ‘BS5837 Trees in relation to construction’ unless otherwise agreed with a suitably qualified arboriculturalist. Where possible a buffer should be maintained adjacent to woodland habitats incorporating semi-natural habitats such as rough and meadow grassland, scrub and wetland. These habitats could be used to create ecotone habitat against the woodland edge (a gradation from grassland

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to scrub to woodland) which is noted for its ability to support a high diversity of species and benefit species of nature conservation interest such as reptiles and foraging bats.

8.3.17 Other habitats of ecological interest associated with the site are the areas of rough species-poor semi-improved grassland which are considered collectively to be of low local value. Significant areas of these habitats will not be affected by the proposed development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites.

8.3.18 All other habitats present within the site (including the areas of amenity grassland, tall ruderal vegetation and regularly disturbed open habitats within the Application 1 and Application 2 sites) are of negligible value for nature conservation at the local level in their own right. Development proposals for the Application 1 site and Application 2 site should however consider the potential presence of protected species which may use these habitats. This is discussed further in Section 8.4 below.

8.3.19 Development proposals should also seek to enhance the Application 1 site and Application 2 site to provide new opportunities for wildlife in accordance with national and local planning policy and guidance (NPPF, 2019; ODPM, 2005) and the 2006 NERC Act. Recommendations as to how enhancements can be achieved are provided in Section 8.5 below.

8.3.20 Subject to appropriate implementation of the above measures, it is considered that opportunities for wildlife can be maintained at the Application 1 site and Application 2 site and their surrounds following development, together with maintenance of corridors for the movement of wildlife across the site and the wider area.

8.4 Protected and notable species 8.4.1 Prior to any planning application being submitted for development at the site, it has been recommended that surveys for bats, Hazel Dormice, Great Crested Newts and reptiles are carried out where appropriate to identify the importance of the site for these species, ensure compliance with UK nature conservation legislation, and where necessary identify measures to avoid or mitigate impacts on these species. These surveys have been instructed and will be the subject of separate reports. Recommendations relating to other protected species identified as potentially occurring at the Application 1 site and Application 2 site are provided below.

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Birds 8.4.9 The proposed development areas, and wider site, are considered unlikely to support an important assemblage of breeding birds and no further survey for this group is recommended. Notwithstanding this, any removal of trees, woodland, hedgerow and scrub vegetation, demolition of buildings, or works along the pond margins should avoid the bird breeding season (generally taken as March to early September inclusive), as wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). In the event that clearance of vegetation and buildings are required during this period, then a search for nesting birds should be undertaken by a suitably qualified ecologist immediately prior to these works commencing. In the event that breeding birds are discovered, sufficient habitat will need to be retained to ensure birds are not disturbed until nesting activity has been completed and the nest vacated.

8.4.10 It is also recommended that a variety of bird boxes are provided throughout the site to maintain opportunities for nesting birds. This could include a Sand Martin nesting bank located adjacent to the pond located in the area of the site coinciding with The Moors

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(including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS or within the wider site. It is understood that Sand Martin have historically used the waterbody within the LWS for breeding.

Invertebrates 8.4.11 The Application 1 site and Application 2 site are considered unlikely to support an important assemblage of notable invertebrates and it is of the understanding that much of the habitat of value to invertebrates within the application sites and wider site, such as mature/veteran trees, woodland, ponds and the grassland habitats will be retained within the scheme. As such, no further survey for this group is recommended. Notwithstanding this, it is recommended that any removal of habitats of value to invertebrates, such as rough grassland, trees, scrub, tall ruderal and ephemeral habitats are recreated within the scheme.

Plants 8.4.12 New Zealand Pygmyweed and Parrot Feather were recorded within ponds at the site. These species are listed as non-native invasive species on Schedule 9 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended). It is an offence to release, plant or cause to grow in the wild any plant included on this schedule of the Act. It is recommended that management works within the site include control of these species to prevent spread within or outside of the site. This would in turn provide opportunities for enhancement of the ponds by freeing up space for more wildlife friendly planting.

