Monmouthshire LDP Ecological Assessment of Village Sites · Sites were mapped to a GIS layer using...

Monmouthshire LDP Ecological Assessment of Village Sites

July 2010

ISSUING OFFICE:

Wyastone Business Park

Wyastone Leys

Monmouth

NP25 3SR

TEL: 01600 891576

FAX: 01600 891577

Web: www.bsg-ecology.com Email: [email protected] Offices in: Bakewell, Oxford, Berwick-upon-Tweed & MonmouthRegistered in: Cardiff No. OC328772 Registered address: Arden House Deepdale Business Park Ashford Road Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1GT Members: A list of members is available at each office.

Client Monmouthshire County Council

Job Name Monmouthshire LDP

Report title Ecological Assessment of Village Sites

File reference 4770 Monmouthshire LDP village site report 270710

Signed Name Position Date

Originated

Vilas Anthwal Senior Ecologist 25/07/10

Reviewed

James Gillespie Partner 25/07/10

Monmouthshire County Council Ecological Assessment of Village Sites

4770 Monmouthshire LDP village site report 270710.doc i

Report Contents

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

2 Methodology................................................................................... 1 2.1 Desk Study................................................................................................ 1 2.2 Field Survey .............................................................................................. 2 2.3 Biodiversity Assessment and Evaluation Criteria ..................................... 2 2.4 SINC Designation ..................................................................................... 3 2.5 Data Capture and Transfer to Geographical Information System........... 3

2.5.1 Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value......................................................... 3 2.5.2 Layer 2: Biodiversity Features ................................................................ 3 2.5.3 Layer 3: Phase 1 Survey.......................................................................... 4

2.6 SINC Recommendations .......................................................................... 4

3 Results ............................................................................................. 4 3.1 Summary results ....................................................................................... 4 3.2 Constraints on Study Information ............................................................ 5 3.3 Summary ................................................................................................... 5

4 Appendix 1: Site Report Forms ....................................................... 7

PV01..................................................................................................... 8

PV02................................................................................................... 13

PV03................................................................................................... 19

PV04................................................................................................... 25

PV05................................................................................................... 31

PV06................................................................................................... 37

PV07................................................................................................... 43

PV08................................................................................................... 49

PV09................................................................................................... 55

PV10................................................................................................... 61

PV11................................................................................................... 67

PV12................................................................................................... 73

PV13................................................................................................... 79

PV14................................................................................................... 85

PV15................................................................................................... 91

PV16................................................................................................... 97

PV17................................................................................................. 103


4770 Monmouthshire LDP village site report 270710.doc ii

PV18................................................................................................. 109

PV19................................................................................................. 115

PV20................................................................................................. 121

PV21................................................................................................. 127

PV22................................................................................................. 133

PV23................................................................................................. 139

PV24................................................................................................. 145

PV25................................................................................................. 151

PV26................................................................................................. 157

PV27................................................................................................. 163

PV28................................................................................................. 169

PV29................................................................................................. 175

PV30................................................................................................. 181

PV31................................................................................................. 187

PV32................................................................................................. 193

PV35................................................................................................. 199

PV36................................................................................................. 204

5 Appendix 2: SINC Reporting Forms-PV02, PV10, PV26 and PV27.209


4770 Monmouthshire LDP village site report 270710.doc Page 1

1 Introduction Ecological site assessment was required for 34 Village Sites following the 2009 assessment of 275 sites by Gwent Ecology1 on behalf of Monmouthshire County Council (MCC). These assessments use a purpose-designed methodology based upon the JNCC2 Phase 1 habitat survey method, modified to gather additional information in relation to notable species and habitats. The survey and reporting methods were designed by MCC in conjunction with Gwent Wildlife Trust to provide an evidence base of ecological data to inform the preparation, appraisal and examination of the Local Development Plan by MCC. The survey and site reports establish the ecological value of the proposed LDP sites, principally based on botanical survey and existing data from the South East Wales Biological Records Centre (SEWBReC). The survey and reports also consider potential Protected or Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP including local and national) species that may be present, for example otter, dormouse, great crested newt and horseshoe bats. Sites were also assessed for their potential to qualify as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) using the Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales3 and subsequent updates produced by MCC4 and Gwent Wildlife Trust. Finally the application of the evaluation methodology along with the information gathered during the desk and field surveys was discussed with MCC on 21st May 2010 before the production of this report, in part to ensure that the evaluation of the Village Sites is consistent with the previous work conducted by Gwent Ecology.

