sandygate - burnley.gov.uk

Sandygate Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Report

Barnfield Construction July 2013

Quality Management

Job No CS/065911

Project Sandygate

Location Sandygate, Burnley

Title Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Document Ref Extended Phase 1 Habitat

Survey

Issue / Revision 01

File reference Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Date July 2013

Prepared by Karen Nolan

Ecologist

Signature (for file)

Checked by Janette Gazzard MCEEM

Senior Ecologist


Authorised by Tabatha Boniface CEnv

MCIEEM

Prinicpal Ecologist


Revision Status / History

Rev Date Issue / Purpose/ Comment Prepared Checked Authorised

Sandygate July 2013

Contents

i

Contents 1. Summary 1 1.1 Instructions Error! Bookmark not defined.

2. Introduction 2 2.1 Background 2 2.2 Survey Site 2 2.3 Legislation and Planning Policy 3

3. Methods 6 3.1 Survey and Report Objectives 6 3.2 Desk-Based Study 6 3.3 Field Survey 7 3.4 Evaluation Methods 7 3.5 Survey Constraints 8

4. Site Description 9 4.1 The Site 9 4.2 Site Context 9 4.3 Project Description 9

5. Results 10 5.1 Desk Study 10 5.2 Field Survey 10

6. Interpretation, Advice and Recommendations 18 6.1 Overall Conclusion of Site Ecological Value 18 6.2 Protected Sites 18 6.3 Habitats 18 6.4 Protected Species 20

7. References 23

Figures Figure 1 Plan displaying the survey site 2 Figure 2 Amenity grassland at Sandygate looking north 11 Figure 3 Stands of white clover Trifolium repens within the sward 11 Figure 4 Area of tall grasses to the north of the site 12 Figure 5 Short perennial vegetation to the edge of the amenity grassland,

between the anti vehicle boundary (bottom right of picture) 12 Figure 6 Short perennial vegetation along the chain link fence to the

eastern boundary of the site 13 Figure 7 Tall ruderal species in the south west corner of the site. 13 Figure 8 Path and seating area in the centre of the site 14 Figure 9 Crevices in wall to the south western corner of the site 15 Figure 10 Structure to the north western edge of the site 15 Figure 11 Example crevice on the structure to the north west of the site 15 Figure 12 Peacock butterfly Inachis io larvae feeding on stinging nettle

Utrica dioca 7 Figure 13 East side of structure to the north west of the site 8

Sandygate July 2013

Contents

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Figure 14 Crevices in the wall suitable for roosting bats 8 Figure 15 Crevices in wall suitable for roosting bats 9 Figure 16 Crevices in wall suitable for roosting bats 9 Figure 17 Crevices in wall suitable for roosting bats 9 Figure 18 Crevices in wall suitable for roosting bats 10 Figure 19 Crevices in wall in the south western corner of the site 10

Tables

Table 1 Summary of local and nationally important habitats found on site

(JNCC, 2011) 16 Table 2 Summary of local and nationally important species found locally 17 Table 3 Species present within the area of short perennials at target note 1 5 Table 4 Tall ruderal species present and species that have colonised the

wall 5 Table 5 species present within the sward of the amenity grassland 6 Table 6. Species present in the area of long grasses to the north of the

site. Error! Bookmark not defined.

Appendices Appendix A Wildlife Legislation

Appendix B Desk study and Data Search

Appendix C Phase 1 Habitat Map

Appendix D Target Notes

Appendix E Additional Site Photographs

Appendix F Planting Recommendations

Sandygate 4 March 2013

1/ Summary

1

1. Summary

Capita Symonds Ecologists (Blackburn) have been commissioned to undertake an

extended phase 1 habitat survey of Sandygate, Burnley (SD 83505 32606).

An extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was undertaken on the 4th July 2013. This report details

the findings of the survey and provides an ecological baseline of the habitats present on site

and an assessment of the likelihood of protected or otherwise notable species to be present.

The habitats within the proposed development site predominantly comprise amenity grassland,

tall ruderal species, short perennials, built structures and hard standing.

The habitats that are considered to be of most conservation value comprise:

The wall to the rear of the site (for roosting bats)

Amenity grassland (for foraging bats and invertebrates)

Tall grasses (for foraging bats and invertebrate species)

Short perennial vegetation (for foraging bats and invertebrate species)

Further bat surveys are recommended to establish the presence of bat and bat roost within the

the stone structures on site . April and October

General recommendations to retain or enhance the biodiversity value of the site include:

The creation of areas of species-rich grassland;

The use of sympathetic lighting to reduce light pollution (Fure, 2006);

The placement of bat and bird boxes on appropriate structures across the site;

The use of native and wildlife friendly plants and shrubs in ornamental borders;


2/ Introduction

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2. Introduction

2.1 Background

Capita Symonds Ecologists, Blackburn, were commissioned in July 2013 by Barnfield

Construction to undertake an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of Sandygate Site to support a

planning application.

