REDSANDS NANTWICH ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

Transcription

1 REDSANDS NANTWICH ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TEP Genesis Centre Birchwood Science Park Warrington WA3 7BH Tel: Offices in Warrington, Market Harborough, Gateshead, London and Cornwall PLANNING I DESIGN I ENVIRONMENT

2 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Document Title Prepared for Prepared by Ecological Assessment Engine of the North TEP - Warrington Document Ref Author Sarah Sadler Date September 2016 Checked Approved Emma Pickering Marjorie Nadouce Amendment History Version Date Modified by Check / Approved by Reason(s) issue Status

3 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment CONTENTS PAGE Executive Summary Introduction Site Description Methods Results Conclusions Recommendations References TABLES PAGE Table 1: Ecological information and consultations... 4 FIGURES PAGE Figure 1: Location of site within local landscape... 3 APPENDICES APPENDIX A: APPENDIX B: Desktop Study Technical Bat Report DRAWINGS G Phase 1 Habitat survey Version 2.0 September 2016

4 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Executive Summary 1. TEP were commissioned by Engine of the North to carry out an ecological assessment of a site at the former Redsands young offenders institute in Nantwich. This assessment has been requested to inform future development proposals for the site. 2. The site is situated within the open countryside area to the east of Nantwich, with land adjacent to the site predominantly used for agriculture. 3. There are no designated wildlife sites or S41 Habitats of Principle Importance on site or within influencing distance of the site. 4. The site is predominately amenity grassland with parkland/scattered trees and bounded on three sides with hedgerows. 5. The Schedule 9 invasive species, rhododendron, is present onsite. If this is to be removed it will need to be disposed of appropriately following vegetation clearance. 6. There are three waterbodies within 500m of the site with good to moderate terrestrial habitat connectivity for amphibians, including great crested newts. Further amphibians surveys are required to determine whether the development will have any implications on amphibians. 7. There are no implications for any development with regard to water vole, otter, reptiles, invertebrates or badgers. 8. If the trees, hedgerows and scrub will be removed for any development, replacement bird nesting opportunities will need to be provided to compensate for the loss of existing potential nest sites. 9. Vegetation clearance should ideally be implemented outside the bird nesting season (avoiding March to August inclusive). If this is not possible, a nesting bird check will need to be carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist immediately prior to the works commencing, to establish that no active bird nests are present Page 1 September 2016 Version 2.0

5 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 1.0 Introduction 1.1 TEP was commissioned in July 2016 to carry out an ecological assessment of land at the former Redsands young offenders institute in Nantwich. This assessment has been requested to inform proposals for future development of the site. 1.2 The ecological assessments comprised: Desktop study; Phase 1 habitat survey; and Daytime bat roost assessment. 1.3 This report has the following objectives: Detail the methods and results of the above surveys; To describe the existing vegetation and give an overview of the habitats present on the site; To identify whether there are any features of conservation value such as legally protected species or habitats of biodiversity importance; To advise of further surveys or mitigation requirements that might be needed prior to development of the site; and To outline opportunities to provide biodiversity enhancement within site proposals Page 2 September 2016 Version 2.0

6 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 2.0 Site Description 2.1 The site is an area of land along the A534, located between Willaston to the east and Nantwich to the west. The location is shown on the plan below (Figure 1). The approximate central grid reference is SJ The site is situated within the open countryside area outside of Nantwich, with land adjacent to the site predominantly used for agriculture. Figure 1: Location of site within local landscape (Contains Ordnance Survey data Crown copyright and database right 2016.) Page 3 September 2016 Version 2.0

