the natural environment of the parish of thorpe on the...

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The Natural Environment of the Parish of Thorpe on the Hill

A wild primrose in the ancient Tunman Wood

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Contents Introduction page 3

Section 1 Species page 4

Section 2 Habitats page 5

Section 3 Biodiversity page 16

Section 4 Natural England Character Area page 17

Section 5 Green Space/Important Green Zones page 18

Section 6 North Kesteven Landscape Character Assessment page 19

Section 7 Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Assessment (CLGIA) page 23

Section 8 The Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Network page 26

Section 9 Agriculture page 27

Section 10 Footpaths, Bridleways, Cycle Paths and Quiet Lanes page 28

Section 11 Flooding page 30

Section 12 Climate Change page 32

Section 13 Renewable Energy page 32

Section 14 Tourism page 32

Thanks page 33

The Natural Environment and the Neighbourhood Plan page 34

References page 38

Questions page 41

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The Natural Environment of the Parish of Thorpe on the Hill

Introduction Although very little, if anything, can be considered as truly natural, the residents of Thorpe on the Hill care very much about the significant green (agricultural and semi-natural) and blue (fresh water) surroundings that make up a large part of this picturesque parish. In addition, the position of the village affords its residents large sky views with the potential for beautiful sunsets and sunrises at any time of year. The parish can boast a significant portion of Whisby Nature Park, but it must be recognised that this is only a small part of the incredibly biodiverse parish. As well as this popular visitor attraction, there are fresh water lakes, Local Wildlife Sites (LWS), 1 Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI), Ancient Woodland, a small Traditional Orchard, Historic Grassland and the following Priority Habitats (Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership designation): 9.18 Ha of Lowland Meadow, 41.12 Ha of Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland, 0.79 Ha of Reed Beds, 0.08 Ha of Wet Woodland. In addition, there is a good sized church yard where a biodiverse range of species

is to be expected. Thorpe on the Hill and its green surroundings

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Section 1 Species The Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership (GLNP) Environmental Records Centre shows that the following 2770 species have been recorded in the area, although some are rare sitings. Acarine (mites) (43); Amphibian (5); Annelid (segmented worms) (8); Birds (243); Bony Fish (7); Crustacean (10); False Scorpion (1); Flatworm (1); Flowering Plants (11); Fungus (429); Harvestman (4); Insect - Alderfly (1); Insect - Beetle (342); Insect - Butterfly (30); Insect - Caddis Fly (8); Insect - Dragonfly (25); Insect - Earwig (1); Insect - Hymenopteran (saw flies, wasps, bees, ants) (161); Insect - Lacewing (2); Insect - Mayfly (4); Insect - Moth (610); Insect - Orthopteran (grasshoppers and crickets) (8); Insect - Scorpion Fly (3); Insect - Thrips (8); Insect - True Bug (86); Insect - True Fly (412); Lichen (4); Liverwort (13); Mollusc (57); Moss (91); Reptile (4); Slime Mould (16); Spider (86); Springtail (1); Terrestrial Mammal (35). In addition, they have records of the following European Protected Species (Regulation 41 of The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010)): Common Pipistrelle; Great Crested Newt; European Otter; Nathusius's Pipistrelle; Soprano Pipistrelle; Daubenton's Bat; Noctule Bat; Brown Long-eared Bat (other UK protected species have also been recorded in the area)

A recent display board of the birds recorded at Whisby Nature Park

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Section 2 Habitats Part 1 Listed Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) and Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI) The following information is taken from the Non-Statutory Site Citations data files of the GLNP.

LWS- Hykeham Railway Line, Whisby Nature Park (Running along the northern edge) Grid ref: SK902664 – SK919669 Survey: 18 September 2008 Area: 3.2 ha Surveyor: B.Nicholson Main habitat: Ruderal Additional habitat: Neutral grassland, scrub Additional features: Fallen dead wood, deep ditches A section of active railway line running through Whisby Nature Park. Access was restricted due to safety considerations and the site was viewed from adjacent land - mainly from the southern side of the line. The railway is very slightly embanked in this section, though much of the ballast that makes up the embankment is bare of vegetation. Vegetation cover is largely concentrated in a narrow (c.1-2 m wide) belt on both sides of the railway, adjacent to the fenceline. This mainly comprises bramble, scrub and tall ruderal vegetation, including species such as rosebay willowherb, nettle, field horsetail and, occasionally, common hemp-nettle. There are also some small patches of semi-improved neutral grassland vegetation dominated by false oat-grass, couch and other tall coarse grass species. Occasional patches of shorter turf occur and feature species such as common bent, sheep’s sorrel, cat’s-ear, common cudweed and, at grid reference SK912666, harebell. Also of note was a rather late flowering changing forget-me-not. Occasional shrubs and trees occur on the fenceline, including silver birch, pedunculate oak, hawthorn, gorse and hazel. To the west of a footbridge that crosses the railway, the vegetation becomes quite sparse, not least in part due to shading from adjacent woodland. There are however a few semi-mature oak trees on the lineside in this section. A short section of ditch occurs adjacent to the southern boundary towards the eastern end of the section. Although heavily overgrown with bramble, great willowherb, nettle and other tall ruderals, this does support some wetland species including bulrush, angelica, meadowsweet, fool’s watercress, water forget-me-not and gipsywort. Fauna noted included magpie, jay and willow tit. Criteria passed: Mos1(HE2, Sw2), Mos2 Recommended as a Local Wildlife Site: 10 September 2009 LWS- Ski World, Whisby Pits Complex Grid ref: SK915662 Survey: 11 September 2009 Area: 25.2 ha Surveyor: A.Prendergast Main habitat: Standing water

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Additional habitat: Acid grassland, Improved grassland Additional features: Planted specimen trees, Tussocky vegetation, Seasonally wet/damp areas Three eutrophic lakes (flooded gravel pits) dominated by Canadian pondweed Elodea canadensis and, at the time of survey a significant amount of blanketweed Cladophora glomerata with smaller amounts of fennel-leaved pondweed Potamogeton pectinatus and curled pondweed Potamogeton crispus. The larger of the lakes is used for waterskiing and as such suffers from minor chemical pollution. The two smaller lakes are also used for recreational activities. Marginal species present on the edges of the lakes include yellow flag Iris pseudacorus, gypsywort Lycopus europaeus, water mint Mentha aquatica, celery-leaved buttercup Ranunculus sceleratus, clustered dock Rumex conglomeratus, water figwort Scrophularia auriculata, bulrush Typha latifolia and brooklime Veronica beccabunga. Much of the surrounding land is managed as a caravan and camping site with large areas of improved grassland and amenity planting, however remnants of the original heath/dry grassland survive in very limited areas. Species present in these areas include yarrow Achillea millefolium, sheep’s fescue Festuca ovina, red fescue Festuca rubra, perforate St john’s wort Hypericum perforatum, cat’s-ear Hypochaeris radicata and cowslip Primula veris. Gorse Ulex europaeus is occasional. The site presents ample opportunity for re-creation of heathland habitat. Various cultivated heathers have been planted as part of the landscaping. Incidental records of fauna from the site include coot Fulica atra, moorhen Gallinula chloropus, mallard Anas platyrhynchos, wren Troglodytes troglodytes, whirligig beetles Gyrinus sp. and small tortoiseshell Aglais urticae Criterion passed: Sta2 Recommended as a Local Wildlife Site: 24 March 2010 LWS - Tunman Wood (There is an additional entry for Tunman Wood) Grid ref: SK887649 Survey: 3 September 2008 Area: 38.2 ha Surveyor: C.Stevenson Main habitat: Woodland Additional habitat: Standing water, dense scrub, bracken Additional features: Planted specimen trees, standing/fallen dead wood, seasonally wet/damp areas, ditches A managed woodland which showed the usual mosaic of high forest trees, cleared areas largely covered with scrub and invading saplings, and intermediate stands. As a consequence investigation of the forest floor was possible in places, and elsewhere either difficult or impossible due to brashings and brambles. Most of the areas which were open to investigation had a relatively poor ground flora, due to a combination of deep shade or heavy litter fall. The previous survey in 1977 noted that beech and conifer plantations were being interplanted into areas previously occupied by coppice. These blocks are now much

