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HAVERINGLAND HALL

PRELIMINARY ECOLOGY APPRAISAL

Date: March 2016 Our Ref: OXF8759 RPS 20 Western Avenue Milton Park Abingdon Oxon OX14 4SH Tel: 01235 821888 Email: rpsox@rpsgroup.com

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QUALITY MANAGEMENT

Contents

Prepared by: Louisa Medland

Authorised by: Nick Mannering

Date: March 2016

Project Number/Document Reference:

OXF8759

COPYRIGHT © RPS

The material presented in this report is confidential. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Lifestyle Living UK Limited and shall not be distributed or made available to any other company or person without the knowledge and written consent of RPS.

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CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................... 4 1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 5 2 METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................................... 6

Desk Study ............................................................................................................................................... 6 Phase 1 Habitat Survey ........................................................................................................................... 6

3 RESULTS ................................................................................................................................................ 8 Desk Study ............................................................................................................................................... 8 Phase 1 Habitat Survey ......................................................................................................................... 10 Potential for protected or otherwise notable species ............................................................................. 12

4 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................................................... 17 Potential Effects of the Proposals and Recommendations.................................................................... 17

5 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................... 21

APPENDICES

Appendix 1 Species List

Appendix 2 Target Notes

Appendix 3 Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index

Appendix 4 Bats Conservation Trust Bats and Lighting in the UK

FIGURES

Figure 1 Desk Study Records

Figure 2 Phase 1 Habitat Plan

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

RPS was commissioned to carry out a Preliminary Ecology Appraisal for a proposed development of five fishing lodges on land at Haveringland Hall in Norfolk. The Preliminary Ecology Appraisal comprised a desk study identifying designated sites and records of protected and notable species within 500m of the site and a Phase 1 habitat survey.

The Phase 1 habitat survey of the Haveringland Hall site was carried out on the 8th October 2015 to map all habitats present within the site boundary and surrounding area and to identify any potential for protected species to be present.

A site plan is shown at Figure 2.

The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal found that the Haveringland Hall Park site fell within Haveringland Hall County Wildlife Site CWS. The CWS included Haveringland Lake, an area of woodland to the north and east of it known as Great Wood, and the area to the west of the lake which predominantly comprised grassland, trees and scrub and which included the proposed site. Haveringland Lake is likely to fall within one of the UK BAP ‘Standing Open Water’ habitats also making it a NERC Section 41 listed habitat.

The site was found to comprise semi-improved species-poor grassland, with areas of dense and scattered scrub, tall ruderals and scattered trees. The site boundary extended into Haveringland Lake which had areas of marginal vegetation along its banks. A small part of the site, which is proposed for car parking, fell along the edge of an area of woodland.

The habitats on the site were found to be suitable for nesting birds, reptiles (notably grass snake), hedgehog and foraging and commuting bats. The site also had some potential to support otter and water vole, although no signs of either species were identified during the survey.

The proposals for the site comprise the sighting of five fishing lodges (technically static caravans to be used as fishing lodges) along the western side of Haveringland Lake which would partially extend into the lake. An existing access road would be improved and a parking area would be created along it for the new fishing lodges.

The proposals have been designed to limit possible effects on the ecology interest of the site by utilising the existing access road and creating parking along it so no roads needs to be created across the grassland. The positions of the lodges have been chosen to avoid areas of dense vegetation and trees where possible and are well spaced from one another to allow existing vegetation between each lodge to be retained. This seeks to maintain connectivity around the lake margins and retain the secluded nature of the habitats present.

The proposals would result in the loss of small areas of short grassland, marginal vegetation, areas of dense scrub (TN4 and TN5) and an area of tall ruderal vegetation and scattered scrub (TN7) from the lodge footprints and a small area around each lodge to facilitate installation and access.

Improvements to the existing access road, including the creation of a parking area at its southern end, would result in the loss of a small amount of scrub and the loss of debris piles.

Recommendations are provided in the report which seek to ensure the proposals do not result in any negative effects on protected or notable habitats or species.

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 RPS was commissioned to carry out a Preliminary Ecology Appraisal for a proposed development of five fishing lodges (technically static caravans) on land at Haveringland Hall in Norfolk. The lodges would be located along the western bank of Haveringland Lake with access and parking provided along an existing track.

1.2 The Preliminary Ecology Appraisal comprised a desk study identifying designated sites and records of protected and notable species within 500m of the site and a Phase 1 habitat survey. The Phase 1 habitat survey considered the area within the application boundary and the surrounding habitats. A site plan is shown at Figure 2.

1.3 The objectives of the Preliminary Ecology Appraisal were to:

• Locate statutory wildlife sites and non-statutory wildlife sites within 500m of the site;

• Locate records of protected or otherwise notable species within 500m of the site;

• Identify and map the habitats present within the site boundary and surrounding areas;

• Assess the potential for legally protected fauna and flora to be present; and

• Assess any potential effects the proposals may have and make recommendations for further

ecological surveys, avoidance, mitigation and compensation measures where necessary.

1.4 This report outlines the methods used (Section 2), presents the results obtained (Section 3), and sets out the conclusions reached (Section 4).

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2 METHODOLOGY

Desk Study

Search Area

2.1 A search area of 500m from the centre of the proposed site was used to gather records of protected

and notable species and details of statutory and non-statutory wildlife sites.

Data Request

2.2 A request for data on designated wildlife sites and protected and notable species records was sent to

Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service (NBIS).

2.3 In addition to this request, the 'MAGIC' website was consulted for information on any Special Areas

of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Ramsar Sites, National Nature Reserves

(NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). The JNCC website was also consulted for

additional details of any SACs, SPAs, and Ramsar Sites.

2.4 The legal and conservation status of the species for which records were received was determined

using the Spreadsheet of Conservation Designations for UK Taxa (JNCC, 2010).

Phase 1 Habitat Survey

2.5 The Phase 1 habitat survey of the Haveringland Hall site was carried out on the 8th October 2015 to

map all habitats present within the site boundary and surrounding area and to identify any potential

for protected species to be present.

2.6 The survey took account of the standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology as set out by the Joint

Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) in the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey; a technique

for environmental audit (JNCC, 2010).

2.7 The survey was undertaken just outside of the optimal time for undertaking Phase 1 Habitat Surveys

(between March and September). It was late in the season for grassland identification but sufficient

to be able to identify woody vegetation. A precautionary approach was taken and should any

grassland habitats on site have appeared potentially of value a further survey would be

recommended within the appropriate season.

2.8 The area was surveyed and habitats were mapped onto Ordnance Survey base maps using the

JNCC Phase 1 Habitat Survey categories. Typical plant species were recorded for each category of

habitat and species names used follow Stace (2010).

2.9 Habitats potentially suitable for legally protected animal species were noted, and any signs of such

species (e.g. sightings, tracks, droppings, burrows, etc.) were recorded.

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2.10 A list of all species recorded during the survey is provided in Appendix 1. Target notes were created for any features of interest and are listed at Appendix 2.

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3 RESULTS

Desk Study

Consultation Responses

3.1 NBIS provided details of one non-statutory site, one area of ancient woodland and two records of protected and notable species within the 500m search area. The findings of the desk study are summarised below and shown on Figure 1.