2.2 Survey Site

The site is located at the junction of Sandygate and Neptune Street, Burnley, central Grid

Reference SD 83505 32606.

Figure 1 Plan displaying the survey site


2/ Introduction

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2.3 Legislation and Planning Policy

2.3.1 Legislation Certain habitats and species are subject to protection as laid out in the Wildlife & Countryside

Act 1981 (as amended) and/or the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as

amended). The following legislation lists the protected site and species that apply to the

Sandygate site.

For a summary of the offences relevant under each Act refer to Appendix A.

The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

o Bats

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010

o Bats

Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006

o Section 40 of NERC Act places a statutory duty on public bodies, such as local

authorities, that “every public body must, in exercising its functions have regard, so

far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of

conserving biodiversity”.

o Section 41 of the NERC Act requires the Secretary of State to draw up a list of

Habitats and Species of Principal Importance which should be used to guide

decision-makers (which include local authorities) in implementing their duty under

Section 40. This will apply to Burnley Borough Council under their Environmental

Strategy set out in Section 7 of the Adopted Local Plan (Burnley Borough Council,

2006) .

2.3.2 Planning Policy In March 2012 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published and replaces

the previous detailed Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9) (ODPM, 2005) although the guidance

document “Planning for Biodiversity and Geological Conservation: A Guide to Good Practice”

ODPM 06/2005 has not been replaced by the Framework.

The NPPF promotes plan-making and decision-taking with a presumption in favour of

sustainable development. Sustainable development is achieved where developments are

designed to address the mutually dependent threads of sustainability: economic, social and

environmental needs.


2/ Introduction

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In terms of biodiversity, sustainable development should not only achieve no net loss of

biodiversity but incorporate proposals that achieve net gains for nature alongside the

other social and economic needs of society.

Protected sites and species are a material consideration in determining planning applications,

therefore all information relating to protected sites and species must be submitted with planning

submissions for determination of the whole application. The NPPF promotes the approval of

plans where applications can demonstrate that they are in accordance with up-to-date Local

Plans and have addressed material considerations.

In accordance with the Adopted Burnley Local Plan (Burnley Borough Council, 2006) the

following local planning policies are relevant to the Sandygate site.

E3 – WILDLIFE LINKS AND CORRIDORS

Development will not be permitted where it would sever, or significantly detract from the function

of Wildlife Links and Corridors.

E4 – PROTECTION OF OTHER FEATURES OF ECOLOGICAL VALUE

Features of ecological value and potential such as ponds, hedgerows, dry stone walls and

watercourses and their associated corridors will be safeguarded wherever possible by requiring

their retention in new development. Proposals should take advantage of opportunities to create

new wildlife habitats where these can be included as part of a site layout and landscaping

schemes.

E5 – SPECIES PROTECTION

The presence of a protected species will be a material consideration in determining any

planning application Development that would affect sites supporting species protected by law

will not be permitted unless

.

(a) adequate provision is made within the proposed development to avoid disturbance to the

species and habitat in question; or

(b) adequate provision is made, by way of planning conditions or agreements, to:

i. facilitate the survival of the individual species affected;

ii. reduce the disturbance to a minimum; and

iii. provide adequate alternative habitats to sustain the viability of the local population of

that species.

E7 – WATER BODIES AND WATER COURSES

Proposals adjacent to the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, the Rivers Brun and Calder, reservoirs,

ponds, streams and other water features will not be permitted where the existing water quality,

amenity, recreation, nature conservation and wildlife value is adversely affected, unless suitable

mitigating measures are taken to avoid or minimise damage.


2/ Introduction

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2.3.3 Biodiversity Policy

Section 41 (S41) of the NERC Act 2006 requires the Secretary of State to publish a list of

habitats and species which are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in

England. This list is the up-to-date list of Habitats of Principal Importance or Species of

Principal Importance requiring action in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) and is used as a

guide to decision makers such as pubic bodies (including planning authorities) to implement

their duty of having regard to biodiversity when carrying out their functions.