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more mature. Other blocks have clearly been felled some time ago, but not replanted and are now impenetrable due to sapling and bramble growth. Those areas which are still relatively open are currently dominated by tall ruderal herb and grass communities of little interest. The rides were the most productive areas floristically, though most of the species concerned were common ruderals. Some of the more interesting plants included heath speedwell, hairy St John’s-wort, whorled mint, garden alchemilla and creeping jenny. There were also a couple of sedges present. Some of the rides, on the heavier clay soil were very wet, and species such as tufted hair-grass and water-pepper were not infrequent, along with creeping bent, floating sweet-grass, etc. On the side of one of these damp rutted rides the moss Pseudephemerum nitidum was found – new to Vice County 53. Several of the plants listed on the previous survey were not refound, e.g. bugle, lords and ladies, water avens and wood anemone. However, they are most probably still there but were not located due to the season, chance, and inclement weather conditions. Fauna noted included rabbit, grey squirrel, muntjac, a pair of buzzards, and speckled wood butterfly. Criteria passed: WD1a, WD2 Recommended as a Local Wildlife Site: 23 June 2009 LWS - Whisby Nature Park, Whisby Pits Complex (not all in Thorpe Parish) (There is an additional entry for Whisby Nature Park) Grid ref: SK915662 Survey: 27 July, 25 September 2008 22 July 2010 Area: 110.6 ha Surveyor: T.Inskipp, A.Prendergast Main habitat: Standing water, Woodland, Dense scrub Additional habitat: Wet woodland, Neutral grassland, Acid grassland/ Heathland, Marsh, Ditches/drains, Reedbed, Grazing marsh, Ruderal Additional features: Standing/fallen dead wood, Tussocky vegetation, Abundant nectar sources, Structural diversity, Bare ground, Steep slopes, South-facing slopes, Areas with frequent/prolonged flooding, Seasonally wet/damp areas, Hummocky ground, Educational potential A large Local Nature Reserve, opened in 1989, and located about 7 miles SW of Lincoln, north of the village of Thorpe on the Hill. The site is well recorded - the current survey therefore concentrated on gaining an overview of the site for comparison with other potential local wildlife sites. Whisby Nature Park comprises a complex of small, medium and large flooded gravel pits which have now become ‘greened’ by nearly 40 years of natural colonisation. There is only one significant flowing stream, the Pike Drain, a small agricultural channel that runs east-west across the southern part of the Park. Some former pits have been used as sediment lagoons and now support wet willow scrub. Of these, one has subsequently

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been cleared and developed into clay grassland, and others are undergoing systematic coppicing to maintain more open scrub conditions. The majority remain as ‘non-intervention’ areas. Dense willow and birch scrub occurs over wide areas in the north on spoil between the pits. This is gradually developing tall canopy scrub resembling woodland. A small oak woodland of some maturity lies alongside a railway crossing. Near to the sites of former gravel works there are very dry, open expanses of gravel-pit waste that, over time, are developing interesting plant communities. Some more orthodox grasslands, both dry and wet, support a variety of flowering plants, and the richest of these is the Orchid Glade. The ‘Sandhills’ area of Whisby Nature Park is an area of old sand spoil heaps with slack areas and small pits. Calcicole species grow alongside calcifuge species, presumably due to the mixing of the substrate during excavation of the pits. The main grasses in this area are creeping bent and false oat grass. Ruderal species such as mugwort and creeping thistle are frequent. However, the flora is good and includes frequent yellow wort, common centaury, common stork’s-bill, ladies bedstraw and cat’s-ear. Broom is occasional. The area has damper hollows where downy birch, hairy wood-rush, tufted hair-grass and wood small reed occur occasionally. The moss Politrchum formosum is frequent and various species of fungi were recorded in this area including Coprinus atramentarius, Clitocybe dealbata, Collybia butyracea, Russula emetica, Helvella lacunosa, Leccinum versipelle and Lycoperdon perlatum. Additional important taxa previously recorded in this area but not recorded during this survey include maiden pink, pyramidal orchid and green-flowered helleborine. The northern edge of ‘Grebe Lake’, south of the railway line appears to be one of the more floristically diverse areas of the site. Habitats in this area include open water, reedbed, grazing marsh and scrub. The reedbeds are composed largely of common reed. Unfortunately New Zealand pigmyweed dominates the ground layer of the lake edge. A small area of grazing marsh on the northern shore of Grebe Lake is grazed by a small flock of friendly Hebridean Sheep. Typical marshy forbes are abundant in this area: species present include water horsetail, marsh horsetail, common spike-rush, meadowsweet, brooklime, marsh bedstraw, soft rush, compact rush, hard rush, purple loosetrife, water mint, water forget-me-not, gypsywort, trifid bur-marigold, bittersweet and black nightshade. New Zealand pigmyweed is still frequent across the marsh. A tiny fragment of acid grassland occurs in the north-western corner of the southern part of the site. Sparse heather and harebell were recorded here. On the north-western side of the northern part of the site there are seasonally wet hollows support the species of greatest botanical interest. Some are dominated by common spike-rush with tufted forget-me-not, while others support a taller community of small wood-reed, blunt-flowered rush, purple loosestrife, hop sedge and a non-flowering bulrush. False fox-sedge, cuckoo-flower, fen bedstraw, jointed rush, are occasional. A small colony of approximately twenty southern marsh-orchids is present. At the time of the survey many common blue damselflies Enallagma cyathigerum were present. The drier parts here are generally dominated by a thin cover of red fescue and false oat-grass, and scrub of birch and bramble. Yellow-wort and common centaury are abundant throughout. Other species of note include harebell, viper’s bugloss, lady’s bedstraw, ploughman’s spikenard, heath woodrush and hare’s-foot clover. The lichens Cladonia furcata, Peltigera canina agg. and the moss Syntrichia ruralis ssp. ruraliformis are locally dominant.

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A total of 502 plant species are recorded on a list maintained by the Park wardens. Some of the latter species have not been reported in recent years but at least 421 species have been recorded since 2000. The site has records for 205 bird species, including 48 species that definitely bred in 2007, and a further 17 that probably bred (Whisby Nature Park and North Hykeham Pits Bird Report 2007). This includes 8 UK Red List species that bred, 2 Red List species that probably bred, and 14 Amber List species that bred or probably bred. Water vole is present and brown hare, rabbit, mink and grey squirrel were noted during the current survey. A total of 28 butterfly species have been recorded from the site and at least 20 species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as 407 moths (267 macros and 140 micros), 28 spiders, 47 mosses, 2 liverworts and 47 fungi. Criteria passed: WD3, WD4, NG1, CG1, HE2, Flo3, Sta2, Sw2 Recommended as a Local Wildlife Site: 23 June 2009, April 2011 SNCI - Morton Lane (Easting 488271 Northing 364478) Information for this is sketchy but I believe the designation may have been as early as 2004. It is described as a Green Lane between Eagle Barnsdale and Morton with shrubs which include Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea)

Other Sites from the Introduction Ancient Woodland - Tunman Wood (See entries above and below) Traditional Orchard (Grid Reference SK903655) The Wildlife Trusts website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ describes such an orchard as follows:

It’s estimated that there are 25,350 hectares of traditional orchards in the UK, putting this habitat at the rarer end of the scale. They are defined as those with more than five trees less than 20 metres apart. They are managed in a low intensity way, or ‘extensively’ managed. This means that there is little or no use of chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides and inorganic fertilisers; long-lived trees are allowed to reach the veteran stage.

The designation of Traditional Orchard can be found on the Magic website. It is a small area at the top of Clay Lane. It appears to be unmanaged and, consequently, provides an opportunity for some restoration work to be carried out in recognition of its designation and historical nature. Historic Grassland (Grid Reference - SK902654 and SK909657) The first field, just on the bend at the top of Clay Lane, shows clear evidence of Ridge and Furrow ploughing, as does the second field to the south of Little Thorpe Lane, opposite Pump Cottage. Priority Habitats (Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership designation): Lowland Meadow (9.18 Ha - In various locations within Whisby Nature Park, particularly to the north and west of Grebe Lake, the north and east of Coot Lake and all around Thorpe Lake)

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The Wildlife Trusts website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ says:

A perfect picture of the British countryside, rolling meadows filled with wild flowers are actually actively managed grasslands. Unimproved by fertilisers, lowland meadows and pastures may be cut for hay in late June to early July after the summer profusion of colourful flowers. The flowering plants set seed before the hay is cut and the meadow is grazed in autumn. Found on neutral, mainly clay or loam soils, lowland meadows provide rich wildlife habitat and are treasured components of our pastoral and historical landscapes. Less than 15,000 hectares of unimproved neutral grassland remains in the UK – an area roughly the size of Bristol. Most sites are relatively small and fragmented.

Clearly, this means that the Lowland Meadow within the parish (at Whisby Nature Park) is a very valuable, managed habitat. Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland (41.12 Ha - Significantly, Tunman Wood, but there are smaller sites within Whisby Nature Park, particularly to the north of Grebe Lake and to the west and north west of Thorpe Lake.) The Wildlife Trusts website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ says:

Lowland mixed deciduous woodland grows on all kinds of soils, and includes most semi-natural woodland in southern and eastern England. Many are ancient woods which have been continuously wooded since the 17th century. There are about 240,000 hectares of lowland mixed deciduous woodland in the UK. Although this is a reasonable extent compared to some priority habitats, lowland mixed deciduous woodland now only covers 1-2% of its original range and has declined by around 40% since 1935. For many hundreds of years, lowland mixed deciduous woodland has been coppiced for materials for buildings and crafts. As a result, wildlife has benefited from the opening up of the woodland floor to sunlight. Woodland flowers such as bluebell, early purple orchid and wood anemone all flourish in this habitat. In fact, the UK’s bluebells make up almost 50% of the world’s total population.

