sandpool farm ecological assessment.doc

7/28/2019 Sandpool Farm ecological assessment.doc

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Client: Wiltshire Wildlife Trust & BWCEProject: Solar pva at Sandpool Farm Ecological Appraisal

SOLAR PVA ON LAND AT SANDPOOL FARM,WILTSHIRE

ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL

On behalf of

WILTSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUSTAND BATHAND WEST COMMUNITYENERGY (BWCE)

Final Report

10th December 2012

Prepared by

AD Ecology LtdAssessment & Design in Ecology

Tel: Office: 01666577979; Mobile: 07910 817885;e-mail:[email protected]
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


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Contents

1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................1

2 Development Proposals...................................................................................................1

3 Methodology.....................................................................................................................2

4 Baseline Conditions.........................................................................................................3

5 Site Evaluation..................................................................................................................9

6 Potential Impacts, Mitigation and Enhancement..........................................................10

7 Residual Effects..............................................................................................................14

8 Post-Scheme Monitoring and Appraisal.......................................................................15

9 Programme of Management...........................................................................................15

10 References...................................................................................................................... 2

Appendix 1 Site Location, Designated Sites and Habitat Map.......................................3

Appendix 2 Botanical Species List...................................................................................7

Appendix 3 Wildlife Legislation......................................................................................10

Appendix 4 Site Photographs.........................................................................................12

Appendix 1 Site Location, Designated Sites and Habitat Maps

Appendix 2 Botanical Species ListAppendix 3 Legislation

Appendix 4 Site Photographs


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1 Introduction

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust in conjunction with Bath and West Community Energy is applying toWiltshire Council for planning permission to install solar photovoltaic arrays (solar pva) onland forming part of Sandpool Farm located near Somerford Keynes in the Cotswold WaterPark on the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border.

As part of the planning application process, an ecological baseline (extended Phase 1)survey and appraisal has been requested by the client. The ecological report will containappropriate survey information, identification of ecological constraints and presentation ofrecommendations for mitigating/managing identified constraints, as well as identifyingopportunities for enhancement. Recommendations for mitigation and/or compensation aremade to inform the design and implementation of the proposed development.

The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act) and the NationalPlanning Policy Framework (NPPF), which both require planning to conserve biodiversity,

have been taken into account.AD Ecology Ltd has been commissioned to undertake the ecological survey and appraisal ofthe proposed development site, and to provide a report to fulfil the requirements of natureconservation legislation and planning guidance. Jonathan Adey and Stephen Dangerfield,ecological consultants who are both full members of IEEM and Chartered Environmentalistsand hold relevant protected species licences, undertook the ecological work.

The study area encompasses the entirety of a single pasture field, which is old landfill (NGRSU 015 939), and is surrounded by numerous gravel pit lakes, woodland/scrub andagricultural land. The proposed development encompasses two discrete areas coveringapproximately 2ha.

2 Development Proposals

The proposed development would include solar pva installed in rows spaced 6m apart. Theheight of the bottom of the solar panel from the ground is 900mm, which are positioned at a30 degree angle, which provides an overall height of 2-3m from the ground. The solar pvapanels are mounted on piles (see photographs below).

Solar pva showing completed installation and mounting system

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3 Methodology

3.1 Field survey and desk-based review

An extended Phase 1 habitat survey of the 2ha development site and immediatesurrounding habitats was undertaken on 13th November 2012. The survey followed thestandard Phase 1 habitat survey methodology and associated guidance (JNCC, 2003; IEA,1995) and focused on:

A habitat survey to determine type, quality and extent of habitats present. Botanical listsof each habitat type were recorded as far as possible given seasonal constraints.Rare/scarce and invasive plants were highlighted if found.

A survey of any suitable hedgerows using a methodology in accordance to that set out inthe Hedgerow Regulations 1997 (DoE, 1997) and consistent with that of the UKBAPSpecies-rich Hedgerow criteria.

A survey to determine the presence of, or the potential for the study area to support,protected and rare/scarce animals, which included looking for the following:

Potential/actual badger (Meles meles) setts, as well as latrines, tracks and othersigns (foraging holes, hairs, etc), in accordance with Natural England (2009a & b);

Potential reptile habitat and terrestrial habitat for amphibians, particularly greatcrested newt (Triturus cristatus) in accordance with Gent and Gibson (1998);

Waterbodies that had the potential to support great crested newt or water vole(Arvicola amphibius). Any pond habitat is surveyed in accordance with the GCNhabitat suitability index methodology (ARG UK, 2010);

Potential habitat to support or signs of dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius), in

accordance with Bright et al(2006); and Actual records of, or the potential for, nesting/breeding birds using the site.

An assessment of the potential for any trees on or neighbouring the site to supportroosting bats (Chiroptera), and if necessary/possible a visual assessment of potentialroosts, undertaken by a licensed bat surveyor in accordance with Bat Conservation Trustguidelines (Hundt, 2012). Ladders, torches, high-powered binoculars and, wherenecessary/possible, an endoscope was available to examine crevices and other smallspaces suitable for roosting bats to occupy. Evidence of bats, considered during thesearch included:

Droppings.

Urine staining.

Feeding remains (such as moth wings).

Smudge marks and scratches around potential bat roost holes.

Live roosting bats, bat skeletal remains or dead bats.

Bat roost potential was defined in accordance with Bat Conservation Trust guidance(Hundt, 2012). Potential roosting sites and roost exit points were identified.

In addition, adjoining and surrounding areas were also assessed to identify ecologicallinkages and potential constraints.

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A review of OS maps and satellite imagery was undertaken to establish the local contextwithin which the study area sits and to identify whether any natural features of interest,particularly ponds, were located within 500m of the site.

The Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Records Centre (WSBRC) and Gloucestershire Centrefor Environmental Records (GCER) were consulted with a request for any records ofdesignated sites and rare/protected species located within a 1km radius of the centre pointof the study area.