8.5 Opportunities for enhancement 8.5.1 Where appropriate, development proposals should seek to maintain and provide new opportunities for wildlife in accordance with national and local planning policy and guidance (NPPF, 2019; ODPM, 2005) and the 2006 NERC Act. A selection of measures is given below which could potentially increase the long-term nature conservation interest of the site and provide enhanced habitat for protected and notable species. These apply to both the Application 1 site, the Application 2 site and the wider golf course site as appropriate: • Enhancement and management of woodland and scrub habitats present, including: - Establishment and maintenance of ‘ecotone’ habitats around woodland edges, comprising a gradation from woodland to scrub to rough grassland habitats, recognised for their ability to support a high diversity of species; - Removal of debris and abandoned items from woodland floor; and - Selective thinning of woodland canopy to encourage more diverse ground flora and woodland structure. • Tree/hedgerow enhancements, including: - Inspections of aged and veteran trees by a suitably qualified arboriculturalist and implementation of any necessary measures to improve health and longevity;

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 45

- Enhancement of the existing hedgerows through sensitive management, infilling of gaps and establishment of new standard trees using native species appropriate to the local area; - Provision of new opportunities for movement of wildlife within and around the site through strengthening of existing treelines and hedgerow corridors and associated semi-natural habitats and/or provision of new linear habitats including hedgerow, tree and scrub planting. Where possible these should complement off-site areas of connective habitat; and - Maintenance and enhancement of standing and fallen deadwood habitats where safe to do so, including use of management techniques such as veteranisation of selected retained mature trees to promote deadwood. • Waterbody enhancements, including: - Enhancement of retained ponds and ditches across the site through clearance of overshading scrub, reprofiling, de-silting, removal of non-native invasive species and establishment of native aquatic and marginal planting; and - Creation of sympathetically designed new wetland habitats such as ponds, ditches, swales, reedbeds and/ or wet grasslands, either as standalone features or as part of the site Surface Water Drainage Strategy (SuDS), complementing the existing aquatic habitats in the wider area. These should be of wildlife friendly design including gently shelving margins and native aquatic/marginal planting. • Inclusion of other habitats of high nature conservation interest within areas of open space including rough and meadow grassland and native species-rich scrub habitats, ideally in locations where they complement existing habitats and/or improve connectivity around the site and the wider area; • Prioritising the use of native species typical of the local area in landscape planting where appropriate to do so and avoiding invasive species and cultivars. Where possible these should be sourced from stock of local provenance;

• Provision of bat roosting opportunities and bird boxes on new buildings and existing trees; • Provision of a Sand Martin nesting bank located adjacent to the pond in the area of the site coinciding with The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS or the wider site. • Provision of log and brash piles around woodland, hedgerow, scrub and pond edges to provide habitat for invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles; • Where appropriate, ensure presence of gaps in boundary fencing to allow movement of wildlife such as Hedgehogs around the site; and

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 46

• Sensitive use of lighting to avoid adverse effects on nocturnal wildlife (e.g. restrictions on lighting in public areas to the minimum levels required for safety, use of hooded and bollard lighting, low UV bulbs, presence detectors, timers etc.).

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 47

9 CONCLUSION 9.1 The development proposals for the Application 1 and Application 2 sites have been developed to avoid harm to identified features of ecological interest and subject to the implementation of the recommended measures for habitat retention, protection, creation and enhancement, and to protect the integrity of The Moors (including Sand Martins Golf Course Edge) LWS no reduction in the ecological interest of the site or its surrounds is likely to arise as a result of the proposed development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites. Furthermore, through the habitat creation and enhancement works proposed as part of the Application 1 and Application 2 schemes and extension of these works to the wider golf course, it is expected that a meaningful net gain for biodiversity will be achieved.

9.2 It is therefore concluded that, beyond the normal requirements to maintain the habitat resource of the site and avoid impacts on protected species, there appear to be no overriding nature conservation constraints that would preclude the proposed development of the Application 1 and Application 2 sites. In fact, the proposed development provides opportunity to deliver net gains for biodiversity in accordance with planning policy and guidance, and supporting the aims of the 2006 NERC Act.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 48

10 REFERENCES BCT (2016) Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines. Bat Conservation Trust, London.

BRIG (ed. Ant Maddock). (2011) UK Biodiversity Action Plan; Priority Habitat Descriptions. Biodiversity Reporting and Information Group. http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/PDF/UKBAP_PriorityHabitatDesc-Rev2011.pdf

Bright, P. Morris, P. & Mitchell-Jones, T. (1996) The Dormouse Conservation Handbook. English Nature, Peterborough.

CIEEM (2018) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal, 2nd edition. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester.

Colvin & Moggridge (2021a) Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd: Extended Clubhouse and Venue Building Landscape Plan. Colvin & Moggridge, Croydon.