Local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) have also been written and adopted to develop plans for

species of nature conservation importance at regional and local levels. The Lancashire

Biodiversity Action Plan covers the Burnley area in which the survey site is located.


3/ Methods

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3. Methods

3.1 Survey and Report Objectives

1. To undertake a desk-based study of the proposed development area in order to establish

whether there were records of habitats of importance (on a local, regional, national or

international scale);

2. To undertake a field survey of the site to detail existing habitats and to assess whether

the habitats on site have the potential to support protected or otherwise notable species;

3. To evaluate the ecological value of the survey site and identify opportunities for

enhancement.

4. To provide advice and guidance in respect of the need for further appropriate surveys,

mitigation and enhancement proposals that will enable the development to proceed in full

compliance with relevant wildlife and nature conservation legislation.

3.2 Desk-Based Study

A desk-based study was undertaken in order to support the field survey and to establish the

presence of protected species or habitats of importance on and within a 2 km radius of the site.

MAGIC online resources were accessed for information on UK and European protected sites

and important sites including:

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Special Protected Areas (SPA)

Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)

Ramsar sites

National Nature Reserves (NNR)

Local Nature Reserves (LNR)

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

Ancient Semi-natural Woodland (ASNW)

Mapped Biodiversity Priority Habitats

.


3/ Methods

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The following sources were also reviewed:

UK Biodiversity Action Plan

Lancashire Biodiversity Action Plan

Burnley Borough Council Local Plan

The above resources and Ordnance Survey maps were studied to locate any ponds or water

bodies within 500m of the site.

3.3 Field Survey

The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was carried out by Ecologist, Karen Nolan, on 4th July

2013. The survey involved undertaking a detailed walkover across the site marked by the red

line boundary at Appendix C. Observations of flora and fauna along with location and extent of

habitats were noted. The site and its habitats were also assessed for their potential to support

protected species.

The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was conducted in accordance with the guidelines set out

in the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC 2010). The extent of each observed habitat

was and is mapped at Appendix C. Photographs are included in this report to illustrate the

habitats descriptions.

3.4 Evaluation Methods

The ecological value of the site is evaluated against the following criteria:

Presence of statutory and non statutory protected sites on or adjacent to the site

Presence or likely presence of protected species on or adjacent to the site

Presence of Species or Habitats of Principal Importance and UK and Local

Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Habitats and Species on or adjacent to the site

Habitat quality and condition

Habitat and landscape connectivity, and

Presence of non-native and invasive species.


3/ Methods

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The potential impacts of land use change on the nature conservation value of the site are

assessed using these criteria together with an ecological judgement of the likely impacts on

habitats and species of ecological value identified through desk-based study and field survey.

3.5 Survey Constraints

Observations were limited to a single visit in June. Limiting the survey period to a visit in any

one month in the year does not take account of plant growth through the year. It is possible that

a small number of flowering vascular plant species would not have been evident during the

survey.

Observations were limited to a daytime inspection of the wall to identify evidence of the

presence of bats. External field signs of bats can be lost over time due to weathering and damp

conditions.

Because of the time constraints placed on this survey it was not possible to obtain protected

and notable species records for the site and surrounding areas.


4/ Site Description

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4. Site Description

4.1 The Site

The site is located on land at the junction of Sandygate and Neptune Street in the ‘Weaver’s

Triangle’ area of Burnley. The site is in a conservation area within the town centre and is

surrounded by an urban mosaic of buildings and derelict land. To the south west of the site is

the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The site was formerly the site of weaver’s sheds which were

demolished some time after the 1960s. More recently the site has been landscaped with paths

and seating areas and the grass areas seeded. The site consists mainly of amenity grassland

which is mown short. There are some areas of long grasses, tall ruderal species and short

perennial vegetation to the edges of the site which have been allowed to develop in the

absence of mowing.

4.2 Site Context

The site is set in an urban mosaic comprising industrial units, derelict land and listed former mill

buildings close to the town centre of Burnley. The Leeds and Liverpool canal provides

connectivity to the wider landscape.

4.3 Project Description

The proposed development is for public realm improvements. This will include the construction

of a bridge and extensive hard landscaping of the site.


5/ Results

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5. Results

5.1 Desk Study

5.1.1 Protected Sites

There are no statutory or non-statutory protected sites within 2 km of the Sandygate site.

5.1.2 Ancient Woodlands

There is 1 semi natural ancient woodland located 1.69km north of the survey site.

5.1.3 Wildlife Corridors/Landscape Connections

There are no formally designated wildlife links or corridors situated within 2km of the survey

site. However the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which borders the west of the survey site, is

classed as a wildlife link and corridor in the Burnley Local Plan under policy E3.

