PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL REPORT

Transcription

1 ISSUING OFFICE Britannia House Caerphilly Business Park Van Road CAERPHILLY CF83 3GG PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL APPRAISAL REPORT LAND OFF CLEARVIEW COURT, SHIRENEWTON MR DAVID ADAMS DOCUMENT REF: WWE18120/PEA/REV_C 30/10/2018 Director: Richard Dodd, BSc (Hons), CEcol, MCIEEM Wildwood Ecology Limited. Registered in England & Wales, Company No VAT No Registered Office: Queen Anne House, 66 Cricklade Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1JN

2 Client: Site/Job: Report title: Report reference: Mr David Adams Grid Reference: ST Survey date(s): 18/06/2018 Surveyed by: Architect/Agent: Ms C Poole LHS Planning Planning reference: - VERSIONING AND QUALITY ASSURANCE Rev Status Date Author(s) Reviewed by Approved by C FINAL 30/10/2018 Charlotte Poole Assistant Ecologist Matt Davies MCIEEM Senior Ecologist DISCLAIMER This document has been prepared by Wildwood Ecology Limited for Mr David Adams solely as a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report. Wildwood Ecology Limited accepts no responsibility or liability for any use that is made of this document other than by the client for the purposes for which it was originally commissioned and prepared. The evidence which we have prepared and provided is true, and has been prepared and provided in accordance with the guidance of The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management s Code of Professional Conduct. We confirm that the opinions expressed are our true and professional bona fide opinions. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page ii

3 Conclusions Recommendations Key issues Work undertaken Purpose Mr David Adams SUMMARY Wildwood Ecology was commissioned by Mr David Adams (the client) to undertake a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of. The site is the subject of planning application that proposes a new residential development. A PEA was undertaken consisting of a desk study and field survey undertaken in June 2018 following the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (2013) guidelines and standard Phase 1 Habitat Survey protocol (JNCC, 2010). In the absence of mitigation, the development may result in impacts on wildlife and habitats affecting the following protected species: o Bats o Reptiles o Great crested newt o Common dormouse o Nesting birds o West European hedgehog Integrated bat tubes will be installed within the gable walls of plots 4 to 6. A new landscaping scheme will incorporate a new hedgerow feature to compensate for the loss of potential flight lines and commuting corridors for bats and other species. There will be no lighting of any new or retained boundary vegetation, or bat features incorporated within the new properties. A biodiversity method statement will be required to be agreed with the LPA ecologist in respect to reptiles, nesting birds, dormice and great crested newt. Bird boxes suitable for use by house sparrows, swift and starling will be installed on plots 1, 3 and 8. Gaps will be retained or created (as enhancement) in any newly created boundaries to allow hedgehogs to pass through the site. Native species of local provenance will be used for any new planting on the site (including trees). If all recommendations are followed, then it is possible for the proposals to be undertaken and for there to be no net loss of biodiversity at the site. This ecological report will remain valid for a period of 2 years from the date of the last survey i.e. until June Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page iii

4 CONTENTS Summary List of figures List of tables iii iv v 1 Introduction 1 2 Methodology 3 3 Results 5 4 Interpretation and Assessment 10 5 Conclusions and Recommendations 15 6 References 18 PEA plan 19 Proposed development plan 20 Proposed Ecological Recommendations 21 Survey images 24 Species list 28 Planning policy and legislation 29 Survey Calendar 34 List of figures Figure 1 - Aerial image of the site (orange line shows the site boundary). Image used under licence ( 2018 Google). Imagery date 17/06/ Figure 2 - Proposed development plan. Provided by client...20 Figure 3 - Proposed hedgerow compensation plan. Orange site boundary; Yellow 86.0m of existing onsite hedgerow; Red Proposed vision splay surrounding proposed access road; Green 82.0m proposed location for compensation hedgerow (image used under licence ( 2018 Google) Figure 4 - Proposed location of herp-fencing. Orange - site boundary; Light blue; proposed fencing location. Image used under licence ( 2018 Google) Figure 5 - Recommended locations for bat and bird nest boxes. Red - bat boxes; Green - bird nest boxes...23 Figure 6 - Likely bat flight lines following vegetation lines. Yellow indicates as present; red indicates hedge to be lost; blue indicates with new hedgerow Figure 7 - North east corner of the site. Photo taken from central access road within site...25 Figure 8 - Western boundary. Photo taken from central access road within site...25 Figure 9 - South west corner of the site. Photo taken from north...25 Figure 10 - Hedgerow present along northern boundary and north east edge of the site. Photo taken from central access road...25 Figure 11 - Central onsite road. Photo taken from north looking south...25 Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page iv

5 Figure 12 - Western boundary and south west corner of site. Photo taken from north west corner...25 Figure 13 - Species poor hedgerow at south west of the site. Photo taken from south west corner...26 Figure 14 - Area dominated by common hogweed. Target note Figure 15 - Arable land to the east of the site. Photo taken from westernmost grassland Figure 16 - Northern boundary hedgerow...26 Figure 17 - Wire and post fence separating arable land from the grassland. Photo taken looking south...26 Figure 18 - Crop plants present in arable land. Barley and wheat...26 Figure 19 - Northern boundary hedgerow. View from access road to the north that bounds the hedgerow...27 Figure 20 - North east corner of grassland where hedgerow meets bracken and wire and post fence. Photo taken looking north...27 List of tables Table 1 Sources of biodiversity and ecological records Table 2 Surveyor information Table 3 Summary of designated sites in range of the site Table 4 Priority and protected species records found in the vicinity of the site within the last 10 years Table 5 Summary of weather conditions during the PEA... 8 Table 6 Habitats and linear features present onsite Table 7 Indicative potential impacts of the proposed development affecting onsite protected species Table 8 Recommendations Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page v