7 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 3.0 Methods Desktop Study 3.1 Information regarding historic species records and protected sites within a 1km radius of the site was requested/gathered from the sources listed in Table 1. Table 1: Ecological information and consultations CONSULTEE/SOURCE OF INFORMATION Magic Map: Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside Section 41 NERC Act 2006 Google Maps Natural England, Magic Map Cheshire record NATURE OF INFORMATION Online mapping system identifying statutory and rural designations, citations, natural area boundaries etc. Habitats and species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity. Satellite imagery Online mapping system for England for S41 habitats and protected sites. Identification of records for protected species within the local area. Habitats and Flora 3.2 The Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken by Senior Ecologist Emma Pickering on the 20th July The survey was carried out in accordance with the Phase 1 Habitat Survey assessment methods (JNCC 2010) and CIEEM's Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (2012) with habitat types and any incidental evidence of protected or invasive species noted. Limitations 3.3 The Phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken within the optimum survey season of mid-april to mid-october. There was therefore no limitation to the habitat survey with regard to the time of year. Fauna 3.4 During the Phase 1 habitat survey, the habitats present were assessed for their potential to support species of conservation concern, particularly statutorily protected species or S41 priority species Page 4 September 2016 Version 2.0

8 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Preliminary daytime inspection of buildings and trees for bats 3.5 A daytime survey of the buildings and trees within the site boundary was undertaken on 2 nd August 2016 by licenced ecologist Marjorie Nadouce (Natural England class licence CL18: Registration number CLS-CLS). This preliminary roost inspection and ground based tree inspection was undertaken in accordance with Bat Conservation Trust (BCT): Bat Surveys, Good Practice Guidelines (2016). The criteria for the roost assessment are shown in Appendix B. There are no seasonal constraints to preliminary bat roost assessments. 3.6 The buildings were searched for any evidence of use by bats, such as: Limitations Live or dead bats; Bat droppings; Feeding remains (e.g. stripped moth wings); Urine staining; and Fur oil staining. 3.7 Access to the all externals and internals of the building were accessible. 3.8 Bat droppings are one of the field signs that provide evidence of bat activity, but droppings on external surfaces can be washed or blown away by wet or windy weather. Lack of evidence during external surveys is therefore not conclusive of the absence of bats. Weather conditions during the survey were dry and warm with overcast cloud Page 5 September 2016 Version 2.0

9 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 4.0 Results Desktop Study 4.1 A summary of the results of the desktop study are set out below. Results, including maps of designated sites, are found in Appendix A. Protected Sites 4.2 There are no internationally, nationally or locally designated sites within 1km of the site boundary. 4.3 The site falls within the Impact Risk Zone for the Wybunbury Moss SSSI and RAMSAR. Natural England s Impact Risk Zones for Sites of Special Scientific Interest guidance states where consultation with Natural England for further advice is required. Depending on the planning proposal at the site, it may be necessary to consult with Natural England. Notable Habitats 4.4 One habitat of principal importance under Section 41 (S41) of the NERC Act (2006) occur within the 1km search area. A small parcel of Priority Habitat Inventory - deciduous woodland is located to the west of the site, approximately 600m away. Notable Species 4.5 Although there are no records of notable species within the site boundary, there are numerous records of notable species within 1km of the site. Species include those listed under any of the following: Mammals European Protected Species (EPS); Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA1); Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA5); Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA9); Species of principal importance under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Communities Act 2006 (S41); Protection of Badgers Act 1992 (PBA); Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP); and Red and Amber listed Birds of Conservation Concern (BRd/BAm). 4.6 There are records of notable mammal species within 1km of the site. The notable recorded mammal species are as follows: Birds Common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus (EPS, WCA5) West European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus (S41) 4.7 There are records of three Schedule 1 bird species and fourteen Section 41 bird species located within 1km of the site boundary. The Schedule 1 birds records identified are: Page 6 September 2016 Version 2.0