Tunman Wood’s ancient woodland status is mentioned often but it is appropriate here to mention, also, the bluebells which are present where the parish boundary enters the wood from the east. Reed Beds (0.79 Ha - On the northern bank of Grebe Lake within Whisby Nature Park - Grid Reference SK914666) The Wildlife Trusts website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ says:

The extensive, golden reedbeds that are formed by stands of one plant, the common reed, are a familiar sight of wetlands across the UK – their large, feathery flower spikes can be seen blowing in the breeze from late summer onwards. The small total area of reedbed habitat in the UK, and the critically small population sizes of several key species dependent on this habitat, make reedbeds extremely sensitive. Reedbeds have been lost to water abstraction and drainage, and intensive agriculture. Poor management, including the decline of traditional uses for reed, has degraded many areas, leading to scrub encroachment. While pollution from toxic chemicals and sediments has caused problems in some areas.

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Clearly, this means that the reed beds within the parish (at Whisby Nature Park) are a very valuable, managed habitat. Wet Woodland (0.08 Ha - most lying just outside the parish but within Whisby Nature Park) The Wildlife Trusts website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ says:

Wet woodland is an important habitat for animals and plants of both woodlands and wetlands. It is extremely rich in insects, supporting a large number of species like beetles, many of which are now rare in the UK. Dead wood associated with water provides a specialised habitat not found in dry woodland types which supports rare craneflies and the netted carpet moth (UK BAP priority species). Much of our wet woodland has been lost or destroyed over recent decades due to massive clearances and land drainage for agricultural production. Intensive forestry, development, the removal of dead wood and trees, water pollution and the dredging of ponds have also taken their toll on this habitat. Our wet woodland is under threat from poor management or neglect – with the loss of traditional ways of managing the land, such as coppicing, it is slowly being invaded by scrub or drying up.

Clearly, this means that the wet woodland within the parish (at Whisby Nature Park) is a very valuable, managed habitat.

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Local Wildlife Site - Ski World Local Wildlife Site and Ancient Woodland - Tunman Wood

Priority Habitat - Reed Beds at Whisby Nature park

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Part 2 General Trees and Woods Trees add considerably to the character of this parish. The church yard and village green have significant numbers of mature trees, as do the roadsides of Station Road, Moor Lane and Eagle Lane (some of the latter being shown on the MAGIC website (see below) as Deciduous Woodland) In the village appraisal of 1980 it states that ‘the District Council is prepared to make further Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) to safeguard the more significant groups of trees, and to promote the planting of young trees in suitable places’ However, a recent email from NKDC states ‘To clarify the position of making TPOs, this process does not normally take place unless we regard a tree as being at risk not just to increase protected trees within an area.’ In recent times at least one tree has had its TPO revoked and another, dead TPO tree, has been felled. This appears to be a backward step and not something the villages would want. Apart from a significant number of trees with TPOs in one garden, there are only 7 marked on the TPO map. Of these, no more than 3 are still standing. There are 11 trees in the Sempers Close area which are owned and maintained by NKDC. On the TPO map in the Appendix, the trees with TPOs are shown as green dots (they look almost black). The yellow circles represent trees owned and maintained by NKDC

The Natural England run MAGIC website shows several areas of deciduous woodland within the Parish as follows: Housham, Stocking and Tuman Woods (Tunman Wood straddles the parishes of Thorpe CP and Eagle and Swinethorpe CP) There are three named, connected woods. Two (Tunman, covering an area of about 53.5 Ha, and Housham) are recognised by the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan as Ancient Woodland (an area where specific plant species are found that indicate its ancient woodland status). The GNLP map shows a 500 meter buffer zone around them. Two are in private ownership (Stocking and Housham) and one, Tunman Wood, is owned jointly by Lincolnshire County Council, North Kesteven District Council and the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, the latter managing the site and giving it the designation of LWT Reserve. It is also a GNLP Local Wildlife Site (LWS) and is described as semi-natural woodland. The site management plan includes removal of non-native species of trees (corsican pine), followed by appropriate replanting and significant progress with this has already been made. This is in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy:

Theme 3. Reducing environmental pressures : Forestry

Priority action 3.3: Bring a greater proportion of our existing woodlands into sustainable management and expand the area of woodland in England

Tunman Wood is part of the Witham Valley Country Park (A Wildlife Trust Local Living Landscape) which is made up of a number of high quality green spaces in the heart of

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Lincolnshire. It also includes Whisby Nature Park, as well as many other Green Spaces outside this parish. It aims “to create a connected network of managed outdoor space from the centre of Lincoln into the surrounding countryside.” In addition The Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) says that “sand and gravel working south of the city provide opportunities for creating BAP habitat, and development can contribute to re-establishment of effective green infrastructure and flood risk management.”

The Witham Valley Country Park Web Site tells us that ‘Tunman Wood is recognised as being ancient woodland which is rich in biodiversity and provides habitats that support a diverse plant, bird and insect population. Tunman Wood has also been selected by the Lincolnshire Biodiversity Partnership as a Local Wildlife Site.’

The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Web Site tells us that ‘Tunman Wood has existed as woodland since at least 1774 and is reputed to have been on the old cross country route between Temple Bruer and Eagle, used by the Knights Templar. From the 1940s, when it was leased to the Forestry Commission, much of the wood was planted with conifers with areas of Norway spruce, Corsican pine and western hemlock. However, despite being extensively managed in the past to provide timber, it retains the characteristics of ancient woodland. Plant life thrives on the open rides, woodland edges and banks, with species such as primrose, bluebell, water avens, dog’s mercury, wild arum, red campion and celandine.’

Stocking Wood contains ash, oak and field maple. These woods are home to roe deer, muntjacs, brown hares (in reasonable numbers here, in contrast to the national picture), small mammals, green woodpeckers, jays, buzzards and more. In addition: Deciduous woodland is present in Whisby Nature Park; to the east of Morton (Grid Ref. SK889638); Ash Holt, in the southern most corner of the Parish; on the northern side of the A46, due east of Ash Holt; in connected strips on the northern side of Eagle Lane, to the west of Crossing Gate Farm and to the south of the railway line; 3 areas within Ski World (a Local Wildlife Site). There is also a small orchard at the top of Clay Lane, designated as a Traditional Orchard, and a small copse of trees at approximate Grid Reference 904653

Lakes

Natural England says ‘Managing the ongoing extraction of the extensive sand, gravel and other mineral resources presents challenges as well as opportunities. Habitats created after the extraction of sand and gravel provide regionally important sites for wildlife as well as major recreational assets to the area.’

This has led to the development of several man-made lakes, with other land being sensitively restored to agricultural use.

The sand and gravel extraction in our parish is all but finished and the resulting restoration work has produced wildlife habitats which are a significant asset. This is very obvious at the Nature Park, but many other, lower profile areas have benefitted too. For instance, the land adjacent to one lake has been planted with native saplings and flower rich margins. Some have a more recreational use

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with one being given to Thorpe by Lafarge as a village amenity and another is used by a model sailing boat club.

Part 3 Special Whisby Nature Park This is jointly owned by Lincolnshire County Council, North Kesteven District Council and The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, the latter managing the site. It straddles both Thorpe and Whisby Parishes. Within the Thorpe Parish are Thorpe, Coot and Grebe Lakes, the visitor centre, information boards and bird hides. The original nature reserve was established in 1985. The park opened in 1989 and it was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 2002. In addition to the lakes, the MAgiC website gives the main habitats as deciduous woodland, lowland heathland and reed beds.

The Lincolcnshire Wildlife Trust Web Site tells us ‘Whisby Nature Park is a beautiful landscape near Lincoln, full of wildlife, walks and trails. Once barren and lifeless, this amazing place now abounds with wildlife. The park was created by quarrying for sand and gravel, but nature has reclaimed the pits and bare sand, creating habitats for many species. The lakes at are surrounded by grassland, marsh, scrub and willow carr. Elements of the original landscape, from before quarrying, also remain, with fragments of heathland, old hedgerows and a small oak woodland. In spring and summer, flocks of tits and finches are joined by warblers. The lakes attract feeding sand martins and swallows, and terns nest on the islands. Chiffchaffs, reed and sedge warblers can be heard. Whisby Nature Park has also become famous for nightingales. In summer, the orchid glade is tinged with the purple of southern marsh orchids. Autumn brings the first sight of winter birds such as goldcrests, redpolls and grey wagtails. In winter, the water levels are at their highest and wildfowl are numerous. The lakes and ponds are home to a range of dragonfly and damselfly species including the impressive emperor.’

