ECO TECH ECOLOGICAL CONSULTANCY
SPECIALISTS IN: HABITAT AND SPECIES SURVEY ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT MANAGEMENT PLANNING AND ADVICE
Environmental Statement: Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop
Revised report on
Ecology & Nature Conservation
Prepared by ECO TECH Ecological Consultancy
revised and updated, December 2011
CONSULTANTS: GILL CASTLE BSc MSc ROBERT MILETO BSc MSc
"STARLINGS" 61 COPTHORNE ROAD SHREWSBURY SHROPSHIRE SY3 8NW TEL. & FAX (01743) 236096 [email protected] Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Ecology and Nature Conservation - Executive Summary
This report, which forms part of a broader environmental assessment, considers the likely impacts on nature conservation of the continued quarrying of gritstone at Shirehill Quarry, near Glossop, Derbyshire (NGR: SK053943). In brief, the proposal involves the continued extraction and transportation of gritstone from the site over a period of some 33 years, with subsequent restoration to potential nature conservation uses at lower levels. The extent of the permitted limit of extraction (hereafter referred to as the permitted extraction area) amounts to approximately 5.2ha. In addition, there is an existing permission to utilize a further 2.7ha (approx.) to the south of the quarry for the disposal of waste (hereafter referred to as the permitted tipping area).
Note that this report is a revised version of an earlier ecological assessment dated July 2009 which comprised part of a draft submission. The2009 report has been revised and updated in order to take into account issues raised during post-draft submission discussions, with the exception of additional work undertaken to address the issue of bats. Bats are subject of a detailed additional report (Ecology Services UK Ltd, 2011). Short extracts from this bat report are used in this report, as appropriate.
Surveys were undertaken for Phase1 habitats, National Vegetation Classification communities, vascular plants, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, breeding birds, bats and badgers. In addition, the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT), the Peak District National Park Authority (PDNPA), the Sorby Natural History Society and the Sorby Invertebrate Group were consulted with regard to statutory and non-statutory sites and existing species records within a 1km radius of the boundary of the permitted areas
Eleven Phase 1 habitats were identified within the permitted area: broadleaved semi-natural woodland, scattered broadleaved trees, dense scrub, scattered scrub, unimproved acid grassland, continuous bracken, acid dry dwarf shrub heath, standing open water (settling pond – though dry in May 2011), ephemeral/short perennial habitat, bare ground and buildings.
Species and habitats are evaluated on an international, national, regional (county/National Park) and site basis. Potential sources of impact on features of nature conservation importance are outlined and predicted effects of the continued development are described. The significance of these effects is evaluated and mitigation measures discussed. Residual impacts following mitigation are identified.
The permitted areas do not form part of any statutory or non-statutory site of nature conservation value. However, the following statutory and non-statutory sites occur within 1km of the boundary: • The Dark Peak Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI - 31823.79ha); • Peak District Moors (South Pennine Moors Phase 1) Special Protection Area (SPA - 45301.54ha); • South Pennine Moors Special Area of Conservation (SAC - 65025.49ha.) . These are extensive sites with the nearest point some 450m to the east of the survey area.
Shire Hill (woodland) Local Wildlife Site lies immediately adjacent to the western edge of the site.
Although not designated a Local Wildlife Site, the broadleaved semi-natural woodland within the permitted area is considered to be of significance in a County context as it is ancient and semi-natural (shown as ASNW included on the provisional Ancient Woodland Inventory). All other habitats are considered to be of negligible value. Of the species recorded, those considered to be of more than negligible nature conservation value are as follows: • invertebrates (a relatively small number of notable species recorded) - considered to of significance in a site (zone of influence) context; • song thrush and dunnock (UKBAP priority species) - of significance in a site (zone of influence) context.
2 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
• bats - of significance on at least a local scale. No indirect impacts on statutory and non-statutory sites are anticipated.
In brief, in the absence of mitigation, the predicted direct impacts are considered to be: • broadleaved (ancient) semi-natural woodland - a definite negative impact, significant in a county context; • notable invertebrates associated with woodland - a definite negative impact, significant in the context of the site (zone of influence); • song thrush and dunnock - a highly likely negative impact, significant in the context of the site (zone of influence); • The permitted activities will have a range of potential impacts on bat species.
It is understood that the applicant will voluntarily relinquish the permission to use the permitted area for tipping (approximately 2.7ha). This action will mitigate the majority of the predicted direct adverse impact on woodland since approximately 2.1ha (75%) of the 2.8ha ancient woodland within the currently permitted development area will be retained in situ .
To further facilitate the development of compensatory woodland of high nature conservation value, it is proposed to translocate the field layer vegetation and soil from some of the woodland that would be lost due to extraction.
Other mitigation and enhancement measures are proposed including: • retaining all deadwood and mature trees within retained woodland in the same ownership; • the creation of large dead wood piles; • a restoration concept which allows the majority of the extracted area to develop, through natural regeneration, a broadleaved semi-natural woodland cover; • erection of bird boxes.
Following mitigation, compensation and enhancement, predicted significant residual impacts are considered to be: • a definite significant negative impact with regard to the loss of some 0.7ha broadleaved (ancient) semi-natural woodland. However, given the small extent of the loss (approx. 0.7ha) in comparison with the area of ancient semi-natural woodland in the locality (at least. 25ha), it seems reasonable to consider this loss as significant only in a site context; • a highly likely modest positive impact on any retained woodland as a result of retaining mature trees and deadwood; • a highly likely modest positive impact arising from the increased area of broadleaved semi-natural woodland at the site in the long-term; • a probable modest positive impact on woodland birds (in a site context).
No significant residual impacts are predicted with regard to song thrush, dunnock or invertebrate species.
3 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E1 INTRODUCTION
E1.1 Background
An earlier report dated July 2009 comprised part of a draft submission, This report has been revised and updated in order to take into account issues raised during post- draft submission discussions and following liaison between the applicant and their agents and the Peak District National Park Authority (PDNPA).
With regard to Ecology and Nature Conservation, additional post- draft submission requirements have been incorporated into the main body of this revised report with the exception of additional work undertaken to address the issue of bats. Bats are subject of a detailed additional report (Ecology Services UK Ltd, 2011). Short extracts from the bat report are used in this report, as appropriate.
E1.2 Terms of Reference
This report of the environmental assessment considers the likely impacts on nature conservation of the continued quarrying of gritstone at Shirehill Quarry, near Glossop, Derbyshire (NGR: SK053943). In brief, the proposal involves the continued extraction and transportation of gritstone from the site over a period of approximately 33 years, with subsequent restoration to potential nature conservation uses at lower levels. The permitted limit of extraction (hereafter referred to as the permitted extraction area) amounts to an extent of approximately 5.2ha. In addition, there is also an existing permission to utilize a further 2.7ha (approx.) to the south of the quarry for the disposal of waste (hereafter referred to as the permitted tipping area).
The permitted extraction and tipping areas, are approximately shown on Figures E1 & E2. Together these comprise the permitted development area (approx. 7.9ha)
Eco Tech Ecological Consultancy was commissioned by Marchington Stone Limited to compile this revised report utilising existing records and information derived from a range of habitat and species surveys.
Species and habitats are evaluated on an international, national and regional (county/National Park) and site basis. Potential sources of impact on features of nature conservation importance are outlined and predicted effects of the continued development are described. The significance of these effects is evaluated and mitigation measures discussed. Any residual effects following mitigation are identified.
E1.3 Sources of Information
Information used in the production of the original report (2009) was derived from a number of surveys undertaken on various dates throughout 2008.
Except where described below, it was agreed that the following surveys do not require updating as there is unlikely to have been any significant change to the status of the habitats/species (PPNPA Ecologist memo dated 20/4/11): • Phase 1 habitat survey (JNCC, 1993) with habitat notes; • classification of the vegetation using the National Vegetation Classification (NVC); • vascular plant species list; • invertebrate survey utilising a variety of methods on three occasions; • amphibian survey of a pond just within the boundary of permitted development to Natural England guidance (English Nature, 2003); • reptile survey including walkovers and the placing/checking of refugia on five occasions; • breeding bird survey, to Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) methodology (Gilbert et al. , 1998); • a bat survey (now fully superseded, see below); • badger survey comprising a search for signs of activity and setts within the permitted development area and within 30m of the site boundary.
4 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
The following additional surveys were requested post-draft submission: • amphibian survey of a waterbody some 160m to the north-east of the permitted development boundary (central NGR SK057946); • further breeding bird survey, recording any activity associated with the quarry face during 2011; • detailed bat survey - see Ecology Services report.
Further detail regarding survey methodologies is included in appendix E1 and see Ecology Services report for bats.
In 2008, the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT) and the Peak District National Park Authority (PDNPA) were consulted with regard to statutory and non-statutory sites and existing species records within a 1km radius of the boundary of the permitted development area. The Derby Museum & Art Gallery were also approached for records but advised that their records were held in duplicate form by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (N. Moyes pers. comm .).
In 2011 records from some 1km the locality were requested from the Sorby Natural History Society and the Sorby Invertebrate Group (Mr D Whiteley). The Sorby Natural History Society advised “Our policy is to redirect enquiries to the relevant Local Biological Records Centre.” The Sorby Invertebrate Group advised that they did not hold any records.