10 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Barn Owl Tyto alba; Kingfisher Alcedo atthis; Redwing Turdus iliacus. 4.8 The fourteen S41 bird species are listed within Appendix A. Phase 1 Habitat Survey 4.9 A Phase 1 habitat survey of the site was undertaken, the habitat types were mapped and dominant vegetation species noted. Habitats present were also assessed for their potential to support protected species and any invasive species recorded. The habitats within the site are illustrated in Drawing G The following habitats are present within or immediately adjoining the site and are listed in order of abundance: Broadleaved parkland/scattered trees Amenity grassland Tall ruderal Species-poor modified neutral grassland Introduced shrub Hardstanding with ephemeral/short perennial Scattered broad-leaved trees Scattered scrub Plantation coniferous woodland Intact species poor hedgerow Broadleaved parkland/scattered trees and amenity grassland 4.11 The majority of the site consists of scattered broadleaved trees within amenity grassland. The parkland/scattered trees are less dense in the south east of the site and there is an area of just amenity grassland in the south. The parkland/scattered trees species consist mainly of sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, pedunculate oak Quercus robur and ash Fraxinus excelsior. This area of parkland surrounds the main core group of buildings within the centre of the site. Tall ruderal 4.12 There is an area of tall ruderal vegetation in the north east section of the site around the Building B, this vegetation extends along the eastern boundary. Species consist of nettle Urtica dioica and great willow herb Epilobium hirsutum. Species-poor modified neutral grassland 4.13 The modified neutral grassland is found around the buildings in the central section of the site. The dominant species within this habitat is ragwort Jacobaea vulgaris with frequent Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus and fescue species Festuca sp. Introduced shrub 4.14 There are two areas of introduced shrub species in the north of the site associated with the buildings Page 7 September 2016 Version 2.0

11 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Hardstanding with ephemeral/short perennial 4.15 Within the hardstanding around the buildings there are patches of ephemeral vegetation including species such as ragwort and spear thistle Cirsium vulgare. Plantation coniferous woodland 4.16 There are two small areas of plantation coniferous trees, the species are; western red cedar Thuja plicata, leyland cypress Cupressus leylandii and lawson cypress Chamaecyparis lawsoniana. Intact species poor hedgerow 4.17 The site is bounded by an intact species poor hedgerow to the north, east and south. The hedgerows are dominated by hawthorn Crataegus monogyna with occasional elm Ulmus minor 'Atinia' and sycamore on the southern boundary. The eastern boundary has occasional oak and hazel Corylus avallana. Protected and invasive plant species 4.18 There are no native plant species listed under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended) present within the site boundary Rhododendron Rhododendron ponticum occurs on site in two areas in the north east of the site next to patches of hardstanding. This is a Schedule 9 invasive species in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Connectivity to the wider landscape 4.20 The site has good connectivity to the wider landscape to the north and south. However, the better connectivity for terrestrial species is to the north as there are two busy main roads that bound the site to the south and west. Fauna Bats- Ground Based Tree Assessment 4.21 During the daytime bat assessment a ground based assessment of the trees was carried out. The trees were all found to be too immature to contain features suitable to support roosting bats. The trees and hedgerows were considered to offer some limited potential for foraging and commuting bats. Bats- Internal and External Building Assessment 4.22 Records of common pipistrelle bat species were confirmed during the desktop study within a 1km radius of the site. Roosting Habitats 4.23 No buildings subject to the Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) were found to contain evidence of either current or historical use by bats. Building A was found to have 'negligible' potential and Building B 'low' potential to support roosting bats The full details of the PRA are presented within Appendix B and refers to plan G Page 8 September 2016 Version 2.0

12 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Amphibians 4.25 In line with guidelines set by Natural England, a buffer zone of 250m and 500m from the Redsands site was assessed to identify suitable habitat for potential breeding sites of amphibians including Great Crested Newts Triturus cristatus. Any waterbodies south of the A534 was excluded from the search as this main road were deemed to be a sufficient barrier to amphibian dispersal The search revealed a single pond that falls within a 250m buffer from the centre of the site and a further 2 ponds that fall within the 500m buffer from the centre of the site. Badger 4.27 No evidence of badger activity was found during the site survey (setts, mammal trails, footprints, latrines). The habitats on site are not considered to be suitable for sett construction but does provide limited foraging habitat. Birds 4.28 There are records of Schedule 1, Section 41, Red BoCC and Amber BoCC bird species within 1km of the site. The trees, hedgerows introduced shrub and scrub within the site provides potential nesting and foraging habitat for various bird species. No notable birds were observed during the site survey. Water vole and otter 4.29 There are no ditches or watercourses within the site itself or immediately adjacent and therefore no suitable water vole or otter habitat present. Reptiles 4.30 The habitat both within and immediately adjacent to the site is not considered to provide suitable foraging or refugia opportunities for reptiles based on the high level of vegetation management. Invertebrates 4.31 Both species and structural diversity is low within the site with limited floristic interest, which limits the available food for invertebrates and the potential for a diverse invertebrate assemblage to be present Page 9 September 2016 Version 2.0