Designated Sites

Haveringland Hall County Wildlife Site

3.2 One non-statutory designated site was identified within 500m of the site. Haveringland Hall County Wildlife Site (CWS) comprised Haveringland Lake and areas to the north and west of it comprising woodland and grassland, including the proposed site of the lodges. A description of the CWS provided by NBIS is given below:

“A diverse and complex mixture of woodlands, grasslands, tall herbs and standing water. The lake is rather species poor and the woodlands have several introduced species or are of ornamental value. To the south is a lake with very turbid water without floating vegetation and rather fragmented marginal vegetation of mainly common reed (Phragmites australis) with lesser pond-sedge (Carex acutiformis), which are dense in areas, with bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara) and jointed rush (Juncus articulatus). Iris (Iris spp.) and gipsywort (Lycopus europaeus) are found rarely.

Along the west side of the lake is a rank, wet strip of tall ruderals and grasses. Abundant to frequent species include bittersweet, creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), nettle (Urtica dioica) and cleavers (Galium aparine) with occasional reed sweet-grass (Glyceria maxima), spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare), false oat-grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), great willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) and rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium), gipsywort and wild angelica (Angelica sylvestris).

A similar area occurs to the extreme north, but has scattered spindle (Euonymus europaeus), sallow (Salix cinerea), and elder (Sambucus nigra) with additional cleavers and lesser pond-sedge. Adjacent to this is a rank, marshy grassland dominated by meadowsweet and lesser pond-sedge with frequent branched bur-reed and cleavers, with scattered sallow scrub, young alder (Alnus glutinosa) and birches (Betula spp.).

A partly mown, herb rich grassland strip lies west of the lake with abundant meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis), annual meadow-grass (Poa annua) and silverweed (Potentilla anserina) with hairy sedge (Carex hirta), and rough meadow-grass (Poa trivialis). Lesser pond-sedge dominates wetter patches. Shrubs are mainly hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and elder.

The middle area is dense alder coppice, with some very old stools, scattered mature white poplar (Populus alba), with some ash (Fraxinus excelsior) coppice. Silver birch (Betula pendula) forms an occasional understorey. Bird cherry forms the shrub layer. Ground flora is dominated by nettle with frequent dog’s mercury (Mercurialis perennis), red campion (Silene dioica), ground-ivy (Glechoma

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hederacea) and cleavers, and more rarely iris is also present. In the north is a Scot’s pine (Pinus sylvestris) plantation.”

3.3 The proposed lodge site falls within the parts of the CWS that comprise partly mown herb-rich grassland, a rank wet strip of tall ruderals and grasses, marginal vegetation and open water.

Great Wood Ancient Woodland

3.4 A large area of woodland, known as Great Wood, was located to the east of Haveringland Lake and the existing caravan park. The woodland was designated as ancient woodland. Part of the woodland that fell within the CWS designation was described as dense alder coppice with some mature white poplar and ash coppice. The woodland is outside of the site boundary.

Records of Protected and Other Notable or Invasive Species

3.5 No records of protected species were provided from within the 500m search area.

3.6 Two notable species were recorded; west European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus and common carp Cyprinus carpio.

West European hedgehog

3.7 West European hedgehog was recorded in one location within Great Wood; an area of woodland on the east and north-east side of Haveringland Lake. Hedgehog is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species and is listed on Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 making it a Species of Principal Importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity in England.

3.8 This places an obligation on local and regional authorities, in implementing their statutory duties to have regard to the conservation of biodiversity, to take these species into account in the exercise of their normal functions.

Common carp

3.9 Common carp was recorded within Haveringland Lake. Common carp is a non-native species and can have a detrimental effect on waterbodies where it occurs by reducing water quality and degrading aquatic habitats. It can have a significant negative effect on aquatic macrophytes and benthic macroinvertebrates and can lead to the disappearance of native fish. The presence of carp in a waterbody also can also lead to increased nutrient levels due to sediment disturbance and excretion and this can lead to algal blooms which have further negative impacts on the ecology of a lake by increasing shading and reducing oxygen levels.

3.10 Common carp is not listed under any legislation requiring their control but are recognised as a non-native species by the Great Britain Non-native Species Secretariat (NNSS) which are responsible for helping to coordinate the approach to invasive non-native species in Great Britain.

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Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Site Overview

3.11 The proposed site of the five lodges was within an area of grassland and scrub extending into the margins and open water of Haveringland Lake. The proposed access route was located along an existing hard-standing track and the proposed parking area was located along the margin of an area of woodland.

3.12 The site was bordered to the north and east by the open water of Haveringland Lake with areas of woodland beyond, a smaller lake and woodland lay to the west and further areas of grassland and woodland lay immediately to the south with arable farmland beyond.

3.13 A description of each of the habitats found within the site boundary and the surrounding area is provided below. The survey area and the distribution of the habitats found is shown on Figure 2.

Habitat Descriptions

Semi-natural Broadleaved Woodland

3.14 An area of broadleaved woodland (TN1) occurred in the south of the survey area. Semi-mature to mature English oak Quercus robur and ash Fraxinus excelsior trees occurred only occasionally resulting in an open canopy with dense scrub below. Occasional openings in the scrub occurred where stinging nettle Urtica dioica dominated.

3.15 The site boundary crossed into a narrow strip of the broadleaved woodland beside the proposed access track that was identified as the proposed parking area for the lodges. The part of the woodland that the site fell within predominantly comprised dense goat willow Salix caprea scrub with occasional elder Sambucus nigra and hawthorn Crataegus monogyna.

3.16 Broadleaved woodland also extended to the west of the access route, outside of the site boundary, and trees were more frequent forming a closed canopy. English oak, hybrid black poplar Populus x canadensis and willow were present with some elder and hawthorn scrub below.

3.17 A small clump of woodland (TN2) lay to the east of the woodland at TN1 outside of the site boundary and comprised several mature and semi-mature silver birch Betula pendula trees with dense elder and willow scrub below.

3.18 Further areas of woodland were present around the boundaries of the lake outside of the site, including a large area of woodland known as Great Wood to the north and east of the site on the opposite side of Haveringland Lake.

Broadleaved trees

3.19 Scattered semi-mature broadleaved trees occurred along the banks of the lake, including within the site boundary (TN3). They were predominantly alder Alnus glutinous plus occasional ash and oak trees. An oak tree occurred within the grassland to the south-west of the site.

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Dense scrub

3.20 Areas of dense scrub occurred within the site boundary (TN4 and TN5) and to the south-east of the site (TN6). The scrub was dominated by goat willow with elder and spindle Euonymus europaeus also occurring.

Scattered scrub

3.21 An area of scattered scrub occurred towards the southern end of the site (TN7). Scattered hawthorn, elder, bramble and spindle occurred within an area of tall ruderals.

Tall ruderals

3.22 Tall ruderals occurred in areas around the periphery of the grassland which were not subject to the same levels of management. Tall ruderals occurred within the site boundary in an area where scattered scrub also occurred (TN7), along the margins of the lake (TN8), and where an area of scrub and trees along the lake edge met the grassland (TN5).

3.23 Great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum and rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium were abundant with stinging nettle, creeping thistle Cirsium arvense and hogweed Heracleum sphondylium occurring occasionally. Reed sweet-grass Glyceria maxima also occurred occasionally, particularly in areas nearest the lake.