6 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Wildwood Ecology was commissioned by Mr David Adams (the client) to undertake a preliminary ecological appraisal (PEA) of (the site) centred at grid reference ST Site description 1.2 The site lies in the east of Shirenewton, a village in Monmouthshire. 1.3 The aerial image of the site (Figure 1) shows that the majority of the site is made up of grassland habitat divided into two sections by an access road. The easternmost area consists of an area of land used for arable crops (the north western corner of a larger adjacent field). 1.4 The site is bounded by an access road and residential properties in the north, residential properties in the west and south west, agricultural fields (arable) to the east and grassland to the south east. 1.5 The wider landscape includes the town of Shirenewton, agricultural fields, pastureland and small parcels of woodlands. Figure 1 - Aerial image of the site (orange line shows the site boundary). Image used under licence ( 2018 Google). Imagery date 17/06/2017. Proposed development 1.6 The site is the subject of an outline planning application for the development of 11 residential dwellings; seven consisting of a property with both front and rear gardens with either singular or multiple trees, garage and driveway and four terraced properties with rear and front gardens. 1.7 The proposed plans include the insertion of an access road to the eastern section of the site with accompanying vision splay, approximately 43.0m in length, therefore retaining approximately 35.0m of hedgerow. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 1 of 33

7 Purpose of this report 1.8 The purpose of this report is to provide sufficient information for the local planning authority to fully assess the potential ecological impacts of the proposed development, or to identify what further information is required before a full assessment can be made. 1.9 The result of the PEA has been used to inform whether further surveys are required, or to establish the need for, and extent of, any mitigation or compensation measures required as part of the proposed development. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 2 of 33

8 2 METHODOLOGY Desk study 2.1 A biodiversity desk study was undertaken in relation to the site in June The sources consulted and the type of information obtained are summarised in Table 1. Table 1 Sources of biodiversity and ecological records. Source South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre (SEWBReC) Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) 1 Information requested (search buffer from site centre/boundary) Protected and priority species (2km) Sites of local importance/designation (1km) International statutory designations (5km) National statutory designations (2km) 2.2 The search buffers are considered to be sufficient to cover the potential zone of influence (ZoI 2 ) of the proposed development. 2.3 The impact of the proposed development on the biological integrity of any nearby designated protected sites has been fully considered. 2.4 No previous survey information was available for the site itself. Field survey 2.5 A field survey was undertaken on 18/06/ All habitats present within the site with the potential to support rare, protected, or otherwise notable species of flora or fauna (together with any direct signs) were noted. 2.7 In the context of this report, rare, protected, or otherwise notable species of flora or fauna were those considered to meet any of the following criteria: Species protected by UK or European legislation (see Appendix VI); UK Post 2010 UK Biodiversity Framework priority species or Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) species; Nationally rare or nationally scarce species; Species of Conservation Concern (e.g. JNCC Red List, RSPB/BTO Red or Amber Lists). 2.8 A PEA habitat map was drawn up incorporating target notes used to highlight features of particular ecological interest (see Appendix I). 2.9 The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended, makes it an offence to release or allow to escape into the wild any animal, plant or micro-organism not ordinarily resident in the UK (as listed in Schedule 9 of the Act). Plant species listed in Schedule 9 were searched for during the survey. Examples include species such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) ZoI definition the areas/resources that may be affected by the biophysical changes caused by activities associated with a project (CIEEM, 2016). Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 3 of 33

9 Surveyor information 2.10 The PEA was undertaken by Ms Charlotte Poole. See Table 2 for further information. Table 2 Surveyor information. Surveyor Licences Ecological experience Charlotte Poole M.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons) Assistant Ecologist Limitations and assumptions - Holds a 2:1 Honours degree in Biology and a Masters (Conservation and Geographical Information Systems). Experience of working with ecological consultancies and local authorities as a surveyor of bats and newts The desk study and field survey will not produce a comprehensive list of plants and animals as this will be limited by factors that influence their presence (e.g. activity and dormancy periods). An assessment can however be made of the habitats within the survey area, their nature conservation value and potential to support protected or priority species No other limitations were encountered or assumptions made during either the desk study or the field survey and it is considered that with the access gained and recording undertaken an accurate assessment of the site s ecological value has been made. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 4 of 33

10 3 RESULTS Desk study Designated sites (statutory) 3.1 There were three international statutory designations (SACs) within 5km of the site and seven national statutory designations (6x SSSIs and 1x AONB) within 2km (see Table 3). Designated sites (non-statutory) 3.2 There were five non-statutory designations (all SINCs) within 1km of the site (see Table 3). Table 3 Summary of designated sites in range of the site. Site name Designation Description / key reason for designation Distance & direction Shirenewton Meadows SINC Neutral grassland 0.2km N Mynydd-Bach Meadows SINC Neutral grassland 0.5km N Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Wye Valley AONB (AONB) recognised in particular for its limestone gorge scenery and dense native 0.6km N woodlands, wildlife, archaeological and industrial remains. Mwyngloddfa Mynydd -bach SSSI Lesser horseshoe bat winter hibernation roost. 0.6km N Land off Usk Road/Wayside SINC Neutral grassland and hedgerows 0.7km N Longmead Wood SINC No information available 0.8km SW Wye Valley Lesser Horseshoe SSSI 4 Lesser horseshoe bat summer roosts Bat Site 0.8km NE Wye Valley and Forest of Greater horseshoe bat SAC Dean Bat Sites Lesser horseshoe bat 0.8km NE Llwyn y Celyn Wetland SSSI Marshy grassland 0.9km N Coombe Valley Woods SSSI Semi-natural broadleaved woodland The common dormouse 1.8km W Unimproved neutral grassland, associated SSSI/SINC Dinham Meadows with unimproved limestone grassland. 1.8km SE Grizzled skipper butterfly Wye Valley Woodlands / Coedtiroedd Dyffryn Gwy River Wye / Afon Gwy SAC SAC/SSSI Yew-dominated woodland Mixed woodland on base-rich soils associated with rocky slopes Beech forests on neutral to rich soils Lesser horseshoe bat Running water supporting Ranunculion vegetation Otter Fish species including Atlantic salmon, Twaite shad, Allis shad, Sea lamprey, river lamprey and book lamprey, bullhead and a group of rare craneflies A population of flowering rush, which is a rare plant in Wales. Rare and scarce mosses and liverworts, including the rare flood-moss Goosander- The river is an important wintering area for this species White-clawed or Atlantic stream crayfish 4.7km E 4.8km E Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 5 of 33