3.2 Ecological appraisal

The ecological evaluation, identification of ecological constraints, and establishment of initialmitigation and management recommendations to remove or reduce potential impacts havebeen undertaken in accordance with the appropriate guidelines (IEEM, 2006) based on bestavailable information at the time of the ecological survey and reporting. The ecologicalappraisal seeks to obtain the best possible biodiversity outcomes from the proposed

development, by integrating the following principles:

Avoidance: consider options that avoid harm to environmental resources or naturalprocesses;

Reduction: where adverse effects are unavoidable then these should be mitigated eitherthrough the design of the project or through measures that can be subsequentlyguaranteed;

Compensation: where, despite the mitigation proposed, there are significant residualadverse environmental effects these must be offset by appropriate compensatorymeasures nearby/elsewhere; and

New benefits: seek to provide net benefits for biodiversity over and above requirementsfor mitigation or compensation.

Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act)requires all public bodies to have regard to biodiversity conservation when carrying out theirfunctions. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires planning to protect andenhance the natural environment, and where possible providing net gains for biodiversity(Para 109) by encouraging opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and arounddevelopments (Para 118).

4 Baseline Conditions

4.1 Desk-based review

A review of the OS maps and satellite imagery reveals that the study area is within a ruralarea comprising mainly pasture, worked gravel pits and restored to lakes. There arenumerous lakes and ponds located adjacent to and within 500m of the study area.

WSBRC and GCER provided information relating to designated sites located within 1km ofthe study area. These identified that the study area itself is not covered by any international,national or local nature conservation designations, although it does form part of theSandpool Farm Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) Nature Reserve. The following designatedsites occur within 1km of the study area:

North Meadow & Clattinger Farm Special Area for Conservation (SAC): a number of

unimproved ancient meadows amounting to approximately 105ha.

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Clattinger Farm Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI): Approximately 60ha of Unimproved haymeadow.

Cotswold Water Park SSSI: A series of lakes primarily created through gravelabstraction.

Swill Brook Lake 46/48 Key Wildlife Site (KWS): less than 0.25ha of lakes, gravel pits &reservoirs.

Swill Brook KWS: 4.2ha of river.

Cotswold Water Park KWS: lakes, gravel pits and reservoirs over 0.25ha.

Neigh Bridge, Somerford Keynes, Conservation Road Verge Register: Floristically RichVerge.

Lower Moor Farm WWT Nature Reserve: 25ha of Neutral grassland.

Oaksey Moor Farm Meadows WWT Reserve.

Records of rare, protected and notable species within 1km of the study area were alsoprovided by the WSBRC and the GCER. Over 225 (over 2500 records) pages of recordswere provided by the biological records centres dating from 1999 to 2010. The majority ofthese records relate to the surrounding watercourses, unimproved meadows (ClattingerMeadow, etc), water-filled gravel pits and associated woodland/scrub, water-bodies (ponds,Swill Brook, River Thames, Flaghan Brook and gravel pit lakes 46, 48, 57, etc).

Vascular plants

43 nationally notable plants have been recorded in the surrounding area (although nonewithin the study area), mainly associated with neighbouring unimproved hay meadows,watercourses and lakes. Meadow species include species such as dwarf spurge (Euphorbiaexigua), meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnalis), burnt orchid (Orchis ustulata), green

winged orchid (Orchis morio), greater burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) and fritillary (Fritillariameleagris). Wetland species include tubular water-dropwort (Oenanthe fistulosa), oppositeleaved pondweed (Groenlandia densa) and needle spike rush (Eleocharis acicularis).

Mosses

The scarce Shaws bristle moss (Orthotrichum striatum) occurs on willows overhangingwater in Sandpool Farm reserve. This was recorded as recently as 2011.

Insects

Small heath (Coenonymus pamphilus) 8 records last recorded in 2007) Clattinger Farmmeadows and Swillbrook Lakes

Brown hairstreak (Thecla betulae) (50+ records - last recorded in 2010) Clattinger Farmmeadows and Swillbrook Lakes

Grizzled skipper (Pyrgus malvae) (16 records last recorded in 2003) Clattinger Farmmeadows, Lower Moor Farm, East of Mallard Lake, Cooles Farm and Swillbrook Lakes

Dingy skipper (Erynnis tages) (6 records last recorded in 1998) - Clattinger Farm meadowsand Swillbrook Lakes

Wall (Lasiommata megera) - Clattinger Farm (1 record in 1990)

Downy emerald dragonfly (Cordulea aenea) (24 records - last recorded in 2010) Clattinger,Lower Mill Estate and Swillbrook

Scarce blue tailed damselfly (Ischnura pumilio): Swillbrook (1 record) CWP SSSI

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A range of UK BAP, but common and widespread, moths, 31 species in total, including greydagger (Acronicta psi), blood-vein (Timandra comae), ghost moth (Hepialis humuli), dotmoth (Melanchra persicariae), buff ermine (Spilosoma luteum) and cinnabar (Tyriajacobaeae) were also recorded.