In addition, the Nature Park is designated as a Local Nature Reserve by NKDC and a Local Wildlife Site. It is the best recorded site in Lincolnshire for wildlife, with 2800 recorded species, and as a consequence has excellent biodiversity. According to the Nature Park’s advertising material this includes 530 species of plants, 211 species of birds, 26 species of butterfly, 18 species of dragonfly and damsel fly, 500 species of moths, 330 species of fungi and over 150 species of bees and wasps. The nightingale population is the most northerly significant in the country and is the only one in Lincolnshire. There are 7 species of orchid ranging from 10000 southern marsh to a few green flowered helleborine and, for the latter, this is one of only three sites in Lincolnshire. It is also the only known site in Lincolnshire for the maiden pink. The sand hills have a regionally significant covering of moss and lichens. It has the biggest black headed gull nesting site in the East Midlands, significant because these nesting sites are in decline. There are a few pairs of the endangered willow tit. At the time of writing the bird display board (photograph below) showed 24 species in the woodland, scrub or grassland, 36 species on or over the water bodies and 9 species described as recent migrants/highlights. Section 3 Biodiversity We should be proud of the biodiversity described in Sections 1 and 2 and recognise the opportunity to develop this even further, in line with one of the stated aims of the Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) which is:

1. Conserve and enhance Lincolnshire’s biodiversity; recreating habitats on a landscape scale and developing networks of interlinked natural areas – a ‘living landscape’ of

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which wildlife is an integral part, not confined to specially protected sites.

The other aims of LBAP are:

2. Ensure that biodiversity is recognised as an essential element of life in the historic county of Lincolnshire: including its contributions to health and wellbeing; the economy, recreation and tourism; and provision of ecosystem services (such as flood protection, retention of water resources, carbon storage and crop pollination). 3. Ensure biodiversity conservation is sustainable; the benefits are felt by society, the economy and the environment. 4. Provide and gather biodiversity information to monitor progress and enable individuals and organisations to make decisions based on sound evidence.

The plan should have policies which support these 4 aims which are also supported by the National Biodiversity Strategy:

Theme 2. Putting people at the heart of biodiversity policy

Priority action 2.1: Work with the biodiversity partnership to engage significantly more people in biodiversity issues, increase awareness of the value of biodiversity and increase the number of people taking positive action.

Theme 3. Reducing environmental pressures: Planning and development

Priority action 3.4: Through reforms of the planning system, take a strategic approach to planning for nature within and across local areas. This approach will guide development to the best locations, encourage greener design and enable development to enhance natural networks. We will retain the protection and improvement of the natural environment as core objectives of the planning system

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Section 4 Natural England Character Area Thorpe Parish lies in Natural England’s National Character Area (NCA) 48: Trent and Belvoir Vales.

Natural England (NE) says ‘The Trent and Belvoir Vales National Character Area is characterised by undulating, strongly rural and predominantly arable farmland, centred on the River Trent. A low-lying rural landscape with relatively little woodland cover, the NCA offers long, open views.’

Thorpe Parish reflects this but also has significant woodland cover. (See below)

NE continues ‘ The area’s generally fertile soils and good quality agricultural land have supported a diversity of farming over a long period but, because of this, little semi-natural habitat remains.’

Thorpe Parish can boast significant semi-natural habitats in the woods, in and around the lakes, and at Whisby Nature Park.

NE goes on to say ‘Cultural heritage is evident in the Trent and Belvoir Vales NCA with the overall settlement pattern little changed since medieval times. The gravel terraces along the Trent have been the focus of human activity for many thousands of years. The enclosure and reorganisation of the landscape in the 18th and 19th centuries can be seen in the regularly shaped hawthorn hedged fields and the distinctive red brick and pantile building style of the villages and farmsteads. Traditionally a mixed farming area, its intrinsic landscape character has been weakened by modern agricultural practices and development.’

Sadly, many red brick and pantile properties have been demolished. Any new building should try to ameliorate this loss.

NE again ‘Rural tranquillity is still a feature over much of the area; however, significant residential and infrastructure development pressures exist from the main settlements and major roads that traverse the area.’

This presents real challenges for our parish and significant help and support will be needed from higher authorities to retain our rural tranquility.

Hawthorn hedges are still a significant feature of the Thorpe Parish landscape, often being present by the side of the significant number of dykes. These water courses help to drain the area which is only between 9 and 30 metres above sea level. Many of the hedges have controlled cutting to support wildlife, in many cases the process taking place every three years. The character has been further enhanced by the introduction of interconnected 6 metre environmental strips around several fields immediately adjacent to the village. These provide wildlife corridors from the woods, help with increasing the populations of yellow hammers (endangered), tree sparrows and grey (English) partridges (endangered), and protect the dykes from chemical ‘run off’. There are wider strips on either side of Stocking Wood. One, 10 metres wide, is planted with ‘nectar species’ to the benefit of two colonies of bee hives. Another, 20 metres wide, is planted with species which provide winter seeds.

Section 5 Green Space/Important Green Zones Green Belt

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Surprisingly, there is no green belt land anywhere near the parish. The nearest is that which surrounds the City of Nottingham. Green Wedges The government’s Planning Portal website tells us:

Green wedges comprise the open areas around and between parts of settlements, which maintain the distinction between the countryside and built up areas, prevent the coalescence (merging) of adjacent places and can also provide recreational opportunities.

Local Green Spaces

The National Planning Policy Framework tells us:-

76 Local communities through local and neighbourhood plans should be able to identify for special protection green areas of particular importance to them. By designating land as Local Green Space local communities will be able to rule out new development other than in very special circumstances. Identifying land as Local Green Space should therefore be consistent with the local planning of sustainable development and complement investment in sufficient homes, jobs and other essential services. Local Green Spaces should only be designated when a plan is prepared or reviewed, and be capable of enduring beyond the end of the plan period.

77 The Local Green Space designation will not be appropriate for most green areas or open space. The designation should only be used: • where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves; • where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife; and • where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land. 78 Local policy for managing development within a Local Green Space should be consistent with policy for Green Belts.

If the green surroundings are to be protected it is vital that the guidelines above are used to establish Green Wedges and/or Local Green Spaces within the parish.

Section 6 North Kesteven Landscape Character Assessment

This was carried out by David Tyldesley and Associates for North Kesteven District Council September 2007. Section 5.6 Ecology is the most relevant to this document.

‘5.6.1 Being within one of the most important counties for agriculture in the country, much of the North Kesteven area of Lincolnshire is dominated by farmland. In many

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areas the agriculture is large scale and intensive, with arable crops being the primary land use.’

This first section shows us, once again, that this parish is different from other parts of the district in that the fields within the parish are generally of modest size by modern standards. In addition, there is also significant sheep farming within the parish.

The agricultural importance of the county emphasises the need to resist development on agricultural land.

There is more evidence for the importance of connectivity in extracts from sections 5.6.2 and 5.6.3. It is also worth mentioning, again, that our network of hedges, ditches and field margins of habitat value is considerable.

5.6.2 ……….. there remains some very important habitats of biodiversity value within this agricultural landscape. These are either remnants of former habitat types, or are habitats that arise specifically as a result of the use of the land for agriculture, such as hedgerows, ditches and field margins. Typical habitats of biodiversity importance in the North Kesteven District include semi-improved grasslands, hedges, woodland copses, wetlands and streams. Of critical importance across the district is the connectivity of these valuable habitats, which is needed to enable species to move across otherwise unsuitable or unusable land.

5.6.3 ………. When considering the character of the landscape, and what may be possible to retain, restore or enhance the important character of a particular landscape type, it is important to consider how such restoration or enhancement can also be undertaken to improve the connectivity of valuable habitats within the landscape. Similarly, biodiversity initiatives, including habitat creation and restoration projects, must consider the wider landscape setting, to ensure that they are in keeping with the wider character of the area and do not erode its distinctiveness or introduce uncharacteristic features.

The last sentence of the section above must also be considered if new habitats are to be created. Creation of more habitats, hedge and tree planting (native species) will also help with the problems raised in the next section.

5.6.4 Whilst taking a larger scale and co-ordinated approach will be most beneficial, it still remains necessary to bear in mind the specific and more local wildlife issues within the North Kesteven District. Taking account of the needs of individual species or species groups that are locally notable in the District should feature in the progression of the larger scale landscape character enhancement work, working in partnership with the development of a sustainable agricultural economy in the area. In a district where the land use is predominantly agriculture, the decline of species such as brown hare Lepus europaeus and a number of farmland birds due to modern farming methods is of great concern, for example.