2 Methodology

2.1 Desk Study Each site was subject to a desk-based assessment using historical records, existing protected sites data and aerial photographs listed below. Information regarding records of protected and BAP species was obtained from the South East Wales Biological Records Centre (SEWBReC) and interpreted for a 500m buffer surrounding each site. These were supplied and copied onto the Site Detail Reports to inform the site surveys. Desk-based assessments for sites used the following sources of information:

• Local Wildlife Site/SINC GIS data provided by MCC • Protected species search within 500m from SEWBReC • Protected site search within 500m from SEWBReC • 1991 CCW Phase 1 Survey: GIS layer from CCW • Ancient Woodland Inventory: GIS layer from CCW • Aerial Photos: web based images

The above data was recorded on to a paper copy of the Site Detail Form (designed by MCC in consultation with Gwent Wildlife Trust) that was then used during the site survey.

1 Gwent Ecology, February 2010, Local Development Plan Ecological Site Assessments in Monmouthshire, Gwent Ecology, Monmouth. 2 JNCC, 2003. Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey: A technique for environmental audit. JNCC Peterborough 3 South Wales Wildlife Partnership, Aug 2004. Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales 4 Gwent Wildlife Trust, January 2009. Review of Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales, to ensure special regard for Monmouthshire



2.2 Field Survey 34 sites identified as Village Sites by MCC were subject to Phase 1 Habitat Survey following the JNCC methodology. Survey was undertaken by Vilas Anthwal and Kate Hunt during May 2010. The survey was extended in the field to gather appropriate information as follows:

• Habitats present and features of nature conservation interest • Presence of protected or BAP species and habitat that may support such species • Condition of the site with respect to its potential to qualify as SINC • Hedgerows - condition and length • Veteran trees - presence of mature trees • Present land use (where discernable) • Consideration of all hedgerows in the context of the Hedgerow Regulations5 • Requirement for further ecological survey • Qualitative assessment of adjoining areas to identify land use

Data were recorded in the field on to paper site maps and then onto a copy of the Site Detail Form with the desk study information.

2.3 Biodiversity Assessment and Evaluation Criteria Using the results of the desk-based survey and field assessments, an evaluation of the ecological status of the site was made using classifications of High, Medium or Low value. Where present existing species or habitat features that should be retained or protected by way of their legal or otherwise notable status were identified. Further surveys, constraint and enhancement issues were also defined for each site. Sites were evaluated as High, Medium or Low using the following qualifying criteria that were established in the 2009 work, drawn together using the Ratcliffe Criteria6 and Local Wildlife Site guidelines7. HIGH (Red)

• Site already designated as SSSI/LWS/ANSW • Site assessed and of Local Wildlife Site quality • Protected species recorded on site • Site of great value for connecting semi-natural habitats in the landscape

MEDIUM (Orange)

• Site close to Local Wildlife Site but threshold for • designation not reached, based on the limited data that could be gathered through this

survey contract • Presence of UKBAP habitat • Local Wildlife Site present within site of lower biodiversity value • Veteran mature tree/s present • Important hedgerow/s present • Possible chance of protected species on site or very near to site • Site adjacent to a SSSI/LWS/ANSW • Site of value for connecting semi-natural habitats in the landscape

LOW (Green)

5 DEFRA, 1997. The Hedgerows Regulations. Statutory Instrument No. 1160 6 Ratcliffe, D.A. 1977. A Nature Conservation Review: the Selection of Sites of Biological National Importance to Nature Conservation in Britain. 2 Volumes. Cambridge University Press 7 South Wales Wildlife Partnership, Aug 2004. Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales



• Site assessed as not of Local Wildlife Site quality • Limited or no features of biodiversity interest • No protected species on or near site • Site not near any protected sites/ANSW • Site of very limited current value for connecting semi-natural habitats in the landscape

2.4 SINC Designation All sites were assessed against the criteria in the Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South East Wales8 including the revised SINC guidelines established for Monmouthshire9. Recommendations for SINC designation were based on the presence of qualifying habitats or species established during the desk and field survey.