5 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E2 BASELINE ECOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION
E2.1 General ecological context
Figures E1 and E2 show the permitted extraction and tipping area boundaries (the permitted development area) and the ‘site’ boundary (approximately equating to the ownership boundary, excluding the access). All surveys include (and sometimes exceed) all the permitted development area.
The permitted development area is approximately 7.9ha comprising mainly existing quarry (mostly bare), broadleaved semi-natural woodland and regenerating heath and acid grassland.
The surrounding landuse is primarily broadleaved semi-natural woodland with a contiguous area of at least 25ha. There are also small areas of acid grassland. Beyond this, to the north and east and south the landuse is primarily agricultural (grazing) then upland heath (moorland); to the west is the town of Glossop.
Figures E1 & E2 show the location and extent of habitats and vegetation communities (respectively) within the site.
6 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Figure E1: Location and extent of habitats in relation to the permitted extraction and tipping areas
Key Broadleaved semi-natural woodland
Scattered broadleaved trees 4 0 5 1 0 0 E 4 0 5 2 0 0 E 4 0 5 3 0 0 E 4 0 5 4 0 0 E 4 0 5 5 0 0 E 4 0 5 0 0 0E 394600N 394600N Dense scrub Scattered scrub Unimproved acid grassland 0
30 5.
0
.
0 0
Continuous bracken Shire Hill 3 30 0.0 0 5.0 29
3 5.
0 .0
5
9
Habitat mosiac (see below) 2
0
.
0
9 2 Standing open water 29 28 5.0 0.0
0.0 0 5.0 3 9 394500N 2 0 394500N Ephemeral/short perennial habitat 0. 28 394500 m 0.0 29 Bare ground .0 28 5
27 5.0
2
9
5 . 28 0 Buildings 0 .0 0.0 27 27 2 6 5. 5 0
.0
2
6 0 Ownership boundary (approx.) .0
0 . 2 5 7 8 0 2 .0
Permitted limit of extraction
0 .
5 6
(approx.) 2 Stone Quarry
0 .
5 7
Permitted limit of tipping 28 5 2
.0
(approx.) 0 .
0 8
2
0 0. 28 394400N 394400N
STAA 0 275.0 26 0. 27 5.0 0.0 26 REF1 260.424 5038
Woodside Cottage
STBB
394300N 394300N
W 4 0 5 1 0 0 E 4 0 5 2 0 0 E 4 0 5 3 0 0 E 4 0 5 4 0 0 E 4 0 5 5 0 0 E a
r
d
B d y 4050 00 m 4055 00 m Note that the habitat mosaic comprises approx. 45% unimproved acid grassland, 25% acid dry dwarf shrub heath and 30% ephemeral/short perennial habitat.
7 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Figure E2: Location and extent of vegetation communities in relation to the boundaries of the permitted extraction and tipping areas
Key W10 Pedunculate oak-bracken-bramble woodland W15 Beech-wavy hair grass woodland
W16 Oak spp.-birch spp.-wavy hair grass 394600N 4 0 5 1 0 0 E 4 0 5 2 0 0 E 4 0 5 3 0 0 E 4 0 5 4 0 0 E 4 0 5 5 0 0 E 394600N 4 0 5 0 0 0 E woodland W24 Bramble-Yorkshire fog underscrub
W25 Bracken-bramble underscrub
U2 Wavy hair grass grassland
.0
30 5
0 .
U20 Bracken-heath bedstraw community 0 0 Shire Hill 3 30 0.0
0 5.0 2
3 9 5
. 0
Habitat mosiac (U2 & H9) 0 .
5
9
2
0
.
0 9
Standing open water 2
29 28 5.0 0.0
(U2 - Wavy hair grass grassland) 0.0 30 5.0 394500N 29 394500N 0 0. 28 3 500 m 0.0 94 Bare ground 29
5.0 28
27 5.0
Buildings 2
9
5
. 28 0. 0 0
27 0.0 Ownership boundary (approx.) 27 26 5.
5 0
.0
2
6 0 . 0
0 . 2 Permited limit of extraction 5 7 8 0.0
(approx.) 2
0
.
Permitted area of tipping 5 6
(approx.) 2 Stone Quarry
0 .
5 7
28 2 5
.0
0
.
0 8 2
0 0. 28 394400N 394400N
STAA 0.0 27 5.0 26 27 5.0 .0 26 0
REF1 260.424 5038
Woodside Cottage
STBB
394300N 394300N
W 4 0 5 1 0 0 E 4 0 5 2 0 0 E 4 0 5 3 0 0 E 4 0 5 4 0 0 E 4 0 5 5 0 0 E
a
r
d
4050 00 m B 4055 00 m
d y 8 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E2.2 Habitats
Table E1 gives a list of Phase 1 habitats and corresponding vegetation communities identified. Each is subsequently described.
Table E1 Inventory of habitats present
Habitat Approx. Approx. Vegetation communities extent extent within within permitted permitted extraction tipping area (ha.) area (ha.) Broadleaved semi-natural 0.7 2.1 W10 Pedunculate oak - bracken - bramble woodland woodland W15 Beech - wavy hair-grass woodland W16 Oak spp.- birch spp.- wavy hair-grass woodland Scattered broadleaved n/a n/a n/a trees Dense scrub <0.1 0.3 W24 Bramble - Yorkshire-fog underscrub W25 Bracken - bramble underscrub Scattered scrub n/a n/a n/a Unimproved acid 1.0 - U2 Wavy hair-grass grassland grassland Continuous bracken 0.1 - U20 Bracken - heath bedstraw community Acid dry dwarf shrub 0.6 - H9 Heather- wavy hair-grass heath heath Standing open water - - <0.1 n/a settling pond Ephemeral/short 0.6 <0.1 (U2 - Wavy hair-grass grassland) perennial habitat Bare ground 2.2 0.3 n/a Buildings <0.1 - n/a
Broadleaved semi-natural woodland Much of the southern part of the site, the north-east corner and a strip on the north-west boundary supports this woodland. The structure and species composition varies and is best described by vegetation communities as follows: W10 Pedunculate oak-bracken-bramble woodland This community is located at the south-east of the site. The canopy is generally dominated by mature/semi-mature sycamore and/or sessile oak (except for a thin quarry-side strip dominated by silver birch). The shrub layer is patchy and comprises silver birch, elder and young sycamore. The field layer often supports frequent creeping soft-grass, bracken and bramble with occasional wood sage, foxglove and broad buckler-fern. Moss cover is high on boulders. W15 Beech-wavy hair grass woodland A tiny patch of this community is located at the south of the site. It essentially comprises several large beech trees over sparse wavy hair-grass and broad buckler-fern. W16 Oak spp.-birch spp.-wavy hair grass woodland This community is located at the south-west and north-east of the site along with thin strips along the north-western edge. At the north-east, the canopy is short and open and co-dominated by sessile oak and silver birch. At the south-west the canopy is mostly taller, denser, semi-mature to mature sessile oak, though areas dominated by dense silver birch also occur here and on the strips on the north-western edge. The shrub layer is generally sparse throughout with only scattered silver birch. The field layer is generally overwhelmingly dominated by wavy hair-grass with occasional (to very locally frequent) bracken, heath bedstraw and bilberry. Moss cover is high on boulders.
Scattered broadleaved trees Along the northern edge of the site are six mature beech trees.
9 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Dense scrub This habitat is frequent along the access road to the quarry. At the time of initial surveys, it was dominated by bramble with frequent bracken (W25) and/or Yorkshire-fog (W24). However, it had been mown by the time of later survey visits and thus supported a much more ‘grassy’ vegetation.
Scattered scrub There is frequent scattered scrub, mainly silver birch and, less frequently, sessile oak (saplings to 3m) and/or bramble in many of the open habitats.
Unimproved acid grassland Small areas of acid grassland occur to the north-east, along the north west ownership boundary and as part (approx. 45%) of a habitat mosaic (with acid dry dwarf shrub heath and ephemeral/short perennial habitat) on previously worked benches and slopes. The species-poor sward (often open, especially when within a mosaic - see ephemeral/short perennial habitat below) largely comprises wavy hair-grass with locally frequent sheep’s-fescue, Yorkshire-fog, bracken, wood-sage and heath bedstraw. In places, moss cover is high. There is some scattered scrub (see above).
Continuous bracken Tiny areas of this habitat occur at the north, north-east and south-west of the site. It is overwhelmingly dominated by bracken with only very scattered foxglove, wavy hair-grass, heath bedstraw and wood sage. There is some scattered scrub (see above).
Acid dry dwarf shrub heath This occurs as part (approx. 25%) of a habitat mosaic (with unimproved acid grassland and ephemeral/short perennial habitat) on previously worked benches and slopes. The species composition typically includes heather, bracken, wavy-hair grass, foxglove, wood sage, heath bedstraw and sheep’s sorrel, but the frequency of each species is variable (ericaceous plant cover always being over 25%).
Standing open water - settling pond At the southern edge of the site is a small (approx. 2x5m) steep-sided settling pond. At the time of survey in 2008 it was up to 0.4m deep, but appeared to support no aquatic vegetation . In May 2011 the ‘pond’ was dry.