11 Aquatic invertebrates including mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, riffle beetles and the compressed river mussel. Rivers with floating vegetation often dominated by water-crowfoot Very wet mires often identified by an unstable 'quaking' surface An important population of the scarce club-tailed dragonfly Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 6 of 33

12 Priority and protected species 3.3 Table 4 summarises the priority and protected species records found within the local area within the last 10 years. Table 4 Priority and protected species records found in the vicinity of the site within the last 10 years. Protected & priority # of records (# species) Groups Species Onsite <500m >500m Further information Bats Bechstein s bat Brown long-eared bat Common pipistrelle Lesser horseshoe bat Noctule Soprano pipistrelle Unidentified pipistrelle Bechstein s bat: unknown roost type recorded 1.5km from the site dated Brown long-eared bat: day roost recorded 1.2km from the site dated Common pipistrelle: unknown roost type recorded 0.5km from the site dated Lesser horseshoe bat: hibernation roost recorded 0.9km from the site dated Noctule: bat pass recorded 1.2km from the site dated Soprano pipistrelle: bat pass recorded 1.2km from the site dated Mammals (excluding bats) Unidentified longeared species Unidentified Myotis Unidentified bat TOTALS - - (-) 6 (35) European otter Closest records to site: Common dormouse TOTALS - - (-) 2 (26) European otter: spraint recorded 1.4km from the site dated Common dormouse: Female dormouse with pink young and a pregnant female dormouse were recorded 1.9km from the site dated Amphibians Reptiles Great crested newt Closest record to site: TOTALS - - (-) 1 (2) Great crested newt: 0.56km dated 2014 Adder Closest records to site: TOTALS (1) Adder: 3.2km dated 2016 Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 7 of 33

13 Protected & priority # of records (# species) Groups Species Onsite <500m >500m Further information Schedule (-) 1 (1) Schedule 1 species: barn owl Birds Invertebrates Field survey Non-schedule 1-5 (20) 12 (30) Non-schedule 1 species: bullfinch, corn bunting, cuckoo, dunnock, hawfinch, house sparrow, linnet, marsh tit, song thrush, spotted flycatcher, starling, willow tit and wood warbler Other invertebrate species: dingy skipper, drab looper, grizzled TOTALS (62) skipper, long-horned bee, scarce hook-tip, red-shanked carder-bee and white admiral. Plants see further info - 1 (3) 3 (16) Timing and conditions 3.4 Prevailing weather conditions during the field survey are summarised within Table 5. Table 5 Summary of weather conditions during the PEA. Species: bluebell, small Alison and small-flowered sticky eyebright. Weather conditions Date Wind speed Temp [ C] Cloud cover [Oktas] Rain [Beaufort scale] 11/01/ F0/F1 None 3.5 The distribution and extent of habitats observed within the site is illustrated in the PEA plan (see Appendix I). An accompanying species list (including scientific names) can be found in Appendix IV. 3.6 The habitats present onsite are described in detail in Table 6 using the standard Phase 1 survey habitat classification hierarchical alphanumeric reference codes (JNCC, 2010). 3.7 Please also refer to Table 6 for a list and description of the onsite target notes. The positions for these target notes are highlighted in the PEA plan in Appendix I. 3.8 The site was classified according to the following habitat types: B.6 poor semi-improved grassland, J.1.1 arable and C.1.1 continuous bracken. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 8 of 33

14 Table 6 Habitats and linear features present onsite. Habitat type / Linear feature Species present Other observations B2.2 Neutral grassland (semi-improved) There are two large areas of semi-improved neutral grassland present on site, the two areas are located to the west and centre of the site either side of the central access road. The site is bounded on the west by a wooden garden fence. J1.1 Arable To the east of the site is a section of arable land separated from the semi-improved neutral grassland by a post and wire fence. C1.1 Continuous bracken Creeping buttercup, ribwort plantain, broad leaved dock, smooth cat s ear, cow parsley, broad leaved willowherb, great willowherb, creeping cinquefoil, ground elder, silverweed, red clover, Yorkshire fog, common nettle, ivy, common hogweed and false oat grass. Barley (with some wheat). Large area dominated by common hogweed (Target Note 3). Grassland in general is mown with grass cuttings not removed at the time of visit (Target Note 2). Grass height is varying creating tussocks and open areas. Small scattering of wheat plants in amongst barley crop. (Target Note 1). In the north eastern area of the site there is a small section of bracken located in between the arable field and the northern hedgerow. J2.1.2 Species-poor, intact hedge The site is bounded to the north by a species-rich intact hedge. J2.1.2 Species-poor, intact hedge The site is bounded on the south west edge by a species poor intact hedge. J2.4 Fence The central section of the site is separated from the arable land by a post and wire fence. Bracken - Bramble, hazel, fern sp., hedge bedstraw, herb Robert, bush vetch, false oat grass, sweet vernal grass, common nettle, ivy, hawthorn, and common hogweed. Leyland cypress, hazel, hawthorn, ivy Yorkshire fog, sweet vernal grass and common nettle Large hedge (approximately 1.5m wide, 3-4m high and 86m long) with species rich understory. Hedgerow terminates in north west corner of the site but connects to further hedgerow in the east. - Onsite fauna 3.9 The presence of the following species was observed or detected around the site during the survey: robin and blackbird. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 9 of 33

