PHASE 1 Windmill final - Coventry · Windmill Village Hotel Golf and Leisure BMD.16.004 1 1....

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey WINDMILL VILLAGE HOTEL, GOLF & LEISURE CLUB

BMD.16.004

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Windmill Village Hotel Golf and Leisure BMD.16.004

DOCUMENT HISTORY Project Number: 16.004 Document Reference: BMD.16.004.RP.01 Revision Purpose of Issue Originated Reviewed Approved Date

- Planning JP NT LB 16/05/16

Bradley Murphy Design Ltd 1 The Courtyard Hatton Technology Park Dark Lane Hatton Warwickshire CV35 8XB Company No. 7788475 This report is the property of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd. and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd.


CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Objectives ...................................................................................................................................... 1

2. SURVEY METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................................... 1

2.1 Desk Study & Consultation ........................................................................................................... 1 2.2 Habitat Survey ............................................................................................................................... 2 2.3 Protected Species Assessment ..................................................................................................... 2 2.4 Limitations ..................................................................................................................................... 4

3. BASELINE CONDITIONS ................................................................................................................. 5

3.1 Aerial Photography and OS Maps ................................................................................................. 5 3.2 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designated Sites ............................................................................. 5 3.3 Biodiversity Action Plans ............................................................................................................... 7

4. HABITATS ......................................................................................................................................... 8

4.1 Site Summary ................................................................................................................................ 8

5. PROTECTED SPECIES .................................................................................................................. 13

5.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 13 5.2 Amphibians .................................................................................................................................. 13 5.3 Avifauna ....................................................................................................................................... 14 5.4 Badger ......................................................................................................................................... 15 5.5 Bats .............................................................................................................................................. 16 5.6 Reptiles ........................................................................................................................................ 17 5.7 Water vole .................................................................................................................................... 17 5.8 Invertebrates ................................................................................................................................ 18 5.9 Other species .............................................................................................................................. 18 5.10 Flora ............................................................................................................................................. 18 5.11 Invasive non-native species......................................................................................................... 18

6. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................... 19

6.1 Development Proposals .............................................................................................................. 19 6.2 Statutory/Non-Statutory Designated Sites .................................................................................. 19 6.3 Habitats ........................................................................................................................................ 19 6.4 Protected Species ....................................................................................................................... 20 6.5 Additional Suggested Measures for Biodiversity Enhancements ............................................... 22 6.6 Recommended Further Ecological Surveys and Mitigation ........................................................ 23

7. REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 26

8. PLANS ................................................................................................................................................ I

9. APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................... II

A. TARGET NOTES ........................................................................................................................... iii B. INDICATIVE SPECIES LIST ........................................................................................................ xiv C. RELEVANT LEGISLATION .......................................................................................................... xvi


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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

1.1.1 Bradley Murphy Design have been commissioned by Bracebridge Holdings to undertake an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of an area of land at Windmill Hotel Golf & Leisure Club;

hereafter referred to as the ‘site’. It is proposed that the site is developed to accommodate a

residential development.

1.2 Objectives

1.2.1 The purpose of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey was to identify:

The major habitats present;

The potential for legally protected species to be present; and

Additional ecological surveys likely to be required

1.2.2 The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey included a desktop review, consultation and a site visit.

The results of this review were used to assess the nature conservation importance of the site.

The potential for each habitat to support protected species was also noted. An Extended

Phase 1 Habitat Survey does not constitute a full survey for protected species to standard survey methodologies, but is used as a tool to recommend which surveys are required for

protected species (or other species of significant nature conservation interest).

Recommendations for further ecological surveys are made at the end of the report

1.3 Site Description

1.3.1 The site was located on the outskirts of Coventry approximately 3 miles west of the city centre

and was approximately 32 hectares. The site was bound to the north by the A45 and to the

east by a residential development. Arable fields surround the site to the south and west.

1.3.2 Please refer to Drawing No. BMD.16.004.DR.011 for a site location plan.

2. SURVEY METHODOLOGY

2.1 Desk Study & Consultation

2.1.1 The desktop study involved conducting database searches for statutory and non-statutory designated sites, legally protected species and features of interest within and immediately

surrounding the site within a 1km radius. The central grid reference of the parcel was used as

the central point of all searches. The baseline conditions were based on a review of existing

available information including:

MAGIC (Multi-Agency Geographical Information for the Countryside) website;


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Ordnance Survey mapping (to identify potentially notable habitats);

Aerial photography (e.g. google mapping);

UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP); and,

Consultation with the local biological records centre.

2.2 Habitat Survey

2.2.1 The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the site was carried out on the 12th February 2016 by

suitably qualified ecologists. Weather conditions of the day were dry and sunny. The field

survey comprised a walkover of the land and habitats present, with a classification of the habitats to Phase 1 Habitat Survey standard. The survey followed the ‘Preliminary Ecological

Appraisal’ methodology as set out in the ‘Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal’

(Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management [CIEEM], 2012), which is a development of the method described in the ‘Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey – a

technique for environmental audit’ (Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2010).