13 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 5.0 Conclusions Designated sites 5.1 There are no internationally, nationally or locally designated sites within 1km of the site. 5.2 The site lies within the Impact Risk Zone for the Wybunbury Moss SSSI (3km from site). The Wybunbury Moss SSSI site is designated as it is one of the finest examples in the country of a schwingmoor and supports an outstanding assemblage of invertebrates including many nationally and locally rare species. Due to the proposed development site's location, it is highly unlikely that any proposed development will have any direct physical impacts on these designations or that any works proposed at the site would be considered to generate disturbance impacts to any species using the SSSI's in any way. It may however be necessary to consult with Natural England dependant on the final planning proposals. Habitats and flora 5.3 The habitats within site are overall, of low ecological value, comprising common species, many of which have been planted for their amenity value. The scattered trees around the site and the hedgerows will however, provide some value for wildlife such as nesting habitat for birds, foraging habitat for bats, and some ground cover/foraging habitat for small terrestrial mammals. These habitats should be retained where possible. Protected and Invasive Plant Species 5.4 There are no protected plant species (Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act) located either within the site or immediately adjacent. There are no implications to the development with regard to protected plant species. 5.5 The invasive species rhododendron is present on site, this is a schedule 9 species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The removal of this will need to be considered so as not to allow it to spread across the site. Fauna Bats 5.6 None of the trees within the site were found to be suitable to support roosting bats. However the scattered broad-leaved trees, areas of scrub and boundary hedgerows do have potential for both foraging and commuting bats, connecting habitat within the site to the wider area. The boundary feature in particular provide the most potential for bat foraging/commuting and should be retained within proposals where possible. 5.7 Building A was found to have negligible potential to support roosting bats and as such there are no further implications with regard to bats and Building A Page 10 September 2016 Version 2.0

14 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 5.8 Building B was found to have low potential to support bats (in line with BCT Guidelines) and as such, should be subject to a single dusk or dawn emergence survey at the appropriate time of year i.e. May-August to determine if it is in use by roosting bats. If bats are found during these further surveys then mitigation will be required, including obtaining a licence from Natural England to permit the works. Amphibians 5.9 Although there are no ponds within the site, there is one waterbody located within 250m and a further two within 500m of the site which could provide suitable habitat for breeding S41 amphibians including GCN. 250m is the distance that great crested newt will commonly forage, therefore there is a risk that newts could be present within the development site and be killed during construction. An amphibian survey will need to be carried out to investigate the ponds further, in order to determine whether there will be implications for development of the site with regard to great crested newts and other notable amphibians. Birds 5.10 The site contains areas of hedgerow and trees that may be utilised by nesting birds. All nesting birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). There is no provision under the licensing system to allow disturbance or destruction of nests to facilitate development, so clearance of these habitats if required should be undertaken outside the nesting bird season (March to August inclusive). If this is not possible, a nesting bird check will need to be carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist immediately prior to the works commencing, to establish that no active bird nests are present. However in the event that active nests are discovered, a buffer zone will need to be implemented around the nest, the size of which will be dependent upon the species nesting. The nest will need to be monitored regularly by an ecologist, who will confirm when the nest is no longer active and clearance works can proceed within the buffer zone. Badger 5.11 Although the site offers some limited potential for badgers, there was no evidence of badger activity within the site or within the immediate vicinity during the site survey. There are currently no implications to any future development relating to badgers. Water vole and Otter 5.12 There is no suitable habitat for either water vole or otter within the site boundaries or immediately adjacent. There are therefore no implications to the development with regard to water voles or otter. Reptiles 5.13 No evidence of any reptile species was recorded during the site survey and no desktop records identified. The habitat within the site is of low suitability for reptiles and therefore it is considered unlikely that any reptile species are present within the site. There are no implications at this site with regard to reptiles Page 11 September 2016 Version 2.0

15 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment Invertebrates 5.14 No records of any S41 invertebrate species were provided within the 1km search area and the habitats present on site lack the structural diversity that is likely to support a rich invertebrate assemblage. Therefore, invertebrates are not considered to represent a constraint to the future proposals at the site Page 12 September 2016 Version 2.0