Ephemeral/short perennial habitat Most of this habitat occurs as a mosaic (approx. 30%, with unimproved acid grassland and acid dry dwarf shrub heath) on the previously worked benches and slopes. Essentially it is a version of the unimproved acid grassland described above but with a sparse cover and including a wide assortment associated species (such as heather, foxglove, wood sage, silver birch seedlings, New Zealand willowherb, early hair-grass, bramble seedlings, selfheal and sheep’s fescue) at low covers.
Bare ground The more recently work areas and tracks at the centre of the quarry, along with the access road and steeper slopes comprise bare ground. Average vegetation cover is less than 25%.
Buildings There are three buildings on site.
E2.3 Species
Vascular plants 102 vascular plant species were recorded from the site (see appendix E2 for details).
Invertebrates A total of 207 invertebrate species were recorded from the site: 11 beetles, 1 earwig, 37 true flies, 1 bug, 2 wasps, 4 centipedes and millipedes, 8 lacewings and their allies, 1 ground hopper and 142 moths (see appendix E2 for details).
10 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Amphibians A common frog was the only amphibian recorded within the site. This was found under one of the reptile refuges at the south of this area.
Results of survey of the waterbody some 160m NE of the survey area are as follows: 1) HSI assessment. This gave an index of 0.47 which, according to ARGUK Advice Note 5 (http://www.arg-uk.org.uk/Downloads/ARGUKAdviceNote5%20HSI%20May%202010.pdf ), places it in the ‘Poor’ category (mainly due to the presence of fish, low pond density in the area and low macrophyte cover). 2) A torch survey: Many fish were seen; the only amphibians were common toad tadpoles. 3) A bottle trap survey. Fish and common toad tadpoles caught. 4) Egg-searching. No newt eggs found.
Reptiles No reptiles were recorded.
Birds 26 species of bird were recorded of which 17 are considered to be possible or probable breeding species within the site (see appendix E2 for details). Note that kestrel, jackdaw and stock dove were recorded as probably breeding on the cliff faces in 2008 but no breeding activity was recorded by these species in 2011.
Bats Six species of bat were recorded. See Ecology Services report for details.
Badger No signs of badger activity were observed and no setts were recorded.
E2.4 Statutory and non-statutory sites of nature conservation value in the locality
The permitted development area does not form part of any statutory or non-statutory site of nature conservation value. However, the following statutory and non-statutory sites occur within 1km of the boundary: The Dark Peak Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI - 31823.79ha); Peak District Moors (South Pennine Moors Phase 1) Special Protection Area (SPA - 45301.54ha); South Pennine Moors Special Area of Conservation (SAC - 65025.49ha.) . These are extensive sites with the nearest point some 450m to the east of the survey area.
Shire Hill (woodland) Local Wildlife Site lies immediately adjacent to the western edge of the site (see appendix E3 for details).
E2.5 Existing species records for the locality
Notable species records obtained from the DWT for the permitted development area and a 1km buffer around it comprise a pipistrelle bat (specially protected species) from a private residence and 12 bird species of high conservation concern (“red list” species) from a grid reference on the north-western boundary of the survey area (but probably referring to the publicly owned area to the north of this): skylark, linnet, spotted flycatcher, starling, tree sparrow, twite, woodlark, yellowhammer, house sparrow, wood warbler, tree pipit and pied flycatcher.
E3 EVALUATION
E3.1 Method for evaluation of features
Habitat and species evaluation essentially follows the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (IEEM, 2006).
In order to assess impacts arising from a particular development, it is necessary to establish the nature conservation value of each feature/receptor likely to be affected by the proposals, both within and adjacent to the development area.
11 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
The value or potential value of each feature identified is evaluated according to its importance in a geographical context, approximately as follows: • International; • National; • County (Derbyshire); • Local (Glossop area); • Site/Zone of influence (the project site or a larger area if impacts extend further for certain features); or • Of negligible value/importance.
The IEEM guidelines suggest that value assigned to a feature should be a matter of professional judgement based on of available guidance and information, which can include the following: • existing designations; • biodiversity value (including rare species, the habitats that support rare species, notably large or diverse species populations, habitat extent and diversity, priority habitats and ancient woodlands). (see IEEM, 2006 for more detail).
Note that the IEEM guidelines state: ” The purpose of HAPs is to guide conservation action for the habitats concerned. That a HAP has been prepared should simply reflect the fact that the habitat concerned is in a sub-optimal state (and hence that action is required). It does not imply - and was never intended to imply - any specific level of value for the habitat. The value of any area of habitat covered by a HAP should therefore be determined on the basis of its intrinsic characteristics using the same approach as with other habitats.”
Individual species that are protected under European or National legislation are evaluated as above, but with the additional consideration of legal obligations.
E3.2 Habitats within the permitted development area
General None of the permitted development area is designated SAC, SSSI or Local Wildlife Site.
Essentially the whole of the site appears to be shown on the map of UKBAP priority habitats (http://www.natureonthemap.org.uk , accessed July 2009) as lowland beech and yew woodland. This appears to be largely erroneous on three counts: a) not all of the area is wooded and b) only a tiny part of the wooded area comprises lowland beech and yew woodland (less than 0.1ha); c) at this location, this woodland type would not normally be considered to be a UKBAP priority habitat as it is outside the native range of beech.
The permitted development area is considered to comprise the following UKBAP priority habitats: • Upland oakwood (W10 & W16 woodland) - 2.8ha • Lowland dry acid grassland (U2 grassland) - 1ha • Upland heathland (H9 Heather- wavy hair-grass heath) - 0.6ha
These same habitats are also included in the Peak Park Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP - http://www.peakdistrict.org/bap.pdf , accessed July 2009) under the following habitat headings: • Upland oak/birchwoods (W10 & W16 woodland) - 2.8ha • Rough grazing (U2 grassland) - 1ha • Heather moorland (H9 Heather- wavy hair-grass heath) - 0.6ha
Woodland As described above, virtually all of the woodland comprises a UKBAP priority habitat and is included on the provisional Ancient Woodland Inventory as ancient semi-natural woodland (www.magic.gov.uk , accessed July 2009). It is not designated SSSI or Local Wildlife Site.
12 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Nevertheless, ancient semi-natural woodland is considered to be of significant nature conservation value since it cannot be re-created and there are a number of national strategies which include policies relating to its protection (eg: Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 9 (2005)). Given that the adjacent Local Wildlife Site appears to be woodland of a very similar character, it is considered appropriate to consider the woodland on site as of equivalent (ie: county) value.
Acid Dry dwarf shrub heath Although, heath is a UKBAP priority habitat and included in the Peak Park Local BAP, the area of heath at this site is not considered to be of significant nature conservation interest in even a local or Zone of Influence context for the following reasons: • a very small area of the habitat is present - 0.6ha of an estimated 16590ha in the Peak Park (Peak Park LBAP); • even this small area of heath is fragmented across the site; • the heath is of recent origin, developing within the recently worked quarry, and is therefore easily re-creatable; • no notable species have been recorded that are only associated with heath. Therefore the heath at this site is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance.
Unimproved acid grassland Although, lowland acid grassland is a UKBAP priority habitat and included in the Peak Park Local BAP, the grassland at this site is not considered to be of significant nature conservation interest in even a local or Zone of Influence context for the following reasons: • the area of the habitat present is small (1ha) and this habitat is relatively common the Peak Park area (the Peak Park LBAP does not give an extent but notes it is “extensive areas…”); • even this small area of grassland is fragmented across the site; • the grassland is of recent origin, developing within the recently worked quarry, and is therefore easily re-creatable; • no notable species have been recorded that are only associated with grassland. Therefore the acid grassland at this site is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance.
Other habitats Other habitats are considered to be of negligible nature conservation value since they are generally common and widespread, are of recent origin, could be easily re-created, are not key for any notable species and are not considered priority BAP habitats in either a UK or Local context.
E3.3 Species
Vascular plants The diversity of vascular plants recorded within the permitted development area is not considered to be of note. No species recorded are considered to be notable in a national context (Cheffings & Farrell (eds), 2005 - excluding the ‘least concern’ category) or county context (Moyes, N.J. & Willmot, A, 2002).
Thus, the permitted development area is considered to be of negligible value for this species group.
Invertebrates No invertebrate species that are afforded protection under any UK or European legislation were recorded during the survey. No species were recorded that are listed in the British Red Data Books (Shirt, 1987; Bratton, 1991) or elevated to the status of Nationally Endangered, Nationally Vulnerable or Nationally Rare by subsequent formal reviews.
Ten UKBAP priority moth species were recorded. These are as follows: Agrochola helvola, Apamea remissa, Ecliptopera silaceata, Epirrhoe galiata, Eugnorisma glareosa, Hoplodrina blanda, Melanchra persicariae, Melanchra pisi, Mesoligia literosa, Xanthia icteritia . However, all these species occur in the “Research Only” category and thus are not considered to be of significant nature conservation value per se .
13 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
No Nationally Notable category Na species was recorded. One Nationally Notable category Nb species (Enargia paleacea) was recorded.