Colvin & Moggridge (2021b) Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd: Maintenance Facility Landscape Plan. Colvin & Moggridge, Croydon.

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (2019) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Available from: www.gov.uk/government/publications

Froglife (1999) Reptile survey. An introduction to planning, conducting and interpreting surveys for snake and lizard conservation. Froglife Advice Sheet 10. Froglife, Halesworth.

Harris S, Cresswell P and Jefferies D (1991) Surveying Badgers. The Mammal Society, Bristol.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2010) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat survey: a technique for environmental audit. JNCC, Peterborough.

MAGIC (2020) Interactive Map. Available from: http://magic.defra.gov.uk/website/magic/ [Accessed November 2020].

Natural England (2018) Ancient woodland and veteran trees: protecting them from development. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ancient-woodland-and- veteran-trees-protection-surveys-licences#ancient-woodland (Accessed November 2020).

ODPM (2005) Government Circular: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation – Statutory obligations and their impact within the planning system. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, August 2005.

Ratcliffe, D.A. (ed.) (1977) A Nature Conservation Review, Vols. 1 and 2. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (2015) Birds of Conservation Concern 4. RSPB, Bedfordshire.

SJA Trees (2021) Sand Martins Golf Course: Arboricultural Implications Report. Tadworth, Surrey.

Stace, C. (2019) New Flora of the British Isles (Fourth edition). Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Spellerberg, I.F. (1992) Evaluation and Assessment for Conservation. Chapman & Hall, London.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 49

UKBAP (2007) UK Biodiversity Action Plan. UK Biodiversity Partnership. Available from: http://www.ukbap.org.uk.

Usher, M.B. (ed.) (1986) Wildlife Conservation Evaluation. Chapman & Hall, London.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 50

HDA Document Control and Quality Assurance Record

Project Title: Sand Martins Golf Club Project Reference: 973.1 Document Title: Ecological Appraisal Commissioning Party: Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd

Issue Description Date of Issue Signed 1 Ecological Appraisal January 2021

Personnel Position Author Hayley Snowdon GradCIEEM Ecologist Approved for Issue Adrian Meurer MCIEEM Director

© Hankinson Duckett Associates. All rights reserved

No part of this report may be copied or reproduced by any means without prior written permission from Hankinson Duckett Associates. If you have received this report in error, please destroy all copies in your possession or control and notify Hankinson Duckett Associates.

This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of the commissioning party and unless otherwise agreed in writing by Hankinson Duckett Associates no other party may use, make use of or rely on the contents of the report. No liability is accepted by Hankinson Duckett Associates for any use of this report, other than for the purposes for which it was originally prepared and provided.

Opinions and information provided in the report are on the basis of Hankinson Duckett Associates using due skill, care and diligence in the preparation of the same and no explicit warranty is provided as to their accuracy. It should be noted and it is expressly stated that no independent verification of any of the documents or information supplied to Hankinson Duckett Associates has been made.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

APPENDIX A

Desk Study Results

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

APPENDIX B

Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan and Target Notes

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021 Important Information: Any Drainage that has been investigated should be checked against statutory records to confirm details before proceeding with any design work.

We advise that an arborologist be appointed to correctly determine the species and condition SISI of all trees surveyed prior to any design work. All information contained in this drawing (including digital data) should be checked and Evendons Lane 14 verified prior to any fabrication or construction.

R2 16 SI 13 11 SI

13 R1 15 17

Evendons Lane 10 33

T6

R3 12 SI

MB24

Evendons Lane

T82

T80

MB80

T81 32 T5 20 SI

MB26 T83 Survey Legend

FENCES

BARBED WIRE FENCE B/W Trees CORRUGATED IRON FENCE C/I 55 CLOSE BOARD FENCE C/B CHESTNUT PALING FENCE C/P MB23 Hedges IRON20 RAILING FENCE I/R Privet 1.2 MB25 POST AND CHAIN FENCE P/C T84 POST AND RAIL FENCE P/R Walls Wall 2.0m POST AND WIRE FENCE P/W (Width to Scale) CHAIN LINK FENCE C/L C/B 1.8m 59 18 11 LARCH LAP FENCE L/L Fences INTERWOVEN FENCE I/W WIRE MESH FENCE W/M