Poor semi-improved grassland

3.24 The area to the west of the lake, including the area where the site was located, comprised grassland. The majority of it was frequently mown and comprised a short, even sward making species identification difficult. However, abundant creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens and daisy Bellis perennis, frequent dandelion Taraxacum sp. and occasional ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata and self heal Prunella vulgaris were evident. These are species typical of such grassland as they can withstand frequent mowing. At the time of the survey the species diversity appeared low and it is considered unlikely that a survey during a more optimal period would identify a considerably greater diversity due to the impacts of frequent mowing.

3.25 One area of the grassland outside of the site boundary (TN10) was not subjected to frequent mowing and had a tall sward. Grasses were dominant, including cocks-foot, meadow grass Poa sp. and false oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius. Creeping thistle, hogweed, willowherb and lesser pond-sedge Carex acutiformis occurred occasionally. Reed sweet-grass and wild angelica Angelica sylvestris occurred rarely.

Swamp and marginal vegetation

3.26 Bulrush occurred in dense stands in a number of places along the margins of the open water of the lake, including within the site boundary. A wider area of bulrush occurred at the western end of the lake outside of the site boundary.

3.27 A greater variety of wetland species occurred in the zone between the start of the open water and the lake banks which varied in extent along the western lake margin and formed a transitional zone between tall ruderals and the dominant bulrush (TN8). Here willowherbs, lesser pond sedge and reed sweet-grass were abundant and wild angelica, meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria and gypsywort Lycopus europaeus occurred occasionally.

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Open water

3.28 The Haveringland Lake was a large area of standing water (TN9). A small part of the western lake margin fell within the site boundary. The lake banks along the western side were low and steep, measuring a maximum of approximately 1m high. The water appeared to be relatively shallow and the lake bed was visible for several meters from the banks and at a greater distance in some locations. Bare substrate and leaf litter was evident on the lake bed and some submerged aquatic vegetation appeared to be present at a distance which may have included small algal blooms. Duck weed Lemna sp. occurred occasionally on the surface. The water quality appeared good and had low turbidity.

3.29 At the time of the survey a large number of wetland birds, including mute swan, mallard, moorhen and gulls were present on the lake. Flying invertebrates were also abundant including a number of dragonflies.

3.30 A smaller lake was present to the west of the site and only separated from Haveringland Lake by a narrow causeway. The lake was used for fishing and two fountains had been installed into it. The water quality appeared poor with high turbidity and aquatic vegetation was limited to small amounts of marginal vegetation on the bank edges.

Hard-standing

3.31 An existing concrete track fell within the site boundary which ran from the existing caravan park southwards between the two lakes and into the area of woodland to the south (TN1). The track measured approximately 5m wide and tall ruderals and scrub extended up to the track edges.

3.32 At the southern end (TN11), the track widened and piles of earth and decaying vegetation had been placed along the edges. Some larger branches and excavated tree roots/stumps were piled at the southern end. Stinging nettle had begun to establish in places.

Potential for protected or otherwise notable species

Plants and Habitats

3.33 No records of protected or notable plants were identified within 500m of the site from the desk study.

3.34 The Haveringland Hall CWS description indicated that the grassland to the west of the lake, where the proposed lodges would be located, comprised herb-rich grassland. This was not evident as the majority of the grassland was regularly mown which appears to have reduced the ability of many grassland species to survive. The herbs that were identified were common of frequently mown grassland.

3.35 One area of taller grassland, outside of the site boundary, was found to be slightly more diverse. It may be that the timing of the survey meant some grassland species were not identified in this area. However, it is considered unlikely that a survey in the spring or summer would find the short grassland within the site boundary to be significantly more diverse.

3.36 The small area of woodland in the south-west of the site predominantly comprised dense willow scrub with occasional semi-mature to mature oak and ash trees. It appears disconnected from the nearby Great Wood both by distance and in structure and is unlikely to comprise ancient woodland.

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3.37 Haveringland Lake is designated as a CWS and is likely to qualify as one of the UK BAP ‘Standing Open Water’ habitats also making it a NERC Section 41 listed habitat. This places an obligation on local and regional authorities, in implementing their statutory duties to have regard to the conservation of biodiversity, to take these habitats into account in the exercise of their normal functions.

Birds

3.38 The lake was found to support a large number of birds at the time of the survey. The lake is likely to support an abundance of invertebrates which provide a suitable food source for many birds and at the time of the survey approximately 30 gulls were seen foraging over the lake.

3.39 The marginal vegetation and swamp provide suitable nesting sites for many types of wildfowl, including the moorhen, mute swan and mallards seen on the lake during the survey.

3.40 The areas of woodland, individual trees and scrub provided additional nesting sites for a variety of birds.

3.41 All wild breeding birds, their nests and eggs are protected against being damaged or destroyed by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (WCA). Species listed under Section 1 of the Act are specially protected against disturbance whilst breeding.

3.42 Some birds, which have been identified as being threatened and requiring conservation action, are included under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

Herpetofauna

Reptiles

3.43 The survey area offers some limited opportunities for reptiles. The tall areas of grassland and areas of tall ruderal vegetation and scattered scrub provide suitable habitat for reptiles but these areas are relatively small within the site boundary. If reptiles were present, they would require additional habitat outside of the site and the suitable habitat on site would comprise a small part of their overall habitat requirements. The habitats are particularly suitable for grass snake which is typically associated with wetland habitats and is a highly mobile reptile thereby capable of utilising habitat over a wide area.

3.44 The majority of the habitat within the site boundary is considered unsuitable for grass snake as it comprises short, mown grassland which provides limited shelter or foraging opportunities.

3.45 The piles of decaying vegetation and tree roots/stumps and branches at the southern end of the access road (TN11) provide suitable refuge and egg laying, and potentially suitable hibernacula, sites for grass snake.

3.46 Grass snake is partially protected under the WCA against reckless killing and injuring.

Amphibians

3.47 The two lakes identified during the survey were considered to be low value aquatic habitats for amphibians, particularly great crested newt. The lake to the west of the site was stocked with fish for

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angling which reduced its potential as amphibian habitat due to the risk of predation and due to the absence of aquatic vegetation which newts use as egg laying sites.

3.48 Haveringland Lake was very large and supported a large number of wildfowl which are both factors that reduce its suitability for amphibians. The desk study provided a record of common carp in the lake and whilst the apparently good water quality suggests fish densities are low, the presence of fish is another factor that reduces the habitat suitability for amphibians.

3.49 A great crested newt Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) assessment was undertaken on each lake which is a method of scoring the value of a waterbody as great crested newt habitat. The full results of the assessment are included in Appendix 3. The HSI assessment found both lakes to be low value habitat for great crested newt.

3.50 The areas of woodland, scrub, tall ruderals and tall grassland within the survey area provided small areas of suitable terrestrial habitat for amphibians. However, viable amphibian populations are considered unlikely to be present due to the absence of suitable aquatic breeding habitats.

3.51 Great crested newts are protected under the WCA and under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 which makes them European Protected Species (EPS). They are also listed under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) and under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

3.52 The other amphibians found in the UK (smooth newt, palmate newt, common frog and common toad) are partially protected under the WCA against sale only. Common toad is also a UKBAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006).