15 4 INTERPRETATION AND ASSESSMENT 4.1 The proposed development will require displacement of onsite habitats and disturbance to their associated features. This section concerns an assessment of ecological impacts resulting from the proposed development. 4.2 The following interpretation and assessment is provided to ensure full compliance with both UK and European legislation and both local and national planning policy (see Appendix V). Designated sites 4.3 There were both statutory and non-statutory designated sites identified within the vicinity of the site (see Table 3). The closest statutory site was the Wye Valley AONB, 0.6km to the north of the site. The closest non-statutory site was the Shirenewton Meadows SINC, 0.2km to the north of the site. 4.4 There is some connectivity between the site and Shirenewton Meadows SINC via hedgerows and treelines. Given the proximity of this non-statutory site to two statutory sites: Wye Valley Lesser Horseshoe Bat Site (SSSI) and Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites (SAC) both 0.8km to the north of the site) it can be anticipated that the proposed development could have an indirect impact due to disturbance of wildlife (using hedgerows to commute to and from the site and using hedgerows to commute through the site to forage) both during works and post works due to increased lighting, reduction of foraging opportunities, barriers to movement and noise. 4.5 All other non-statutory designations mentioned above are sufficiently well separated from the site. Given the scale of the proposed development, and the lack of likely impacts beyond the site boundary, these nearby designated sites are sufficiently well separated so that no impacts on their designated features are anticipated as a result of the works. Priority and protected habitats 4.6 The following priority habitats (as listed in Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016) were present onsite: hedgerows and arable field margins. 4.7 These onsite habitats are of principal importance for maintaining and enhancing biodiversity in Wales. Priority and protected species 4.8 The following priority species (as listed in Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016) were present or likely to be present onsite, or in the vicinity of the site: bats (commuting/foraging), common dormouse, reptiles, great crested newts and West European hedgehog. Bats 4.9 The local records search returned a number of records for bat species in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) The closest bat record to site is for common pipistrelle 0.5km from the site dated The onsite habitat (grassland and hedgerows) provide foraging resources and commuting routes for bats. There is good connectivity via hedgerows and treelines from the site to surrounding areas, e.g., the nearby Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites (SAC), the Wye Valley Lesser Horseshoe Bat Site (SSSI) and the surrounding woodlands (Dinham Valley Woods, Parts of Gondra Great Wood (1 and 2), Whitemill Common and Roughets Woods), that offer foraging opportunities Given the proximity of the site to the previously listed sites and the available connecting foraging and commuting habitat, it can be assumed that bats will use the site for foraging and commuting. Therefore, Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 10 of 33

16 it is anticipated that the proposed development could have an indirect impact on bats that would be using hedgerows to commute to and from the site to forage in addition to using hedgerows to commute through the site to forage in other suitable habitats There are no features onsite that can be used by bats to roost within, and no record of any adjacent structure with known roosts All bats and their roosts, irrespective of the number of bats, species, ad whether bats are present or not, are fully protected by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) There may be a negative impact on bat species as a result of the proposed development, due to a loss of foraging habitat and commuting routes (grassland and hedgerows) leading to habitat fragmentation and direct and indirect disturbance both during works and post works due to increased lighting, reduction of foraging opportunities, barriers to movement and noise. Common dormouse 4.16 The local records search returned a number of records for common dormouse in the vicinity of the site with the closest for a site 1.9km away (see Table 4) Onsite habitats (onsite hedgerow) include species that are known to be used as a food resource by the common dormouse e.g., hazel, bramble and hawthorn Off-site connecting habitats to the east of the site also include species that are known to be used as a food resource by the common dormouse The northern boundary hedgerow terminates at the north-west corner of site and links to habitat to the east which further links via hedgerows to the surrounding woodland areas (Dinham Valley Woods, Parts of Gondra Great Wood (1 and 2), Whitemill Common and Roughets Woods). There are no gaps present within the hedgerow onsite, however, small breaks are present within the same hedgerow offsite, to accommodate access roads The proposed development will truncate the northern hedgerow via the insertion of an access road and accompanying vision splay (approximately 43.0m in length). There is evidence that dormice will cross roads (Chanin, 2012), though it is also known that they prefer to use linked features wherever possible (Bright, 1998). Given that the onsite hedgerow terminates in the north west corner of the site (bound by residential properties and gardens) and the hedgerow is connected to offsite habitat of similar value in the east it is unlikely that the removal of this section of the hedgerow would have an impact on the common dormouse population There may be a negative impact on common dormouse as a result of the proposed development should the hedgerows be removed and/or the boundary features illuminated, in the absence of mitigation. Reptiles 4.22 The local records search returned a single record for adder in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) There is some suitable habitat present onsite which may support reptiles, i.e, the semi-improved neutral grassland and some tussocky areas (offering a diverse structure of vegetation with a range of heights) providing some sources of shade and sun exposure At the time of the site visit the central section of the site had been mown with the grass cuttings left in clumps on the grassland. This offered further opportunities for reptiles. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 11 of 33

17 4.25 The site is managed throughout the year with cuts and, in particular, the eastern section has been in arable use Reptiles are protected under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation makes it illegal to intentionally kill or injure a common reptile. As a result, reptiles must be removed (if present) from areas of development and relocated onto suitable release sites before any site works can commence There may be a negative impact on reptiles as a result of the proposed development, in the absence of mitigation. European otter 4.28 The local records search returned a single record for European otter in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) There are no streams onsite or present within the boundary features The nearest watercourse is approximately 0.2km north of the site and is connected to the Mountain Brook (0.8km north of the site) The watercourse is separated from the site by arable fields, access roads (Spout Hill) and a small housing estate. It is unlikely otter will be present onsite There will not be a negative impact on European otter as a result of the proposed development. Great crested newt 4.33 The local records search returned two records for great crested newt in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) towards the south-west. These are separated from the site by houses and roads, though there is some connectivity of the site through hedgerows to off-site ponds and water courses the site may be considered as suitable for great crested newt, in its terrestrial phase only There may be a negative impact on great crested newt as a result of the proposed development, in the absence of mitigation, and if present. Nesting birds 4.35 The local records search returned a number of records for nesting bird species in the vicinity of the site, including barn owl, a Schedule 1 designated species (see Table 4). In addition, several bird species were encountered onsite during the PEA There is sufficient habitat onsite (hedgerows) suitable for nesting birds to use, although no structures or large trees with cavities suitable for use by barn owl are present There may be a negative impact on nesting bird species as a result of the proposed development, due to loss of nesting and foraging habitat (onsite grassland and hedgerows). European badger 4.38 The local records search returned no records for European badger in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) The lack of records for badger should not be assumed to be due to species absence but rather underrecording No badger setts were observed to be present onsite, and no evidence of regular foraging use either, though badger may use the site in order to forage occasionally. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 12 of 33