The assessment goes on to say ‘5.6.5 There is clear evidence that the agricultural landscape is slowly but increasingly evolving with the more recent emphasis on government payments for environmental enhancements on agricultural land. Environmental Stewardship, following from its predecessor Countryside Stewardship, is a system of paying farmers for managing, restoring and enhancing their agricultural land to the benefit of local biodiversity and the wider landscape.’

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Comments made earlier in this document show that this is certainly the case in at least some of the agricultural landscape of this parish. More hedge and tree planting, in the line with the next section is something already mentioned.

5.6.6 Around the North Kesteven District a considerable amount of native mixed species hedgerow planting can be seen. Large field margins provide a refuge for ground nesting farmland birds such as grey partridge Perdix perdix, and also ensure an unsprayed zone where some of the rare arable weeds such as Cornflower Centaurea cyanus and corn marigold Chrysanthemum segetum can survive.

Ways to further develop the field margins should also be found. Some already provide excellent habitat. (see earlier comments). This is supported by the next section as follows:

5.6.7 Other margins include a seed bearing crop planted purely as a feeding area for farmland passerines of local biodiversity importance, such as linnet Carduelis cannabina, bullfinch Pyrrhulla pyrrhula, reed bunting Emberiza scheoeniclus, corn bunting Miliaria calandra and yellowhammer Emberiza citronella. These are a welcome addition to the large expanses of arable fields. A number of field margins hosting sunflowers are noted within the district, for example.

The document then goes on to talk about the ecology of specific areas, including that of the Trent and Witham Vales Area, which contains this parish. The following is an extract from 5.6.9

‘……….A number of (commercial) plantations exist amongst the broadleaved woodland blocks, and these are likely to be on land that was formerly broadleaved woodland, specifically cleared to make way for the commercial timber planting of spruce and pine. It is evident that a number of these plantations are reverting back to oak woodland, and this should be facilitated wherever possible to the benefit of both habitat and landscape restoration. Despite this significant historic loss, the Trent and Witham Vales remains the most wooded area of the North Kesteven district, and the residual woodland blocks are important and defining habitats for the area. Unfortunately, a number of woodlands suffer from harsh boundaries with agricultural land running tightly up to the outer tree line. In such situations the biodiversity value of the woodland is reduced by its lack of woodland edge habitat, where a significant amount of botanical and invertebrate diversity is usually found.

As mentioned elsewhere the removal of corsican pine and its replacement with native species is being carried out by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust in Tunman Wood. In addition, the boundaries to some of our woodland are not harsh, but soft and habitat rich. Perhaps this could be developed further.

The importance of hedgerows is again emphasised in this next extract.

5.6.10 Hedgerows are a distinctive feature of the Trent and Witham Vale, and offer one of the most important opportunities for wildlife corridor restoration. The relative abundance of hedgerows in comparison with other parts of the district is notable in the landscape, and consequently in the numbers of farmland birds seen in the area. The native hedgerows are dominated by hawthorn, but occasionally a more diverse hedgerow occurs.

Within the parish there is an abundance of large mature trees which should be protected and added to for reasons described in the following section.

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5.6.11 Large mature trees are often clustered around the halls and manor houses in the Vale, but also occasionally seen along the roadsides, offering vital habitat to mammal, bird and invertebrate life.

The next section indicates how precious our Ridge and Furrow fields are. The word ‘rarely’ is significant.

5.6.12 ……… In these remnant small fields, original boundary features such as stone walls or enclosure hedgerows may also remain. Rarely, the old ridge and furrow lines can still be detected, such as those on the outskirts of Whisby, and it is in such locations that more diverse neutral grasslands are likely to be found.

5.6.13 is mainly about grassland adjacent to the Brant and Whitham and is therefore not relevant to our parish.

The next section emphasises the importance of our wetland habitats. The lakes at Whisby aren’t the only large water bodies in the parish.

5,6,14 ………….. Natural large water bodies are not a characteristic of the area, but restored sand and gravel pits have introduced new wetland habitat to the Vale which attracts quite a range of bird life. Whisby Nature Reserve is a former gravel pit that has been reclaimed and has now developed into an oasis for bird life and provides a valuable opportunity for people to see and learn about wetland wildlife.

5.6.15 relates to restoring areas where sand and gravel extraction is complete. All the sites within the parish have been restored in some way, as mentioned earlier, and so there is nothing of immediate relevance here.

Hedgerows, again, are the emphasised in the final section.

5.6.16 The retention and replacement of traditional field boundaries, especially ancient and species rich hedgerows and parish boundaries will be important for landscape character, particularly around the heath sandlands in the north west of the District. The sensitive management of these field boundaries and creation of buffer strips alongside hedgerows will also be of benefit to a range of farmland birds, providing sites for feeding, nesting and cover, including species such as skylark Alauda arvenis, linnet Carduelis cannabina and yellow hammer Emberiza citrinella.

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The removal of non-native species from Tunman Wood

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Section 7 The Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Assessment (CLGIA) The majority of the parish is contained within a Strategic Green Corridor which contains a Strategic Green Access Link. Strategic Green Corridors are priority areas for Green Infrastructure enhancement, linkage and creation. They are intended to become multi-functional zones but also include core-areas of natural habitat with areas for expansion and restoration. Strategic Green Access Links are key points to access the Strategic Green Corridors. They are mainly off road and are for mixed use e.g. pedestrians and cyclists. CLGIA 3.2 Wildlife Habitat Provision

The following extracts from the GLGIA show opportunities within our parish to enhance the wildlife habitat provision.

3.2.2 Based on an analysis of available data it appears that despite some clusters of habitat within the Study Area habitats are generally very fragmented, comprising mostly small and widely scattered sites. Small areas of habitat generally support fewer species and some species associated with particular habitats require relatively large areas of habitat and are therefore absent from smaller areas. In addition, small and isolated habitats and sites are more vulnerable to the potential negative effects of adjoining more intensive land uses and a range of other potential factors such as climate change.

It would be quite easy to join up many of our areas of habitat in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy 2020 Theme 1 below.

Theme 1. A more integrated large-scale approach to conservation on land and at sea

Priority action 1.1: Establish more coherent and resilient ecological networks on land that safeguard ecosystem services for the benefit of wildlife and people.

CLGIA goes on to say:

3.2.3 Apart from the Fens and parts of some of the floodplains, hedgerows are widespread throughout Central Lincolnshire. The hedgerow network has value both as habitat itself and as providing links between other areas of habitat. This value is particularly notable given the intensively agricultural nature of the landscape and land use within the area. Whilst the integrity and functional value of the hedgerow network has been reduced through a combination of (now mostly historic) hedgerow removal, neglect and inappropriate management, the latter factors leaving many remaining hedges gappy, there has been a concerted effort in many parts of Central Lincolnshire to replace hedgerows.

As mentioned earlier, there are significant hedgerows in the parish, albeit gappy in places. Improving our already good network would both enhance this and provide some of the joining described above. We should ask that any development proposal should include a Defra Hedgerow Survey to identify good quality hedgerows that should be protected from development and also hedges that are defunct that could be improved as a result of development. An arboricultural survey should also be carried out.

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3.2.4 As identified in the recent Lawton Review maintaining the status quo will not ensure the conservation of existing habitats and sites, the species they support and the services they provide. In order to conserve existing habitats and species, a more coherent ecological network will be required.

This has been incorporated into the policies.

3.2.5 There are information deficits in relation to the status and/or condition of many of the non-statutory designated sites, notably SNCIs, some of which have not been surveyed for a long time. The network of SNCIs is however in the process of being reviewed, including new surveys, against the new LWS selection criteria. In addition, it is believed that there are habitats and sites that are likely to meet the new LWS selection criteria that have not been identified. For example, in relation to this the ‘Life on the Verge’ project has identified many new and candidate LWSs in the Southern Lincolnshire Edge and Kesteven Uplands National Character Areas and has now been extended to the Lincolnshire Wolds National Character Area. A lack of comprehensive and up-to-date information can contribute to the continuing loss of sites and their features of interest.

Possible LWSs should be investigated in a further attempt to link together our various habitats, big and small. This would fit in well with the following section which links the CLGIA and LBAP

3.2.15 The Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan identifies habitats and species of importance in the County as well as a range of associated targets related to understanding the resource and its management and for new habitat creation. Habitat creation as part of the delivery of the GI Network for Central Lincolnshire has the potential to contribute to the delivery of these targets. The following are some of the Key GI Assets and Opportunities which link in very well with the policy suggestions above. Decrease the fragmentation of existing habitats and sites by increasing their size and joining them up through targeted habitat creation, with particular opportunities presented along linear landscape features such as river corridors, hedgerows, railways and road networks; Make the wider landscape more permeable for wildlife species, for example by the creation of ‘stepping stone’ habitats between existing sites and creating and strengthening other habitat links such as hedgerow networks; Advance the processes of identifying i) the current status and condition of SNCIs; ii) SNCIs suitable for designation as LWSs; and iii) potential new sites for designation; Identify the condition and management of all non-statutory sites and ensure that sites receive appropriate positive conservation management (potentially through the uptake of agri-environment schemes in liaison with local landowners);

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This shows the hedgerows, trees and wide, green spaces within the parish.