2.5 Data Capture and Transfer to Geographical Information System Following the existing format for spatial data used by MCC, data gathered in the field was input to GIS using ArcMap using the following layers that have been further described below:

• Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value Layer - Overall value for biodiversity • Layer 2: Biodiversity Features Layer - Detailed areas of importance for biodiversity • Layer 3: Habitat Coding Layer - Phase 1 survey habitat coding

2.5.1 Layer 1: Overall Biodiversity Value Based on the desk-based assessment and any field survey results, each site was assessed for overall biodiversity value based on the above criteria (see section 2.3) and coloured accordingly. This layer includes and illustrates the margins of the habitat under consideration and its associated biodiversity value.

2.5.2 Layer 2: Biodiversity Features Sites were mapped in more detail according to the presence of phase 1 habitat types that were then valued for biodiversity and habitat features, following the criteria in section 2.3 including:

• Hedgerows. The value of hedgerows on each site was assessed using a simplified version of the Hedgerow Regulations in liaison with MCC. This abbreviation of the hedgerow assessment was necessary to reduce survey time. Hedgerows that were species-rich were classed as High (red), those that were species-poor but still had some biodiviersity value were classed Medium (orange) and those that were both species-poor, gappy and lacking other associated interest were values as Low (green). The hedgerows were then coloured according to their value when input to the GIS layer.

• Veteran trees. The value of all trees on each site was assessed using criteria based on the

Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales. Trees classed as veteran or mature trees are identified on this layer (red circles).

• Habitats. Habitats within the margins of the site are further identified and evaluated. For

example a field of improved grassland would be coloured with green hatching but the marshy grassland area located at one corner, characterised by a diversity of plant species, would be coloured with orange hatching.

• Additional Features. Feactures that were notable and of biodiversity or habitat interest

are identified (red circle) with supporting details added to the layer file. Such features

8 South Wales Wildlife Partnership, Aug 2004. Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales 9 Gwent Wildlife Trust, January 2009. Review of Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales, to ensure special regard for Monmouthshire



include: badger setts, rare plants, and important features that were not captured in other layers.

Note: These data above form three layers (habitats, linear features and symbols) that should be viewed simultaneously.

2.5.3 Layer 3: Phase 1 Survey Sites were mapped to a GIS layer using the Phase 1 Habitat types according to the findings of the field survey. Further ecological detail within each site was then recorded using the “info” tool in MapInfo. A key to show the Phase 1 colour coding using MapInfo is found in Annex 9.

2.6 SINC Recommendations Sites meeting the criteria in the SINC selection guidelines10 are recommended to the SINC panel for SINC designation. The survey of proposed SINCs was limited to the boundary of the village sites. It is possible that the potential extent of the proposed SINCs extends beyond this survey area. However survey of these wider areas was beyond the scope of this study.

3 Results

3.1 Summary results The following is a summary of the results for the 34 LDP Village Sites. Completed Site Detail Forms are found in Appendix 1 and SINC Recording forms are located within Appendix 2. All sites were surveyed between 4th and 12th May 2010 by Vilas Anthwal MIEEM and Kate Hunt MIEEM both of whom are Senior Ecologists with Baker Shepherd Gillespie. Of the 34 Villages Sites 2 were given a Low overall value, 26 site were Medium value and 6 were High value. Included within the High value sites are PV02, PV03, PV26 and PV27 that were also recommended for SINC qualification and included within Table 1 below. A further 4 sites were identified as borderline SINC sites that were of near SINC quality and potentially could reach SINC status with favourable management or additional survey but ultimately fell short of qualification at this time (summarised in Table 2 below). Table 1: Sites recommended for SINC qualification

10 South Wales Wildlife Partnership, Aug 2004. Guidelines for the Selection of Wildlife Sites in South Wales

Site Ref Location Grid Ref. Qualifying features.

PV02 Land to the north west of Grange Park, St. Arvans

ST5135396849 H1 Woodland- wet woodland and assemblage of AWI species and other features.

PV03 Land to the north east of Grange Park, St Arvans

ST5152096936 H4 Neutral Grassland-

PV26 Land to the west of Pentwyn Park, Penallt

SO5188209147 H4 neutral grasslands. Good example of MG5a hay meadow

PV27 Land adjacent Trelleck Road, Tintern

SO5299200972 H4 and H1- Likely the H1 links with woodland outside of the site boundary



Table 2: Borderline SINC sites.