Sixteen species are listed as Nationally Local. These are: Acidia cognate, Agriphila latistria, Apamea furva Britannica, Apamea scolopacina, Bena bicolorana, Chalcosyrphus nemorum, Diarsia dahlia, Eupithecia virgaureata, Lithomoia solidaginis, Lygephila pastinum, Myelois circumvoluta, Oligia versicolor, Parastichtis suspecta, Schrankia costaestrigalis Standfussiana lucernea, Syngrapha interrogationis.
Note that it is not possible to give precise locations for the presence of the notable species recorded due to the nature of the survey methodologies used and high mobility of many of the species. For example, moth light traps will attract moths from a significant distance.
See appendix E2 for further details of the notable categories mentioned above.
The absence of national rarities (and allied categories) and the relatively small number of notable species suggests the permitted development area is of low importance for invertebrates. Therefore it is considered appropriate to evaluate the invertebrate interest as significant in a site (zone of influence) context.
Amphibians Only one individual of any amphibian species was recorded and this is not notable.
The survey of the reservoir some 160m to the NE did not record any great crested newts.
Thus, the permitted development area is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance for this species group.
Reptiles No reptiles were recorded. Thus, the permitted development area is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance for this species group.
Birds The diversity and numbers of birds recorded within the permitted development area during the bird surveys are not considered to be of note.
As of the date of this revised report, three species (song thrush, dunnock and starling) are listed as priorities for conservation action under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP). Note, however, that all three species have UK populations of over 750,000 pairs (an estimated 1,144,000, 2,163.000 and 804,000 territories respectively according to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds website (accessed August 2011).
Given that starling does not appear to breed on site and has extensive foraging habitat in the locality, the permitted development area is considered to be of negligible nature conservation significance for this species.
The permitted development area supports only two breeding pairs of song thrush and one breeding pair of dunnock. There is considerable breeding and foraging habitat in the locality. Therefore, these species are considered to be significant in no more than the a site (zone of influence) context.
Bats The site is of value to bats on at least a local scale. See Ecology Services report for details.
Badger No signs of badger activity or setts were observed. Thus, the permitted development area is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance for this species.
14 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E3.4 Statutory, non-statutory, other sites and existing species records of nature conservation value in the locality
Sites in the locality are considered to be of value as follows:
International Peak District Moors (South Pennine Moors Phase 1) Special Protection Area (SPA - 45301.54ha), South Pennine Moors Special Area of Conservation (SAC - 65025.49ha)
National: The Dark Peak Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI - 31823.79ha)
County: Shire Hill (woodland) Local Wildlife Site is immediately adjacent to the western edge of the site.
Notable bird and bat species which had been recorded previously in the vicinity of the site but which were not recorded by the 2008 surveys are considered unlikely to occur within the survey area. Therefore the site is considered to be of negligible nature conservation importance for these species.
E3.5 Evaluation summary
The permitted development area is considered to be of greater than negligible nature conservation value for the following features: • ancient semi-natural woodland - of significance in a county context; • invertebrates - of significance in a site (zone of influence) context; • song thrush and dunnock - of significance in a site (zone of influence) context. • bats - of significance on at least a local scale;
15 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS
E4.1 General
This sub-section considers the potential and predicted impacts which might arise from the proposed development in the absence of mitigation . These are divided firstly into direct impacts arising from the proposed development itself and then indirect impacts arising from other possible associated effects.
E4.2 Method of impact assessment and prediction
The method essentially follows a simplified form of the guidance set out in the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (IEEM, 2006).
For each feature of greater than negligible value, any significant impact is assessed in the absence of mitigation . The IEEM Guidelines (2006) define an ecologically significant impact as ‘an impact (negative or positive) on the integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and/or the conservation status of habitats or species within a given geographical area’. Typically, this can involve; • Characterisation of unmitigated impact on the feature (often including extent (area), duration and reversibility, as well as the size and/or severity of the impact in quantitative terms); • Significance without mitigation and confidence level (often including if the impact is positive or negative, the likelihood that any impacts will occur as predicted).
In order to facilitate the prediction and evaluation of the potential impacts of the proposed development, the plans of the working scheme were compared to the habitat and vegetation community maps (Figures E1 & E2) and species records. In addition, potential effects off-site on habitats and species in the vicinity of the proposed development are considered.
E4.3 Potential Direct Impacts on Habitats
The ancient semi-natural woodland is the only habitat considered to be of greater than negligible value. It is understood that potentially all of the woodland within the permitted development area (2.8ha) could be progressively lost to landtake (extraction) and disposal of waste (tipping) as a result of the continued working (as currently permitted). Thus, in the absence of mitigation, there would be a definite significant negative impact in a county context.
However, it is worth noting that the large (approx. 25ha) area of adjacent and contiguous woodland would not be directly affected by the continued working and therefore a viable area of broadleaved semi-natural woodland would remain in the immediate locality.
E4.4 Potential Direct Impacts on Species
The only species/species groups for which the site is considered to be of greater than negligible nature conservation value are invertebrates, song thrush and dunnock.
Invertebrates The Nationally Notable (Nb) and six (of the sixteen) Nationally Local species appear to be primarily associated with woodland (see appendix 2). Consequently, it seems highly likely that these could potentially be lost from the site as a result of the continued extraction and tipping. However, since these species are considered likely be present in the larger area of adjacent woodland (given its similar composition) they are considered highly likely to remain present in the locality. Thus, in the absence of mitigation the potential impact on invertebrates is considered to comprise a definite significant negative impact but only in the context of the site (zone of influence).
The remaining ten Nationally Local species appear to be associated with open ground (see appendix 2) and plant species that should persist at the site given the phased working. Consequently, it is considered highly likely that these ten species will also persist at the site during
16 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation the working period and on steeper slopes on restoration. Therefore, no significant impact is predicted.
Song thrush and dunnock The breeding and some of the foraging habitat of two pairs of song thrush and one pair of dunnock could potentially be lost as a result of the permitted tipping. This is considered to potentially result in a significant negative impact in the context of the site (zone of influence) only. However, song thrush and dunnock are considered highly likely be present in the adjacent contiguous woodland (given its similar composition and large size) and so highly likely to remain present in the locality.
As the quarry was active at the time of the original survey, possible additional disturbance effects on breeding birds as a result of continued working are considered highly likely to be negligible.
Bats The permitted activities will have a range of potential impacts on bat species. See Ecology Services report for details.
E4.5 Potential Indirect Impacts
Noise, dust and hydrology No significant effects on features of significant nature conservation value from noise, dust or hydrological changes are anticipated. See also other relevant parts of the Environmental Statement.
Statutory, non-statutory and other sites of nature conservation value in the locality Given the locations of statutory and non-statutory sites, their qualifying criteria and relatively small scale of the continued working, no significant indirect impacts on the designated sites in the locality are predicted with a high level of confidence.
17 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E5 PROPOSED MITIGATION, COMPENSATION AND ENHANCEMENT
This section outlines possible measures to mitigate for any significant impacts. Enhancement measures are also outlined.
The likelihood of residual impacts and their significance are also noted. See also the restoration submission of the Environmental Statement, especially the restoration masterplan.
Habitats
Woodland
It is understood that the applicant will voluntarily relinquish the permission to use the permitted area for tipping (approximately 2.7ha).
This action will mitigate the majority of the predicted direct adverse impact on woodland since approximately 2.1ha (75%) of the 2.8ha ancient woodland within the currently permitted development area will be retained in situ .
Moreover, the retained ancient woodland will be enhanced through appropriate management to maintain the quantity of mature trees and increase the amount of dead wood (currently sparse) to benefit a range of species groups (such as woodland invertebrates, bird and bat species - see also the species section below).
Within the retained woodland habitat in the same ownership, a commitment would be made to retain all deadwood and mature (and near mature) trees in the long-term (unless there are over- riding health and safety reasons for their removal) p. In addition, a proportion (some 25%) of the cut timber from the woodland that would be lost to extraction will be used in the creation of large dead wood piles. These piles will be located on the edges of the retained woodland and immediately adjacent to the translocated woodland soils area (see below).
In addition, the restoration concept anticipates, in the long term, that the majority of the extracted area (approx. 5.2ha) is considered highly likely to develop, through natural regeneration, a broadleaved semi-natural woodland cover of similar botanical species composition to that lost to land take. Evidence to support this prediction can be seen in an area that was dry dwarf shrub heath in 1998 that has now succeeded to woodland and in areas within the quarry which currently support birch regeneration over mainly wavy hair-grass and/or heather (pers. obs .). Although any regenerated woodland cannot be classified as ancient, even the young woodland currently developing on site appears to have a vascular plant species composition that is essentially indistinguishable from adjacent mature woodland areas and it is likely that other species groups (eg: invertebrates) will be able to colonise new woodland from the adjacent ancient woodland.
To further facilitate the development of compensatory woodland of high nature conservation value, it is proposed to translocate some field layer vegetation and soil from the woodland that would be lost due to extraction. The translocated soils would subsequently be planted with site- native trees to create new native woodland. Although such action cannot be viewed as mitigation for loss of ancient woodland, the resulting woodland is considered even more likely to resemble the lost semi-natural ancient woodland than would be the case if planting onto non-woodland soils.