18 4.41 As no setts were found to be present onsite, and as there is suitable foraging for badgers offsite, there is unlikely to be a negative impact on European badger as a result of the proposed development. West European hedgehog 4.42 The local records search returned no records for West European hedgehog in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) Hedgehogs were not observed onsite during the PEA, however, it is likely that hedgehogs are present within the onsite boundaries and within the local adjacent habitats In the absence of mitigation there may be a negative impact on West European hedgehog as a result of the proposed development due to loss of foraging habitat (grassland). Invertebrates 4.45 The local records search returned a number of records for priority and protected invertebrate species in the vicinity of the site (see Table 4) In relation to these, the site offers food sources for the red-shanked carder-bee (vetch and clover), grizzled skipper (bramble) and long-horned bee (vetch and clover). The habitats present onsite and in the immediate vicinity do not support these species however, with a limited foraging supply of flowering plants Though the development will result in a loss of grassland habitat, the surrounding habitats and hedgerows offer suitable food sources for more common invertebrate species that will use the same species as found on site as foodplants There is unlikely to be a negative impact on invertebrate species as a result of the proposed development Plants 4.49 There were no priority or protected plant species found on site There will be no negative impacts on protected plants species as a result of the proposals. Impacts of proposed development 4.51 Table 7 summarises the impacts of the proposed development on protected species that are or may be present onsite. Table 7 Indicative potential impacts of the proposed development affecting onsite protected species. Species Bats Common dormouse European otter Great crested newt Reptiles Nesting birds European badger Negative impact* (plus scale and nature of impact) Loss of foraging habitat (grassland) and commuting routes (proposed fragmentation of onsite hedgerows, lighting). Loss of habitat (onsite hedgerow) and commuting routes (proposed fragmentation of onsite hedgerows, lighting). None. Loss of habitat (grassland, hedgerows) used for the terrestrial phase of the great crested newt life cycle. Loss of habitat (grassland) used for foraging. Loss of suitable nesting and foraging habitat (grassland and onsite hedgerow). None. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 13 of 33

19 Species West European hedgehog Invertebrates Negative impact* (plus scale and nature of impact) Loss of foraging habitat (grassland) and nesting habitat (hedgerow). None. *Ultimate assessment of the scale and nature of impacts is dependent upon on final design of proposed development and exact habitats affected. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 14 of 33

20 5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1 Wildwood Ecology was commissioned to undertake a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) of Land off Clearview Court, Shirenewton 5.2 The site is the subject of an outline planning application for the development of 11 residential dwellings; seven consisting of a property with both front and rear gardens with either singular or multiple trees, garage and driveway and four terraced properties with rear and front gardens. 5.3 The proposed plans include the insertion of an access road to the eastern section of the site with accompanying vision splay, approximately 43.0m in length, therefore retaining approximately 35.0m of hedgerow. Designated sites 5.4 There is some connectivity between the site and nearby designated sites (statutory and non-statutory), including the SAC (Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites). See Table 4 and paragraphs 4.4 and 4.5. There may be some indirect impacts on the bats which may use these sites due to increased lighting, and some reduction of foraging opportunities, in the absence of mitigation. 5.5 All other non-statutory designations mentioned above are sufficiently well separated from the site. Given the scale of the proposed development, and the lack of likely impacts beyond the site boundary, these nearby designated sites are sufficiently well separated so that no impacts on their designated features are anticipated as a result of the works. Protected species 5.6 Recommendations regarding protected species are shown in Table 8. See Survey Calendar in Appendix VI for optimal survey timings. Table 8 Recommendations. Species Bats Common dormouse Recommendations New planting of a hedgerow with dead-hedging using brash from existing hedgerow OR translocation of existing hedgerow with infill of new planting, along the eastern boundary of the site creating an alternative north-south route for commuting bats. See Appendix III for a proposed hedgerow compensation plan. The hedgerow will consist of a mix of five native species of local provenance and species of value to other protected species e.g. species favoured by common dormouse (hazel, hawthorn, oak sp, blackthorn, guelder rose). The construction phase of proposed development will be undertaken during daylight hours and a lighting plan will be produced to demonstrate that any exterior lighting proposed post-development would not have a detrimental effect on bats commuting along the boundaries of the site, or on any bat roost features incorporated into Plots 4, 5 and 6 (integrated Schwegler bat tubes). The lighting plan will need to show dark corridors for use by light sensitive species which use the nearby SAC (example in Appendix III). A dormouse method statement will be required to demonstrate how the development will proceed with consideration for dormice and will include compensation measures which will include, but not be limited to, the following. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 15 of 33