Birds

In total, the biological records centres provided records of 55 bird species that are classifiedas rare, protected, declining or endangered that have been recorded within 1km radius ofthe study area. However, most of these are still fairly common and widespread species orare associated with habitats not present on site. The records of individual species are mainlyassociated with the neighbouring habitats such Clattinger Farm and Lower Moor Farmmeadows, Swillbrook Lakes, Mallard Lake, Swill Brook, Flaghan Brook, etc., which includespecies such as kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), common tern (Sterna hirundo), common golden-eye (Bucephala clangula), etc.. However, there are some birds of note that may occur withinor directly adjacent to the study area, namely:

Redwing (Turdus iliacus), protected under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 and UK BAPspecies (foraging in meadows, hedgerows, etc)

Cettis warbler (Cettia cetti), protected under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 and UK BAPspecies (willow scrub)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris), protected under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 and UK BAPspecies (foraging in meadows, hedgerows, etc)

Skylark (Alauda arvense), Red List and UK BAP species (nesting and foraging overagricultural land including pasture)

Barn owl (Tyto alba), protected under Schedule 1 of the WCA 1981 (foraging alonggrass verges and meadows, etc)

Yellowhammer (Emberiza citronella), Red List and UK BAP species (nesting andforaging in agricultural landscapes)

Northern lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), Red List and UK BAP species (nesting andforaging in agricultural landscapes & wet grasslands)

Reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus), Red List species. (wetlands, etc)

Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), Red List species. (foraging over meadows, roosting in trees,reeds, etc)

Yellow wagtail (Motacilla flava), Red List species. (nesting and foraging in agriculturallandscapes)

Mammals

Bats (protected under WCA 1981 and Habitats & Species Regulations 2010, and areUKBAP species),which are known to have foraged and roosted in bat boxes in the areainclude (mainly on Clattinger Farm, Lower Mill Estate and Swillbrook Lakes):

Brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus)

Whiskered bat (Myotis mystacinus)

Common pipistrelle bat (Pipistrellus pipistrellus)

Soprano pipistrelle (P. pygmaeus)

Nathusius pipistrelle (P. nathusii)

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Bechsteins bat (Myotis bechsteinii)

Lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros)

Barbastelle (Barbastellus barbastellus)

Brandts bat (Myotis brandtii)

Daubentons bat (Myotis daubentonii)

Whiskered bat (M. mustacinus)

Natterers bat (M nattereri)

Noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula)

Brown hare (Lepus europaeus), UKBAP species

Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), UKBAP species

Badger (Meles meles), legally protected species recorded throughout surrounding area

Polecat (Mustela putorius) legally protected species Lower Mill Estate

Otter (Lutra lutral) (over 130 records) legally protected species - present along FlaghanBrook, Swill Brook and the River Thames

Water vole (Arvicola amphibius) (over 150 records) legally protected species presentalong Flaghan Brook, Swill Brook and the River Thames

Herpetofauna

The data search revealed that a number of sightings reptiles and amphibians have beenrecorded within 1km radius of the study area. These include a number of records of greatcrested newt (Triturus cristatus), a European protected species, grass snake (Natrix natrix)and common lizard (Zootoca viviparus) both of which are nationally protected, as well as

common toad (Bufo bufo), common frog (Rana temporaria) and smooth newt (Lissotritonvulgaris).

Great crested newt, grass snake and common lizard have been recorded at Clattinger Farm,Lower Moor Farm, SwillBrook Reserve and directly adjacent to the study area on SandpoolFarm Nature Reserve.

4.2 Extended Phase 1 survey

The main findings from the walkover ecological survey are described below, under theheadings of habitats and botany and wildlife. Botanical species lists, with scientific names,for the main habitat types are provided in Appendix 2. Given the seasonal constraints of the

baseline survey this is not a complete list, but is sufficient to establish site value and todetermine mitigation and enhancement opportunities.

4.2.1 Habitats and botany

The development is located entirely within cattle-grazed, improved pasture which isestablished on previous landfill. Adjacent habitats include semi-improved grassland, scrub,and small wetland areas. These habitat types are described below.

Grassland

The proposed development site is located entirely within an area of cattle-grazed

improved/poor semi-improved pasture of low botanical species diversity and of limited

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ecological value. Much of the grassland sward is very short, maintained through cattle andrabbit grazing, and has an open sward. Some small localised areas are longer and tussocky.The improved pasture is dominated by common grasses including false oat grass and redfescue, as well as cocks-foot, rye grass, creeping bent, Timothy and Yorkshire fog. In wetter

areas hard rush and sedges occur. Herbaceous plants are restricted to low growing speciestypical of lowland, grazed meadows such as creeping buttercup, creeping cinquefoil,dandelion, white clover as well as nettle, thistles, docks and plantains.

Grassland to the east and south of the development site is semi-improved, which supports aslightly greater species diversity similar to the species recorded above but also includingoxeye daisy, sorrel, daisy, doves-foot cranes-bill, red bartsia, selfheal, meadow vetchlingand horseshoe vetch.

Within the grassland to the east of the proposed solar pva is a large log and brushwoodhabitat refugia pile.

Adjacent trees and scrub

The development site is surrounded by post and wire fencing. Adjacent to the site are areasof scrub and trees. Along the southern boundary of the field running adjacent to the SwillBrook, which forms the County boundary, is a species-rich native hedgerow supportinghawthorn, blackthorn, field maple, wayfaring-tree, spindle, grey willow, ash, dogwood,guelder rose and dog rose.

Running in between the two proposed solar pva areas is a post and wire fence some ofwhich runs parallel to a narrow band of scrub dominated by blackthorn with hawthorn, elder,dog rose and bramble occurring frequently.

A double hedgerow, protected by a double-row post and wire fence, has recently beenplanted within the field interior comprising predominantly hawthorn and blackthorn. This newplanting links the area of scrub with the southern field boundary

To the west of the development site is an area of wet woodland/scrub, with a ditch system,which supports grey willow, goat willow, osier, alder and blackthorn.

Adjacent wetlands

Lying to the immediate west and in between the proposed solar pva areas are small wetlandareas, which are associated with the willow and thorn scrub. These support a mosaic ofopen water, ditches and wet grassland/tall ruderals. Vegetation is dominated by commongrasses, rushes and sedges as well as supporting reedmace, common reed, meadowsweet,water mint, hairy willowherb, teasel, perforate St Johns-wort, fleabane and hoary ragwort.

Notable plants

All the higher plants recorded within the study area are common and none are listed in theUK or Wiltshire Biodiversity Action Plan, or on the records from the WSBRC or GCER. Noinvasive plant species were recorded. The peripheral habitats are likely to support a morediverse flora and fauna.