Mammals

Badgers

3.53 The habitats within the site boundary were predominantly low lying and damp and therefore unsuitable sites for badgers to build setts. The areas of woodland adjacent to and within the site boundary to the south-west were also damp and unlikely to provide opportunities for setts.

3.54 A thorough search was made of the habitats within the site boundary and adjoining areas up to 30m away. No signs of badger activity, including setts, tracks, runs, dung pits or signs of foraging behaviour were noted. Badgers are therefore considered to be absent.

3.55 Badgers are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992.

Bats

3.56 The variety of habitats identified during the survey provided a number of opportunities for foraging and commuting bats. Haveringland Lake and the adjoining Great Wood are likely to provide high value foraging habitat. The habitats within the site boundary are well connected to these by the lake margins and further areas of woodland and tree lines around the lake. The site is secluded, free from any artificial lighting and sheltered due to the surrounding woodland and lines of trees and scrub. The site therefore has the potential to support a variety of foraging and commuting bat species.

3.57 None of the trees within the site boundary or within the areas immediately adjoining it contained any features suitable for bat roosts. The trees were predominantly not mature enough to contain such

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features and were in overall good condition. No buildings or other structures were present that offered bat roost opportunities.

3.58 Bats and bat roosts are protected under the WCA and all species of bat in Great Britain are EPS.

3.59 Some bat species are also UK BAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

Dormice

3.60 Large areas of woodland are present within the wider area, predominantly to the north of the site, which have the potential to support dormice. However, the habitats within the site boundary are considered to be low value as they comprise scattered and relatively young trees and areas of scrub. Connectivity to the higher value areas of woodland is therefore poor and nesting opportunities are limited due to the overall good condition of the trees. It is considered unlikely that dormice would be present within the site boundary.

3.61 Dormice are protected under the WCA and are EPS. They are also UK BAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

Hedgehog

3.62 The habitats within the site boundary have the potential to support hedgehogs. They provide a variety of foraging opportunities and the areas of scrub and tall ruderals provide opportunities for shelter.

3.63 Hedgehogs are UK BAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

Otter

3.64 The lake could potentially be used by otter for foraging if it supports fish or could form part of a commuting route for otters foraging at the lake to the west of the site or along the streams connecting to it.

3.65 The areas of woodland surrounding the lakes provided suitable opportunities for otters to find holts and couches (resting sites). The habitats within the site boundary were more open, smaller and fragmented and it is considered unlikely that otter would choose to find shelter in these areas when larger areas of more suitable habitat are located nearby.

3.66 Where accessible, the margins of Haveringland Lake which fell within the site boundary were inspected for signs of otter activity, such as spraints, slides and feeding remains, but none were found to be present.

3.67 Otters are protected under the WCA and are EPS. They are also UK BAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

Water vole

3.68 Some sections of the banks and margins of Haveringland Lake provided suitable habitat for water vole. The banks along the south-east edge of the site boundary were low but steep and well

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vegetated with tall ruderal vegetation and marginal vegetation. The banks provided suitable locations for water vole burrows and the vegetation provided shelter and foraging opportunities.

3.69 However, sections of the lake banks within the site boundary and around the rest of the lake were sparsely vegetated and less suitable habitat for water voles. Therefore, suitable water vole habitat was fragmented around the lake.

3.70 Where accessible, the margins of Haveringland Lake which fell within the site boundary were inspected for signs of water vole activity, such as latrines, runways through vegetation, burrow entrances and feeding remains, but none were found to be present.

3.71 Water voles are protected under the WCA and are UK BAP species and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act (2006) as Species of Principal Importance in England.

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4 CONCLUSION

4.1 The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal found that the Haveringland Hall Park site fell within Haveringland Hall CWS. The CWS included Haveringland Lake, an area of woodland to the north and east of it known as Great Wood, and the area to the west of the lake which predominantly comprised grassland, trees and scrub and which included the proposed site. Haveringland Lake is likely to fall within one of the UK BAP ‘Standing Open Water’ habitats also making it a NERC Section 41 listed habitat.

4.2 The site was found to comprise semi-improved species-poor grassland, with areas of dense and scattered scrub, tall ruderals and scattered trees. The site boundary extended into Haveringland Lake which had areas of marginal vegetation along its banks. A small part of the site, which is proposed for car parking, fell along the edge of an area of woodland.

4.3 The habitats on the site were found to be suitable for nesting birds, reptiles (notably grass snake), hedgehog and foraging and commuting bats. The site also had some potential to support otter and water vole, although no signs of either species were identified during the survey.

4.4 The proposals for the site comprise the sighting of five fishing lodges along the western side of Haveringland Lake which would partially extend into the lake. An existing access road would be improved and a parking area would be created along it for the new fishing lodges.

4.5 The proposals have been designed to limit possible effects on the ecology interest of the site by utilising the existing access road and creating parking along it so no roads needs to be created across the grassland. The positions of the lodges have been chosen to avoid areas of dense vegetation and trees where possible and are well spaced from one another to allow existing vegetation between each lodge to be retained. This seeks to maintain connectivity around the lake margins and retain the secluded nature of the habitats present.

4.6 The proposals would result in the loss of small areas of short grassland, marginal vegetation, areas of dense scrub (TN4 and TN5) and an area of tall ruderal vegetation and scattered scrub (TN7) from the lodge footprints and a small area around each lodge to facilitate installation and access.

4.7 Improvements to the existing access road, including the creation of a parking area at its southern end, would result in the loss of a small amount of scrub and the loss of debris piles.

4.8 Recommendations are provided below which seek to ensure the proposals do not result in any negative effects on protected or notable habitats or species.

Potential Effects of the Proposals and Recommendations

Haveringland Hall CWS

4.9 The site falls within a CWS and includes a small section of Haveringland Lake which is a likely UK BAP Priority Habitat and listed under Section 41 of the NERC Act. The proposals for the site should result in no net loss of the habitats of value present within the CWS or any UKBAP or NERC Section 41 habitat.

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4.10 The lodges would be positioned so that they slightly overhang the edge of the lake. A method of installation should be used that would ensure the minimum amount of marginal vegetation or lake bed was disturbed whilst the lodges were installed.

4.11 Once installed, the physical effect of the lodges on the marginal vegetation and lake bed would be minimal. Where marginal vegetation was present, the lodges would result in increased shading resulting in a very small decrease in the overall amount of marginal vegetation around the lake. This is unlikely to result in a significant reduction on the overall abundance of this habitat type or any of the plant species present.

4.12 The fish population of the lake appears to be low currently. It is recommended that fish population is not increased to a level where it could have a negative effect on the water quality and abundance of aquatic plants. A decrease in water quality and plant abundance could in turn reduce invertebrate abundance and affect other fauna which forage on them.

4.13 The footprint of the lodges would also result in the loss of a small percentage of the overall area of short grassland, tall ruderals and scrub. It is recommended that the minimal amount of vegetation clearance is undertaken that would be needed to install the lodges and facilitate access to them. All vegetation that is due to be retained should be adequately protected during the construction phase of the development to ensure it is not accidentally damaged. New tree and shrub planting should be undertaken to compensate for any trees and scrub lost and native species of local provenance should be used.