5.1.4 Waterbodies

No ponds have been found within 500m of the survey site. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal

immediately borders the survey site to the west.

5.1.5 Protected Species

5.1.5.1 BATS

Although time constraints prevented a protected and notable species record search with the

Lancashire Environmental Record Network, other sources have identified several records of

bats within 2km of the site.

5.2 Field Survey

5.2.1 Habitats The habitats found within the site boundary have been assigned according to Phase 1 Habitat

descriptions as detailed in the Phase 1 Handbook (JNCC, 2003). The habitat map is presented

in Appendix C and habitat target notes in Appendix D.

5.2.1.1 AMENITY GRASSLAND

Amenity grassland is the primary habitat present at the survey site (Figure 2). A short sward is

maintained by regular mowing and consists of several grass species including, perennial rye

grass Lolium perenne, annual meadow grass Poa annua and Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus.

There is also occasional broadleaved species within the sward including selfheal Prunella

vulgaris, daisy Bellis perennis, buttercup Ranunculus sp., ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata

and cinquefoil Potentilla reptans. The grassland has several localised areas of white clover

Trifolium repens distributed across the site (Figure 3). Several species of bumble bee (LBAP


5/ Results

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species) were observed foraging on these patches during the survey, including red-tailed

bumblebee Bombus (Melanobombus) lapidaries and white tailed bumblebee Bombus lucorum.

A full species list is available in target note 3. The north western corner of the site is left un-

mown (target note 6) and an area of tall grasses has developed with a range of species

including annual meadow grass Poa annua, cock’s foot Dactylis glomerata, false oat grass

Arrhenatherum elatius and timothy. Phleum pratense as well as some broadleaved species

such as red clover Trifolium pratense, hedge bindweed Calystegia sepium and stinging nettle

Urtica dioca.

Figure 2 Amenity grassland at Sandygate looking north

Figure 3 Stands of white clover Trifolium repens within the sward


5/ Results

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Figure 4 Area of tall grasses to the north of the site

5.2.1.2 SHORT PERENNIAL VEGETATION

To the southern edge of the mown grass area is a low level anti-vehicle boundary consisting of

short wooden posts (Figure 5). An absence of mowing between these bollards has allowed a

more diverse plant community to develop. The edges around the rest of the site have similar

plant communities (Figure 6). These edge habitats are the most diverse on the site with 21

species recorded (target note 1) and include herb Robert Geranium robertianum, hop trefoil

Trifolium campestre, silverweed Potentilla anserine and wall speedwell Veronica arvenvis.

Figure 5 Short perennial vegetation to the edge of the amenity grassland, between the

anti vehicle boundary (bottom right of picture)


5/ Results

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Figure 6 Short perennial vegetation along the chain link fence to the eastern boundary of

the site

5.2.1.3 TALL RUDERAL SPECIES

In the south western corner of the site there is an area of tall ruderal species (target note 2). This

This area is not mown and has several broadleaved perennial species including rosebay

willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, curled dock Rumex crispus and dandelion Taraxacum

officinale agg. (

Figure 7). A full species list is given in target note 2.

Figure 7 Tall ruderal species in the south west corner of the site.


5/ Results

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5.2.1.4 HARD STANDING

There are several paths and seating areas on the site (Figure 8). These areas consist of a free

draining semi-porous surface of crushed stone or brick. Plant communities of short broad

leaved species and grasses have estasblished amongst the stone. A full species list is given in

target note 4.

Figure 8 Path and seating area in the centre of the site

5.2.1.5 WALLS AND STRUCTURES

There are structures on site. The first being a wall in the south western corner of the site,

(Figure 7 and target note 2); this wall has vegetation growing from several deep crevices

(Figure 9) including goat willow Salix caprea and rosebay willowherb

The larger structure to the north of the site is a thick wall that previously formed the corner of a

building (Figure 10 and target note 6). The structure is several metres thick with numerous

cracks and crevices present (Figure 11). Further images of the crevices in these structures are

provided in Appendix E.


5/ Results

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Figure 9 Crevices in wall to the south western corner of the site

Figure 10 Structure to the north western edge of the site

Figure 11 Example crevice on the structure to the north west of the site


5/ Results

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5.2.2 Biodiversity Habitats of Principal Importance Table 1 lists the habitats found within or adjacent to the site boundary and whether these

habitats are listed as Habitats of Principal Importance in England and as Priority Habitats under

the Lancashire Biodiversity Action Plan.