MB18 ABBREVIATIONS

BOLLARD Bo MARKER Mk 56 BRITISH TELECOM IC BT NOTICE BOARD NB CONCRETE PAVING SLABS CPS PARKING METER PM COVER LEVEL CL ROAD NAME PLATE RNP SI DROP KERB DK ROAD SIGN RS ELECTRIC INSPECTION COVER EC RODDING EYE RE ELECTRICITY POLE EP RETAINING WALL Rtw FIRE HYDRANT FH RAINWATER PIPE RWP 19 FLOWER BED FB STOP VALVE SV T85 FOOTPATH FP TELEGRAPH POLE TP MB22 GAS VALVE GV TELEPHONE CALL BOX TCB 58 GULLY Gy TRAFFIC LIGHT TL INSPECTION COVER IC UNABLE TO LIFT UTL 37 PIPE INVERT LEVEL IL UNKNOWN Unk KERB OUTLET KO VENT PIPE VP MAN HOLE MH WATER METER WM T86 20 THRESHOLD TH DIAMETER Ø

MB21

36 Sheet Layout

MB20 21 31

T10 30 57 53 54 3 7 35 22 SI

2 52 MB15 MB17 SISI T12 9 SI

MB14 T4 1 29 28

MB16

MB27 MB13 26 North: 34 T2 T11

T1 6 indicative Grid: OS GPS 20 Levelling: OS GPS 5 MB10 Drawing Title: MB8 Topographical Survey Sheet 327 8 Site Address: Sand Martins Golf Club, MB7 Finchampstead Road, Wokingham, UK

MB9 38 Client:

MB4 39 MB11 Surveyor SJW Drawn By TS Verified By MWi Date 16.10.18

CM No: CM/181026 SHEET 03 OF 04 50 4 Scale: Date: 1:500m @ A0 October 2018

Cadmap Ltd 67 Meadway Drive Horsell, Woking MB12 Surrey, GU21 4TF Services Surveying T: 01483 429385 MATCHLINE FOR SHEET 2 E: info @ cadmap.co.uk 24 W: www.cadmap .co.uk

MB5 worksafe

smas consultant www.smasltd.com MB3 as recognised by 48 SAFETY CONTRACTORS HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT SCHEME SCHEMES IN THE SURVEY SSIP PROCUREMENT Accredited Contractor Constructionline MATCHLINE FOR SHEET 3 40 SI www.chas.gov.uk ASSOCIATION A UK GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION SERVICE 51 3 42 23 SI SI 49 41 2

11 47 25 44

45

20 43

46 60

48 SI 20 11

SI

64 SI

62 61 24 65 11 11 20

46 68 63 24 SI SI SI SI SI

24

66 32

20

67

1

at A3 - metres: north 0 50 100 200

KEY CLIENT: Intact species-rich Site boundary Pond Sand Martins Golf Club Ltd hedgerow Application 1 site (Clubhouse Improvements Defunct species-rich PROJECT: and Freestanding Venue Building) hedgerow Dry ditch Sand Martins Golf Club Application 2 site Intact species-poor TITLE: (Greenkeepers Compound) Buildings/hardstanding hedgerow Phase 1 Habitat Survey Plan Broadleaved woodland Tall ruderals/ bracken Bare ground SCALE AT A3: DATE: Ephemeral/perennial See scale bar January 2021 Scattered trees vegetation 1 Target note

Species-poor semi-improved Dense / scattered scrub SI grassland / Amenity grassland Local Wildlife Site 973.1/02

Target Notes

1. Tarmac road leading into the site from Finchampstead Road.

2. Two storey, brick-built Clubhouse with a hipped tiled roof, bordered by paving and a patio area.

3. Small area of managed amenity grassland lawn, used occasionally as an overflow car park. The grassland was cropped short at the time of survey and comprised species including Annual Meadow-grass, Common Bent, Perennial Rye-grass, Yorkshire Fog, Common Mouse- ear, Common Cat’s-ear, White Clover, Hare’s-foot Clover, Red Clover, Creeping Buttercup, Greater Plantain, Field Horsetail and Common Ivy. Trees and shrubs border the grassland and include Willow, Blackthorn, Whitebeam, Laburnum, Pedunculate Oak and Bramble.

4. Tarmac car park with scattered trees and shrubs set within ornamental beds including Oak, Whitebeam, Bird of Paradise, Hebe sp. and Lonicera sp. hedgerow.