4.14 The short grassland was considered to have low species diversity and contained common and widespread species typical of frequently mown grassland and therefore its habitat value was considered to be low. It is recommended that an area of the short grassland equal in size to the total area due to be lost at the lodge locations is managed less frequently to allow a tall sward to develop and to encourage greater species diversity.

Nesting birds

4.15 Where any work is undertaken which could potentially affect features suitable for nesting birds, such as the areas of dense and scattered scrub, broadleaved trees and lake margins, initial clearance of these habitats should be undertaken between October and mid-February to avoid the bird nesting season.

4.16 If any works were required to be initiated in these areas during the nesting period, they should first be checked by an ecologist for active nests. If any were found, the nest and a 5m radius around it must not be disturbed until an ecologist had confirmed that the young birds had fledged.

4.17 The small reduction in the overall amount of marginal vegetation is unlikely to have a notable effect on breeding birds as a substantial amount of alternative habitat would be available around the rest of the lake. Any suitable shrubs that needs to be removed should be replaced by new planting in the project design using a similar native species mix.

Herpetofauna

4.18 The site contains areas of tall ruderal vegetation, scattered scrub and marginal vegetation which were identified as having potential to support reptiles, in particular grass snake. It is recommended that any of these habitats due to be affected by the proposals are sensitively removed to discourage

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reptiles from using them. The vegetation should be cleared using hand-held machinery, such as brushcutter, and should be initially cut to a height of 15cm and the arisings removed. The clearance should be undertaken with an ecologist present who would check the area prior to and after each cut for reptiles and move any found to retained habitat.

4.19 After the vegetation had been checked by the ecologist after the first cut a second cut should be undertaken taking the vegetation down to ground level. The vegetation should then be maintained at ground level until the works to install the lodges were complete. The vegetation clearance should be undertaken whilst reptiles were active and out of hibernation which is typically the period between March and early-October (depending on local weather conditions).

4.20 The sighting of the lodges would result in a very small loss in the overall amount of suitable reptile habitat present. The creation of additional areas of tall grassland (as recommended in paragraph 4.13 above) would provide additional habitat for reptiles and should be positioned to connect to areas of existing reptile habitat.

4.21 The debris piles, including the roots/tree stumps, located at the southern end of the access road also provide suitable habitat for reptiles. They should be carefully dismantled and lifted with an ecologist present who would check for any reptiles present and move them to areas of retained habitat. The materials should be used to create new debris piles within retained habitats to ensure this habitat is not lost from the site. The debris piles should be moved during the period when reptiles are active and out of hibernation.

4.22 Amphibians are considered likely to be absent from the site due to unsuitable aquatic habitat. However, should any be found incidentally during the reptile mitigation works they would be moved to a safe location within retained habitat. Should great crested newt be found, works would cease until advice from Natural England was sought.

Bats

4.23 No features suitable for bat roosts were identified within the site boundary but the habitats present within the site and surrounding it were found to be suitable for foraging and commuting bats. The open water of the lake, bank side trees and scrub, and areas of woodland all provided opportunities for bats to forage and provided connectivity across the site to off-site habitats.

4.24 The construction of the lodges would result in a very small loss of the overall amount of suitable foraging and commuting habitat for bats. The lodges would be positioned to minimise the loss of the habitats of value and to minimise the size of any new gaps between the habitats. Gaps currently exist between the habitats of value and therefore any bats currently utilising them would already cross open areas. The positioning of the lodges along the lake edge would help to maintain a linear feature for bats to follow and would minimise the effects of losing existing scrub lines.

4.25 It is recommended that the new tree and shrub planting that is recommended to compensate for the loss of any existing trees and scrub, is positioned so that it connects to retained trees and scrub which would help to improve habitat connectivity across the site.

4.26 The site is currently unlit and therefore the addition of artificial lighting could have an effect on bat activity. It is recommended that the use of external lighting is minimised as far as practicable and any that is required is designed to the specifications set out in the Bat Conservation Trust ‘Bats and Lighting in the UK’ 2008 guidelines provided in Appendix 4.

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4.27 Should any external lighting be required, the lighting column should be as short as possible and the light directed to the ground to prevent upward light spill onto tree canopies where bats may forage. All lighting should be directed away from the lake.

4.28 The installation of the lodges is considered unlikely to notably affect bat activity within the site boundary and the surrounding area.

Hedgehog

4.29 The very small loss of suitable habitat for hedgehogs is unlikely to have an effect on the ability of any hedgehog population present to survive. However, the creation of additional areas of tall grassland and new tree and scrub planting would provide suitable alternative habitat.

4.30 There is potential for hedgehogs to be harmed during the construction of the proposals and therefore measures should be included that would ensure they are protected. The measures proposed to protect reptiles would also serve to protect hedgehogs by ensuring the debris piles, which could potentially provide hibernation sites for hedgehogs are not disturbed during the hibernation period and ensuring any taller vegetation where hedgehogs could be present would be sensitively removed.

Otter

4.31 No signs to indicate that otters were present within the survey area were identified but there is potential for otters to forage in the lake and pass through the habitats on the site. Therefore otters could be affected by increased levels of artificial lighting. The measures recommended in paragraphs 4.25 and 4.26 above would also seek to reduce any possible impacts on otters.

Water vole

4.32 Water vole were considered to be absent from the lake margins within the site boundary. The proposals would affect a very small amount of bank side habitat and therefore should water voles colonise in the future, a large amount of suitable habitat would remain around the rest of the lake.

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5 REFERENCES

Google (2015) Aerial Imagery. Getmapping plc, Google, Map data 2015.

HMSO (2010) The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. London HMSO

HMSO (1981) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). London HMSO

JNCC (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey. A Technique for Environmental Audit. JNCC:

Peterborough

JNCC (2010) Conservation Designations Spreadsheet. Peterborough, JNCC

MAGIC (2015). Statutory Designated Site and Ordnance Survey map information. accessed November 2015 from www.magic.gov.uk

NERC (2006) S41 Priority Species – Action Spreadsheet, accessed November 2015 from http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/4958719460769792

Stace C., (2010). New Flora of the British Isles. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge

UK BAP, (2010). UK Biodiversity Action Plan. UK BAP, accessed November 2015 from http:// http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/ukbap

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APPENDICES

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APPENDIX 1

Species List

English oak Quercus robur

Ash Fraxinus excelsior

Stinging nettle Urtica dioica

Willow Salix sp.

Elder Sambucus nigra

Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna.

Hybrid black poplar Populus x canadensis

Silver birch Betula pendula trees

Alder Alnus glutinous

Spindle Euonymus europaeus

Great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum

Rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium

Reed sweet-grass Glyceria maxima

Meadow grass Poa sp.

False oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius

Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense

Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium

Lesser pond-sedge Carex acutiformis

Wild angelica Angelica sylvestris

Bulrush Typha latifolia

Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria

Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus

Duck weed Lemna sp.