16 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment 6.0 Recommendations 6.1 Mature trees within the site and hedgerows around the perimeter of the site should, where feasible, be retained in order to maintain the foraging and shelter resource they provide for a range of species. 6.2 The invasive species Rhododendron (Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act) is present on site, if this needs to be removed it must be disposed of appropriately and not replanted. 6.3 Any lighting proposals for the scheme, including temporary lighting during construction works or security lighting, should avoid directly lighting of any tree canopies which are being retained, specifically around the boundary features. 6.4 The preliminary roost assessment identified building A as having negligible potential to support roosting bats and Building B as having low potential, in accordance with BCT guidance (see Appendix B). Prior to any works being undertaken on Building B, a single nocturnal bat emergence/re-entry survey will be required in order to establish the presence of bats, confirm species and enable an assessment of roost type e.g. maternity, transitional etc. 6.5 There is a single waterbody within 250m and a further two ponds within 500m of the site, all of which are surrounded by suitable terrestrial habitat that may be utilised by amphibians, including GCN, for commuting and foraging. Any development proposals would require further specific amphibian surveys to be undertaken, in order to ascertain whether a GCN mitigation strategy would be required for submission as a part of the development planning permission. 6.6 If trees and hedgerows are removed for development, replacement nesting opportunities will need to be provided within the site to compensate for the loss of existing potential nest sites. A suitable option would be to install nest boxes on retained trees or at suitable positions within the new build. Boxes would need to be sited at appropriate height and aspect, making best use of position in respect of the surrounding vegetation. 6.7 Vegetation clearance should ideally be implemented outside the bird nesting season (avoiding March to August inclusive). If this is not possible, a nesting bird check will need to be carried out by a suitably qualified ecologist immediately prior to the works commencing, to establish that no active bird nests are present. In the event that active nests are discovered, a buffer zone will need to be implemented around the nest, the size of which will be dependent upon the species nesting. The nest will need to be monitored regularly by the ecologist, who will confirm when the nest is no longer active and clearance works can proceed within the buffer zone. Biodiversity enhancement opportunities 6.8 Potential biodiversity enhancement measures which could be implemented on the site include: Installing a selection of bird boxes on the site will enhance nesting opportunities for a range of birds. As house sparrow were noted during Page 13 September 2016 Version 2.0

17 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment the survey, boxes such as the 'Schwegler 1SP sparrow terrace' box could also be installed onto new buildings to encourage this species. Detailed mitigation with regard to bats will be determined on completion of the nocturnal emergence surveys however, enhancement of roosting opportunities could still be provided via the installation of bat boxes around the site. A range of bat boxes could be installed on retained trees or where feasible, within the structure of the new build. Landscaping proposals should consider provision of pockets of wildflower/grassland planting. The new planting mix should include an appropriate native grassland/wildflower seed mix which should enhance the ecological value of the site. Any ornamental/landscape planting should aim to include berry-bearing and nectar rich species can provide a foraging resource for a range of wildlife species including invertebrates, and will also provide a foraging resource for birds and bats Page 14 September 2016 Version 2.0

18 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment References Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. (CIEEM Collins, J. Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines, 3rd Edition. Bat Conservation Trust, Committee, Joint Nature Conservation. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Surveys - A technique for environmental audit. Peterborough, Page 15 September 2016 Version 2.0

19 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment APPENDIX A: Desktop Study Appendices September 2016 Version 2.0

20 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Ecology Assessment Redsands Nantwich Approximate Central Grid Reference: SJ Contents Site location plan Extract from local plan Extracts of relevant planning policies Local site designations Local species records National site designations Habitat inventory records Desk Based Appendix

21 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Site location plan Central Grid Reference: SJ Contains Ordnance Survey data Crown copyright and database right Desk Based Appendix

22 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Extract of xxx Local Plan (adopted xxx) and supporting key Desk Based Appendix

23 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Extracts of relevant planning policies and supplementary planning guidance Desk Based Appendix

24 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

25 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

26 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

27 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

28 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

29 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

30 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

31 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

32 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Site designations provided by RECORD within 1km Desk Based Appendix