5. Area of bare ground with scattered perennial, ephemeral vegetation, some of which is used as an overflow car park. Scattered vegetation includes Rosebay Willowherb, Cock’s-foot, False Oat-grass, Red Fescue, Yorkshire Fog, Annual Meadow-grass, White Dead-nettle, Common Nettle, hedge Bindweed, Spurge sp., Greater Plantain, Black Medick, Scentless Mayweed, Common Ivy, Common Mallow, Mugwort, Nipplewort, Ragwort, Creeping Thistle, Perforate St John’s Wort, Rough Chervil, Oil-seed Rape, Hedge Woundwort, Ribwort Plantain, Self-heal, Doves-foot Cranesbill, Teasel, Spear Thistle, Yarrow, Field Horsetail, Hare’s-foot Clover, Common Cat’s-ear and Herb Robert. The area is bordered by trees and scrub including Alder, Willow, Apple, Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Dogwood, English Elm, Bramble, Dog-rose, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Gorse, Broom and Wayfaring Tree.

6. Treeline along an earth bank, dominated by mature Pine with occasional Eucalyptus and Willow.

7. A public footpath comprising bare earth and bordered by defunct and outgrown hedgerows with species including Hawthorn, Field Maple, Willow, English Elm, Horse Chestnut, Hazel and Pedunculate Oak standards. Trees and scrub extend beyond the hedgerows. Ground flora below the hedgerows comprises Common Ivy, Pendulous Sedge, Wood Spurge, Rough Chervil, Bramble, Ribwort Plantain, Ground Elder, Wood Avens, Cleavers, Field Horsetail, Hogweed, Wood Dock, Dog-rose and Herb Robert. A seasonally wet ditch, dry at the time of survey, runs between the footpath and the eastern hedgerow and flows into the pond (8). Further sections of dry ditch are present to the west of the footpath at the northern end. All ditches are approximately 1m wide and 50cm deep, with steep sided earth banks.

8. Shallow pond with earth banks and an earth base with occasional marginal vegetation including Pond Sedge with aquatic vegetation limited to a dense covering of algae. The pond is heavily shaded by trees and scrub along its banks with species including Pedunculate Oak, Birch, Willow, Bramble and Hazel. A moorhen was recorded present on the pond at the time of survey.

9. An area of cleared ground and an earth mound which have been colonised by ephemeral, perennial and ruderal vegetation including Redshank, Greater Plantain, Scentless Mayweed, Willowherb, Yarrow, Creeping Thistle, Scarlet Pimpernel, Mugwort, Common Vetch, Broom, Field Poppy, White Clover, Black Medick, Common Nettle, Rough Chervil, Hogweed and Green Alkanet. The area is bordered by trees and scrub similar in composition to those in TN 7. Waste piles, including that from ponds containing Parrot Feather have been collected here.

10. Pond with earth banks and base with a heavy coverage of Parrot Feather with occasional Bulrush.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

11. Hoggin surfaced footpath.

12. Young treeline, approximately 10m tall, with species including Willow, Pedunculate Oak, Ash and Horse Chestnut with Hawthorn and Dog-rose below. Ground flora below comprises Common Ivy with occasional Pendulous Sedge, Bramble and Periwinkle.

13. Unmanaged hedgerow between approximately 1.5m-3m wide and 8m tall with standards up to approximately 12m. Species within the hedgerow include Field Maple, Bramble, Dog-rose, Ash, Blackthorn, Pedunculate Oak, Sycamore, Black Poplar hybrid, Hawthorn, Swedish Whitebeam, Wayfaring tree and Beech. Ground flora below the hedgerow includes Pendulous Sedge, Common Ivy, Stinking Iris, False Brome, Bracken and Perforate St John’s Wort. A dry ditch is present below the northern edge of the hedgerow.

14. Evendons Lane beyond which is residential development.

15. Amenity grassland cropped very short at the time of survey forming part of the wider golf course with areas managed as tees, greens, and fairways with sand bunkers.

16. Species-poor semi-improved grassland occasionally managed to form the rough areas of the golf course. Species within the grassland include Creeping Bent, Common Bent, False Oat- grass, Yorkshire Fog, Perennial Rye-grass, Cock’s Foot, Creeping Buttercup. White Clover, Red Clover, Common Vetch, Lesser Trefoil, Greater Plantain, Perforate St John’s Wort, Field Horsetail, Daisy, Ragwort, Dandelion and Creeping Cinquefoil.