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APPENDIX 2

Phase 1 Target Notes

TN No. Notes

1 Woodland comprising frequent dense scrub with scattered semi-mature trees 2 Small woodland clump separated from TN1 by a strip of short grassland. It comprises

silver birch, elder and willow. 3 Scattered tree and shrub line comprising alder, spindle, hazel and hawthorn. 4 An area of dense willow scrub with occasional elder and spindle. 5 A wide margin (c.10m) between the lake and short grassland comprising scattered goat

willow, spindle, ash, oak and elder with tall ruderal vegetation below. 6 An area of dense willow scrub 7 An area of scattered hawthorn, elder, spindle and bramble and tall ruderals 8 Tall ruderal strip along lake edge merging into marginal vegetation along water’s edge. 9 A large lake surrounded predominantly by woodland and tree lines and with areas of

marginal vegetation. A number of birds were present on the lake at the time of the survey.

10 An area of tall grassland with greater species diversity than the frequently mown areas. 11 Southern end of an existing track where piles of debris have been stored, including earth

piles, decaying vegetation, felled branches and tree stumps.

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APPENDIX 3

Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index

Hav'lnd Lake East Lake

SI 1 Geographic Zone

A/B/C

A A

SI value: 1 1

SI 2 Pond Area

Shape rectangle/circle/ellipse/irregular

irregular irregular

Long axis of rectangular or elliptical pond (m)

Short axis of rectangular or elliptical pond (m)

Circumference of circular pond (m)

Estimate of irregular area (m2)

6900

6900

SI value: 0.01 0.01

SI 3 Dessication Rate

never/rarely/sometimes/frequently

OR, years dry per decade (if known)

never never

SI value: 0.90 0.90

SI 4 Water Quality

good/moderate/poor/bad

good poor

SI value: 1.00 0.33

SI 5 Shade

% of margin shaded 1m from bank

50 50

SI value: 1.00 1.00

SI 6 Number of Waterfowl

Number of waterfowl (per 1000m2)

50 5

SI value: 0.01 0.63

SI 7 Fish Population

absent/possible/minor/major

minor major

SI value: 0.33 0.01

SI 8 Pond Density

Number of ponds within 1km

1 1

SI value: 1.00 0.68

SI 9 Terrestrial Habitat Quality

good/moderate/poor/isolated

good good

SI value: 1.00 1.00

SI 10 Macrophyte Cover

% macrophyte cover

15 0

SI value: 0.46 0.31

HSI = 0.31 0.27 Results:

Poor Poor

<0.5 poor

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0.5 - 0.59 below average 0.6 - 0.69 average 0.7 - 0.79 good >0.8 excellent

*Max. pond area to reach lowest score is 6900, area of both lakes actually greater

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APPENDIX 4

Bats Conservation Trust Bats and Lighting in the UK

BATS AND LIGHTING IN THE UK

Bats and the Built Environment Series

This document is aimed at lighting engineers, lighting designers, planning officers,

developers, bat workers and anyone specifying lighting. It is intended to raise awareness

of the impacts of lighting on bats and mitigation is suggested for various scenarios. It also

offers an explanation of the facts associated with the lighting industry for the benefit of

bat workers.

This is a working document and as such the information contained will be updated in line

with advances in our knowledge both into the impact on bats and also to reflect the

advances in technology available in the lighting industry. The information provided here is believed to be correct. However, no responsibility can be accepted by the Bat Conservation Trust,

the Institution of Lighting Engineers or any of their partners or officers for any consequences of errors or omissions, nor responsibility

for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of information and no claims for compensation for damage or negligence will be accepted.

ABOUT BATS - FOR THE LIGHTING INDUSTRY

General Ecology

Bats are the only true flying mammals. Like us, they are warm-blooded, give birth and

suckle their young. They are also long-lived, intelligent and have a complex social life. In

Britain there are 17 species, all of which are small (most weigh less than a £1 coin) and

eat insects.

Bats have evolved a number of unusual features, mainly connected with their ability to

fly. Their wings are formed from a web of highly elastic skin stretched over greatly

elongated finger bones, the legs and tail, though their thumbs remain free to help them

cling on when roosting. Bats have also developed a highly sophisticated echolocation

system that allows them to avoid obstacles and catch tiny insects, which they seize in

flight or pick off water, the ground or foliage, even in complete darkness. When they're

flying, bats produce a stream of high-pitched calls and listen to the echoes to produce a

sound picture of their surroundings.

Some bats specialise in catching large insects such as beetles or moths but others eat

large numbers of very small insects, such as gnats, midges and mosquitoes. Bats gather to

feed wherever there are lots of insects, so the best places for them include traditional

pasture, woodland, marshes, ponds and slow moving rivers.

During the winter there are relatively few insects available, so bats hibernate. In

September and October they put on weight and then, as the weather gets colder, they seek

out appropriate sheltered roosts, let their body temperature drop to close to that of their

surroundings and slow their heart rate to only a few beats per minute. This greatly

reduces their energy requirements so that their food reserves last as long as possible. Bats

don't hibernate right through the winter but may wake up and go out to feed on mild

evenings when insects are active.

During the spring and summer period female bats gather together into maternity colonies

for a few weeks to give birth and rear their young (called pups). Usually only one pup is

born each year. This is looked after carefully and suckled for between four and six weeks

until it is old enough to fly out and hunt for itself. Bats don’t build nests and don't bring

food back to the roost to feed their young, so the baby lives only on its mother's milk

until it is old enough to fly. Once the baby is independent, the colony breaks up and the

bats generally move to other roosts. Bats may gather together from a large area to form

these maternity roosts, so any disaster at the summer breeding site can affect the whole

colony of bats from a wide surrounding area. Many of these maternity sites are used

every summer as bats have a strong tradition of returning to the same site year after year.

Legal Protection of bats

Due to the decline in bat numbers, all species of bat are protected by the Wildlife &

Countryside Act (1981) (as amended) and the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.)

Regulations 1994 (as amended). This makes it illegal to: kill, injure, capture or disturb

bats, obstruct access to bat roosts or damage/destroy bat roosts. Lighting in the vicinity of

a bat roost causing disturbance could constitute an offence, so it is important that Natural

England, Countryside Council for Wales, Scottish Natural Heritage or Environment and

Heritage Service, Northern Ireland is consulted and allowed time to provide advice on

lighting proposals in the vicinity of bats and roosts.

Impacts on bats

Roosts

Illuminating a bat roost creates disturbance and may cause the bats to desert the roost.

Light falling on a roost access point will at least delay bats from emerging and this

shortens the amount of time available to them for foraging. As the main peak of nocturnal

insect abundance occurs at and soon after dusk, a delay in emergence means this vital

time for feeding is missed.

Insects and foraging

In addition to causing disturbance to bats at the roost, artificial lighting can also affect the

feeding behaviour of bats. There are two aspects to this. One is the attraction that light

from certain types of lamps has to a range of insects; the other is the presence of lit

conditions.

Many night flying species of insect are attracted to light, especially those lamps that emit

an ultra-violet component and particularly if it is a single light source in a dark area. As

well as moths a range of other insects can be attracted to light such as craneflies, midges

and lacewings. Studies have shown that, although noctules, Leisler’s, serotine and

pipistrelle bats swarm around white mercury street lights (this would also apply to metal

halide) feeding on the insects attracted to the light, this behaviour is not true for all bat

species. The slower flying broad winged species such as long-eared bats, Myotis species

(which include Brandt’s, whiskered, Daubenton’s, Natterer’s and Bechstein’s),

Barbastelle and greater and lesser horseshoe bats generally avoid street lights. In addition

it is also thought that insects are attracted to lit areas from further afield. This is thought

to result in adjacent habitats supporting reduced numbers of insects. This is a further

impact on the ability of the light avoiding bats to be able to feed. It is noticeable that most

of Britain’s rarest bats are among those species listed as avoiding light. Clearly, effective

mitigation where there is potential for impact on bats has importance in the conservation

of these species.