3.2 Constraints on Study Information This survey follows the Gwent Ecology 2009 report11 that contains detailed information on the constraints of the methodology and limitations to the use of information derived from this methodology in the LDP process. These considerations are not repeated here, apart from those relating to this survey specifically. As access to sites was reliant upon gaining permission on arrival at the site, PV21 and PV23 were not fully accessed. This resulted in limited information being gathered on the types of hedgerows and grasslands present, where these were not visible from a public right of way. Valuations and determination of potential SINC status at these sites should therefore be treated with caution. There were no other sites where access was so constrained that the overall value or potential SINC status could not be assessed confidently. The surveys were conducted in early May, which is a sub-optimal time of the year to survey some habitats. This was found during the survey of some grasslands where some indicator species were difficult to find or identify particularly during a rapid assessment survey such as this. This time of the year was optimal for surveying woodland and hedgerow ground flora.

3.3 Summary In summary, as required by the MCC LDP Village Sites project brief, 34 sites have been surveyed and assessed with reference to and closely following the Gwent Ecology methodology with limiting factors only affecting 2 sites. As required by the project brief this reports makes

11 Gwent Ecology, February 2010, Local Development Plan Ecological Site Assessments in Monmouthshire, Gwent Ecology, Monmouth.

Site Ref Location Grid Ref. Qualifying features. Further survey

PV04 Land to the west of Devauden,

ST4813999020 H17-Hedgerows. Whole site

SINC panel reviewed and didn’t qualify

PV10 Land adjacent Holmfield Drive, Llandogo

SO5301604421 H4 neutral grassland and adjacent lesser horseshoe roost with potential links and foraging for the Priory Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC. Borderline SINC excludes garden.

SINC panel reviewed and didn’t qualify.

PV31 Land adjacent Bailey's Hay, Mathern

ST5167391601 H4 neutral grassland with marshy grassland species.

SINC panel reviewed and didn’t qualify .

PV35 Site at Mitchel Troy

SO 495 104 H4 neutral grassland border line quality. Potentially a species rich example of MG1d. High percent cover of favourable herbs.

SINC panel reviewed and didn’t qualify.



reference to the assessment methodology and for clarity some background is provided within the report. However it should be noted that full details of the methodology should be taken from Gwent Ecology report12 itself.

12 Gwent Ecology, February 2010, Local Development Plan Ecological Site Assessments in Monmouthshire, Gwent Ecology, Monmouth.



4 Appendix 1: Site Report Forms



PV01 Site General Information Name: Land to the east of Shirenewton Location Shirenewton Grid Ref: ST4819793635 Site Area (ha): 0.46ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Mown grassland along drive way and adjacent corner of an arable field. General Features:

Important hedgerow Arable field Improved grassland Scrub

Identified Biodiversity Value Medium

Are biodiversity constraints significant enough to prevent development of:

The whole site? YES NO

Part of the site? YES NO

Protected Species Are there European Protected Species issues for this site?

Yes Potential No

List Species:

SEWBReC record Evidence of presence on site (seen directly or field signs)

Potential to be present on site (habitat and location mean that it is likely)

Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included above)?

Yes Potential No List Species:





Nesting birds in hedge Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Ghost moth 250m unlikely Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Designated Sites Is the site within or adjacent to an International or European Designated Site?

(Special Protection Area, RAMSAR Site or Special Area of Conservation) (Underline the relevant designation)

Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer No

Is the site within or adjacent to a Nationally Designated Site?

(National Nature Reserve or Site of Special Scientific Interest) (Underline the relevant designation)




Is the site within a Locally Designated Site?

(Local Nature Reserve or Site of Importance for Nature Conservation)

Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer

Within 500m buffer No

SINC: Shirenewton Meadows, SINC: Mynydd-Bach Meadows Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?

(underline whole or part as appropriate and to be shown on site map) Yes

Notification form in site file

Qualifying criteria Borderline No

Habitats and Important Features On Site Habitat

UK Priority Habitat

Wales Priority Habitat

LBAP Habitat % of whole site

Improved grassland 60 Arable 30 Hedgerow 3 Scrub 7 Adjacent land use Residential to north and south. Improved grassland to the west and arable to the east



Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2005. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey License number: 100016400. CCW designations data: © Crown copyright. All rights reserved. Is the site or part of the site designated ancient woodland?