4.2.2 Wildlife

Bats

There are no trees within the footprint of the proposed solar pva. All adjacent trees, locatedon the edge of the scrub, were visually inspected for the potential to support roosting bats.All were deemed to have no potential for roosting bats (Category 3 using the BCT

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guidelines) given their age and/or size. The BCT guidelines state that Category 3 trees canbe felled without any mitigation for bats.

In relation to bats using the study area for foraging, the site is likely to provide limited habitat.This is due to a number of factors including the relatively small size of the open grazed

grassland area and the fact that the grassland is improved (nutrient enriched) and recentlyrestored (within the last 10 years) supporting a low botanical species diversity, which is likelyto have a correspondingly low invertebrate faunal diversity. There are significant areas ofbetter quality grassland habitat located outwith the study area.

Other mammals

No legally protected mammals are likely to occur within the study area. No badger setts orbadger foraging activity was recorded. Adjacent wetland and ditch habitat is suitable forwater vole and otter, but these areas will not be affected. Brown hare is not legally protectedbut is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan species, which is in recognition of its national decline inpopulation numbers. Signs of hare were recorded, and it is very likely foraging across thestudy area.

Observations or signs of other common species frequenting the study area include rabbit(Oryctolagus cuniculus), which are burrowed under the large habitat pile, roe deer(Capreolus capreolus) and fox (Vulpes vulpes).

European polecat is also likely to utilise the peripheral habitats for hunting, commuting andgaining shelter. Polecats may also cross the proposed site to gain access to other areas, butthe nature of the grassland cannot be considered as optimal habitat for this species.

Birds

Given the seasonal constraints a survey of nesting/breeding birds could not be undertaken.A formal bird survey was also not undertaken, but birds observed during the survey includedcommon lowland farmland species. Bird species are therefore very likely to forage acrossthe site and could nest within the adjacent scrub/wetland areas, including Cettis warbler andreed bunting. Raptors such as owls, kestrel and buzzard could forage over the study areagrasslands, but no trees were deemed suitable for breeding owls.

The site is suitable for ground nesting species such as skylark and lapwing to forage overand possibly nest, and notable farmland or winter visitor species such as yellowhammer,redwing or fieldfare could also frequent the site to forage.

Great crested newt and other amphibians

There are numerous small ponds, wetland areas and other waterbodies suitable forsupporting breeding great crested newt located immediately adjacent to the study area andwithin 500m, and this is combined with records of great crested newt within 1km of the study

area. The sites mosaic of tussocky grassland and presence of a large refugia habitat pileprovides good conditions for great crested newt foraging and over-winter hibernation. Greatcrested newt, and other amphibians, are therefore considered to be present within the studyarea in their terrestrial phase, and as such are a constraint for the proposed development.

Reptiles

The study area provides good habitat for reptiles, particularly grass snake, slow worm andcommon lizard. A large part of the site is south-facing, with a mosaic of short-sward andlonger tussocky grassland, scrub, wetland areas and a large habitat/hibernation pile plusnumerous ground voids associated with rabbit burrows. These provide excellent summerforaging/basking and over-wintering/hibernation habitat for reptiles. This is combined withknowledge that reptiles (grass snake and common lizard) have been introduced to the site.

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The conclusion is that reptiles are present on-site and are a constraint on the proposeddevelopment.

Invertebrates

No specialist terrestrial invertebrate survey was undertaken due to a lack of habitats directlyaffected likely to contain invertebrate communities of interest as the majority of the sitecomprises improved, grazed grassland.

The habitats or food plants associated with the majority of the rare/notable species ofbutterflies, moths and other invertebrates recorded by the BRCs do not occur within thestudy area, and therefore these species are not considered to be an issue for thisdevelopment. The exceptions are brown hairstreak, which could be using blackthorn scrub,and grizzled skipper, as creeping cinquefoil is present on site, albeit it in low numbers.However, the study area does not provide optimum habitat for these species and certainlywill not be a stronghold. The conclusion is that given the common and low value habitatdirectly affected by the proposed development, the associated invertebrate fauna will have a

restricted diversity comprising predominantly common species that are not a constraint forthe proposed development.

5 Site Evaluation

The area affected by the proposed solar pva or immediate surrounding habitat is notcovered by any nature conservation designations, although the site is located within theCotswold Water Park and as such the wider landscape is internationally, nationally andlocally important for nature conservation. The development area comprises grazed,improved grassland of low species diversity and correspondingly low ecological value. Thereare no protected, rare or notable habitats or plants on-site.

There are few positive signs of any legally protected or notable wildlife within the study area,

but ecological constraints are concluded to be:

Great crested newt using the area for foraging (no breeding or over-wintering habitat isaffected by the development);

Reptiles, including grass snake, slow worm and common lizard, using the area forforaging (no over-wintering habitat is affected by the development);

Common lowland birds nesting in the adjacent scrub, and potentially some ground-nesting species using the grassland on-site; and

Brown hare, a UK BAP species, foraging across the site.

The majority of adjacent scrub, and all adjacent hedgerows and wetlands will be retained

and unaffected by the proposed development. The brushwood habitat pile will be retained insitu and remain unaffected, and there is alternative habitat available adjacent to and outwiththe proposed development area for foraging and breeding species to use.

Based on the ecological survey and desk-based review of ecological records, although thesite does support foraging European and nationally protected species, the developmentzone is considered to have an ecological value only at the Site Scale (features arecontained within development zone of influence only) due to the fact that the integrity of anysurrounding habitats/communities/species (including the European and nationally protectedspecies) have minimal reliance on the habitats contained within the development zone.