The preferred receptor site is on the southern perimeter of the quarry adjacent to existing woodland, as illustrated on the restoration masterplan. This is anticipated to be an optimal location to establish compensatory oak/birch woodland on translocated woodland soils. However, the donor area for these soils is not anticipated to used for several years (when the quarry development has progressed to the upper benches). If, at that time, an area of remnant quarry (i.e. fully worked) is available, it may be that some or all of the woodland soils from the donor area can be better utilised in areas other than that illustrated. If this is the case, liaison and agreement with the PDNPA will be instigated.
18 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
The detail of the proposed translocation would be included in a Method Statement to be agreed by the PDNPA but is likely to include the following principles:
Donor site (stripping): • turf/soil stripping should be in the period October to February inclusive • the vegetation and soils should be excavated, to a depth no greater than about 15-20cms • large roots (those over 50 mm in diameter), large rocks and foreign materials should be removed from the vegetation/soil prior to transportation Receptor site (placement): • since the ancient woodland/woodland/scrub boundaries here are poorly defined, the exact furthest extent of the reception area (including any agreed buffer zone) will be agreed on site with the PDNPA and clearly de-lineated. This should minimise the risk of accidental incursion/damage from vehicles/machinery used for the works, and/or the works themselves • the vegetation/soil should be loosely tipped then pressed down to provide good contact with the subsoil surface but not compacted or ‘smeared’. • no tracking by vehicles over the newly laid vegetation/soil
There should be no storage of vegetation/soil between stripping and placement. Both operations would take place for any individual load within 24 hours.
The receptor area should subsequently be planted with nursery-grown site-native whips/saplings (sessile oak and silver birch) of local provenance planted at approx. 1m random spacings (no straight lines). The rationale behind the dense planting is to create shade as quickly as possible (thinning will be required in future years to create suitable light conditions for the woodland field layer). Subsequent management of the plantings in the first few years should include controlling any invasive non-native woody and herbaceous species and replacing dead whips/saplings.
Consideration was given to translocating whole tree boles (after coppicing) but this was considered technically unfeasible and highly liable to failure. This view is supported in Anderson, 2003.
Species
Invertebrates
Retention of all of the permitted area for tipping (approx. 2.7ha), the proposed habitat enhancement and proposed restoration are predicted to be likely to fully mitigate the predicted impact. This is based on the fact that 75% of the woodland within the permitted development area would be retained and much of the worked area will eventually become woodland with similar plant species composition and opportunities for species to recolonise.
Birds
Retention of all of the permitted tipping area (approx. 2.7ha), woodland enhancement works and final restoration proposals (primarily to woodland) are predicted to be likely to fully mitigate the predicted impact on birds. 75% of the woodland within the permitted development area will be retained (this includes the area where song thrush and dunnock were recorded, see Map EA1) and much of the extracted area will eventually become woodland.
In addition, potential nest sites for a number of bird species will be provided. At least 15 nest boxes (of various designs) will be erected in retained woodland.
Removal of vegetation which might act as nesting sites for birds will be undertaken outside the bird breeding season.
Bats
A number of measures are proposed. See Ecology Services report for details.
19 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E6 RESIDUAL IMPACTS
Table E2: Summary of predicted impacts, the proposed mitigation and residual impacts on features of greater than negligible significance (or where enhancement is proposed)
Feature Impact in the absence of Mitigation , compensat ion and enhancement Residual impact, significance and confidence mitigation (including level (where appropriate) significance and confidence level) Woodland A definite significant negative Retention of approx. 75% of the woodland As the feature is of a type (ancient semi-natural) impact in a county context present within the permitted development area. that is by definition non-recreatable, any loss is generally accepted to be significant. Therefore, regardless of the proposed mitigation, a definite significant negative impact will remain. However, given the small extent of the loss (approx. 0.7ha) in comparison with the area of woodland in the locality (at least. 25ha), it seems reasonable to consider this loss as significant only in a site context.
Enhancement of retained woodland in the same There is highly likely to be modest positive impact in ownership through long-term retention of mature the retained woodland (approx 2ha) due to trees and deadwood. . proposed enhancement works.
Restoration of the majority of the working area to There is highly likely to be a modest positive impact broadleaved semi-natural woodland (via natural arising from the increased area of broadleaved regeneration and including translocation of semi-natural woodland at the site in the long-term. woodland soils).
Translocation (and subsequent management) of The resulting woodland is considered more likely to the field layer vegetation and soil from the 0.7ha resemble the lost semi-natural ancient woodland woodland that would be lost due to extraction than would be the case if planting onto non- woodland soils.
Notable A definite significant negative Mitigation, compensation and enhancement No significant residual impacts are predicted (with a invertebrates impact in the context of the site proposals for woodland habitat (see above) reasonable degree of confidence) associated with (zone of influence) woodland
20 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Table E2: Summary of predicted impacts, the proposed mitigation and residual impacts on features of greater than negligible significance (or where enhancement is proposed) (cont.)
Song thrush and A highly likely significant Mitigation, compensation and enhancement No significant residual impacts are predicted (with a dunnock negative impact in the context proposals for woodland habitat (see above) reasonable degree of confidence) of the site (zone of influence) Other woodland n/a Erection of 15 nest boxes (of various designs) Modest positive impact probable (in a site context) birds will be erected in the retained woodland Bats See Ecology Services report See Ecology Services report See Ecology Services report
21 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
E7 REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
Anderson P, 2003: Habitat translocation - a best practice guide
Bat Conservation Trust, 2007: Bat Surveys – Good Practice Guidelines.
Cheffings CM, Farrell L (eds), 2005: The Vascular Plant Red Data List for Great Britain. JNCC.
DTI (2000): Guidance on the methodology for multi-modal studies. Originally available at: www.dft.gov.uk/itwp/mms/index.htm but no longer at this URL.
Gent A H, Gibson S D (eds), 2003: Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC.
Gilbert G, Gibbons DW and Evans J, 1998: Bird Monitoring Methods. RSPB
JNCC, 1993: Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – a technique for Environmental Audit. JNCC.
Moyes, N.J. & Willmot, A , 2002: A Checklist of the Plants of Derbyshire. Publ: Derby Museum, Derby, England.
Nature Conservancy Council, 1989: Guidelines for Selection of Biological SSSI's. NCC.
Preston CD, Pearman DA and Dines TD, 2002: New Atlas of the British and Irish Flora. Oxford University Press.
22 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
APPENDIX E1 - DETAILED METHODOLOGY FOR HABITAT AND SPECIES SURVEY
Phase 1 habitat survey This followed the methodology set out in the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – a technique for Environmental Audit (JNCC, 1993). Mapping of the habitats was undertaken on the 21/4/08, 19/5/08, 17/6/08 and 8/9/08.
Classification of the vegetation using the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) This essentially followed the methodology set out in the National Vegetation Classification: Users' Handbook (JNCC, 2006). Mapping of communities was undertaken on the 21/4/08, 19/5/08, 17/6/08 and 8/9/08.
Vascular plant species A comprehensive list of the species present was made during the Phase 1 and NVC surveys. Hawkweeds ( Hieracia ) were collected and sent to the County Recorder for determination.
Invertebrate survey A variety of methods were used including: Sweep-netting A stout hand-held net is moved vigorously through vegetation to dislodge resting insects. The technique may be used semi-quantitatively by timing the number of sweeps through vegetation of a similar type and counting selected groups of species. This technique is effective for many invertebrates, including several beetle families, most plant bug groups and large number of other insects that live in vegetation of this type. However, it does not sample invertebrates that are confined to lower levels such as the litter layer. Beating trees and bushes A cloth tray, held on a folding frame, is positioned below branches of trees or bushes and these are sharply tapped with a stick to dislodge insects. Black or white trays are used depending upon which group of invertebrates has been targeted for search. Insects are collected from the tray using a pooter. This technique is effective in obtaining records of most arboreal species, including many beetle groups, bugs, caterpillars of Lepidoptera, spiders and others. It can be undertaken at any site where there are trees or bushes present although is rendered ineffective if the vegetation is wet or if the weather is windy. MV light-trapping Mercury-vapour (mv) light bulbs are used to attract nocturnal insects - especially moths. These bulbs emit ultra-violet light at a wavelength which causes moths to be attracted but the wavelength used is harmless to humans. The bulbs are mounted over catching chambers filled with cardboard egg-trays and moths entering the chambers settle on these trays and may be examined. Six mercury vapour light traps on each visit.
Using a Malaise trap was considered but discounted due to the high risk of vandalism. However, it was considered that a satisfactory level of species sampling at Shire Hill was obtained by concentrating on a narrower range of “target species”. This is not a new concept. Complete invertebrate inventories are in any event extremely time-consuming to produce whilst they are seldom necessary for site assessment. Thus, species recording frequently concentrates on species targeted for their value in interpreting the habitats present on a site. A consideration of the likely invertebrate interest of this area of Derbyshire led to the targeting of moths during the present survey.
Survey was undertaken on 17-18 June, 22-23 July and 1-2 September 2008. Survey was undertaken by Colin Plant Associates on behalf of ECO TECH.