21 Compensation hedgerow (see above and Appendix III) Removal of the hedgerow will be undertaken using a two-stage strategy following best practice. All removal will be supervised by a licenced ecologist. Stage 1 - Above ground vegetation will be cut during winter (December 2018-February 2019) using hand held tools down to 300mm from ground level, following a check and supervised by a dormouse ecologist. There will be no breaking of ground. The resulting brash will be used to provide an immediate structure along the planted hedgerow on the eastern boundary. The stumps of the cut vegetation will remain undisturbed, if the ecologist states that there is scope for them to contain any below ground nests (i.e. hibernation nests) The hedgerow will be protected from any other onsite works by fencing where site boundaries allow Stage 2 - removal of the remaining 300mm vegetation, tree stumps, roots, soil and other ground works will be undertaken after May 2019 (and before the following winter). The remaining vegetation will be checked by a licenced ecologist (fingertip search) immediately prior to removal. Stumps will be removed in small sections by a mini-digger with a bucket <300 mm wide. No further surveys required. European otter Any uncovered deep excavations or trenching will include a means of escape for any animals a plank at no more than 30 will be adequate. No further surveys required. Vegetation will be removed in winter (December 2018-February 2019) following the protocol discussed below in relation to reptiles. The use of one-way herp-fencing (see Appendix III for a proposed location of Great crested newt fencing) will stop any potential newts from entering the site during works and should be erected along the boundaries with turn backs. This fencing will be used to prevent reptiles and newts entering the site. In the unlikely event any great crested newts are encountered onsite works should be stopped immediately, and advice sought from the project ecologist. A reptile mitigation strategy will be followed. Vegetation will be removed in winter (mid-november 2018-February 2019), down to ground-level and maintained at this level until construction commences. All cuttings are to be removed from the site. The vegetation will be cut Reptiles moving from the north of the site to the south to allow the movement of onsite reptiles, if present, to the south and offsite. Once this is complete, one-way herp-fencing will be installed. The use of one-way reptile fencing will stop any potential populations of reptiles from re-entering the site during site works and will be erected along the boundaries. See Appendix III for a proposed location of reptile fencing. If habitats suitable for nesting birds are to be removed, then any vegetation clearance will take place outside of the bird nesting season, in line with the Nesting birds recommendations for dormice and other species. Bird boxes will be installed on plots 1, 3 and 8 to accommodate local bird populations. European badger As for otter above. No further surveys required. Gaps (13cm x13cm) will be left at the bases of all on-site fences/walls West European hedgehog including site boundaries to allow passage of hedgehogs across the site. In addition, cautious working is advised to prevent killing or injury to this species, i.e. careful removal of leaf litter piles by hand. Invertebrates No further surveys required. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 16 of 33

22 Biodiversity enhancement 5.7 Local Authorities have a duty (known as the Biodiversity and resilience of ecosystems duty ) under the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 to seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity in the exercise of their functions. 5.8 Where possible the existing onsite habitat will be retained to ensure that species are not adversely affected by the development. Native species of local provenance will be used for any new planting on the site to support The Action Plan for Pollinators in Wales, 2013 ( 5.9 Bird nesting boxes and bat roosting boxes will be incorporated within the proposed building and boundary features. A range of types should be used in order to cover a variety of species We recommend plots 4, 5 and 6 have integrated bat boxes (Schwegler bat tube 1FR) installed at the apex of the eastern gable ends of the properties We recommend plots 1, 3 and 8 have a house sparrow terrace, swift box and starling box installed. These will be installed at eaves height facing onto boundary vegetation, and where possible not above doors or windows Details of positions of bird nesting boxes and bat boxes can be found in Appendix III. Overall conclusion 5.13 The full ecological impacts of the proposed development cannot be fully assessed following the PEA survey alone. Further survey work may be required (reptile and nesting birds) to inform the proposed development. These surveys may be conditioned within the planning permission. This ecological report will remain valid for a period of 2 years from the date of the last survey - i.e. until June Further surveys may be required to update the site information if planning is not obtained or works do not commence within this time period. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 17 of 33

23 6 REFERENCES Bright, P (1998) Behaviour of specialist species in habitat corridors: arboreal dormice avoid corridor gaps. Animal Behaviour 56 (6): Chanin, P., (2012) Why Didn t Dormice Cross the Gaps. The Dormouse Monitor. Issue People s Trust for Endangered Species. Collins, J. (ed.) (2016) Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn). The Bat Conservation Trust, London. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (April, 2013) Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. CIEEM, Winchester. Institute for Environmental Assessment (1995). Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment. E & FN Spon, Hong Kong. Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey; A technique for environmental audit. Reprinted by JNCC, Peterborough. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 18 of 33

24 PEA PLAN Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 19 of 33

25 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN Figure 2 - Proposed development plan. Provided by client Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 20 of 33

26 PROPOSED ECOLOGICAL RECOMMENDATIONS Figure 3 - Proposed hedgerow compensation plan. Orange site boundary; Yellow 86.0m of existing onsite hedgerow; Red Proposed vision splay surrounding proposed access road; Green 82.0m proposed location for compensation hedgerow (image used under licence ( 2018 Google). Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 21 of 33

27 Figure 4 - Proposed location of herp-fencing. Orange - site boundary; Light blue; proposed fencing location. Image used under licence ( 2018 Google). Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 22 of 33

28 Figure 5 - Recommended locations for bat and bird nest boxes. Red - bat boxes; Green - bird nest boxes Towards Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC Figure 6 - Likely bat flight lines following vegetation lines. Yellow indicates as present; red indicates hedge to be lost; blue indicates with new hedgerow. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 23 of 33

29 SURVEY IMAGES Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 24 of 33

30 Figure 7 - North east corner of the site. Photo taken from central access road within site Figure 8 - Western boundary. Photo taken from central access road within site Figure 9 - South west corner of the site. Photo taken from north Figure 10 - Hedgerow present along northern boundary and north east edge of the site. Photo taken from central access road Figure 11 - Central onsite road. Photo taken from north looking south Figure 12 - Western boundary and south west corner of site. Photo taken from north west corner Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 25 of 33

31 Figure 13 - Species poor hedgerow at south west of the site. Photo taken from south west corner Figure 14 - Area dominated by common hogweed. Target note 3 Figure 15 - Arable land to the east of the site. Photo taken from westernmost grassland. Figure 16 - Northern boundary hedgerow Figure 17 - Wire and post fence separating arable land from the grassland. Photo taken looking south Figure 18 - Crop plants present in arable land. Barley and wheat Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 26 of 33

32 Figure 19 - Northern boundary hedgerow. View from access road to the north that bounds the hedgerow Figure 20 - North east corner of grassland where hedgerow meets bracken and wire and post fence. Photo taken looking north Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 27 of 33