(to be shown on site map) Yes Part Adjacent to No Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?

(to be shown on site map)

Yes No If ‘Yes’ how many and what species? Does the site have any hedgerows?




Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality

Length 81m

Species-poor (medium) Has some potential Length m Species-poor (low) Single species dominant. Gappy Length m No

Does the site have any water features present?

Ponds Steams Ditches Other: spring

No

Does the site have any connectivity value to either adjacent habitat or the wider landscape? Yes Some No

Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of hedgerow against Important hedgerow criteria. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Important hedgerow Recommended measures Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Hedgerows Protect hedgerow during construction.



PV02 Site General Information Name: Land to the north west of Grange Park, St.

Arvans Location St Arvans Grid Ref: ST5135396849 Site Area (ha): 0.67ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Woodland- no evidence of use or management General Features:

Broadleaved woodland. Stream Amenity grassland

Identified Biodiversity Value High





Yes Potential No

List Species:



Pipistrelle and long-eared bats

Likely foraging habitat for bats.

Terrestrial habitat for great crested newts.

Dormouse




Yes Potential No List Species: SEWBReC record Evidence of presence on

site (seen directly or field signs)


Bluebell Bluebell badger Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Fungi Liverworts Invertebrates Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Invertebrates













Proposed SINC at PV03 Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?




Y

H1 Woodland- wet woodland and assemblage of AWI species and other features.




UK Priority Habitat



Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

80

Wet woodland 15 Amenity grassland 5 Adjacent land use Pasture to the north and west. Residential to the east and south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


(to be shown on site map) Yes Part Adjacent to No



Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?



(to be shown on site map) Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality Length m Species-poor (medium) Has some potential Length m Species-poor (low) Single species dominant. Gappy Length m No


Ponds Steams

Ditches Other: spring

No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? This site is of SINC quality, development should be avoided. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered

SINC quality broadleaved woodland with associated flora and fauna Stream

Many mature trees.



Recommended measures Development of this site should be avoided.



PV03 Site General Information Name: Land to the north east of Grange Park, St

Arvans Location St. Arvans Grid Ref: ST5152096936 Site Area (ha): 0.7ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Cattle grazed pasture General Features:

Semi-improved neutral grassland Species-rich hedges with tree






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Pipistrelle and brown long-eared bats

Bat foraging habitat

Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included above)?

Yes Potential No



List Species: SEWBReC record Evidence of presence on



Bluebell Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




(Special Protection Area, RAMSAR Site or Special Area of Conservation)



(Underline the relevant designation)









Proposed SINC at site PV02 Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?




H4 Neutral Grassland- Likely that whole field qualifies.




UK Priority Habitat



Semi-improved neutral grassland

95

Species-rich hedges with trees

5

Adjacent land use Grazed pasture to the north, residential to the east and south and woodland, a stream and grazed pasture to the west. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.


(to be shown on site map) Yes Part Adjacent to No



Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?



(to be shown on site map) Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality

Length 139m




No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. NVC grassland survey Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Assessment of hedgerows potential for dormice.



Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Species-rich hedges Potential BAP grassland habitat Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study). Grassland restoration Enhance neutral grassland both on and off site. If a SINC is identified through further survey development of this site should be avoided.



PV04 Site General Information Name: Land to the west of Devauden Location Shirenewton Grid Ref: ST4813999020 Site Area (ha): 2.4ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Horse grazed pasture General Features:

Semi-improved neutral grassland Improved grassland Hedgerows with trees






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bats Dormouse Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included above)?

Yes Potential No






Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No

List Species:















SINC Creigau Meadow, SINC Devauden Hill Top Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?




H17-Hedgerows. Whole site




UK Priority Habitat



Improved grassland 47 Semi-improved neutral grassland

46

Species poor hedgerow

1

Species-rich hedgerow 3 Species-rich hedgerow with trees

3

Adjacent land use Arable to the west, improved pasture to the north and south and residential to the east. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.








Length 382m

Species-poor (medium) Has some potential

Length 82m

Species-poor (low) Single species dominant. Gappy Length m No



No


1 veteran beech, 1 veteran oak and 8 mature oak all in hedgerows



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees. Breeding bird survey Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Assessment of hedgerows for potential for dormice. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Hedgerows of potential SINC quality Nesting birds Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study). If the site is determined to be of SINC status development of this site should be avoided.