17. Public footpath bordered by bands of trees and scrub. Species present include Holly, Yew, Hawthorn, Field Maple, Willow, English Elm, Horse Chestnut, Hazel, Oak and Ash with Bracken and Bluebell below. A dry ditch, approximately 1m wide and 1m deep with a steep sided earth bank to the south and a more gently sloping earth bank to the north, is present along the northern edge of the footpath. The ditch joins a pond at its western end.

18. A shallow pond which is partially shaded by Willow and Alder trees. The pond has limited marginal and aquatic vegetation including Pond Sedge, Soft Rush and algae. Mallard and Moorhen were recorded using the ponds at the time of survey.

19. Amenity grassland, similar to TN 15, with occasional White Clover, Birds-foot Trefoil and Creeping Buttercup.

20. Bands of planted scattered trees are present throughout the golf course. Species present include Beech, Corkscrew Willow, Pedunculate Oak Hornbeam, Prunus sp., Large Leaved Lime, Small Leaved Lime, Sycamore, Silver Birch, Weeping Willow, Horse Chestnut, Holm Oak, Wild Service Tree, Hazel, Field Maple, Hybrid Black Poplar, Hawthorn, Ash and English Elm.

21. A pond located in the middle of the golf course. The pond has mown grass banks with occasional Soft Rush and there is a high presence of New Zealand Pygmyweed within the pond.

22. A pond which is partially shaded by Willow and Alder trees. The pond has limited marginal and aquatic vegetation including Pond Sedge, Soft Rush and algae. Mallard and Moorhen were recorded using the ponds at the time of survey.

23. Species-poor semi-improved grassland, similar in composition to TN 16 with the addition of Hares-foot Clover, Yarrow and Autumn Hawkbit.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

24. Species-poor semi-improved grassland similar in composition to TN 23 with the addition of Ox- eye Daisy, Vipers Bugloss, Wild Carrot, Red Dead-nettle and Common Chickweed.

25. Trees and scrub along the site boundary with species including Beech, Holly, Hawthorn, Elder, Pedunculate Oak, Holm Oak, Corsican Pine, Field Maple, Hazel, Dog-rose and Silver Birch with Common Nettle, Common Ivy and Stinking Iris below.

26. Short section of dry ditch within the golf course.

27. Area of Bracken.

28. Small woodland copse of Pedunculate Oak with Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Holly understorey. Ground flora comprises Common Ivy, Wood Avens, Herb Robert and Common Nettle.

29. A seasonal pond, dry at the time of survey, approximately 10m x 5m with gently sloping earth banks and an earth base. A small island is present with immature Willow. The pond is bordered by Willow.

30. A seasonal pond, dry at the time of survey, with steep-sided earth banks and an earth base. The pond is bordered by Willow and Pedunculate Oak.

31. Ornamental flower beds.

32. Woodland band with species including Oak, Silver Birch, Willow, Ash, Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Holly, Holm Oak, Alder, Hazel and Swedish Whitebeam. Ground flora is limited with occasional Common Nettle and Bracken.

33. Species-poor semi-improved grassland similar in composition to TN 16 with additional species including Timothy, Lesser Stitchwort, Birds-foot Trefoil and Ragwort.

34. Collection of greenkeepers buildings within an area of bare ground bordered by fencing. Trees and scrub including Willow, Oak and Bramble border the area.

35. Area of bare ground that has been colonized by ephemeral, perennial and ruderal vegetation around the edges with species including Greater Plantain, Redshank, Mugwort, Common Nettle, Swine Cress, Cleavers, Cow Parsley, Ragwort, Hogweed, Yarrow, Willowherb, Prickly Sow-thistle, Creeping Thistle, Hedge Bindweed, Oil Seed Rape, Field Horsetail, Creeping Cinquefoil and Yorkshire Fog with Bramble and Willow scrub at the edges.

36. A small area of woodland dominated by Willow with occasional Pedunculate Oak, Hawthorn, English Elm, Holly and Goat Willow. A Willow dominated tree belt is present to the east. The ground flora is relatively sparse, but where present species include Common Nettle, Common Ivy, Wood Avens, Dog’s Mercury, Herb Robert, Hogweed, Greater Stitchwort, Cock’s Foot, Bracken, Hedge Woundwort, Giant Puffball and Harts Tongue Fern. Rubbish and debris are scattered within the woodland.