33 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Map provided by RECORD of species data within 1km Desk Based Appendix

34 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

35 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

36 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Extract of species data provided by RECORD within 1km Desk Based Appendix

37 Desk Based Ecology Appendix Desk Based Appendix

38 Desk Based Ecology Appendix MAGIC Map 1km search zone for designated wildlife sites - Map Desk Based Appendix

39 Desk Based Ecology Appendix MAGIC Map 1km search zone for designated wildlife sites Report No sites found Desk Based Appendix

40 Desk Based Ecology Appendix MAGIC Map search for SSSI Impact Risk Zones for site only SSSI Impact Risk Zones to assess planning applications for likely impacts on SSSIs/SACs/SPAs & Ramsar sites (England) 1. DOES PLANNING PROPOSAL FALL INTO ONE OR MORE OF THE CATEGORIES BELOW? 2. IF YES, CHECK THE CORRESPONDING DESCRIPTION(S) BELOW. LPA SHOULD CONSULT NATURAL ENGLAND ON LIKELY RISKS FROM THE FOLLOWING: All Planning Applications Infrastructure Airports, helipads and other aviation proposals. Wind & Solar Energy Solar schemes with footprint > 0.5ha, all wind turbines. Minerals, Oil & Gas Oil & gas exploration/extraction. Rural Non Residential Residential Rural Residential Air Pollution Any industrial/agricultural development that could cause AIR POLLUTION (incl: industrial processes, pig & poultry units, slurry lagoons > 750m³ & manure stores > 3500t). Combustion General combustion processes >50MW energy input. Incl: energy from waste incineration, other incineration, landfill gas generation plant, pyrolysis/gasification, anaerobic digestion, sewage treatment works, other incineration/ combustion. Waste Landfill. Incl: inert landfill, non-hazardous landfill, hazardous landfill. Composting Discharges Water Supply GUIDANCE How to use the Impact Risk Zones /Metadata_for_magic/SSSI IRZ User Guidance v2.5 MAGIC 10Mar2016.pdf Sites of Special Scientific Interest (England) No Features found Desk Based Appendix

41 Desk Based Ecology Appendix MAGIC Map 1km search zone for habitat inventory data Desk Based Appendix

42 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment APPENDIX B: Technical Bat Report Appendices September 2016 Version 2.0

43 REDSANDS PRELIMINARY BAT ASSESSMENT 1.0 GENERAL DETAILS Site Name Redsands Job Number 5857 Doc. Ref Site Location Nantwich Client Engine of the North Reason for Survey Date(s) 02/08/2016 Bat Assessment of buildings to inform the requirement for further surveys/mitigation and support planning application for future redevelopment of the site. Surveyor(s) Marj Nadouce, WML-A34 -Level 2 Bat licence (Registration number CLS-CLS ). Weather Overcast, some drizzle. Temperature 17 C. Seasonal Constraints No seasonal constraints to daytime internal and external inspection September 2016

44 Preliminary Bat Assessment Methods This preliminary roost inspection was undertaken in accordance with Bat Conservation Trust (BCT): Bat Surveys, Good Practice Guidelines (2016). The buildings were searched externally and internally for any evidence of use by bats, such as: Live or dead bats; Bat droppings; Feeding remains (e.g. stripped moth wings); Urine staining; Fur oil staining. Buildings and surrounding habitat were evaluated for their potential value to roosting bats applying the criteria described in Table 1. Table 1: Bat Potential Building Categories (based on BCT Guidelines 2016) Suitability Negligible Low Roosting Habitats Negligible potential roost features are present that are likely to be used by bats A structure with one or more potential roost features that could be used by individual bats opportunistically, but which do not offer sufficient space, shelter, protection, appropriate conditions and/or suitable surrounding habitat to be used on a regular basis or by larger numbers of bats. Commuting/ Foraging Habitats Negligible features on site likely to be used by commuting or foraging bats. A general lack of linear features and low habitat, structural or floristic diversity. Habitat that could be used by small numbers of commuting bats (e.g. a gappy hedgerow or an unvegetated stream) or foraging bats (e.g. a lone tree or small patch of scrub) but which is isolated from the surrounding countryside. Moderate A structure with one or more potential roost features that could be used by bats due to their size, shelter, protection, conditions and surrounding habitat, but which is unlikely to support a roost of high conservation status Continuous habitat connected to the wider landscape that could be used by bats for commuting (e.g. lines of trees or scrub or linked back gardens), or foraging bats (e.g. trees, scrub, water, grassland) September 2016