PV05 Site General Information Name: Land to the west of Grosmont Location Crucorney Grid Ref: SO4026524530 Site Area (ha): 0.6ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Improved grassland ley General Features:

Improved grassland with hedgerows a ditch and trees






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Bats Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included above)?

Yes Potential No






Pine marten (old record) Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No

List Species:













Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer

No

SINC River Monnow Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Improved grassland 97 Species-rich hedgerow with trees

2

Dry ditch 1 Adjacent land use Housing to the south and east. Scrub and improved grassland to the west and north. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.








Length 122m



Ponds Steams Ditches

Other: spring

No


2 veteran oak



Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Hedgerows and mature trees Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. according to BS 5837. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).



PV06 Site General Information Name: Land to the north of Little Mill Location Goetre Fawr Grid Ref: SO3219803188 Site Area (ha): 1.17ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Grazed Improved grassland General Features:

Improved grassland with hedgerows and mature trees






Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No






Common reptiles Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No

List Species:














Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Improved grassland 97 Hedgerow 2 Mature trees 1 Adjacent land use Residential to south, railway embankment to the west, pasture to the north and east Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.





Yes Part Adjacent to No Are there any veteran or mature trees on site?




Length 146m




No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature/dead trees, woodland and farm buildings. Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Reptile survey

1 oak



Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Hedgerows Mature trees Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).



PV07 Site General Information Name: Land to the south west of The Bryn Location Llanover Grid Ref: SO3310609800 Site Area (ha): 0.25ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Play area, improved horse grazed pasture. General Features:

Amenity Grassland Mature trees Scrub Broadleaved woodland Tall ruderal






Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No






Farmland birds and passage migrant waders

Nesting birds

Common reptiles Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



UK BAP invertebrates Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:
















River Usk SSSI. River Usk SAC. PENPERGWM POND SSSI Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Amenity grassland 40 Mature trees 5 Tall ruderal 20 Broadleaved woodland 25 Scrub 10 Adjacent land use Residential to north, watercourse and wet woodland to the west and south Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2005. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey License number: 100016400. CCW designations data: © Crown copyright. All rights reserved.



Is the site or part of the site designated ancient woodland? (to be shown on site map)




(to be shown on site map) Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality Length 1010m Species-poor (medium) Has some potential

Length 23m




No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Bat survey of mature trees. Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Ecological survey of pond. Reptile survey Breeding bird survey Habitats Regulations Assessment may be required due to the close proximity of the River Usk SAC.

1 oak



Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Mature trees Broadleaved woodland Scrub Proximity to River Usk SAC Recommended measures Group of trees Retain area around trees as a buffer and fence off during development according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Where possible, link isolated groups to each other or to the wider countryside. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).



PV08 Site General Information Name: Land to the rear and east of the Village Hall,

Llanddewi Rhydderch Location Llanover Grid Ref: SO3517212960 Site Area (ha): 0.6ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Improved grassland likely cut for sillage General Features:

Improved grassland bordered by species-rich hedgerows






Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No






Old badger sett used by rabbits

Badger

Nesting birds Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:




Yes Potential No

List Species:













Within Directly adjacent/within 250m buffer Within 500m buffer

No

Llanthewy Wood SINC. Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Improved grassland 95 Hedgerows 5 Adjacent land use Residential to west, pasture to north, east and south Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.








(to be shown on site map) Species-rich (high) potential Hedgerow Regs Quality Length 99m Species-poor (medium) Has some potential Length 123m Species-poor (low) Single species dominant. Gappy Length m No



No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Badger survey



Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Species-rich hedgerows Disused -badger sett Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. according to BS 5837. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).



PV09 Site General Information Name: Land to the east of Llandogo Location Trellech United Grid Ref: SO5321504427 Site Area (ha): 0.9ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Improved sheep grazed pasture General Features:

Improved grassland Hedgerows Mature trees






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Dormouse Dormouse Bats Alosa Are there issues for species protected under UK legislation (not included above)?

Yes Potential No






Northern goshawk Nesting birds Water vole Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hawfinch Brown hare Polecat (1960-83) Grayling Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Silver-washed fritillary Alternate-leaved golden saxifrage

Wood fescue Almond willow Designated Sites Is the site within or adjacent to an International or European Designated Site?