37. Depressed area of ground within woodland, approximately 10m long and 5m wide, with steep sided earth banks creating a basin approximately 1m in depth. The depression may form a seasonal pond, but at the time of survey the area was dry and colonized by grasses and Willow trees.

38. Area of bare ground with piles of sand and gravel. Scattered tall ruderal, perennial and ephemeral vegetation is present including Broadleaved Dock, Spear Thistle, Prickly Lettuce, Redshank, Smooth Sow-thistle, Common Nettle, Willowherb, Canadian Fleabane, Rosebay Willowherb, Greater Plantain, Scentless Mayweed, Yorkshire Fog, Mugwort, Field Poppy, White Campion, Fumitory, Creeping Thistle, Green Alkanet, Doves-foot Cranesbill, White

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

Dead Nettle, Yarrow and Autumn Hawkbit. Crop plants including Oil-seed Rape and Wheat are also present.

39. Treeline of immature Cypress with Willow present at the northern end.

40. Bare earth track with amenity grassland and scattered immature trees of Ash, Apple and Whitebeam located to the west.

41. Ornamental shrubs with scattered Bramble and Willow.

42. Narrow band of scattered trees with dense scrub below, forming a narrow band of woodland. Species include Cherry, Field Maple, Pine, Cypress, False Acacia, Ash, Eucalyptus, Sycamore and White Poplar, with Blackthorn, Broom, Field Maple, Bramble, Hawthorn, Willow, Guelder Rose and immature Pedunculate Oak.

43. Broadleaved dominated open woodland copse comprising Silver Birch, Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Pine, Willow, Plum and Sycamore.

44. Single storey building with weatherboard cladding and a tiled roof.

45. Short sections of managed Cherry Laurel Hedgerow between a tarmac road and footpath.

46. Undulating amenity grassland lawns associated with the golf course with areas managed as tees, greens and fairways with sand bunkers. Scattered trees are present throughout the grassland including Lombardy Poplar, Common Lime, Cherry Laurel, Apple, Silver Birch, Beech, Alder, Hybrid Black Poplar, Field Maple, Horse Chestnut, Turkey Oak and Corkscrew Willow.

47. Ornamental planting.

48. Woodland edge comprising Beech, Silver Birch, Pedunculate Oak, Willow, Cherry and Holly with Bramble and Bracken below. Adjacent to the woodland is a band of species-poor, semi- improved grassland similar in composition to TN16 with the addition of White Campion. Patches of Bracken and scattered scrub are also present.

49. Area of amenity grassland cropped very short at the time of survey and in use as a driving range.

50. Seasonally wet ditch, approximately 1m wide and 1m deep with amenity grassland banks. Approximately 1cm of water of present at the time of survey which flowed below a bridge and into the pond.

51. Large pond with a seasonally wet ditch flowing into its north-western end, which held a small amount of water at the time of survey (TN 50). The pond is bordered by Willow trees resulting in heavy shading at its eastern end. Bulrush, Juncus sp. and Lesser Duckweed were present within the pond.

52. A large pond with earth banks supporting marginal vegetation including Soft Rush, Pond Sedge, Bulrush and Yellow Flag Iris. Aquatic vegetation within the pond includes Water Lily, Water Mint and New Zealand Pygmyweed. Small numbers of Mallard and Canada Geese were recorded using the pond at the time of survey

53. A large ‘U’ shaped pond with steep sided earth banks and a small island at its southern end. The pond is bordered by scattered trees including Willow, Birch and Alder. Aquatic and marginal vegetation within the pond includes Soft Rush, Bulrush, Yellow Flag Iris, Water Lily, and occasional Hemlock Water-dropwort. A ditch flows from the northern edge of the pond,

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

which was dry at the time of survey. Small numbers of Mallard, Coot and Canada Geese were recorded using the pond, and it is likely fish are present.

54. Areas of species-poor semi-improved grassland around the pond, comprising Red Clover, Birds-foot Trefoil, White Clover, Yarrow, Ox-eye Daisy, Common Spotted Orchid, Hares-foot Clover, Common Fleabane, Creeping Buttercup, Common Cat’s-ear, Ribwort Plantain, Common Vetch, Common Mouse-ear and Alder Saplings.

55. Seasonally wet ditch which was dry at the time of survey leading north from the pond. The ditch is approximately 40cm wide and 50cm deep with steep sided earth banks.