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Section 8 The Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Network The Central Lincolnshire Draft Plan says that:

Green Infrastructure is a strategic network of multifunctional green and blue spaces, and the connections between them, in both urban and rural areas, which is capable of delivering a range of environmental, economic, health and quality of life benefits for local communities. The Green Infrastructure network may comprise of spaces in public or private ownership, with or without public access.

In 5.6.2 it describes the assets and these are shown below. Those in this parish are emboldened and underlined and, again, this shows the rich and biodiverse nature of the parish.

5.6.2 The types of green infrastructure assets to be found in Central Lincolnshire include, but are not limited to: Allotments, community gardens and urban farms; Amenity green spaces - including play areas, urban commons, communal spaces within housing areas, green roofs and village greens; Cemeteries, churchyards and disused burial grounds; Green and blue corridors – including rivers and canals, main drains, rail corridors, hedgerows, ditches, cycle routes, pedestrian paths and rights of way; Natural and semi-natural greenspaces – woodland and scrub, grassland, wetlands, open water, bare rock habitats, existing sites of national and local biodiversity importance. Parks and gardens – including urban parks and gardens and country parks; Domestic gardens and street trees; Agricultural land; Historic environmental assets – including listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments and historic parks and gardens; Predominantly undeveloped natural floodplains and fens; and Previously developed land that is wildlife rich, such as restored mineral sites and open mosaic habitats.

It goes on ‘5.6.3 Green infrastructure offers a range of direct and indirect benefits, including addressing climate change adaptation and mitigation, improving quality of place, improving physical and mental health and social wellbeing, sustaining economic growth and investment, protecting and enhancing biodiversity, providing opportunities for local food production and protecting and enhancing landscape character and the setting of heritage assets.’

This section indicates how important it is for the parish to retain this richness, which should increasingly draw more tourists to the area to the economic benefit of our tourism based businesses. However, we must also recognise that this could be detrimental to the road network which is under considerable pressure at certain times of day.

Section 9 Agriculture

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The majority of agricultural land within the parish is Grade 3 which means it is best used either for crops, for grazing or for paddocks. The Magic website tells us that the soils are mainly slowly permeable, seasonally wet, slightly acidic but base rich, loamy and clayey. In addition there is some which is naturally wet, very acidic, sandy and loamy.

Environmental stewardship is well supported within the parish.

The designation of Higher Level Environmental Stewardship has been awarded to one parish farmer who views himself as a custodian of the land which, although it has to provide a living, mustn’t be allowed to deteriorate as a consequence. Indeed, quite the opposite, with the intention being that his stewardship will leave the land in a better condition than when he started.

This is in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy as follows:

Theme 3. Reducing environmental pressures : Agriculture

Priority action 3.1: Improve the delivery of environmental outcomes from agricultural land management practices, whilst increasing food production.

A significant proportion of the agricultural land within the parish comes under stewardship schemes. Some is Higher Level, some Entry Level. These can be seen on the Magic website.

In addition, Natural England says ‘Much pasture has been converted to arable use, hedgerows have been removed to create larger fields and the historical environment has been put at risk.’

The many fields adjacent to Thorpe are small by modern standards and have hawthorn hedge boundaries. Although arable farming is the dominant agricultural activity, there are significant areas of sheep pasture and other grassland. This includes about 20 hectares of High Level Stewardship Grassland, where fertiliser use is limited, and two areas of Historic Grassland where evidence of the old, locally known Rig and Furrow (Ridge and Furrow) method of ploughing is

clear.

An example of our extensive agricultural land with hedgerows, trees and a lorry on the parish boundary in the background.

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Section 10 Footpaths, Bridleways, Cycle Paths and Quiet Lanes

From the Department for Transport : Setting the First Walking and Cycling Investment Strategy. ( https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/487846/cycling-and-walking-investment-strategy.pdf ) The Government wants to create an environment which encourages walking and cycling, where cycling and walking is the norm for short journeys or as part of a longer journey.

(A definitive map showing all public rights of way and cycle paths will be added) Our Natural Environment contains a significant network of public footpaths and a bridleway, which forms the western boundary of the parish. Observation shows that these are generally well used by villagers, apart from those to the south east. These are linear and not connected and, as a consequence, they are less well used. In addition, there are footpaths and way marked paths in the Nature Park. Again, observation shows that these are well used by villagers. It is possible for villagers to use adjoining footpaths at the extreme north easterly point of the parish to walk safely to the local town of North Hykeham. All the regularly used paths are well connected and provide an opportunity for a variety of circular walks which take in arable and grazing land, woodland and the Nature Park. The paths at Whisby Nature Park are also very well used by visitors, of which there are about 150,000 annually. Many of these paths are both wheelchair and pushchair friendly and there is the added advantage of fully accessible toilet facilities. Visitors to the parish also make use of the footpaths and bridleway to the west, many benefitting from their copy of the NKDC Leaflet ‘Stepping Out - Thorpe on the Hill and Tunman Wood’ http://www.visitlincolnshire.com/sites/default/files/master_page_related_downloads/2015/Apr/thorpe_on_the_hill_and_tunman_wood.pdf The health and well being benefits of walking are well documented so these footpaths are of considerable value to the parish and its visitors. It is pleasing to report that the village has a thriving walking group (known as Loose THREDS) making use of this facility, as well as other routes in adjacent parishes and beyond. Currently, there are 27 members. The group also meets for lunch at the local pub after each walk, helping to support our tourism based local economy. There are also quiet lanes and a cycle route running through the parish. Cycle Paths and Quiet Roads Sustrans Regional Route 93 runs through the parish and links, at the neighbouring village of Eagle, to National Route 64 of the National Cycle Network. Eventually, this National Route will run from Market Harborough to Lincoln via Melton Mowbray and Newark-on-Trent. Most of the route is complete. The importance of Regional Route 93 is that it allows people to cycle safely to Whisby Nature Park from the centre of Lincoln or make a detour to the Nature Park from the National Route at Eagle.

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There is a cycle path, accessible from the village using the relatively quiet Fosse Lane (not at morning or evening ‘rush hour’). It is just outside the south eastern parish boundary, along the A46. It allows cycle access from Thorpe to North Hykeham and Lincoln going north east or to the quiet lanes going south west towards Witham St Hughs. In addition, we have some relatively traffic free roads (not os at ‘rush hour’ ) which link to others in adjacent parishes, making it possible to cycle safely from the parish to the surrounding areas. As with walking, the health benefits of cycling are well documented. Several village residents cycle regularly, either as a means of transport or for pleasure or both. It is possible to cycle safely from the village to the retail and employment areas of North Hykeham and Lincoln.

The Public Footpath signs at the top of Clay Lane

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Section 11 Flooding Using the Environment Agency Flood Risk map:- There is a zero chance of flooding from river or sea water in the parish. Risk of flooding from reservoirs is also very low and would be restricted, in the worst case scenario, to a small area in the north east corner of the parish within Whisby Nature Park. (The shading on the Environment Agency map shows the area that could be flooded if a large reservoir were to fail and release the water it holds. A large reservoir is one that holds over 25,000 cubic metres of water, equivalent to approximately 10 Olympic sized swimming pools. (We have several within and adjacent to the parish.) Since this is a worst case scenario, it’s unlikely that any actual flood would be this large.) The risk of surface water flooding is very low for the majority of the parish. As expected, there is a higher risk of flooding (high, medium and low) on some of the lower lying land to the north and south of ‘the hill’. Some water, at the western boundary, drains away from the parish into the catchment managed by the Trent Valley Internal Drainage Board but the majority is managed by the Upper Witham Internal Drainage Board. Although the risk of flooding within the parish is low, the lakes and Pike Drain at Whisby Nature Park are used for flood protection. Guy Hird from the Upper Witham Internal Drainage Board (UWIDB) explains:

The flood protection scheme within Whisby Nature Park is to protect the properties downstream in North Hykeham and Lincoln by attenuating the flow in the Pike Drain which runs through the park from West to East. Water over tops a weir and first fills Coot Lake, there is a second weir that then over tops filling Grebe Lake to a level of the third weir that spills back into the Pike Drain near the by-pass. The secondary function of the scheme is to allow the warden team at Whisby to control the water level in Grebe Lake. The water level is lifted in winter and dropped during the spring and summer to benefit wading birds and the famous orchid glade. The scheme was carried out in 1995. As far as I am aware the flood protection scheme has only been use once, in November 2000. The main reason the scheme has not worked often is because the gravel pits are still active upstream of the site, this lowers the ground water table and reduces flows into Pike Drain.