Amphibian survey In 2008, this followed Natural England guidance (English Nature, 2003): • three methods (torch survey, bottle-trapping and egg search) were used per visit; • four visits were undertaken in suitable weather conditions (temperature above 5 degrees); • all visits were in the period mid-March to mid-June, with at least two of these visits during mid-April to mid-May (actual visit dates were 19-20/4/08, 20-21/4/08,17-18/5/08 and 18- 19/5/08).
23 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
The ‘pond’ subject to survey is a small, steep-sided, settling pool located mostly just within the southern limit of permitted tipping area.
In 2011 this ‘pond’ was found to be dry on the 05/05/11 and thus not subject to survey.
In 2011, a map and aerial photograph based desk study as well as a walkover survey of the locality was undertaken in order to identify any other waterbodies within some 200m of the survey area. The one watebody located (a reservoir, some 160m NE of the survey area at the closest point, its central grid reference is ) was subject to the following survey:
1) An HSI assessment (as per http://www.arg- uk.org.uk/Downloads/ARGUKAdviceNote5%20HSI%20May%202010.pdf ). 2) A torch survey. The reservoir was highly suitable for this with high visibility to around 0.5m depth. 3) A bottle trap survey, 20 traps set. 4) Egg-searching of aquatic vegetation.
The survey visit was on the 11/12 May 2011. The minimum night temperature was 8 oC. The adequacy of this survey to address amphibian issues was confirmed by e-mail with the PPNPA Natural Environment Team Manager on the 19/05/11.
Reptile survey This essentially followed the guidance given in Gent A, Gibson S, (1998): • the site was visited five times and visits were at appropriate times of year (actual visit dates were 20/4/08, 21/4/08, 18/5/09, 19/5/08 and 8/9/08); • visits were in good (appropriate) weather conditions (temperatures between 10-17 degrees with little wind).
Survey comprised: • direct observation targeted at suitable habitat features; • 35 refugia were placed and checked (refugia were concentrated in four areas and in habitats considered to be most suited to reptiles).
The location of the four areas of refuges is shown on Map EA1 below. In each area eight refuges were placed, except the most south-westerly area where eleven refuges were placed.
Breeding bird survey In 2008, this was essentially to Breeding Bird Survey methodology (Gilbert et al., 1998). Survey was undertaken between 07:00 and 08:30 on the 20/4/08 and 18/5/08.
The transect route was designed to cover all areas within the survey site and was walked at a slow pace, pausing regularly to watch and listen for songs. All species were recorded and those demonstrating behaviour indicative of breeding were noted. Indicative breeding behaviour in this instance was: singing males heard (possibly breeding) or signs of probable nesting seen (eg: pair or display observed, or males recorded singing/displaying on both survey visits = probably breeding).
In 2011, any breeding bird activity associated with the quarry face was recorded on the following dates: 5/5/11, 12/5/11, 10/6/11 and 13/8/11.
The approximate location of breeding bird territories in 2008 is shown on Map EA1.
Bat survey The method for the survey in 2008 is detailed in the original report but has been wholly superseded by the more detailed 2011 survey, see Ecology Services report for details
Badger survey This comprised a single survey visit on the 20/4/08, comprehensively searching for signs and setts within the site and 30m of the permitted development boundary, where accessible.
24 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Map EA1 – Approximate location of reptile refuges (hatched pink) breeding bird territories in 2008. (for key to species codes see Appendix E2, D. below, for
key to habitats etc.,4 0 5 1 0 0 E see Map E1) 4 0 5 2 0 0 E 4 0 5 3 0 0 E 4 0 5 4 0 0 E 4 0 5 5 0 0 E 394600N 394600N
MG BT WR MP .0
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STAA CH 0.0 275.0 26 CH 27 5.0 R. 0.0 WR BC26 REF1 GT 260.424 BT D. CC PF 5038 WP B. R. WW GT ST B. Woodside Cottage R. ST. GT STBB
WP WP R. BM 227.41m Well 394300N 394300N 262.2m 4 05 10 0 E 4 05 20 0 E 4 05 30 0 E 4 05 40 0 E 4 05 50 0 E
AD R O 216.4m CK CO OD WO 25 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
APPENDIX E2 - SPECIES LISTS
A. VASCULAR PLANTS Nomenclature follows Stace 1991
English Name Latin Name Habitat Woodland Heath & Acid Other grassland Alder Alnus glutinosa VR American Willowherb Epilobium ciliate O Annual Meadow-grass Poa annua O Ash Fraxinus excelsior VR Beech Fagus sylvatica LD R Bell Heather Erica cinerea O Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus R VLF Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta R R Bracken Pteridium aquilinum F O LD Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. VLF R LA Bristle Club-rush Isolepis setacea VR Broad Buckler-fern Dryopteris dilatata LF O Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolius O Broad-leaved Willowherb Epilobium montanum F Broom Cytisus scoparius VR Bush Vetch Vicia sepium Cat's-ear Hypochaeris radicata R O Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata R Colt's-foot Tussilago farfara R VLF Common Bent Agrostis capillaris Common Cudweed Filago vulgaris VLF Common Figwort Scrophularia nodosa VR Common Mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum O Common Nettle Urtica dioica VR R Common Ragwort Senecio jacobaea O F Common Sorrel Rumex acetosa R Common Vetch Vicia sativa Compact Rush Juncus conglomeratus R Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens R Creeping Soft-grass Holcus mollis O O Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense R Crowberry Empetrum nigrum R Curled Dock Rumex crispus O Daisy Bellis perennis R Dandelion Taraxacum sp. R R Downy Birch Betula pubescens R R R Early Hair-grass Aira praecox O/VLF Elder Sambucus nigra VLF False Oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius Foxglove Digitalis purpurea O O Goat Willow Salix caprea LF LF Greater Plantain Plantago major Green-ribbed Sedge Carex binervis R Grey Willow Salix cinerea LF LF Groundsel Senecio vulgaris a Hawkweed Hieracium section R R Oreadea a Hawkweed Hieracium section R O Stelligera
26 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna VR Heath Bedstraw Galium saxatile O LF F Heath Rush Juncus squarrosus VR Heath Speedwell Veronica officinalis F Heath Wood-rush Luzula multiflora O O Heather Calluna vulgaris R LA Hedge Woundwort Stachys sylvatica Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium VR Holly Ilex aquifolium VR Hybrid Oak Quercus x rosacea R Ivy Hedera helix Jointed Rush Juncus articulatus VR Lady Fern Athyrium filix-femina R European Larch Larix decidua VR Lesser Burdock Arctium minus Male Fern Dryopteris filix-mas O O F Marsh Cudweed Gnaphalium uliginosum VR Mouse-ear Hawkweed Pilosella officinarum Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris New Zealand Willowherb Epilobium brunnescens R O Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne Perennial Sow-thistle Sonchus arvensis Procumbent Pearlwort Sagina procumbens O Raspberry Rubus idaeus VLA Red Clover Trifolium pratense Red Fescue Festuca rubra F Rhododendron Rhododendron ponticum R R R Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata Rosebay Willowherb Chamerion angustifolium O O Rowan Sorbus aucuparia R R Scot's Pine Pinus sylvestris R R R Selfheal Prunella vulgaris O O Sessile Oak Quercus petraea LD R R Sheep’s Fescue Festuca ovina R O Sheep's Sorrel Rumex acetosella LF LF Silver Birch Betula pendula LD LF LF Smooth Sow-thistle Sonchus oleraceus R Soft-rush Juncus effusus R R Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare O Sticky Groundsel Senecio viscosus Sweet Chestnut Castanea sativa VR Sweet Vernal Grass Anthoxanthum odoratum Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus VLF R Thyme-leaved Speedwell Veronica serpyllifolia LF Toad Rush Juncus bufonius VR Tormentil Potentilla erecta R Tufted Hair-grass Deschampsia cespitosa R R Wavy Bitter-cress Cardamine flexuosa VLF Wavy Hair-grass Deschampsia flexuosa LD LD O Weld Reseda luteola O White Clover Trifolium repens Wood Sage Teucrium scorodonia LF LF O Yellow Pimpernel Lysimachia nemorum VR R Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus LF LF
KEY TO ABUNDANCE: D = Dominant A = Abundant F = Frequent O = Occasional R = Rare L = Locally V = Very
27 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
APPENDIX E2 - SPECIES LISTS
B. INVERTEBRATES The National Status Codes, where these are Local or better, are indicated these codes are explained below the table.