Table 1 Summary of local and nationally important habitats found on site (JNCC, 2011)

Broad Habitat Habitat of Principal

Importance

Lancashire

Biodiversity Action

Plan

Amenity grassland x Amenity Grassland &

Sports Fields

Short perennial

vegetation

x x

Tall ruderals x x

Hard standing x x

Walls and structures x New and existing built

structures

Listed as national/local Habitats of Principal Importance/BAP species

x Not listed as Habitats of Principal Importance/BAP species x.

5.2.3 Protected Species

5.2.3.1 BATS

No evidence of bats was found during the survey but the habitats within the proposed

development site boundary have the potential to support roosting and foraging bats. Both the

stone structures on site contain suitable features such as gaps and crevices and the rest of the

site supports a range of invertebrates making it suitable for foraging bats.

5.2.3.2 Nesting Birds

No birds were observed during the survey and no evidence of nesting birds was found on site.

There are scattered trees suitable for supporting nesting birds but these are located

immediately adjacent the development boundary (target note 7)

5.2.3.3 Invertebrates

5.2.4 Several bumble bees including red-tailed bumblebee Bombus (Melanobombus) lapidaries and white tailed bumblebee Bombus lucorum. were observed during the survey foraging on clover,. Non-Native Invasive Species

No invasive non-native species were identified on site during the field survey.


5/ Results

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5.2.5 Biodiversity Species of Principal Importance

Table 2 details the species of local and national importance which have the potential to occur

on or adjacent to the site and that are listed as Species of Principal Importance in England or as

Priority Species under the Lancashire Biodiversity Action Plan.

Table 2 Summary of local and nationally important species found locally

Species Species of

Principal

Importance

Lancashire

BAP

Bats Soprano

pipistrelle, brown

long eared

Song thrush

Common Starling x

House sparrow Urban bumble bees x

Urban

bumblebees

Listed as national/local BAP species , not listed as BAP species x.


6/ Interpretation, Advice and Recommendations

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6. Interpretation, Advice and Recommendations

Below is an interpretation of the value of the biodiversity found on site to date and

recommendations in respect of methods of working in order to limit the development’s impacts

on biodiversity. In addition, biodiversity enhancement measures are provided that, if adopted,

would contribute to the sustainability of the development in line with the National Planning

Policy Framework and the conservation of biodiversity locally.

6.1 Overall Conclusion of Site Ecological Value

The site’s biodiversity value is largely attributed to the following which is explained in further

detail in the following sections:

The presence of Lancashire BAP Priority Habitats: Amenity Grassland and Sports Fields

and New and Existing Built Structures.

The presence of roosting and foraging habitat for bats, a European Protected Species

The presence of foraging habitat for UK BAP species such song thrush, starling or house

sparrow

The potential to support a range of invertebrate species including Urban Bumblebees which

are the focus of a Lancashire Species Action Plan.

6.2 Protected Sites

There are no statutory protected sites within 2km of the site.

There is one semi natural ancient woodland located 1.69km north of the survey site, a UK BAP

Priority Habitat, lowland mixed deciduous woodland. The proposed development at Sandygate

will have no impact on this habitat.

6.3 Habitats

6.3.1 Amenity Grassland The dominant habitat on the Sandygate site is amenity grassland which is recognised as an

important urban habitat under the Lancashire BAP. Although managed by frequent mowing and

likely to be disturbed by trampling, it does provide foraging and shelter to a range of species

including invertebrates, birds and mammals. It also provides an important function as managed



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greenspace offering a resource to local people to utilise alongside contributing to local wildlife

corridors. The Lancashire BAP aims to maintain, enhance and raise awareness of the

biodiversity potential of playing fields, amenity greenspace and sports fields.

The majority of amenity grassland will be lost by the proposed development, in order to offset

some this loss and minimise impact the following is recommended:

As much grassland should be retained or replanted within the development design as

possible. This could in the form of grasslands within the open space of the

development.

Where grassland is retained a less intensive mowing regime should be adopted which

will, over time, increase the diversity of the grassland. For example:

o Two cuts per year in early Spring and late summer

o Remove all arisings from the grassland after approximately one week

Where grassland is to be re-created a higher species-mix should be included including

species such as those listed below (refer to Appendix F for a fuller species list).

o Crested dog’s tail Cynosurus cristatus

o Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus

o Common knapweed Centaurea nigra

o Red clover Trifolium pratensis

o Lesser bird’s foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus

o Rough hawkbit Leontodon hispidus

o Tormentil Potentilla erecta

o Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata

o Self heal Prunella vulgaris

o Yarrow Achillea millefolium

o Yellow rattle Rhinanthus minor

If grassland such as this is created it will need to be managed as listed above as more

intensive mowing will limit the ability of these species to flower and set seed which,

over time, reduces the species-diversity within the sward.