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6 Potential Impacts, Mitigation and Enhancement

6.1 Introduction

Adverse impacts have been reduced through avoidance of sensitive habitats Includingscrub/wetland areas, semi-improved grassland and the large brushwood habitat pile. Theretention of these areas maintains key breeding and refugia habitat for amphibians, reptiles,nesting birds and mammals.

The construction method is of a relatively low impact using short piles to mount the solar pvapanels, working with the natural topography avoiding the need for large-scale earthworks.

Following construction the habitat within and under the solar pva will be returned tograssland, enhanced through appropriate management, and will be available for wildlife touse.

Generic impacts of the proposed development and recommendations for development

design/implementation to manage the identified ecological issues in accordance with theabove national and local targets are discussed below under the following headings:

Designated sites

Habitats

Wildlife disturbance

Great crested newt

Reptiles

Nesting birds

Post-scheme habitat creation and management

Legislation relating to the key species is provided in Appendix 3.

6.2 Designated sites

Various European, national and local designated nature conservation sites are locatedadjacent to the Sandpool Farm site. However, the proposed low-impact development will notaffect existing baseline conditions, in terms of structure and function, of these designatedsites. Therefore, no mitigation or compensation is required.

6.3 Habitats

The improved grassland habitat directly affected by the development is common, notdesignated, of no particular conservation concern, and of low ecological value. Theproposed development will affect some of this habitat through direct loss and shading,however, this is not considered to be a significant impact. As such no specific mitigation isnecessary for the impact upon habitats. Nevertheless, the habitats do support, or have thepotential to support, protected species, and potential impacts associated with these featuresare dealt with below. In addition, the opportunity to implement appropriate post-schemeplanting and habitat management is recommended.

Scrub habitat adjacent to the proposed working areas could be damaged due to machinerytraversing across the root zone, causing damage to trunks, vegetation, etc. Therefore, allexisting boundary fences will be retained or where necessary an appropriate width buffer, toavoid damage and compaction of root systems, will be established. Working areas will be

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clearly delineated to prevent vehicles and machinery from encroaching upon and damagingvegetation that is to be retained.

Habitat management and species for replacement or supplementary planting will be defined

in a landscape management plan. Recommended planting and management to enhanceecology and wildlife is provided in Section 6.7.

6.4 Wildlife disturbance

The construction period will be associated with the presence of personnel, equipment andvehicles moving material around the study area. Therefore, there could be levels of noiseand visual intrusion that could disturb wildlife. However, wildlife on-site is limited to a few,relatively common species and these are likely to continue to use habitat, particularlyadjacent scrub, during the construction of the scheme and definitely after the scheme iscompleted.

Effects of noise and visual disturbance, although predicted to be very limited will be furtherreduced through good working practice. All construction work will be restricted to normalworking hours, generally 07:00 to 18:00 Monday to Friday and 07:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays.All work will therefore be undertaken during daylight hours avoiding issues associated withlight pollution arising from the need to light-up the construction site and causing nodisturbance to nocturnal animals, such as amphibians, potentially using the site.

6.5 Great crested newt and reptiles

Great crested newts are not breeding within the area directly affected by the proposed solarpva. The brushwood pile, which could provide over-wintering habitat for both great crestednewt and reptiles, will remain unaffected. However, great crested newt, in their terrestrial

phase, and reptiles could be foraging across the development site.The impacts associated with the proposed development on great crested newts cantherefore be summarised as follows:

The proposed development will not damage or destroy any breeding ponds or breedinghabitat;

The proposed development will not damage or destroy optimal terrestrial habitatincluding migration corridors or hibernation sites;

The proposed development will not cause fragmentation of habitat used for breeding ormigrating; and

The proposed development will not obstruct access to breeding ponds or habitatsupporting hibernacula.

However, there is a low risk that great crested newts may migrate at night across thegrassland whilst foraging during their terrestrial phase, and as such may traverse theproposed development site. There is therefore a low risk of construction activitiesinjuring/killing individual great crested newts, but that this risk can be removed if constructionis implemented with appropriate safeguards.

There is also a corresponding low risk that reptiles may forage across the proposeddevelopment site and as such may be injured/killed during construction. Again, this risk canbe removed if construction is implemented appropriately.

To ensure protection of great crested newt and reptiles, mitigation actions will be

implemented pre-construction and during-construction. The mitigation will ensure

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compliance with relevant wildlife legislation, and ensure the development does not require aNatural England European Protected Species (EPS) licence.

The key objective of the mitigation is to ensure that great crested newts or reptiles are notpresent in the development area during the construction phase. The necessary actions are

discussed below.

Location of development

The development will be located entirely within grazed improved grassland, which is ofrelatively low value for great crested newt and reptiles and does not provide breeding, over-wintering or daytime hibernacula.

Pre-construction habitat management

To further deter great crested newt and reptiles from using the grassland within thedevelopment site, prior to construction the grass sward will be kept very short to removeareas of tussocky grassland and stop it developing further, which is the grassland type that

provides better foraging habitat. This will be achieved through initial mowing with after-grazing or continued mowing. Any grass clippings will not be stockpiled within thedevelopment site.

During-construction working methods

During construction the grassland will be maintained as a short sward. The development willbe constructed over a relatively short timescale and during normal daylight hours to furtherminimise risks to newts migrating at night-time.

Given the maintenance of the grassland as a short sward, night-time work and the relativelylow impact of the development (discrete piles as opposed to large-scale earthworks) there isno constraint on the seasonal timing of the work, although to further minimise risk it is betterif the development could be undertaken during the winter months (November to February)when newts and reptiles will be in over-wintering habitat that is outside the developmentzone.

The only action seasonally constrained is stockpiling of material. If the work is undertakenduring the winter months material can be stored on-site. However, if work progressesoutside the winter months then imported construction material must not be stockpiled directlyon the ground, as the could provide daytime refugia for newts to use. Instead materials mustbe imported on a need-to-use basis or must be stockpiled on raised platforms that preventnewts from accessing them and allow them to migrate underneath.