56. Shallow pond with a dense coverage of Parrot Feather.

57. Seasonally wet ditch which was dry at the time of survey and flows into a pond to its south.

58. Narrow band of scrubby woodland dominated by Willow and White Poplar with Ash, Pedunculate Oak, Blackthorn, Dog-rose and Hawthorn. The ground flora is dominated by Bramble and Common Nettle with occasional Lords and Ladies and Figwort in damper areas. A public footpath runs along the northern edge of the woodland which is bordered by species- poor hedgerow dominated by Blackthorn with occasional Hawthorn and Poplar.

59. Band of tall ruderal vegetation and tall grasses along the woodland edge. Species present include Yorkshire Fog, Cocks-foot, False Oat-grass, Common Nettle, Hogweed, Creeping Thistle, Meadow Foxtail, Perennial Rye-grass with scattered White Poplar Saplings.

60. Off-site woodland which has a series of wet ditches present within it. Dominant tree species include Beech, Silver Birch, Pedunculate Oak, Willow, Cherry and Holly.

61. Collection of three ponds connected by dry ditches. Aquatic and marginal species present include Bulrush, New Zealand Pygmyweed, Celery-leaved Buttercup, Lesser Duckweed and Juncus sp. with algae on the surface.

62. Scattered trees and scrub including Gorse, Broom, Birch and immature Oak with species-poor semi-improved grassland below.

63. Pond which supports species including New Zealand Pygmyweed, Lesser Duckweed, Bulrush, sedges, rushes, and pondweed.

64. Pond with steep sided reinforced banks of wooden boarding. Species within the pond include Lesser Bulrush, Yellow Flag Iris, Soft Rush and Parrot Feather are present within the pond.

65. Pond which supports species including New Zealand Pygmyweed, Lesser Duckweed, Bulrush, sedges, rushes, and pondweed.

66. Scattered mature Oak trees, some of which are veteran, with occasional scattered Pine, Hazel, Blackthorn, Hazel and immature Oak.

67. Off-site woodland comprising Oak, Holly, Rhododendron, Beech, Cypress, Hazel, Hawthorn, Cherry and Blackthorn with Bracken, Common Ivy and Bramble dominating the ground flora.

68. Off-site area of dense Cherry Laurel with Cypress sp.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

APPENDIX C

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

APPENDIX D

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

APPENDIX E

Evaluation Criteria

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021

Criteria used for the evaluation of ecological receptors (based on Ratcliffe, 1977; CIEEM 2018)

Assigning value is relatively straightforward in the case of designated sites, and undesignated sites meeting designation criteria. However, in most cases evaluation of ecological resources is not straightforward and requires a degree of knowledge, experience and professional judgement (Usher, 1986; Spellerberg, 1992). Evaluation of an ecological receptor was based on a number of criteria (Ratcliffe, 1977; CIEEM 2018) summarised below: • Site designations; SPA, SAC, Ramsar, SSSI, NNR, LNR, SINC or equivalent. • Site designation criteria; e.g. Guidelines for the Selection of Biological SSSIs, JNCC, 1989. • Conservation status; whether a habitat or species is rare, declining or threatened at a given geographic scale. • Geographic location; the value of a habitat or species may change depending on whether it is being assessed in the south of England or the north of Scotland. • Distribution; habitats or species on the edge of their distribution, particularly where that distribution is changing as a result of global trends and climate change and endemic species or locally distinct sub-populations of a species are more valuable; • Rarity; the presence of habitats, species, subspecies or varieties that are rare or uncommon at a given geographic scale. • Diversity; of habitats, or species, particularly of vascular plants. Species-rich assemblages of plants or animals are likely to be important in terms of biodiversity; • Naturalness; habitats least affected by human disturbance are normally of relatively higher importance. • Size; larger areas are generally more valuable than lots of small ones. Notably large populations of animals or concentrations of animals considered uncommon or threatened in a wider context may be important. • Fragility; sensitivity to, and probability of, human impact. • Typicalness; a good example of the type, particularly plant communities (and their associated animals) that are considered to be typical of valued natural/semi-natural vegetation types, including examples of naturally species-poor communities. • Potential value (if restored to favourable conservation status). • Secondary or supporting value; value of a receptor in supporting the integrity or conservation status of another valued receptor. • Ability to be recreated; the more difficult a habitat is to re-create, were it to be destroyed, the greater the importance usually attached to it.

Sand Martins Golf Club/Ecological Appraisal/973.1/HS/January 2021