6.3.1.1 TALL RUDERAL SPECIES

In the south western corner of the site tall ruderals have developed with an absence of mowing

This habitat is not recognised as Habitat of Principal Importance for biodiversity but does

support a range of invertebrates. Management of grassland areas post development should

include areas left un-cut to replace resources for invertebrates.



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6.3.1.2 SHORT PERENNIAL VEGETATION

Short perennial vegetation occurs along narrow edges of the site.This habitat is not recognised

as a important in its own right but did contain a high number of species due to less frequent

cutting. Management and creation of grassland areas post development should adopt

recommendations above to reduce the loss of species diversity on the site.

6.3.1.3 HARD STANDING

The hardstanding on the survey site is of little importance to biodiversity. Management and

creation of grassland areas post development should adopt recommendations above to reduce

the loss of species diversity on the site.

6.3.1.4 WALLS AND STRUCTURES

Both the structures on the site provide suitable roosting habitat for bats, European Protected

Species see section 6.4.1.

6.4 Protected Species

6.4.1 Bats

No field signs of bats or bats themselves were observed during the survey. However the site

does have suitable features within the stone structures to support bat roosts, and the existing

habitats within the site are likely to provide l foraging habitat for bat species..

If these structures are to be demolished or maintained at any time further checks for the

presence of bats should be made.It is recommended that a bat survey is undertaken of the

existing structures, to identify any existing or potential bat roosts. In addition, emergence and

activity surveys may be necessary where potential for roosting bats is identified.

If a bat roost is present or thought to be present, more detailed surveys may be required in

order to gain sufficient information to support an application to Natural England for a European

Protected Species (EPS) licence (to be undertaken May to September).

In order to conserve a foraging resource for local bat populations and enhance the roosting

opportunities the following measures that if adopted within the scheme would benefit bat

populations

Potential new bat roosting features could be incorporated within any new build on the

site such as the installation of integrated, self-contained pre-fabricated bat tubes, bat

boxes or bat bricks Any lighting to be incorporated within the development of the site



21

should be designed to avoid disturbance to bats that are likely to forage across the site

and any new features incorporated within the development for bats as listed below:

o Low level directional lighting only should be used across the site

o The use of LED lighting or low-pressure sodium lamps with UV filters

o Limiting the height of lighting columns to less than 8 metres

o The use of cowls, hoods to increase directionality of light spill to an angle less than

70o

o Limiting the times lighting is used to create dark periods throughout the night

o Screening lighting with vegetation to create dark areas outside areas used by

residents/pedestrians (Fure, 2006).

The creation of additional natural habitats for foraging and commuting bats, including

native hedgerows and native scattered tree and scrub planting. Climbing plants should

also be planted to create additional biodiversity resources for invertebrates and bats.

Suitable species are listed below:

o Honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum

o Ivy Hedera helix

o Jasmine Jasminium officinale

o Dog rose Rosa canina

o Field rose Rosa arvensis

6.4.2 Nesting Birds

There are no suitable habitats present with the development boundary for nesting birds but

there are scattered trees immediately adjacent with potential to support nesting birds. Should

any of these trees be removed in the future they should avoid the breeding season (March to

August) or checks for the presence of nesting birds prior to any removal should be made by an

experienced ecologist. If they are present works must stop until nesting has finished and any

young reared have fledged.

6.4.3 Invertebrates

The amenity grassland, short perennial and areas of tall ruderals have the potential to support a

range of invertebrates. Several species of bumblebee (LBAP species) were observed foraging

on the site during the survey, including red-tailed bumble bee Bombus (Melanobombus)

lapidaries and white tailed bumblebee Bombus lucorum.,these are Priority Species under the

Lancashire BAP. As a significant proportion of these habitats will be lost during the



22

development, the grassland recommendations (6.3.1) above should be followed, and use of

native species in ornamental borders and planting should be considered to further enhance the

site’s ecological value post-development and to provide further important habitats for

invertebrates.


7/ References

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7. References

Burnley Borough Council, 2006. Burnley Local Plan Second Review - 2006, Burnley : Burnley

Borough Council.