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
COLEOPTERA Carabidae Carabus problematicus More or less ubiquitous. Predatory species. Cychrus caraboides predatory on snails, mainly in woodland but also grassland and moorland Leistus rufescens long grass and woodland - more common in the north Pterostichus madidus a ground beetle ubiquitous Pterostichus niger woodland and damp grassland, also on moorland Cerambycidae Rhagium mordax larvae feed internally in well-rotten stumps and other timber, especially oak Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus labiatus adults are usually found in association with birch Lochmaea suturalis Heather Leaf-beetle Heather Elateridae Ctenicera cuprea larvae feed in dead wood, including untreated fence posts, in upland areas Denticollis linearis larvae feed in decaying wood Kibunea (Cidnopus) a species of dry grasslands minuta DERMAPTERA Forficulidae Forficula auricularia common earwig generalist species DIPTERA Limoniidae Austrolimnophila woodland - even small ones- the larvae ochracea feeding in dead wood Limonia duplicata various habitats, including woodland and grassland, the larvae feeding in animal dung Rhagionidae Rhagio scolopaceus woodland edge and other wooded areas - in clearings and at edges Sepsidae Nemopoda nitidula shade-loving species, in woods and damp meadows Sepsis cynipsea Larvae feed in animal dung Stratiomyidae Chloromyia formosa ubiquitous Syrphidae Baccha elongata shaded woodland Chalcosyrphus nemorum Local larvae feed under decaying bark, especially of alder trees Cheilosia illustrata associated with hogweed - the larvae feeding in the rootstock
28 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Cheilosia pagana larvae are thought to feed in the roots of Anthriscus sylvestris Chrysotoxum bicinctum grassland species -associated with ants' nests Dasysyrphus albostriatus aphid predator at woodland edge habitats Episyrphus balteatus ubiquitous species, partly immigrant, and a predator of aphids Eristalis arbustorum Larvae require damp habitats but adults are more or less ubiquitous Ferdinandea cuprea larvae feed in sap under loose bark on living trees Melanostoma mellinum Grassland Melanostoma scalare Grassland Myathropa florea larvae are semi-aquatic Neoascia podagrica edge-habitat species Platycheirus albimanus ubiquitous - larvae prey on aphids Platycheirus clypeatus s. Damp habitats str. Platycheirus scutatus s. an edge-habitat species str. Rhingia campestris herbivore dung Sphaerophoria scripta Grassland Sphegina clunipes an ancient woodland indicator species, preferring damp or wet woods over dry ones Syritta pipiens larvae in decaying vegetation; adults at flowers Syrphus ribesii larvae are aphid predators on trees and bushes Syrphus vitripennis larvae are aphid predators on trees and bushes Volucella bombylans inquiline in nests of bumble bees Volucella pellucens inquiline in nests of social wasps/hornet Xylota sylvarum subterranean dead, deciduous wood, especially stumps Tephritidae Acidia cognata a picture-winged fly Local Tussilago and Petasites plants - mining the leaves Xyphosia miliaria a picture-winged fly larvae gall the flowers of thistles; ubiquitous Tipulidae Acutipula fulvipennis damp woodland, including tree shaded streams Lunatipula lunata damp woodland edges and hedges or similar Tipula oleracea one of two common ubiquitous daddy long legs Tipula paludosa one of two common ubiquitous daddy long legs HETEROPTERA Lygaeidae Kleidocerys ericae associated with heather HYMENOPTERA: SYMPHYTA
29 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Tenthredinidae Pontania vesicator makes galls on sallow - mainly northern Profenusa pygmaea larva mines the leaves of oak trees LEPIDOPTERA: MOTHS Arctiidae Eilema lurideola Common Footman lichens - especially on trunks, fences etc Blastobasidae Blastobasis adustella leaf litter Drepanidae Falcaria lacertinaria Scalloped Hook-tip birch Geometridae Alcis repandata Mottled Beauty deciduous trees and herbaceous plants Biston betularia Peppered Moth deciduous trees and herbaceous plants Bupalus piniaria Bordered White pines, especially Scots Pine and Pinus nigra Cabera exanthemata Common Wave Salix species and aspen Cabera pusaria Common White Wave deciduous trees Campaea margaritata Light Emerald deciduous trees Camptogramma bilineata Yellow Shell herbaceous plants Chloroclysta truncata Common Marbled deciduous trees and herbaceous plants Carpet Chloroclystis v-ata V-Pug herbaceous plants Colostygia pectinataria Green Carpet bedstraws Cosmorhoe ocellata Purple Bar bedstraws Crocallis elinguaria Scalloped Oak deciduous trees Ecliptopera silaceata Small Phoenix BAP(R) willow herbs, enchanter's nightshade Ectropis bistortata Engrailed deciduous trees Ennomos alniaria Canary-shouldered deciduous trees Thorn Epirrhoe alternata Common Carpet bedstraws Epirrhoe galiata Galium Carpet BAP(R) bedstraws Eulithis populata Northern Spinach Bilberry Eulithis pyraliata Barred Straw bedstraws Eupithecia pulchellata Foxglove Pug Foxglove Eupithecia tantillaria Dwarf Pug Norway Spruce Eupithecia virgaureata Golden-rod Pug Local caterpillar feeds on flowers of Golden Rod and ragworts Geometra papilionaria Large Emerald Birch, Alder and occasionally Hazel Gymnoscelis rufifasciata Double-striped Pug flowers of many plants Hydriomena furcata July Highflier Salix species Hylaea fasciaria Barred Red Pinaceae, especially Pinus sylvestris and Picea abies Idaea aversata Riband wave herbaceous plants - especially bedstraws Idaea biselata Small Fan-footed dandelion, plantain, Polygonum etc Wave Lomaspilis marginata Clouded Border sallow, willow, poplar - rarely hazel Macaria liturata Tawny-barred Angle pine and spruce Opisthograptis luteolata Brimstone Moth deciduous trees Perizoma alchemillata Small Rivulet Galeopsis species - on the flowers and seeds Thera obeliscata Grey Pine Carpet Scots pine, spruce Xanthorhoe designata Flame Carpet Brassica napus
30 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Xanthorhoe montanata Silver-ground Carpet herbaceous plants - especially bedstraws Hepialidae Hepialus fusconebulosa Map-winged Swift bracken Nepticulidae Ectoedemia occultella mines leaves of birch Stigmella aurella agg. mines leaves of bramble Noctuidae Abrostola tripartita Spectacle nettles Agrochola helvola Flounced Chestnut BAP(R) grasses - feeding on the roots and stem bases Agrotis exclamationis Heart and Dart herbaceous plants Amphipyra berbera Svensson's Copper Oak, Hornbeam and probably other svenssoni Underwing trees Amphipyra pyramidea Copper Underwing deciduous trees and bushes Apamea crenata Clouded-bordered grasses Brindle Apamea furva britannica Confused Local the grasses Poa trivialis and Poa nemoralis Apamea lithoxylaea Light Arches grasses Apamea monoglypha Dark Arches grasses Apamea remissa Dusky Brocade BAP(R) grasses Apamea scolopacina Slender Brindle Local grasses and also Luzula species, feeding inside the stems then later on leaves and flowers Aporophyla nigra Black Rustic grasses and herbaceous plants Autographa bractea Gold Spangle polyphagous on herbaceous plants Autographa jota Plain Golden Y nettles and other herbaceous plants Axylia putris Flame herbaceous plants Bena bicolorana Scarce Silver-lines Local oak Cerapteryx graminis Antler Moth grasses, especially Narduus stricta and Festuca ovina Chortodes pygmina Small Wainscot grasses, sedges and rushes, feeding in the flowering stems Cosmia trapezina Dun-bar deciduous trees Cryphia domestica Marbled Beauty larva feeds on lichens - including on roofs of houses Diachrysia chrysitis Burnished Brass nettles and other herbaceous plants Diarsia dahlii Barred Chestnut Local Birch Diarsia mendica Ingrailed Clay shrubs and herbaceous plants Dryobotodes eremita Brindled Green oak Enargia paleacea Angle-striped Sallow Nb birch, Salix species and Aspen Eugnorisma glareosa Autumnal Rustic BAP(R) polyphagous on herbaceous plants and grasses Herminea grisealis Small Fan-foot trees and bushes, but also on nettles Hoplodrina alsines Uncertain herbaceous plants Hoplodrina blanda Rustic BAP(R) herbaceous plants Hypena proboscidalis Snout stinging nettle Lacanobia oleracea Bright-line Brown-eye herbaceous plants Lithomoia solidaginis Golden-rod Brindle Local Heather, Bog Myrtle, birch and other moorland plants Luperina testacea Flounced Rustic grasses Lycophotia porphyrea True Lovers Knot heather Lygephila pastinum Blackneck Local larva feeds on the vetch Vicia cracca
31 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Melanchra persicariae Dot Moth BAP(R) herbaceous plants Melanchra pisi Broom Moth BAP(R) widely polyphagous, including on bracken Mesapamea didyma Lesser Common grasses Rustic Mesoligia literosa Rosy Minor BAP(R) grasses, feeding in the stem and roots Mythimna ferrago Clay grasses Noctua comes Lesser Yellow herbaceous plants Underwing Noctua fimbriata Broad-bordered herbaceous plants Yellow Underwing Noctua interjecta Least Yellow shrubs and herbaceous plants Underwing Noctua janthe Lesser Broad- herbaceous plants bordered Yellow U Noctua pronuba Large Yellow herbaceous plants Underwing Ochropleura plecta Flame Shoulder herbaceous plants Oligia versicolor Rufous Minor Local grasses, in the stems and roots Parastichtis suspecta Suspected Local birch and willow Phlogophora meticulosa Angle Shades herbaceous plants Photedes minima Small Dotted Buff Tufted Hair-grass - in the stems Rivula sericealis Straw Dot grasses - especially Brachypodium species Schrankia costaestrigalis Pinion-streaked Snout Local damp wood and fen Standfussiana lucernea Northern Rustic Local grasses and herbaceous plants - a northern species in Britain Syngrapha Scarce Silver Y Local Larvae on Heather and Bilberry - an interrogationis upland species Xanthia icteritia Sallow BAP(R) sallow/willow catkins - then on herbaceous plants Xanthia togata Pink-barred Sallow catkins of willow and poplar - then on herbaceous plants Xestia baja Dotted Clay first on herbaceous plants then after diapause on deciduous trees and shrubs Xestia triangulum Double Square-spot deciduous trees and shrubs Xestia xanthographa Square-spot Rustic grasses and herbaceous plants then trees in the spring Zanclognatha Fan-foot withered leaves tarsipennalis Notodontidae Notodonta dromedarius Iron Prominent birch, occasionally alder or hazel Phalera bucephala Buff-tip deciduous trees Pheosia gnoma Lesser Swallow birch Prominent Ptilodon capucina Coxcomb Prominent deciduous trees Pterophoridae Adaina microdactyla Hemp Agrimony - in the stem causing a gall Pyralidae Agriphila inquinatella grasses Agriphila latistria Local grasses, especially Bromus species Agriphila straminella grasses Aphomia sociella inquiline in nests of bumble bees