Any trenching work needed as part of the development, i.e. laying of cables, must be back-

filled and not left open each day to prevent the accidental trapping of newts or reptiles.

Post-construction habitat enhancement

Habitat management to enhance grassland habitat for great crested newt and reptiles isdiscussed in Section 6.7 below.

The mitigation described above, as well as habitat enhancement described in Section 6.7,will also be relevant for UK BAP species such as other amphibians and brown hare.

6.6 Nesting birds

The proposed development will remove some grassland habitat and edge of scrub habitat,

which is currently potentially available for birds to use for nesting. If the scheme is

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implemented incorrectly, this could result in the damage or destruction of breeding birds,their nests (while in use or being built) or the destruction of bird eggs unless appropriatemitigation action is taken. To ensure compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981(as amended) the following actions will be undertaken:

Removal of any woody vegetation or installation of the solar pva will preferably beundertaken between the 1st September and 28th February (i.e. autumn/winter) to avoidthe main bird breeding season and avoid the need for a pre-works ecological inspection.

If this option is not feasible and work has to go ahead within the bird breeding season(i.e. 1st march to 31st August) then an ecological inspection will be undertakenimmediately prior to the commencement of the work by a qualified ecologist to check forthe presence of nesting birds. If nesting birds are found to be present, work in that areamust cease until all fledglings have flown the nest. This could involve fencing off certainareas and keeping a watching brief on the area to establish when the nest is clear.

Habitat management to compensate for the loss of bird nesting habitat or to provide overall

enhancement for birds is discussed in Section 6.7 below.

6.7 Post-scheme habitat creation and management

6.7.1 Grassland within solar pva

Following construction, the solar pva will be arranged in rows approximately 6m apart.Therefore, the grassland in between the rows can be managed as wildflower grassland.

Options are available for increasing the botanical diversity and interest. For example,grassland areas could be seeded with an appropriate seed mix, which will be obtained froma reputable seed house (e.g. Emorsgate, www.wildseed.co.uk).

Alternatively, and recommended for this scheme, hay cut from a local and adjacent WWTnature reserve, e.g. Clattinger Farm, could be collected in July/August and strewn across thestudy area. Hay should be collected immediately after cutting, strewn on-site and left for upto 7 days to allow hay to shed seed. This should be completed the first summer post-construction.

From the first year after hay strewing, the grassland will be managed as a traditional haymeadow. The grassland will be left un-cut from spring through to late July or early August togive the sown species an opportunity to flower and will avoid the bird nesting season. Afterflowering a cut will be undertaken, probably best completed by a tractor mower, to about50mm sward height. The 'hay' must be left in situ to dry and shed seed for 1-7 days,depending on prevailing weather conditions, then collected and removed from site. This crop

can be placed in habitat stockpiles or disposed off-site.

Re-growth of grass, and scrub encroachment, should be controlled by routine mowing(keeping the sward at about 50mm height) or managed with sheep grazing. Weed controlmay also need to be implemented, which would involve a combination of hand pulling(particularly for woody species) and the targeted use of herbicides for docks/thistles or otherinvasive or undesirable species which may appear.

6.7.2 Grassland outside solar pva

To provide compensatory habitat for the loss or impact of some of the grassland throughphysical loss/damage or shading, it is recommended that areas of grassland outside the

solar pva, particularly species-rich areas and areas linking to the existing brushwood habitat

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pile, will be managed to maintain a tussocky and species-rich sward. Management will be asdescribed in Section 7.7.1, although after-grazing could use cattle instead of sheep. Theseareas would also benefit from hay strewing over one or more summers.

Within this grassland area it is recommended that some ecological habitat features be

created, which aim to diversify habitat niches available as refugia for various target species,particularly invertebrates, reptiles, small mammals, birds and bats.

The construction of bespoke over-wintering hibernacula within this grassland will furtherencourage the use of the area by great crested newt, reptiles and small mammals.Hibernacula will consist of piles of logs/brushwood, which will be generated by tree-management. Hibernacula would be 0.5-1m high, some of which can be covered with topsoiland allowed to vegetate up naturally. Small entrances will be kept open at ground level,which may need to be engineered using a piece of log or stone.

A proportion of any logs or brush-wood generated through routine site management can alsobe stacked in suitable areas of the grassland, for example, on edge of plantation. Thesedecaying wood piles will provide ideal habitat for saproxylic invertebrates (feed on

deadwood), fungi and mosses. The log piles will also provide shelter for a wide variety ofwildlife including reptiles and small mammals.

Some grass cuttings, from routine site management, can also be stockpiled in suitable areas(i.e. in field corners), which will provide additional habitat for reptiles.

6.7.3 Tree and scrub planting

Species for scrub and hedgerow planting should be selected to replicate and improve uponthe existing site conditions, and plants must be native and sourced from a reputable nurserypreferably using stock derived from a local provenance. Species which are berry producingto maximise benefits for birds are also favoured.

Species recommended for the site include blackthorn, hawthorn, field maple, spindle,wayfaring-tree, dogwood, goat willow, grey willow, guelder rose and dog rose. Plantingshould avoid excessive shading of the solar pva.

Existing and new scrub/hedgerow will be managed in the long-term to benefit wildlife.Habitat will be maintained as a dense, bushy structure with foliage down to ground level.Scrub and hedgerow management / cutting will take place in February to maximise retentionof any berries. Cutting will be staggered, which will vary the structure of the habitat, andalways allow some areas to develop berries thereby benefiting a wider range of wildlife,particularly insects, birds and small mammals.