River Wye SSSI/SAC. Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC. Part of Cuckoo Wood & Great Park Coniger SINC Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Improved grassland 95 Sp-poor hedgerow 3 Gravel track 2 Adjacent land use Residential to the east, west and south, pasture to the north. Main road to the south. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.









Length 59m


Length 214m




No


Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? General ecological survey prior to development. Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Assessment of hedgerows and plantation for potential for dormice. Habitats Regulations Assessment may be required due to the close proximity of the River Wye SAC and Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC



Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Species-poor hedges with nesting bird potential Recommended measures Hedgerows and Trees Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Species Species mitigation may be required depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study).



PV10 Site General Information Name: Land adjacent Holmfield Drive, Llandogo Location Trellech United Grid Ref: SO5301604421 Site Area (ha): 1.15ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Sheep grazed pasture General Features:

Semi-improved neutral grassland with hedges and a stream. Bat roost in adjacent property and SAC bat roost within 500m.






Yes Potential No

List Species:



Dormouse Dormouse Bats (many including lesser horseshoe_

Lesser horseshoe roost in joining property

Bat foraging habitat

Killarney fern




Yes Potential No List Species: SEWBReC record Evidence of presence on



Grass snake Common reptiles Slow worm Northern goshawk Red kite Water vole Are there records for UK or Wales Priority Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Hawfinch UK Bap Invertebrates Brown hare Polecat (1960-83) Grayling Are there records for Monmouthshire LBAP Species (not included above)?

Yes Potential No

List Species:



Silver-washed fritillary Alternate-leaved golden saxifrage

Wood fescue Almond willow















River Wye SSSI/SAC. Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC includes the Priory lesser horseshoe roost in Llandogo. Part of Cuckoo Wood & Great Park Coniger SINC Is the whole site or part of the site of SINC (Local Wildlife Site) quality?







UK Priority Habitat



Semi-improved neutral grassland

90

Hedgerow 5 Garden 5 Adjacent land use Residential to the south, pasture to the east and west and broadleaved woodland to the north. Site Habitat Value Map (Red = High, Amber = Medium, Green = Low). Site boundary shown in blue.

H4 species poor example. Adjecent lesser horse shoe bat roost. Potential links and foraging for the Priory Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites








Length 398m


Length m



Ponds Steams

Ditches Other: spring

No




Conclusions What additional ecological surveys/assessments will be required? This site is of potential SINC quality, if designated development should be avoided. General ecological survey prior to development. Bat activity survey including adjacent buildings. NVC grassland survey Assessment of hedgerows against Important hedgerow criteria. Assessment of hedgerows and adjacent woodland for potential for dormice. Reptile survey Breeding bird survey Priory bat roost SSSI is approximately 300m away, special consideration necessary. Horseshoe bat foraging must be considered - Habitats Regulations Assessment may be required due to the close proximity of the River Wye cSAC. Depending on development details, Habitat Regulations Assessment may be required due to proximity to the River Monnow as a tributary of the River Wye SAC and the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites SAC. Summary of biodiversity features to be considered Semi-improved neutral grassland Species-rich hedgerows Stream with aquatic marginal flora Recommended measures Hedgerows Protect hedgerows and trees during construction according to BS 5837. Minimise light and noise disturbance during and after development. Species Species mitigation will be likely depending on the results of further surveys. Nesting birds Avoid removal of hedge and scrub during the active bird nesting period. Connectivity Development should retain or increase linear features (such as hedgerows). Development should retain or create semi-natural habitat as ecological corridors or stepping stones (see connectivity study). Wetlands and Watercourses Retain buffer habitat on either side of watercourses and fence off prior to and during development. Use soft engineering techniques. Avoid use of culverts. Control pollution from development site. Create ponds as biodiversity enhancement. Maintain and protect water source.



PV11 Site General Information Name: Land to the north west of Llanellen Location Llanfoist Fawr Grid Ref: SO 3001011019 Site Area (ha): 2.85ha Proposed Development: Housing Current Use: Dwelling and gardens General Features:

Dwelling, garage, barn , gardens. Mature trees, hedgerows and semi-improved grassland. LIMITED ACCESS.

Identified Biodiversity Value MEDIUM





Yes Potential No

List Species:



Monmouthshire LDP Ecological Assessment of Village Sites · Sites were mapped to a GIS layer using...

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