33 SPECIES LIST To be submitted to the appropriate Local Records Centre Site Name: Provided by: Wildwood Ecology Ltd Grid ref: ST Verified by: Charlotte Poole Common name Scientific Name (if known) Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata Pignut Conopodium majus White Clover Trifolium repens Silverweed Potentilla anserina Red Clover Trifolium pratense Yorkshire-fog Holcus lanatus Common Nettle Urtica dioica Ivy Hedera helix Broad leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius Smooth cats ear Hypochaeris glabra Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Broad leaved willowherb Epilobium montanum Great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum Creeping Cinquefoil Potentilla reptans Ground elder Aegopodium podagraria Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Holly Ilex aquifolium Herb Robert Geranium robertianum Hazel Corylus avellana Leyland cypress Cupressus macrocarpa x Xanthocyparis nootkatensis = X Cuprocyparis leylandii Hedge bindweed Calystegia sepium Bush vetch Vicia sepium Hedge bedstraw Galium mollugo False oat grass Arrhenatherum elatius Sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum Crested dog's-tail Cynosurus cristatus Cock's foot Dactylis glomerata Elder Sambucus nigra Robin Erithacus rubecula Blackbird Turdus merula Number Comment Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 28 of 33

34 PLANNING POLICY AND LEGISLATION The following local and national planning policy and both primary and European legislation relating to nature conservation and biodiversity status are considered of relevance to the current proposal. Planning and biodiversity Local Authorities have a requirement to consider biodiversity and geological conservation issues when determining planning applications under the following planning policies. Planning Policy Wales (2016) and Technical Advice Note 5 (2009) Planning Policy Wales (Edition 9, November 2016) sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Government, with Chapter 5 dealing with Conserving and Improving Natural Heritage and the Coast. The advice contained within Planning Policy Wales (PPW) is supplemented for some subjects by Technical Advice Notes (TAN s). TAN 5 (Welsh Government, 2009) specifically provides advice about how the land use planning system should contribute to protecting and enhancing biodiversity and geological conservation. The TAN provides advice for local planning authorities on the key principles of positive planning for nature conservation; nature conservation and Local Development Plans; nature conservation in development management procedures; development affecting protected internationally and nationally designated sites and habitats; and development affecting protected and priority habitats and species. Under Section 2.4 within the TAN 5, when deciding planning applications that may affect nature conservation local planning authorities should : Pay particular attention to the principles of sustainable development, including respect for environmental limits, applying the precautionary principle, using scientific knowledge to aid decision making and taking account of the full range of costs and benefits in a long term perspective; Contribute to the protection and improvement of the environment, so as to improve the quality of life and protect local and global ecosystems, seeking to avoid irreversible harmful effects on the natural environment; Promote the conservation and enhancement of statutorily designated areas and undeveloped coast; Ensure that appropriate weight is attached to designated sites of international, national and local importance; Protect wildlife and natural features in the wider environment, with appropriate weight attached to priority habitats and species in Biodiversity Action Plans; Ensure that all material considerations are taken into account and decisions are informed by adequate information about the potential effects of development on nature conservation; Ensure that the range and population of protected species is sustained; Adopt a step-wise approach to avoid harm to nature conservation, minimise unavoidable harm by mitigation measures, offset residual harm by compensation measures and look for new opportunities to enhance nature conservation; where there may be significant harmful effects local planning authorities will need to be satisfied that any reasonable alternative sites that would result in less or no harm have been fully considered; Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 29 of 33

35 Legislation and biodiversity Certain species of animals and plants found in the wild in the UK are legally protected from being harmed or disturbed. These species are listed in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) or are named as European Protected Species (EPS) in the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations These two main pieces of legislation have been consulted when writing this report and are therefore described in detail within this section. Other relevant legislation and policy documents that have been consulted include The Environment (Wales) Act 2016; The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000; The Hedgerow Regulations 1997; Biodiversity Action Plans, both UK-wide (UKBAP) and Local plans (LBAPs), and The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). There is also legislation that legally protects certain animals - for example, the Protection of Badgers Act (1992) protects badgers and their setts, and the Deer Act (1991) places restrictions on actions that can be taken against deer species. Environment (Wales) Act 2016 Section 6 of the Act places a duty on public authorities to seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity so far as it is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions. In so doing, public authorities must also seek to promote the resilience of ecosystems. The duty replaces the section 40 duty in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act 2006), in relation to Wales, and applies to those authorities that fell within the previous duty. Public authorities will be required to report on the actions they are taking to improve biodiversity and promote ecosystem resilience. Section 7 replaces the duty in section 42 of the NERC Act The Welsh Ministers will publish, review and revise lists of living organisms and types of habitat in Wales, which they consider are of key significance to sustain and improve biodiversity in relation to Wales. The Welsh Ministers must also take all reasonable steps to maintain and enhance the living organisms and types of habitat included in any list published under this section, and encourage others to take such steps. Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) [WCA] is the primary legislation for England and Wales for the protection of flora, fauna and the countryside. Part I within the Act deals with the protection of wildlife. Most European Protected Species offences are now covered under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (see below), but some intentional acts are still covered under the WCA, such as obstructing access to a bat roost. The WCA prohibits the release to the wild of non-native animal species listed on Schedule 9 (e.g. Signal Crayfish and American Mink). It also prohibits planting in the wild of plants listed in Schedule 9 (e.g. Japanese Knotweed and Rhododendron ponticum) or otherwise deliberately causing them to grow in the wild. This is to prevent the release of invasive non-native species that could threaten our native wildlife. The provisions relating to animals in the Act only apply to 'wild animals'; these are defined as those that are living wild or were living wild before being captured or killed. It does not apply to captive bred animals being held in captivity. There are 'defences' provided by the WCA. These are cases where acts that would otherwise be prohibited by the legislation are permitted, such as the incidental result of a lawful operation which could not be reasonable avoided, or actions within the living areas of a dwelling house. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 30 of 33