At the time of writing, the UWIDB has just completed extensive maintenance work here. Guy Hird also provided the following general comments relating to Neighbourhood Plans:

It is suggested that the Neighbourhood Plan should support the idea of sustainable drainage and that any proposed development should be in accordance with Local, National and Regional Flood Risk assessments and Management plans. No new development should be allowed to be built within flood plain. The ‘Flood Maps’ on the Environment Agency website provides information on areas at risk (there are no areas shown in the parish). Also risk from surface water flooding should also be considered, information can also be found on the Environment Agency website.

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Under the terms of the Land Drainage Act. 1991 and the Board's Byelaws, the prior written consent of the Board is required for any proposed works or structures in, under, over or within any watercourse within the District. For the watercourses that are maintained by the Board this extends to 6 meters from of the top of the bank. This is independent of the Planning Process. Also under the provisions of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, and the Land Drainage Act. 1991, the prior written consent of the Lead Local Flood Authority (Lincolnshire County Council) is required for any proposed works or structures in any watercourse outside those designated main rivers and Internal Drainage Districts. Upper Witham IDB and Trent Valley act as Agents for the Lead Local Flood Authority in their respective areas and as such any works, permanent or temporary, in any ditch, dyke or

other such watercourse will require consent. Part of the flood protection system at Whisby Nature Park

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Section 12 Climate Change

The LBAP provides the following information and comment about Climate Change:

Projected climate changes for the East Midlands - Medium emissions scenario for the 2050s; Increase in winter mean temperature is likely to be between 1.1°C and 3.4°C. Increase in summer mean temperature is likely to be between 1.2°C and 4.2°C. Change in winter precipitation is likely to be between 2% and 29%. Change in summer precipitation is likely to be between -36% and 6%. The threat posed by climate change is thought to be the most significant threat to our biodiversity in the long term. Even with stringent carbon emission control measures there is an acceptance that our climate will continue to change as a result of historic and current emissions. Projections of future climate change sometimes seem minor, with only a small change in temperature and large error margins. However it is important to remember that gradual changes are only part of the picture; climate change brings far more unpredictable and extreme weather, to which biodiversity cannot adapt in the same way as it can to gradual changes. Therefore as well as working to reduce emissions, we must accept that there will be climate impacts on biodiversity, and do what we can to minimise them. For many species moving will be the most likely response to the effects of climate change, but in a landscape of fragmented habitat surrounded by generally hostile land uses this will be difficult or impossible. Some mobile species are showing changes in distribution that are being attributed to climate change, which demonstrates that not all species are necessarily losers. But it is the less mobile and less adaptable species that are of most conservation concern; these will be the species to suffer most severely from climate impacts. They may benefit from continuity of habitat to enable them to move through “climate corridors”.

The creation of green corridors to link habitats would also create climate corridors allowing species to move away from areas where they feel threatened by the effects of climate change.

Section 13 Renewable Energy

It is not appropriate to deal with renewable energy installations on individual properties here. This is better dealt with in the Built Environment section.

In terms of the Natural Environment, the biggest impact would come from the installation of wind turbines, solar farms and biomass generators. All of these features, although having obvious merits, would significantly damage the appearance of the parish and should be resisted.

Section 14 Tourism

Tourism has already been mentioned on more than one occasion. It is beyond the scope of this document to discuss the Tourism businesses in the Parish but, almost certainly, all will benefit from the numbers of visitors who come to enjoy this Natural Environment. Improving our surroundings, in line with the suggested policies below, can only make the parish more attractive for visitors, with obvious economic benefits.

Thanks Bob Sheldon (local farmer) who has an encyclopaedic knowledge of parish agriculture.

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Charlie Barnes (Information Officer for the Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership) who enthusiastically provided vast quantities of data and other information about wildlife in the parish. David Stocker (Team Member) for knowing so much and understanding the process. Graham Wilson (Tree Officer at NKDC) and Laura Barnes (Planning Enforcement and Tree Apprentice at NKDC) for help with Tree Preservation Orders Guy Hird (Engineering Services Officer, Upper Witham IDB) who explained, both on the phone and by email, how the parish drainage helps to prevent flooding elsewhere in the area. Janet Guest (Clerk to the Parsih Council) who encouraged me to complete this task. Phil Porter (Warden, Whisby Nature Park) who helped with his knowledge of the species within the Nature Park) and, finally, the other members of the team, past and present, for their help and support.

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The Natural Environment Section and the Neighbourhood Plan

What is written above leads into the following which is likely to form the basis of the Natural Environment Section of the Neighbourhood Plan.

Plan Objectives

Maintain, enhance and develop a sustainable natural environment for the benefit of wildlife and biodiversity (protected and other habitats), for villagers and the wider community (health and recreation), for agriculture (food production), for tourism (a significant and perfectly suitable industry within the parish) and to combat climate change.

Encourage villagers and the wider community to make use of this outstanding asset.

Protect or enhance air, water and soil quality and biodiversity for the benefit of wildlife, parishioners, agriculture, the wider community, tourism, employers and employees.

Achieve a sustainable balance between the needs of wildlife, parishioners, agriculture, climate change, tourism, employers and employees, developers with or seeking planning consent and technological progress.

Justification

There are many sections in many documents which would justify the objectives in the Natural Environment section of the plan. Some key examples are given below.

From the 2012 village questionnaire, the single most popular aspect of village character is what many described as ‘peace and quiet’, closely followed by rural character. An overwhelming majority of villagers wants to protect the surrounding countryside and preserve the natural environment.

From the National Planning Policy Framework: Conserving and enhancing the natural environment The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils; recognising the wider benefits of ecosystem services; minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures; preventing both new and existing development from contributing to or being put at unacceptable risk from, or being adversely affected by unacceptable levels of soil, air, water or noise pollution or land instability; and remediating and mitigating despoiled, degraded, derelict, contaminated and unstable land, where appropriate. From the National Planning Policy Framework: How can planning take account of the quality of agricultural land? The National Planning Policy Framework expects local planning authorities to take into account the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land. This is particularly important in plan making when decisions are made on which land should be allocated for development. Where significant development of agricultural

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land is demonstrated to be necessary, local planning authorities should seek to use areas of poorer quality land in preference to that of a higher quality. The Agricultural Land Classification provides a method for assessing the quality of farmland to enable informed choices to be made about its future use within the planning system. From the DEFRA Report ‘Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services’ The groundbreaking UK National Ecosystem Assessment (NEA) published in June 2011 provides a comprehensive account of how the natural world, including its biodiversity, provides us with services that are critical to our wellbeing and economic prosperity. From the National Biodiversity Strategy Theme 3. Reducing environmental pressures : Agriculture

Priority action 3.1: Improve the delivery of environmental outcomes from agricultural land management practices, whilst increasing food production.

From the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan, Further Draft, October 2015 Policy LP23: Biodiversity and Geodiversity All development should: protect, manage and enhance the network of habitats, species and sites of international, national and local importance (statutory and non-statutory), including sites that meet the criteria for selection as a Local Site, minimise impacts on biodiversity; and seek to deliver a net gain in biodiversity and geodiversity where possible. From the Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan 2011-2020

The aims relevant to the plan are: to conserve and enhance Lincolnshire’s biodiversity; ensure that biodiversity is recognised as an essential element of life in the historic county of Lincolnshire; ensure biodiversity conservation is sustainable.

From the Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Assessment: Key GI Assets and Opportunities

Decrease the fragmentation of existing habitats and sites by increasing their size and joining them up through targeted habitat creation, with particular opportunities presented along linear landscape features such as river corridors, hedgerows, railways and road networks;

From the Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Network 5.6.3 Green infrastructure offers a range of direct and indirect benefits, including addressing climate change adaptation and mitigation, improving quality of place, improving physical and mental health and social wellbeing, sustaining economic growth and investment, protecting and enhancing biodiversity, providing opportunities for local food production and protecting and enhancing landscape character and the setting of heritage assets.’