Artificial lighting is thought to increase the chances of bats being preyed upon. Many

avian predators will hunt bats which may be one reason why bats avoid flying in the day.

Observations have been made of kestrels (diurnal raptors) hunting at night under the

artificial light along motorways.

Lighting can be particularly harmful if used along river corridors, near woodland edges

and near hedgerows used by bats. In mainland Europe, in areas where there are foraging

or ‘commuting’ bats, stretches of road are left unlit or lighting is designed in such a way

as to avoid isolation of bat colonies.

Other behaviours

Artificial lighting disrupts the normal 24-hour pattern of light and dark which is likely to

affect the natural behaviour of bats. Bright light may reduce social flight activity and

cause bats to move away from the light area. Studies have shown that continuous lighting

along roads creates barriers which some bat species cannot cross. For example,

Daubenton’s bats move their flight paths to avoid street lamps. The following images

indicate possible scenarios where bats’ commuting routes may cross a road. They are

linear features such as tree lines, river corridors, hedgerows or where tree canopies form a

link over the road.

ABOUT THE LIGHTING – FOR BAT WORKERS

Types of lights in use

A range of lighting equipment is available:

1) Low pressure sodium lamps (SOX) (typical orange lamps seen along roadsides).

Light is emitted at one wavelength, contains no ultraviolet (UV) light and has a low

attraction to insects. The lamps tend to be large which makes it more difficult to focus

the light from these lamps. These are in the gradual process of being removed or

replaced.

2) High pressure sodium lamps (SON) (brighter pinkish-yellow lamps). Commonly

used as road lighting. Light is emitted over a moderate band of long wavelengths

including a small UV component. Insects are attracted to the brighter light. The lamp

is of medium size and the light can be more easily directed than low pressure sodium.

This is the predominant lamp now in use.

3) Mercury lamps (MBF) (bluish-white lamps). These emit light over a moderate

spectrum including a larger component of UV light to which insects are particularly

sensitive. Insects are attracted in large numbers along with high densities of bat

species. (Rydell & Racey 1993). They are rare now and are not used in new

developments.

4) White SON. This is whiter than High Pressure Sodium and has a larger component

of UV light.

5) Metal Halide. A small lamp and therefore more easy to focus light and make

directional. Emits less UV light than mercury but more than high pressure sodium. It

comes in three forms a) Quartz arc tube (HQI); b) Ceramic arc tube (CDM-T) and c)

Cosmo which is a new ceramic form.

6) Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Predicted to compete with metal halide and high

pressure sodium as a widely used light source within the next few years. The light

emitted is more directional. The light is produced in a narrow beam. It is instant light.

7) Tungsten Halogen (more directional). It is not used in new lighting schemes but

may be encountered as security light on a private household.

8) Compact Fluorescent Mostly in use in residential street lighting. It produces a

white light that does include UV light. It can be used at a low wattage and therefore on

a low output to achieve low lux.

Legal requirements for lighting There is no legislation requiring an area or road to be lit.

The Building Regulations specify that 150 W is the maximum for exterior lighting of

buildings but this does not apply to private individuals.

There are a number of British Standards that relate to various components of lighting and

there are also guidelines that relate to crime prevention, prevention of vehicular accidents

and amenity use.

Many County councils and less often District and Borough councils set out standards in

local guidance policy documents. These are sometimes based on the advice given by the

Highways Authority ‘TA49 – Approval of new and replacement lighting on trunk roads

and trunk road motorways’.

In assessing the need for lighting it would be beneficial to ask the local authority for their

lighting policy document as this should incorporate all of the above.

The installation of lighting and the planning system

Domestic lighting needs no planning permission and depends on direct advice being

given to the householder. Lighting associated with new development or a listed building

does require planning permission. Planning officers or developers when dealing with

applications for lighting in an area of suitable bat habitat eg. woodland, old pasture,

linking hedgerows and water habitats) should seek information on bat roosts in the area.

If assistance is needed they can contact the BCT Bat Helpline 0845 1300 228 who may

be able to suggest how best to access information on bat roosts known in the area. If bat

roosts are suspected, it may be necessary to conduct a bat survey. A survey may need to

determine the species of bat affected, their population levels, the likely impact of the

lighting on the bats and possible mitigation.

The need to install lighting should be questioned. Where lighting is permitted, as may be

necessary for public safety, conditions should be imposed to ensure the impact of the

lighting on the bats is kept to a minimum. The use of a lighting design computer program

that predicts where light will fall should be used to predict the potential impact and to

plan mitigation.

The consultation on the addition to PPS23 on Pollution Control of Annex 3 on lighting is

on hold at the present time (July 2007) until the outcome of the Baker review is known.

MITIGATION OF LIGHTING IMPACTS ON BATS

1. BAT ROOSTS

No bat roost (including access points) should be directly illuminated. If it is considered

necessary to illuminate a building known to be used by roosting bats, the lights should be

positioned to avoid the sensitive areas. Close offset accent lighting causes less light

pollution; it is more specific and can be designed to avoid bat sensitive areas, and better

highlights the features of the subject of the illumination.

2. FORAGING AND COMMUTING

Type of lamp (light source)

The impact on bats can be minimised by the use of low pressure sodium lamps or high

pressure sodium instead of mercury or metal halide lamps where glass glazing is

preferred due to its uv filtration characteristics.

Luminaire and light spill accessories

Lighting should be directed to where it is needed and light spillage avoided. This can be

achieved by the design of the luminaire and by using accessories such as hoods, cowls,

louvres and shields to direct the light to the intended area only. Planting can also be used

as a barrier or manmade features that are required within the build can be positioned so as

to form a barrier.

Lighting column The height of lighting columns in general should be as short as is possible as light at a

low level reduces the ecological impact. However, there are cases where a taller column

will enable light to be directed downwards at a more acute angle and thereby reduce

horizontal spill. For pedestrian lighting this can take the form of low level lighting that is

as directional as possible and below 3 lux at ground level. The acceptable level of

lighting may vary dependent upon the surroundings and on the species of bat affected.

Predicting where the light cone and light spill will occur

There are lighting design computer programs that are widely in use which produce an

image of the site in question, showing how the area will be affected by light spill when all

the factors of the lighting components listed above are taken into consideration. This

should be a useful tool to inform the mitigation process.

Light levels

The light should be as low as guidelines permit. If lighting is not needed, don’t light.

Timing of lighting

The times during which the lighting is on should be limited to provide some dark periods.

Roads or trackways in areas important for foraging bats should contain stretches left unlit

to avoid isolation of bat colonies. These unlit stretches should be 10 metres in length

either side of commuting route.

3. FLOODLIGHTING OF SPORTS OR EVENTS

The use of asymmetric beam floodlights (as opposed to symmetric) orientated so that the

glass is parallel to the ground will ensure that the light is cast in a downward direction

and avoids horizontal spill.

See the National Trust guide to ‘Events, concerts and bats’ at

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-bat05_event.pdf for further advice on ways to reduce

the impact of event lighting.