45 Preliminary Bat Assessment (maternity or hibernation). High A structure possessing one or more potential roost features that are suitable for use by larger numbers of bats on a regular basis and potentially for longer periods of time, due to their size, shelter, protection, conditions and surrounding habitat. Continuous high quality habitat that is strongly connected with the wider landscape that is likely to be used regularly by commuting bats (e.g. river valley, vegetated stream, woodland edge, hedgerows with trees) or foraging bats (e.g. broadleaved woodland, grazed parkland, tree-lined watercourses or ponds). Written Checked Authorised Initial MN EP MN 2.0 DAYTIME SURVEY RESULTS The buildings assessed were located within the site of the former Redsands secure childrens unit, located within a area immediately south of the A534 to th east of Nantwich. Central site grid reference is SJ Habitats in the immediate surroundings are limited, comprising hardstanding, roads, scattered trees and pasture. The buildings are located within an area of land proposed for future re-development and as such, are required to be subject to an assessment to determine their potential to support roosting bats. All buildings on site were assessed to check for the presence of bats, evidence of bats or any features that may have potential to support roosting bats e.g slipped/missing roof tiles, gaps in masonry/soffits etc. Where possible, all buildings within the site were assessed internally and externally during the survey. Photographic references and descriptions are provided below September 2016

46 Preliminary Bat Assessment Descriptions The buildings within the Redsands site are located over two distinct areas, the first of which is the main former low security facility (Building A). The adjacent building is known as Oak House (Building B) and was the former higher security block, which is fenced on all sides. BUILDING A All areas of Building A are situated immediately adjacent to each other and connected either internally or a via number of smaller single storey corridors, which allow access throughout the buildings. The roof of this building is flat with a small lip overhanging the top edge around the walls to the exterior. This was found to be flush to the brickwork with no potential acess for bats observed. This building is generally in poor condition and internally, leaks within the roof were noted at a number of locations where water damage and damp was evident from the inside. BUILDING B This building is situated to the north east of Building A and is surrounds on all sides by a high security fence. This is a single storey building of modern construction.. A wooden soffit box forms the perimeter of the roof structure where it meets the brickwork. Soffits are in parts, in poor condition with damage and rot evident, leaving large exposed gaps. Internally the building is in deteriorating condition with parts of the ceiling exposed to the outside. A very shallow roof void was noted containing pipework. No bat droppings, staining or other evidence of bat use was identified during the internal or external inspection of any of the buildings September 2016

47 Preliminary Bat Assessment Building ID Description Photograph Building A Mixed two/single storey building with lower levels connected via internal corridors. Assessed internally and externally. No gaps in masonry, spaces around doors/window frames etc were noted. Building is of relatively modern construction and is brick built with a flat roof. In poor condition internally due to vandalism with water damage extensive. No obvious potential access/egress points for bats noted. Internal ceilings are suspended with tiles and a 0.5m (approximate) gap above to base of the roof. No roof voids or other potential access points noted. Negligible potential to support bats. Known as Oak House, this is a single storey brick built building with a central courtyard area. Gently pitched roof and wooden soffits around perimeter of building. Photo 1: External view Building A A number of large gaps to the underside of the soffits were observed. These areas may provide access points for bats. Building B Not in current use in and deteriorating condition with some water damage form areas of the roof which are exposed to the elements. Internally, the roof is of wooden beam construction with a felt lining. Roof void is very shallow and contains insulated pipework. Some internal ceiling tiles missing, exposing outer roof structure and skylights. Other part of the internal roof are lined with pitch pine. Windows of upvc framed construction but currently boarded to the exterior. No obvious gaps or other features noted. Photo 2: Building B- Wooden soffits with gaps Tiled roof is in deteriorating condition with a number of slipped/broken tiles which may provide acees to the underside for bats. Low potential to support bats September 2016