Natural Environment (NE) Main Policies

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NE1 Protect our existing rich and biodiverse wildlife habitats, create new ones and link them wherever possible. (Link to VP4, VP10, VP11 and the LBAP aims 1 and 3 )

NE2 Protect our green spaces (agricultural land, wildlife sites, recreation facilities etc) from development, including houses, lodges, wind turbines, solar farms, biomass generators, telecommunication masts, industrial units, by establishing Green Wedges or Local Green Spaces. (Link to VP3, VP4, VP10, VP11, VP15 and LBAP 2)

NE3 Promote the use and enjoyment of the natural environment of the parish for villagers and the wider community. (Link to VP5, VP18, VP 23, VP24 and LBAP 2)

Supplementary Natural Environment (SNE) comments

These policies mean that the parish should:

SNE1 Resist developments that impinge on the existing, biodiverse habitats. SNE2 Resist developments that impinge on habitat creation and biodiversity. SNE3 Ask that any development proposal includes a Defra Hedgerow Survey to identify good quality hedgerows that should be protected and an arboricultural survey. SNE4 Ask that defunct hedges be improved as a result of development. SNE5 Re-establish hedgerows along field and parish boundaries, including the filling of gaps, with native species. SNE6 Plant native species of trees within hedgerows and within the village. SNE7 Protect more trees with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) SNE8 Promote new Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs) SNE9 Generate green corridors to connect areas of habitat importance such as LWSs and Whisby Nature Park, and to act as climate corridors to enable the movement of wildlife away from areas affected by climate change or pollution. SNE10 Improve any remaining harsh woodland boundaries. SNE11 Promote walking and cycling for village residents both within and beyond the parish to produce benefits in health and to reduce pollution (link to wellbeing)

PoliciesfromtheVillagePlanreferredtoabove

VP3 TheParishCouncilshouldseektomaintainandenhancethe‘village’characterofThorpeontheHill,specificallythroughopposingalleffortsatover-developmentandparticularlyensuringthatitdoesnotbecomejoinedtoHykeham.

VP4 TheParishCouncilshouldtakeactivestepstosafeguardthequalityoftheruralenvironmentwithintheparish.

VP5 TheParishCouncilshouldfosterthe‘caring’and‘friendly’communitythathas alreadydevelopedwithinthevillage.

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VP10 TheParishCouncilshouldreviewthe1980VillageAppraisaldocumentandseekbothtoaddressanyoutstandingrecommendationsthereandtoupdatethedocumentwithanewagendaformanagementofthevillageenvironment.

VP11 Aspartofthereviewproposedabove,theParishCouncilshouldre-assessTPOswithinthevillageplanareaandcarryoutanenvironmentalauditofallvegetationincludinghedgerowsandareasallpublicopenspaces

VP15 TheParishCouncilshouldmaintainThorpe’scharacterasanindependentvillagebystronglyopposinganydevelopmentwithinthe‘greengap’andtherebyprotectexistingviewsintoandoutofthevillage(alsodefinedintheParishCouncil’sresponsetothemapofsitesunderconsiderationbyNKDCfordevelopmentin2013).

VP18 TheParishCouncilshouldconsideroptimummethodsforthesafemovementofpedestriansandcyclistswithin,intoandoutofthevillage.

VP23 TheParishCouncilshouldpromotesignageofallPublicFootpathsintheparishandencouragetheirgreateruse.

VP24 TheParishCouncilshouldencouragethenominationofmoreBridleways,specificallytocreatehorse-friendlyroutes.

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References Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services ( https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/biodiversity-2020-a-strategy-for-england-s-wildlife-and-ecosystem-services

Central Lincolnshire Green Infrastructure Assessment (CLGIA) (Also Network)

( http://www.glnp.org.uk/lincolnshire-landscapes/central-lincolnshire-green-infrastructure-study.php )

The Central Lincolnshire Local Plan Team commissioned a Green Infrastructure Study for Central Lincolnshire which was completed in December 2011. Green Infrastructure (GI) can be described as a network of open spaces & green space links, existing and new, urban and rural, that sit within and between our cities, towns and villages. A key aim for the study was to provide robust GI evidence for Central Lincolnshire, as a key part of the evidence base, to underpin and support development of planning policies through the Local Plan. Department for Transport : Setting the First Walking and Cycling Investment Strategy. ( https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/487846/cycling-and-walking-investment-strategy.pdf )

Environment Agency Flood Risk Maps ( http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/wiyby/wiybyController?value=Thorpe+on+the+Hill%2C+Lincolnshire&submit.x=17&submit.y=11&submit=Search%09&lang=_e&ep=map&topic=floodmap&layerGroups=default&scale=9&textonly=off#x=490557&y=365663&lg=1,2,10,&scale=10 ) Greater Lincolnshire Nature Partnership (GLNP) ( http://www.glnp.org.uk ) is a partnership of 48 organisations working to achieve more for nature. The partners include Anglian Water, Butterfly Conservation, Canal and River Trust, the Lincolnshire Bird Club, National Trust, Woodland Trust. Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP)

( http://www.glnp.org.uk/admin/resources/bap-summary.pdf )

Lincolnshire Environmental Records Centre (LERC)

( http://www.glnp.org.uk/partnership/lerc/ )

This collates wildlife and geological information for Greater Lincolnshire from various sources and makes it available for various uses. This data is crucial to aid conservation management of sites, to help organisations prioritise action, and to understand the distribution of species and trends over time.

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust ( http://www.lincstrust.org.uk ) Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs) ( http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/localwildlifesites )

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LWSs, along with biological Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), are the most important places for wildlife at a local level. The GLNP seeks to identify every site that satisfies the selection criteria presented in the LWS guidelines, thus recognising a comprehensive suite of sites. Sites are selected by the Nature Partnership, based on recommendations made by its expert working group known as the LWS Panel and then submitted for inclusion within local authority planning policy. Identifying these sites helps local authorities meet their obligations under legislation and government guidance, including reporting on the number of sites in positive management for Single Data List Indicator 160-00. LWSs have planning policy protection.

The following, additional information is from GLNP following an exchange of emails with Charlie Barnes.

Most often LWSs and SNCIs are designated based on botanical information, but other factors do sometimes contribute. Information on SNCIs may be limited as they were never formally assessed against any criteria and often chosen on the basis of local knowledge. These are currently undergoing a process of resurvey and assessment under the LWS criteria, although their status as an SNCI remains for the time being.

The MAGIC website ( http://www.magic.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx ) provides geographic information about the natural environment from across government. The information covers rural, urban, coastal and marine environments across Britain.

The partners are the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Historic England; Natural England; Environment Agency; Forestry Commission; Marine Management Organisation. The National Planning Policy Framework (2012) https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf Natural England (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/natural-england) Natural England Character Area 48 ( http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/7030006?category=587130 ) North Kesteven Landscape Character Assessment

( http://www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/upload/public/attachments/754/lca_final_copy_with_amendments_22_oct_07.pdf ) This was carried out by David Tyldesley and Associates for North Kesteven District Council September 2007. Section 5.6 Ecology is the most relevant to this document. Planning Portal https://www.planningportal.co.uk Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs) predecessors of LWSs

( http://www.glnp.org.uk/partnership/local-sites/local-wildlife-sites.php )

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The LWSs status supersedes that of Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs), which were identified on the basis of local knowledge and were selected without consideration of any formal criteria. In Greater Lincolnshire, the GLNP aims to assess all existing SNCIs using the criteria outlined in LWS guidelines. To avoid confusion, until sites have been assessed against the LWS criteria they retain their SNCI status. SNCIs have planning policy protection.

Sustrans The website ( http://www.sustrans.org.uk/about-us ) says: Sustrans makes smarter travel choices possible, desirable and inevitable. We’re a leading UK charity enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we make every day. We have a vision: By 2020 we want 4 out of 5 local journeys to be made by bike, foot or public transport. That's double the current figure. It's a big challenge, but with your help we know we can do it. The website also contains details of the National Cycle Network. (http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/national-cycle-network/about-network ) This is often known as the NCN and is a series of safe, traffic-free paths and quiet on-road cycling and walking routes that connect to every major town and city. The Network passes within a mile of half of all UK homes and now stretches over 14,000 miles across the length and breadth of the UK. Almost 5 million people use the National Cycle Network, and despite its name, the Network isn't just for cyclists, it’s also popular with walkers, joggers, wheelchair users and horse riders too. Upper Whitham Internal Drainage Board Responsible for drainage and flood protection throughout the parish. ( http://upperwitham-idb.gov.uk ) Whisby Nature Park (http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/whisby-nature-park) Witham Valley Country Park ( http://withamvalleypark.co.uk ) The Natural Environment - Questions Species and Habitat Are you aware of the richness of species and habitat within the parish? Do you make use of this richness for leisure purposes e.g. walking, art (eg photography, painting), peace and tranquility. Footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes

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Should these be protected? Should they be maintained? Which of these facilities do you use? See map for key. Are there any problems with those that you use? e.g. muddy after heavy rain, can be overgrown What are the reasons for not using some of these? Should there be new ones? Agriculture Are you aware of the parish Stewardship Schemes? Tourism Are you aware that Tourism provides a significant economic benefit to the parish? Would you like to see this increase, decrease or stay the same? Green Space Protection Should there be protected green areas in the parish (called Local Green Spaces)? If so, where could these be? Before answering this, bear in mind that Government planning guidance says that the designation should only be used: • where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves; • where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular

local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife; and

• where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land. Renewable Energy and Telecommunication Structures How would you feel about any of the following being sited in the parish? Wind Turbines Solar Farms Biomass Generators Telecommunication Masts

the natural environment of the parish of thorpe on the...

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