7 Residual Effects

There are few adverse impacts, associated with the construction of the solar pva, mainlyassociated with the disturbance and loss of some low value habitat, and potential adverseimpacts associated with disturbance/injury of protected species, especially great crestednewt, reptiles and nesting birds. These adverse impacts have been mitigated andadequately compensated through appropriate scheme design and implementation, includingprotecting the key habitats, protecting newts and reptiles and protecting nesting birds. Post-scheme the study area will be available for wildlife to use. The scheme will provide new orenhanced habitat including tussocky, species-rich wildflower grassland within and outwiththe solar pva; new native scrub/hedgerow planting; and wildlife habitat features includingover-wintering hibernacula.

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Therefore, given the low impact of the scheme plus more appropriate long-term habitatcreation and management the ecological effects of the scheme are considered to bepositive at the Site scale, which could extend to the Parish (Local) scale depending onwhat wildlife (i.e. herpetofauna, insects, birds etc.) use the site in the future.

8 Post-Scheme Monitoring and Appraisal

The habitats being enhanced will take some time to establish, and it is impossible to predictaccurately the rate of change/establishment and the subsequent response of wildlife.

The main objective of management during the first five years is to ensure the successfulestablishment of all the habitat-types, whereas management afterwards relates more tomaintaining a diverse habitat mosaic for the benefit of wildlife. The main focus in the earlystages of the site management is to ensure the survival of the newly introduced plants,suppress more vigorous and less desirable plant species, whilst encouraging a more diversespecies rich environment.

However, to identify whether or not the longer-term nature conservation objectives havebeen achieved it is essential to develop a post-scheme monitoring and appraisalprogramme, which would include remedial actions and their triggers if the scheme is notperforming as planned.

Although monitoring is a critical and integral component of the whole schemeimplementation, it does not have to be overly time consuming and therefore expensive. Areasonably low level monitoring can be undertaken as long as the critical aspects areencompassed.

Habitat monitoring should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel and will include awalkover in early summer to review habitat establishment and plant survival, as well as

habitat development and diversification from the original planting specification (the baselinecondition). In addition to habitats, it is also recommended that the following species-relatedmonitoring is undertaken:

Botanical surveys detailing species present, mapping and commenting on abundanceusing the DAFOR scale; and

Establish the presence of, or the potential for the study area to support, protected andrare/scarce animals.

A concise annual report presenting the results and presenting recommendations for anyfuture management/remedial action will be produced. This could take the form of a shortnote and check-list, but must be consistent to allow comparative analysis from year to year.

9 Programme of Management

A 5-year programme of works is provided in the table below. This programme identifiesthose key management actions required for the initial site set-up and habitat enhancement,and on-going habitat maintenance. The optimum month(s) to undertake each managementaction and monitoring survey have been identified.

A programme for any remedial action, such as invasive plant control, cannot be identified atthis stage as these actions are dependent on the findings of ongoing site monitoring. Anyremedial actions, the appropriate methods and preferred timing would be dealt with throughthe annual site monitoring report.

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Client: Wiltshire Wildlife TrustProject: Solar pva at Sandpool Farm Ecological Appraisal

Programme of habitat creation and management

Ref Task Set-upYears (post-scheme)

1 2 3 4 5

Grassland management

G1Ground preparation & haystrewing/seeding

Mar Apr orAug Sep

yes yes yes

G2 CuttingMin. 3 cuts(Apr Sep)

Poss. 3 cuts(Apr-Sep)

1 cut (Jul/Aug) + cutuntil autumn

1 cut (Jul/Aug) + cutuntil autumn

1 cut (Jul/Aug) +cut until autumn

Hedgerow/scrub management

H1 Planting Nov Mar

H2 Cutting Oct-Mar Feb Feb

Habitat features

F1 Create hibernacula X

F2 Stack wood piles Any time of year X

F3 Stockpile grass clippings X X X X X

Monitoring

M1 Habitat extent, quality & survival May June May June May June May June May June

M2 Botany (incl. invasive & undesirableplants) May June May June May June May June May June

M3 Notable species May June May June May June May June May June

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10 References

ARG UK (2010). Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index. Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the United Kingdom Advice Note 5

Bright, P., Morris. P and Mitchell-Jones, T (2006). The dormouse conservation handbook, second edition. English Nature, Peterborough.

DoE (1997). The hedgerow Regulations 1997 A guide to the law and good practice. Department of the Environment, London

Gent, T and Gibson, S (1998). Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC, Peterborough

Highways Agency (2001). Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), Volume 10 Environmental Design and Management, Section 4

Nature Conservation, Part 2 Mitigating against effects on badgers.

Hundt, L (2012). Bat Surveys Good Practice Guidelines, 2ndEdition. Bat Conservation Trust

IEA (1995). Guidelines for baseline ecological assessment. E & FN Spon, London

IEEM (2006). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK. Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management

JNCC (1999). Herpetofauna Workers Manual

JNCC (2003). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey a technique for environmental audit

Natural England (2009a). Badgers and development a guide to best practice and licensing

Natural England (2009b). Guidance on current use in the definition of a badger sett (Version 11/09)

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APPENDIX 1 SITE LOCATION, DESIGNATED SITES AND HABITAT MAP


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Greatcrestednewts

Cotswold Water ParkSSSI

North Meadowand ClattingerFarm SAC


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Google - Imagery


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APPENDIX 2 BOTANICAL SPECIES LIST