48 Preliminary Bat Assessment 3.2 Survey Limitations Bat droppings are one of the field signs that provide evidence of bat activity, but droppings on external surfaces can be washed or blown away by wet or windy weather. Lack of this type of evidence alone during external surveys is therefore, not conclusive of the absence of bats. 3.3 Additional Observations During the survey a number of birds were observed around the buildings and within the areas of scrub within the grounds of the site. All nesting birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). It is an offence to intentionally or recklessly, damage or destroy nests so all demolition works should be undertaken outside the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive). If this is not possible, a nesting bird check must be undertaken by a suitably qualified ecologist a maximum of 24 hours in advance of any clearance works. If a nest is confirmed, a standoff zone will need to be applied within which no works are undertaken until the ecologist has confirmed that any young have fledged and the nest is no longer in use. 4.0 INTERNAL/EXTERNAL BAT SURVEY RESULTS The daytime bat assessment was undertaken on 2nd August 2016 by licenced bat ecologist Marj Nadouce. Weather conditions during the survey were overcast with light rain and a temperature of 17 o c. Following the completion of the internal/external survey, Building A was identified as having negligible potential to support roosting bats. As such, no further surveys are required on this building prior to any demolition or roof refurbishment works taking place. Building B was identified as having low potential to support bats based on the presence of a small number of features i.e gaps in soffits, missing roof tiles, that could permit access for bats. As such, this building will require a single dusk or dawn emergence survey within the appropriate season, prior to any demolition or roof refurbishment works taking place. If any bats are encountered during works all activities must then cease and a licenced bat ecologist notified. The ecologist will advise the contractors of the necessary measures that are needed, including the requirement for a Natural England licence to enable works to continue. No bats or evidence of use by bats was noted within any of the buildings during the survey. 5.0 SUMMARY No evidence of bats was found during the internal and external inspection of the buildings, with only a small number of features that could provide a low level of potential roosting opportunities for bats, found to be present within Building B. A single further emergence/re-entry survey of this building is thus required prior to any demoltion works taking place. With regard to Building A, should any bats be found during work to this building, all activities will cease and no further work will be permitted until a Natural England licence has been obtained. The ecologist will advise on any necessary actions to be taken by the contractor in this situation. Building A has negligible potential and Building B low potential to support roosting bats (in accordance with the BCT Guidelines 2016) September 2016

49 Redsands Nantwich Ecological Assessment DRAWINGS G Phase 1 Habitat survey Drawings September 2016 Version 2.0

50 KEY Survey Boundary ( RP Rhododendron Ponticum EScattered Scrub Scattered Broad-leaved Trees Species-poor Intact Hedge Fence Plantation Coniferous Woodland Dense/Continuous Scrub Broad-leaved Parkland/ Scattered Trees MG M A G Species-poor Modified Neutral Grassland Tall Ruderal A Amenity Grassland E E E ( RP ( RP A A D D D D D D D D Hardstanding witheephemeral/short D D D DPerennial Introduced Shrub Buildings Hardstanding E E E E Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Contains OS data Crown Copyright and database right All rights reserved. Base mapping provided by client E Site Map 1:900 Rev Description Drawn Approved Date Genesis Centre, Birchwood Science Park, Warrington WA3 7BH Tel tep@tep.uk.com Project Cheshire East 5 Sites Title Phase 1 Habitat Survey - Redsands Metres Drawing Number G Drawn Checked Approved Scale Date Sheet 5 of 5 RE JS/EP MW A3 05/09/2016

51 HEAD OFFICE MARKET HARBOROUGH GATESHEAD LONDON CORNWALL Genesis Centre, Birchwood Science Park, Warrington WA3 7BH Harborough Innovation Centre, Airfield Business Park, Leicester Road, Market Harborough Leicestershire LE16 7WB Office 26, Gateshead International Business Centre, Mulgrave Terrace, Gateshead NE8 1AN 8 Trinity Street, London, SE1 1DB 4 Park Noweth, Churchtown, Cury, Helston Cornwall TR12 7BW Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: tep@tep.uk.com mh@tep.uk.com gateshead@tep.uk.com london@tep.uk.com cornwall@tep.uk.com