Department for Communities and Local Government , 2005. Circular06/05: Biodiversity and

Geological Conservation - Statutory Obligations and Their Impact within the Planning System,

Norwich : The Stationary Office.

Department for Communities and Local Government, 2010. Code for Sustainable Homes -

Technical Guidance, London: Riba Publishing .

Department of Communities and Local Government, 2012. National Planning Policy Framework,

Norwich : The Stationary Office .

Fure, A., 2006. Bats and Lighting. The London Naturalist, Volume 85.

JNCC, 2003. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: A technique for environmental audit. 3rd ed.

Peterborough: Joint Nature Conservation Committee .

JNCC, 2011. UK BAP list of priority habitats. [Online]

Available at: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-5706

[Accessed July 2013].

MAGIC, 2008. Multi-agency Geographic Information for the Countryside. [Online]

Available at: http://www.magic.gov.uk/website/magic/

[Accessed July 2013].

ODPM, 2005. Planning Policy Statement 9 - Biological and Geological Conservation , Norwich:

The Stationary Office.

Sandygate 2 July 2013

Appendix A

1

Appendix A Wildlife Legislation The following has been produced as a guide, to outline possible offences that could occur

during development. For a definitive list of all species of flora and fauna, and a full interpretation

you should refer to relevant Acts listed below.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

Schedule 1

Applies to all wild birds where it is an offence:

to kill, injure or take any wild bird (subject to certain exceptions)

to take, damage or destroy a nest whilst it is in use or being built

to take or destroy the egg of any wild bird.

It is also an offence to disturb any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside

Act 1981 (as amended):

while it is nest building

at a nest containing eggs or young

disturbs the dependant young of any such bird.

A.1.2 Schedule 5

For animals fully protected under Schedule 5 which includes, all bats. It is an offence:

to intentionally kill or injure or take

to intentionally or recklessly damage or destroy or obstruct access to any structure or

place which a species uses for shelter or protection, at any time even if the animal is

not there.

to intentionally or recklessy disturb whilst it is occupying a place which it uses for

shelter or protection.

to obstruct access to any structure or place which an animal uses for shelter or

protection.

A.2 The Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations 2010

Schedule 2 applies to all European Protected Species (EPS) which includes all bat species, the

protection afforded is overlapping but separate from the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as

amended)

It is an offence:

to deliberately capture, injure or kill

to deliberately disturb


Appendix A

2

to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a EPS ; this applies whether

species are present or not.

In order to permit a development where the above offences to a European Protected Species

are likely to be committed, a European Protected Species Licence can be obtained from Natural

England where appropriate mitigation is offered to offset the negative impacts to local

populations.


Appendix B

3

Appendix B Desk study and Data Search

B.1 Protected Sites

B.1.1 Protected sites (JNCC, 2011)

Distance (km) Site Designation Direction

1.69km Semi natural ancient

woodland

BAP North


Appendix C

4

Appendix C Phase 1 Habitat Map See attached PDF


Appendix D

5

Appendix D Target Notes

D.1 Target Note 1

Target note 1 is an area with a hardcore layer where short perennial species have developed

due to an absence of mowing. Similar communities exist along the adjacent chain link fences to

the east and north of the site.

Table 3 Species present within the area of short perennials at target note 1

Common name Latin name Abundance

Broadleaved willowherb Epilobium montanum F

Bush vetch Vicia sepium O

Buttercup Ranunculus sp. O

Common vetch Vicia sativa O

Daisy Bellis perennis O

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. O

Groundsel Senecio vulgaris O

Herb Robert Geranium robertianum R

Hop trefoil Trifolium campestre O

Lesser trefoil Trifolium dubium R

Ragwort Senecio jacobaea O

Red clover Trifolium pratense O

Red fescue Festuca rubra R

Sheppard’s purse Capsella bursa-pastoris O

Silverweed Potentilla anserine O

Wall speedwell Veronica arvensis R

White clover Trifolium repens F

Wild turnip Brassica rapa R

Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus F

Hawkweed Hieracium agg F

Total number of species 21

D.2 Target Note 2

Area of tall ruderal species in the south west corner of the site which have developed in an

absence of mowing. The wall to boundary has potential to support roosting bats in the crevices

present. Species present are listed in Table 4 Tall ruderal species present and species that

have colonised the wallTable 4.