Grassland

Common name Scientific name

Grasses and sedges

Cocks-foot Dactylus glomerata

Creeping bent Agrostis stolonifera

False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius

Glaucous sedge Carex flacca

Hard rush Juncus inflexus

Red fescue Festuca rubra

Rye grass Lolium perenne

Sedge species Carexsp

Timothy Phleum pratensis

Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus

Herbaceous plants

Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg

Bristly ox-tongue Picris echioides

Broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius

Broad-leaved plantain Plantago major

Colts-foot Tussilago farfara

Creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens

Creeping cinquefoil Potentilla reptans

Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense

Daisy Bellis perennis

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg

Doves-foot cranes-bill Geranium molle

Ground ivy Glechoma hederacea

Hoary ragwort Senecio erucifolius

Horseshoe vetch Hippocrepis comosa

Meadow vetchling Lathyrus pratensis

Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria

Mouse ear Cerastium holosteoides


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Nettle Urtica dioica

Oxeye daisy Chrysanthemum leucanthemum

Red bartsia Odontites vernus

Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata

Selfheal Prunella vulgaris

Sorrel Rumex acetosa

Spear thistle Cirsium vulgare

Tare species Vicia sp

Teasel Dipsacus fullonum

White clover Trifolium repens

Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Wetland


Grasses and sedges

Cocks-foot Dactylus glomerata

Common reed Phragmites australis

False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius

Glaucous sedge Carex flacca

Hairy sedge Carex hirta

Hard rush Juncus inflexus

Pendulous sedge Carex pendula

Red fescue Festuca rubra

Reedmace Typha latifolia

Rye grass Lolium perenne

Sedge species CarexspSoft rush Juncus effusus

Timothy Phleum pratensis

Tufted hair grass Deschampsia cespitosa

Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus

Herbaceous plants

Bittersweet Solanum dulcamara

Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg


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Broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius

Creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens

Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense

Fleabane Pulicaria dysentrica

Greater birds-foot trefoil Lotus pedunculatus

Hairy willowherb Epilobium hirsutum

Hedge woundwort Stachys sylvatica

Hoary ragwort Senecio erucifolius

Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria

Nettle Urtica dioica

Perforate St Johns-wort Hypericum perforatum

Selfheal Prunella vulgaris

Teasel Dipsacus fullonum

Water mint Mentha aquatica

Trees and scrub


Alder Alnus glutinosa

Ash Fraxinus excelsior

Blackthorn Prunus spinosa

Dog rose Rosa canina agg

Dogwood Cornus sanguinea

Elder Sambucus nigra

Field maple Acer campestre

Goat willow Salix caprea

Grey willow Salix cinereaGuelder rose Viburnum opulus

Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna

Osier Salix viminalis

Spindle Euonymus europaeus

Wayfaring-tree Viburnum lantana


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APPENDIX 3 WILDLIFE LEGISLATION

Great crested newt

Great crested newts are protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act1981 (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000 [Section 9]). This makesit an offence to:

Intentionally kill, injure or take a great crested newt [Section 9 (1)];

Possess or control any live or dead specimen or anything derived from a great crestednewt [Section 9 (2)];

Intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy or obstruct access to any structure or placeused for shelter or protection by a great crested newt [Section 9 (4) (a)]; or

Intentionally or recklessly disturb a great crested newt while it is occupying a structureor place which it uses for that purpose [Section 9 (4) (b)].

Furthermore great crested newt is afforded protection under the Conservation of Habitatsand Species Regulations 2010 (SI 2010/490). Section 41 of SI 2010/490 makes it an offenceto:

Deliberately capture, injure or kill a great crested newt [S41(a)];

Deliberately disturb a great crested newt [S41(b)];

Deliberately take or destroy the eggs of a great crested newt [S41(c)]; or

Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a great crested newt [S41(d)].

Disturbance includes any action which is likely to:

Impair their ability: To survive, to breed or reproduce, or to rear or nurture their young; or

To hibernate or migrate

Affect significantly their local distribution or abundance

In relation to S41(d) an offence has been committed if the person could reasonably haveavoided the damage to or destruction of the breeding site or resting place concerned.

Natural England issue licences which permit otherwise unlawful activities such as surveys ofpotential development land and for species translocations for the purposes of preservingpublic health or public safety or other imperative reasons of overriding public interestincluding those of a social or economic nature and beneficial consequences of primary

importance for the environment. In every case, a licence cannot be granted unless:

There is no satisfactory alternative [Regulation 44(3)(a)]; and

The action authorised will not be detrimental to the maintenance of the population of the

species concerned at a favourable conservation status in their natural range [Regulation44(3)(b)].

Great crested newt is included in the UK BAP as a priority species.

Reptiles

Slow worm, grass snake and common lizard are protected under the Wildlife and

Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000


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[Section 9]). Both species are protected against intentional killing and injuring. However, thehandling and translocation of these reptiles does not require a licence.

All three species are included in the UK BAP as priority species.

Breeding birds

All wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act,1981 as amended. This act makes it an offence to:

Intentionally, or recklessly, kill, injure or take any wild bird

Take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built

Take or destroy the egg of any wild bird

Birds of conservation concern are species that are declining or appear to be in need ofconcentrated conservation actions. There are three categories:

Red listed Globally threatened according to The World Conservation Union (IUCN) criteria Population or range has declined rapidly in recent years Declined historically and not shoiwn a substantial recent recovery

Amber listed Unfavourable conservation status in Europe Population or range has declined moderately in recent years Population has declined historically but made a substantial recent recovery Rare breeders Internationally important or localised populations

Green listed

Fulfilling none of the above criteriaSchedule 1 of the WCA contains a list of birds which are conferred extra protection and forwhich all offences carry harsher penalties. Under the legislation it is illegal to: intentionally orrecklessly disturb a Schedule 1 bird while it is building a nest or is in or near a nestcontaining eggs or young; and intentionally or recklessly disturb dependent young of such abird.


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APPENDIX 4 SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Photograph 1: view looking north over the western-most field.

Photograph 2: View showing the boundary fence between the two fields and thewetland/scrub that will remain unaffected by the proposals.


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Photograph 3: the purpose built habitat pile located in the eastern-most field. This willalso be retained.

Photograph 4: view of the eastern field looking north towards the wetland/scrub.


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Photograph 5: the eastern boundary of the application site showing the post and wirefence bordered by a newly planted deciduous woodland plantation

sandpool farm ecological assessment.doc

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