36 Licensing: certain prohibited actions under the Wildlife and Countryside Act may be undertaken under licence by the proper authority. For example scientific study that requires capturing or disturbing protected animals can be allowed by obtaining a licence e.g. bat surveys. Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (which are the principal means by which the EC Habitats Directive is transposed in England and Wales) update the legislation and consolidate all the many amendments which have been made to the Regulations since they were first made in These regulations provide for the: protection of European Protected Species [EPS] (animals and plants listed in Annex IV Habitats Directive which are resident in the wild in Great Britain) including bats, dormice, great crested newts, and otters; designation and protection of domestic and European Sites - e.g. Site of Special Scientific Interest [SSSI] and Special Area of Conservation [SAC]; and adaptation of planning controls for the protection of such sites and species. Public bodies (including the Local Planning Authority) have a duty to have regard to the requirements of the Habitats Directive in exercising their function i.e. when determining a planning application. There is no defence that an act was the incidental and unavoidable result of a lawful activity. Licensing: it is possible for actions which would otherwise be an offence under the Regulations to be undertaken under licence issued by the proper authority. For example, where a European Protected Species has been identified and the development risks deliberately affecting an EPS, then a development licence may be required. Species protection The following protected species information is relevant to this report. Legislation is only discussed in relation to planning and development; other offences may exist. Amphibians The common frog, common toad, common newt, and palmate newt receive limited protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), making it illegal to sell or trade them. The Great Crested Newt and Natterjack Toad are fully protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 as European Protected Species. It is illegal to: Deliberately capture, injure, kill, or disturb either species, Intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any structure/place used for shelter or protection, or Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place. Badger Badgers are protected in the UK under the Protection of Badgers Act Under the act it is an offence to: Wilfully kill, injure, take, possess or cruelly ill-treat 3 a Badger, or attempt to do so; 3 The intentional elimination of sufficient foraging area to support a known social group of Badgers may, in certain circumstances, be construed as an offence by constituting cruel ill treatment of a Badger Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 31 of 33

37 To intentionally or recklessly interfere with a sett 4 (this includes disturbing Badgers whilst they are occupying a sett, as well as damaging or destroying a sett or obstructing access to it). The legislation aims to protect the species from persecution, rather than being a response to an unfavourable conservation status, as the species is in fact common over most of Britain; it is not intended to prevent properly authorised development. Bats All British bats are classed as European Protected Species and therefore receive protection under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, making it an offence inter alia to: Deliberately kill, injure or capture a bat; Deliberately disturb bats; Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a bat. In addition, all British bats are also listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which contains further provisions making it an offence to intentionally or recklessly: Obstruct access to any structure or place which any bat uses for shelter or protection; or Disturb any bat while occupying a structure or place which it uses for that purpose. If proposed development work is likely to destroy or disturb bats or their roosts, then a licence will need to be obtained from Natural Resources Wales, which would be subject to appropriate measures to safeguard bats. Birds In the UK, the provisions of the Birds Directive are implemented through the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations All wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected it an offence to: kill, injure, or take any wild bird; take, damage or destroy the nest of any such bird whilst it is in use or being built; or take or destroying an egg of any such wild bird. The law covers all species of wild birds including common, pest or opportunistic species. Special protection against disturbance during the breeding season is also afforded to those species listed on Schedule 1 of the Act. Dormice The common dormouse is classed as a European Protected Species and therefore receive protection under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, making it an offence inter alia to: Deliberately capture, injure, or kill a dormouse; Deliberately disturb dormice; Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of a dormouse. In addition, the dormouse is listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which contains further provisions making it an offence to intentionally or recklessly: Obstruct access to any structure or place which a dormouse uses for shelter or protection; or 4 A sett is defined as any structure or place which displays signs indicating current use by a Badger. Advice issued by Natural England (June 2009) is that a sett is protected as long as such signs remain present, which in practice could potentially be for some time after the last actual occupation by Badger. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 32 of 33

38 Otters Disturb a dormouse while occupying a structure or place which it uses for that shelter or protection. The European Otter, Lutra lutra is a European Protected Species and therefore receive protection under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, making it an offence inter alia to: deliberately capture, injure or kill any wild otter; deliberately disturb wild otters; damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of an otter. In addition, the otter is listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which contains further provisions making it an offence to intentionally or recklessly: disturbs an otter while it is occupying a structure or place which it uses for shelter or protection; or obstructs access to such a place. If proposed development work is likely to destroy or disturb otters or their resting places, then a licence will need to be obtained from Natural Resources Wales, which would be subject to appropriate measures to safeguard otters. Reptiles Adders, slow worms, grass snakes and common lizards are protected against killing and injuring under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation makes it illegal to intentionally kill or injure a common reptile. As a result, reptiles must be removed from areas of development and relocated onto suitable release sites before any site works can commence. Smooth snakes and sand lizards are European Protected Species under schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations This makes it illegal to carry out the following activities: Deliberately or recklessly disturb, capture or kill these animals; Deliberately or recklessly take or destroy eggs of these animals; Damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of such a wild animal; or Keep, transport, sell or exchange, or offer for sale or exchange, any live or dead animal, or any part of, or anything derived from such a wild animal. Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 33 of 33

39 Land off Clearview Court, Shirenewton SURVEY CALENDAR Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Oct Nov Sept Aug Badger July June Mar May April Oct Nov Sept Breeding bird survey Aug July June Mar May April Oct Nov Sept Aug Dormouse (nut & nest searching) July June Mar May April Oct Nov Sept Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (Phase 1/Habitat survey) Aug July June Mar May April Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Nov Mar Nov Mar Nov Mar Nov Mar Oct Sept Bats (emergence & activity surveys) May April Oct Sept Winter bird survey May April Oct Sept Great crested newt May April Oct Sept Reptiles May April Aug July June Aug July June Aug July June Aug July June Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Dec Jan Feb Nov Mar Nov Mar Nov Mar Nov Mar Oct Sept Bats (scoping survey) May April Oct Sept Dormouse (nest tube/box surveys) May April Oct Sept Otter May April Oct Sept Water vole May April Aug July June Aug July June Aug July June Aug July June Optimal period survey Sub-optimal survey period No surveys possible This chart provides an overview for UK protected species commonly encountered during development and should be treated as guidance only. Most species require surveys across the whole season or within their optimal period as shown above to be accepted as part of a planning application. Contact Wildwood Ecology early to discuss your ecological needs and timescale. Wildwood Ecology Ltd 2017 Wildwood Ecology Limited 2018 Page 34 of 1