4. SECURITY LIGHTING

Power It is rarely necessary to use a lamp of greater than 2000 lumens (150 W) in

security lights. The use of a higher power is not as effective for the intended function and

will be more disturbing for bats.

Movement sensors Many security lights are fitted with movement sensors which, if well

installed and aimed, will reduce the amount of time a light is on each night. This is more

easily achieved in a system where the light unit and the movement sensor are able to be

separately aimed.

Timers If the light is fitted with a timer this should be adjusted to the minimum to reduce

the amount of ‘lit time’.

Aim of light The light should be aimed to illuminate only the immediate area required by

using as sharp a downward angle as possible. This lit area must avoid being directed at,

or close to, any bats’ roost access points or flight paths from the roost. A shield or hood

can be used to control or restrict the area to be lit. Avoid illuminating at a wider angle as

this will be more disturbing to foraging and commuting bats as well as people and other

wildlife.

Alternatives

It may be a better solution for security lighting on domestic properties to use a porch

light.

Ongoing areas of research

The impact of light on commuting corridors used by lesser horseshoe bats. Emma

Stone, University of Bristol

The effects of lighting on prime bat foraging areas within London,

concentrating on riparian habitats and open spaces. Alison Fure.

The effect of light and noise on British bat species. Frank Greenaway.

References Institution of Lighting Engineers(2005) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution

Institution of Lighting Engineers (2003) Domestic Security Lighting, Friend or Foe.

Jones, J. (2000) The Impact of lighting on bats.

Mitchell-Jones, A. J. (2004) Bat Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature

Richardson, P.(2003) Events, concerts and bat. National Trust Guidance Note No. 5

Rydell J & Racey, P A (1993) Street lamps and the feeding ecology of insectivorous bats. Recent Advances

in Bat Biology Zool Soc Lond Symposium abstracts

Glossary of terms

(used in this article or that may be used by the lighting industry)

Arc tube A tube normally ceramic or quartz

enclosed by the outer glass envelope of a

HID lamp that contains the arc stream.

Asymmetric beams Lamp is off-centre in a reflector more

steeply curved at one end.

Candela The intensity of a light source in a specific

direction. Unit of Luminous intensity

Contrast The relationship between the luminance of

an object and its background. The higher

the contrast the more likely it is an object

can be seen.

Cowl Physical light spill control accessory.

Diffuse Term describing dispersed light

distribution referring to the scattering of

light.

Efficacy A measure of light output against energy

consumption measured in lumens per

watt.

HID High Intensity Discharge. Describes

mercury vapour, metal halide and high

pressure sodium lamps.

High Pressure Sodium Lamp A HID lamp whose light is produced by

radiation from high pressure sodium

vapour which usually includes a small

amount of UV light.

Hood Physical light spill control accessory.

Illuminance Illuminance is the quantity of light, or

luminous flux, falling on a unit area of a

surface. It is designated by the symbol E.

The unit is the lux (lx).

Lamp Light source.

Light cone The angle at which the beam falls off to

50% of peak intensity.

Light Pollution The spillage of light into areas where it is

not required. Also known as obtrusive

light.

Light spill The light that falls outside the light cone.

Light Trespass (nuisance) Light that impacts on a surface outside of

the area designed to be lit by a lighting

installation. The correct legal term is

nuisance.

Louvres Physical light spill control accessory.

Low Pressure Sodium A discharge lamp in which light is

produced by radiation from low pressure

sodium vapour. Emits light at only 589nm

ie. monochromatic.

Lumen The unit of light output from a lamp.

Luminaire Light fitting or unit designed to distribute

light from a lamp or lamps.

Luminance The physical measure of the stimulus that

produces the sensation of brightness

measured by the luminous intensity

reflected in a given direction. The unit is

the candela per square metre (cd/m2).

Lux (LX) Illuminance is the quantity of light or

luminous flux, falling on a unit area of a

surface in the environment. It is

designated by the symbol E. The unit is

lux (lx).

Metal Halide (includes CDM-T) A type of HID lamp in which most of the

light us produced by radiation of metal

halide and mercury vapours in the arc

tube. Emits UV light.

UV poor variants are available.

It comes in three forms a) Quartz arc tube

(HQI); b) Ceramic arc tube (CDM-T) and

c) Cosmo which is a new ceramic form

Mercury High pressure white light lamp that emits

significant UV light.

Optic The components of a luminaire such as

reflectors, refractors, protectors which

make up the directional light control

section.

Photocell A unit which senses light to control

luminaires.

Reflector A device used to reflect light in a given

direction.

Refractor A device used to redirect the light output

from a lamp when the light passes through

it. It is usually made from prismatic glass

or plastic.

Shield Physical light spill control accessory.

Sky glow The brightening of the night sky caused

by artificial lighting.

Symmetric beams Lamp mounted in the centre of the

reflector.

Ultra violet (UV) Radiation that is shorter in wavelength

and higher in frequency than visible violet

light.

Voltage The difference in electrical potential

between two points of an electrical circuit.

Watt (W) The unit for measuring electrical power.

rpsgroup.com/uk

FIGURES

rpsgroup.com/uk

FIGURE 1

Desk Study Records

!(

!(

LegendCounty Wildlife SitesAncient Woodland

!( Common Carp!( West European Hedgehog

500m Search Area

±

© Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2015 License number 10001998

20 Western AvenueMilton ParkAbingdonOxfordshireOX14 4SH

O:\8759 Haveringland Hall Park Enforcement\Tech\Drawings\8759-0018-01.mxd

rpsgroup.com

RevFigure Number11

DRAFT

OXF8759

CR LM

OCT 15

Status

Job Ref

Title

Project

Client

Drawn By

Scale @ A3

PM/Checked By

Date Created

T: +44(0)1235 821 888 E: rpsox@rpsgroup.com F: +44(0)1235 834 698

1:7,421

Haveringland Hall Park

© 2015 RPS Group

Desk Study Records

rpsgroup.com/uk

FIGURE 2

Phase 1 Habitat Plan

!!

!

! !!

! !!

!

!

!

!!

!

!!!!!

D D

DD

D

DDDDDD

!.

!. !.

!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

SI

9

8

6

7

3

4

21

5

11

10

LegendSite boundary

!. Target noteFenceMarginal Vegetation / SwampDense ScrubHardstandingOpen WaterPoor semi-improved grassland

G

G

G

GG

G

G

GG

GG

G

GGG

G

GG

GG

GG

GGG

G

G GG GGG

GG

Scattered scrubSemi-natural broad leved woodlandTall ruderals

! Broadleaved trees

±

© Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2016 License number 10001998

20 Western AvenueMilton ParkAbingdonOxfordshireOX14 4SH

O:\8759 Haveringland Hall Park Enforcement\Tech\Drawings\8759-0019-04.mxd

rpsgroup.com

RevFigure Number-2

DRAFT

OXF8759

AVG LM

MAR 16

Status

Job Ref

Title

Project

Client

Drawn By

Scale @ A3

PM/Checked By

Date Created

T: +44(0)1235 821 888 E: rpsox@rpsgroup.com F: +44(0)1235 834 698

1:1,500

Haveringland Hall Park

© 2016 RPS Group

Phase 1 Habitat Plan

SI