Table 4 Tall ruderal species present and species that have colonised the wall

Common name Latin name Abundance Bramble Rubus fructicosus R

Broad leaved willowherb Epilobium montanum F

Buttercup Ranunculus sp. O

Cleavers Galium aparine F


Appendix D

6

Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense O


False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius F

Goat willow Salix caprea R

Great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum O

Groundsel Senecio vulgaris O

Hawkweed Hieracium agg F

Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata F

Rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium F

Sow-thistle Sonchus arvensis O


D.3 Target Note 3

Large area of amenity grassland, the most dominant habitat type on the Sandygate site.

Species present within the sward are listed in Table 5

Table 5 species present within the sward of the amenity grassland

Common name Latin name Abundance Annual meadow grass Poa annua F

Birds foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus R

Buttercup Ranunculus sp. F

Creeping cinquefoil Potentilla reptans R

Cock’s foot Dactylis glomerata F

Common vetch Vicia sativa R

Daisy Bellis perennis O


False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius F

Greater plantain Plantago major O

Hedge bindweed Calystegia sepium O

Hop trefoil Trifolium campestre F

Lesser trefoil Trifolium dubium F

Perenial rye grass Lolium perenne F

Ragwort Senecio jacobaea O

Red clover Trifolium pratense O

Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata O

Selfheal Prunella vulgaris O

Stinging nettle Urtica dioca F

Timothy Phleum pratense O

White clover Trifolium repens F

Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus F



Appendix D

7

D.4 Target Note 4

Areas of pathways and seating areas. These have hardcore to the base consisting of crushed

stone or brick, species present are similar to those listed in Table 3.

D.5 Target Note 6

Area of tall grasses and broadleaved species to the north western corner of the site which have

developed in an absence of mowing. Species present are included in table 5. This area is likely

to support a range of invertebrate species, including peacock butterfly Inachis io larvae which

were observed on site during the survey

Figure 12 Peacock butterfly Inachis io larvae feeding on stinging nettle Utrica dioca

D.6 Target note 7

Habitats for this area have been mapped but are not included in the advice provided in Section

6. These habitats do not form part of the current proposals. Semi mature goat willows are

present in the area to the north of the site boundary (see Appendix C) and do provide a

resource for nesting birds. Should this section to the north of the redline boundary be affected,

further advice should be sought from a suitably qualified ecologist.


Appendix E

8

Appendix E Additional Site Photographs E.1 Structures providing potential roosting opportunities for bats

Figure 13 East side of structure to the north west of the site

Figure 14 Crevices in the wall suitable for roosting bats


Appendix E

9

Figure 15 Crevices in wall suitable for roosting bats



6


Appendix E

10


Figure 19 Crevices in wall in the south western corner of the site


Appendix F

11

Appendix F Planting Recommendations In order to enhance the broadleaved, coniferous scattered trees and hedgerows, the planting of a herb

rich field layer is recommended.

Species to consider include those found in the British Seed House WFG 8 seed mix:

Upright hedge parsley (Torilis japonica)

Slender creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra ssp litoralis)

Ramsons (Allium ursinum)

Travellers joy (Clematis vitalba)

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Perforate st johns wort (Hypericum perforatum)

White campion (Silene alba)

Red campion (Silene dioica)

Greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea)

Wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia)

Wood avens (Geum urbanum)

Hedge woundwort (Stachys sylvatica)

Crested dogs tail (Cynosurus cristatus)

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea)

Recommended shrub and tree species to incorporate into the hedge include;

Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Yew (Taxus baccata)

Bramble (Rubus fructicosus)

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Dogrose (Rosa canina)

In order to contribute towards the UK and local Biodiversity Action Plan, lowland meadows, plant species

have been recommended. The inclusion of these species over amenity grassland in parts of the

proposed development, will also ensure credits for Eco 4 are gained.

Mg5 grassland (infertile grassland)

Slender creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra ssp litoralis)

Crested dogs tail (Cynosurus cristatus)

Common bent (Agrostis capillaries)

Sweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum)

Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata)

Selfheal (Prunella vulgaris)

Bulbous buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus)


Appendix F

12

Yarrow (Acheillea millefolium)

Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris)

Agrimony (Agrimony)

Ox eye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)

Rough hawkbit (Leontodon hispidus)

Meadow vetchling (Lathyris pratensis)

Devils bit scabious (Succisa pratensis)

Tufted vetch (Vicia cracca)

Cowslip (Primula veris)

Pignut (Conopdium majus)

Cats ear (Hypochoeris radicata)

Capita Symonds Ltd

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Fax +44 (0)1254 273559 www.capitasymonds.com

sandygate - burnley.gov.uk

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