32 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Chrysoteuchia culmella grasses Crambus lathoniellus grasses Crambus pascuella grasses Dipleurina lacustrata mosses on trunks, walls etc Eudonia mercurella mosses on trunks, walls etc Myelois circumvoluta Local caterpillar feeds inside the stems of thistles Phycita roborella oak Udea prunalis herbaceous plants, trees and bushes Sphingidae Smerinthus ocellata Eyed Hawk-moth sallow, apple Thyatiridae Ochropacha duplaris Common Lutestring birch, occasionally on oak, hazel or alder Tortricidae Acleris emargana Salix, birch, poplar, alder and hazel are recorded as larval food plants Acleris laterana rosaceous trees and shrubs Acleris notana = tripunctana (Hb.) Birch and Alder, also on Bog Myrtle (Donovan) Agapeta hamana thistles - in the roots Aphelia paleana grasses and herbaceous plants Apotomis betuletana birch Celypha lacunana Herbaceous plants. Britain’s most widespread moth Cydia pomonella fruits of rosaceous trees, especially apple Cydia splendana oak Eana incanana bluebells and Leucanthemum - flowers and seeds Epinotia brunnichana birch, Hazel and Salix species Epinotia ramella birch feeding in twigs and catkins Epinotia trigonella = stroemiana birch Eucosma campoliliana ragwort Eucosma cana thistles and Centaurea nigra - in the flower head Pandemis cerasana deciduous trees and shrubs Rhopobota naevana trees and shrubs - especially ivy and blackthorn Tortrix viridana Green Oak Tortrix oak Zeiraphera isertana oak Yponomeutidae Argyresthia brockeella birch and alder Argyresthia goedartella birch and alder Yponomeuta evonymella Prunus padus - but also an immigrant from overseas MYRIAPODA: CENTIPEDES CHILOPODA Lithobiidae Lithobius forficatus a centipede many habitats Lithobius variegatus a centipede amongst litter MYRIAPODA: MILLIPEDES DIPLOPODA Julidae
33 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Group / species English name if National Ecological associations and available status comments
Tachypodoiulus niger a snake millipede many habitats and often found climbing trees Polydesmidae Polydesmus angustus a flat-back millipede many habitats, often synanthropic, also on acid heaths and moorlands NEUROPTERA Chrysopidae Chrysopa perla aphid predator amongst herbage Chrysoperla carnea s.str. aphid predator of trees and bushes Chrysopidia ciliata predatory on aphids in tree foliage Cunctochrysa predatory on aphids in tree foliage albolineata Nineta flava thought to be associated with oak, feeding on aphids on the leaves Hemerobiidae Hemerobius lutescens trees and bushes, hedges, etc Hemerobius micans oak Wesmaelius nervosus a brown lacewing larvae are aphid predators on trees and bushes ORTHOPTERA Tetrigidae Tetrix undulata Common Ground- bare ground habitats, including dunes hopper
Nationally Rare species are those falling within the Status categories defined in the British Red Data Books (Bratton, 1991; Shirt, 1987). These are internationally recognised species listed in the various Red Data Books published by, or under the auspices of, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Species included may not be informally removed or transferred between categories. There are four categories as follows:
RDB 1 Taxa in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue operating. These include:
Species known from only a single locality since 1970;
species restricted to habitats which are especially vulnerable;
species which have shown a rapid and continuous decline in the last twenty years and are now estimated to exist in five or fewer localities;
species believed extinct but which would need protection if re- discovered.
RDB 2 “Vulnerable”. Taxa believed likely to move into the Endangered category in the near future if the causal factors continue operating. These include:
Species declining throughout their range;
species in vulnerable habitats;
species whose populations are low.
RDB 3 “Rare”. Taxa with small populations which are not at present endangered or vulnerable but which are at risk. These include:
34 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Species which are estimated to occur in fifteen or fewer localities.
RDB K Taxa suspected to fall within the RDB categories but which are at present insufficiently known to enable placement.
Nationally Scarce species are those falling within the Nationally Notable categories introduced by Ball (1986). They are species which are estimated to occur within the range of 16 to 100 ten-kilometre squares of the British National Grid system since 1970. The specific categorisations of species have been revised since their inception for a number of taxa; those revisions are taken into account in the present report.
Notable species are subdivided as follows:
Na species estimated to occur within the range of 16 to 30 10-kilometre squares of the National Grid System.
Nb species estimated to occur within the range 31 to 100 10-kilometre squares of the National Grid System.
N Diptera (flies) not separated, falling into either category Na or Nb.
Nationally Local species are those which, whilst fairly common, are evidently less widespread than truly common species, but also not qualifying as Nationally Notable having been recorded from over one hundred, but less than three hundred, ten-kilometre squares of the UK National Grid. Without exception, “Local” designations have been obtained from the RECORDER software.
BAP(R) Species that have declined in population by a significant amount in the past 25 years. These are not yet rare and are flagged as UK BAP species “ for research only ”.
C. AMPHIBIANS
Common frog
D. BIRDS
Species (with species codes for Likely status on site Minimum no. breeding potentially breeding species) pairs (if applicable) blackbird (B.) probably breeding 2 blackcap (BC) possibly breeding 1 blue tit (BT) possibly breeding 2 carrion crow present n/a chaffinch (CH) possibly breeding 2 chiffchaff (CC) possibly breeding 1 coal tit present n/a dunnock (D.) possibly breeding 1 great spotted woodpecker present n/a great tit (GT) possibly breeding 3 jackdaw (JD) probably breeding (not seen in 2011) 2 jay present n/a kestrel (K.) possibly breeding (not seen in 2011) 1 long-tailed tit present n/a magpie (MG) possibly breeding 1 meadow pipit (MP) possibly breeding 1 pheasant present n/a pied flycatcher (PF) possibly breeding 1 robin (R.) probably breeding 5 song thrush (ST) possibly breeding 2 starling present n/a stock dove (SD) probably breeding (not seen in 2011) 4
35 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
swift present n/a willow warbler (WW) possibly breeding 1 wood pigeon (WP) probably breeding 3 wren (WR) probably breeding 3
Definitions: Present - Observed on or over the site (in the breeding season). Possibly breeding - Singing males heard. Probably breeding - Signs of probable nesting seen (eg: pair or display observed, or males recorded singing/displaying on both survey visits).
E. MAMMALS grey squirrel (incidental record) rabbit (incidental record)
For bat species, see Ecology Services report.
36 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Appendix E3 – Existing Biological Data as supplied by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust in 2008
37 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
38 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
Bat records OS Grid Ref Location Date Species SK045948 8 Kingsmoor Road 2000 Pipistrelle
Birds of High Conservation Concern (UK Red List Species) (I ncomplete - DWT records only) Species OS Grid Ref Date Alauda arvensis Skylark SK052945 1972 Carduelis cannabina Linnet SK052945 1972 Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher SK052945 1972 Sturnus vulgaris Starling SK052945 1972 Passer montanus Tree Sparrow SK052945 1972 Carduelis flavirostris Twite SK052945 1972 Lullula arborea Woodlark SK052945 1972 Emberiza citrinella Yellowhammer SK052945 1972 Passer domesticus House Sparrow SK052945 1972 Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wood Warbler (br eeding) SK052945 2007 Anthus trivialis tree pipit (breeding) SK052945 2007 Ficedula hypoleuca pied flycatcehr (poss breeding) SK052945 2007
SSSI The Dark Peak SPA Peak District Moors (South Pennine Moors Phase 1) SAC South Pennine Moor s
Local Wildlife Sites Ref No Name Area (ha) Ecological feature Easting Northing
39 Environmental Statement:- Land at Shire Hill Quarry, nr. Glossop Ecology & Nature Conservation
HP050 Shire Hill 7.22642 Ancient semi -natural 404889 394479 (woodland) oak/birch woodland
Other recorded sites of interest Name Ref No Area (h a) Easting Northing Manor Park HP R6607 14.5 403998 394529 Hurst Road Reservoir HP049/3 0.39 404900 393829 Old Glossop Mill Pond HP051/3 0.88 404646 394985
Ancient Woodland Site from the Ancient Woodland Inventory Ancient Replanted Woodlan d Ancient & Semi -Natural Woodland
40