2.2.2 The Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey provides information on the habitats in the survey area

and identifies actual or potential presence of legally protected or otherwise notable species/habitats in or where appropriate, adjacent to the site. The main habitats within the site

were mapped and are shown on Drawing No. BMD.16.004.DR.012 Extended Phase 1 Habitat

Plan.

2.2.3 Target notes (more detailed descriptions of a particular area in terms of habitat and species composition or means of highlighting a particular feature of ecological interest), are given in

Appendix A.

2.2.4 Plant names follow ‘New Flora of the British Isles’ (Stace, 2011). The common and scientific

name of each of the botanical species is provided when first mentioned in the text, but only the common name is stated thereafter. All species identified during the site survey are listed in

Appendix B. In addition to establishing the baseline ecological interest within the area, the

survey intended to identify areas where further surveys may be required, during the

appropriate season.

2.3 Protected Species Assessment

2.3.1 The potential of the site to support legally protected or national/local BAP species was

assessed from field observations carried out during the site walkover and combined with the

results of the desk top study. The site was inspected for indications of the presence of protected species as follows:

The presence of nesting habitat for breeding birds, such as mature trees, dense scrub,

hedgerows and buildings and/or field margins suitable for ground nesting birds, and

evidence of bird nesting including bird song, old nests, faecal marks etc;


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The presence of features in, and on trees, indicating potential for roosting bats such as

fissures, holes, loose bark and ivy and those associated with buildings such as cavities,

roof voids, hanging tiles, unenclosed soffits etc. Direct evidence such as the presence of bats, staining, droppings and feeding remains was also looked for;

Evidence of badger, including setts, runs, snuffle holes and hairs;

Scrub/grassland mosaic and potential hibernation sites for reptiles;

Suitable habitat for dormice, such as woodland, scrub and dense/species-rich

hedgerows, particularly when connected to suitable habitats across the wider landscape;

Assessment of any on-site ponds and surrounding terrestrial habitat as to their potential

to support great crested newts and other amphibians; and;

Assessment of water bodies, such as ditches and streams as to their potential to support

water vole and/or otter.

2.3.2 The likelihood of occurrence of any protected and/or invasive species is ranked as follows and

relies on habitat suitability and an evaluation of existing data:

Negligible – while presence cannot be absolutely discounted, the site includes very

limited or poor quality habitat for a particular species or species group. There may be no local returns from a data search and the surrounding habitats are considered unlikely to

support wider populations of a species/species group. The site may also be outside or

peripheral to the known natural range for a species/species group;

Low – habitats within the site are of poor to moderate quality for a given species/species group. There are few or no returns from the data search, but presence cannot be

discounted on the basis of national distribution, the nature of surrounding habitats,

habitat fragmentation or recent on-site disturbance, etc

Medium – habitats within the site are of moderate quality providing opportunities for a given species/species group. Desk study reveals local occurrence or site is within the

national distribution and with suitable surrounding habitat. Factors limiting the likelihood

of occurrence may include small habitat area, habitat isolation, and/or disturbance;

High – habitats within the site are of high quality for a given species/species group. Desk-top study provides evidence of local occurrence. The site is within/peripheral to a

national or regional stronghold and/or has good quality surrounding habitat and good

connectivity; and

Confirmed Presence - presence confirmed from the current survey or by recent, confirmed records.

2.3.3 The CIEEM EcIA guidelines (2016) recommend that the value or potential value of an

ecological resource or feature should be determined within a defined geographical context.


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They recommend that the following frame of reference be used (or adapted to meet local

circumstances):

International and European;

National;

Regional;

Metropolitan, County, vice-county or other local authority-wide area; and

Local.

2.3.4 The purpose of this assessment is to identify whether sufficient information is available to accurately assess the nature conservation value of a site for a given protected species or

whether more comprehensive Phase 2 surveys for protected species are necessary.

2.4 Limitations

2.4.1 Ecological surveys are limited by a variety of factors which affect the presence of flora and fauna (e.g. climatic variation, season and species behaviour). A lack of evidence of a protected

species during a survey does not mean that the species is absent; hence the surveys also

records and assess’ the ability of habitats to support such species. The time frame in which

the survey is implemented provides a snapshot of activity within the survey area and cannot necessarily detect all evidence of use by a species. The survey was completed in February,

falling outside of the optimal survey window. However due to the type of habitat present it was

not considered that the timings of the habitat surveys presented any issues when classifying habitats.

2.4.2 It should be noted that whilst every effort has been made to provide a comprehensive

description of the site, no investigation can ensure the complete characterisation of the natural

environment. The Extended Phase 1 habitat survey does not constitute a full botanical survey. Plant species may have been under-recorded, unidentifiable or not visible due to the time of

year the survey was carried out.

2.4.3 The protected species assessment provides a preliminary view of the likelihood of protected

species occurring on the site. This is based on the suitability of the habitat, known distribution of the species in the local area (provided by data searches) and any direct evidence within the

survey area. It should not be taken as providing a full and definitive survey of any protected

species group. It is only representative of the time the survey was carried out. Additional

surveys may be recommended if, on the basis of the preliminary assessment or during subsequent surveys, it is considered reasonably likely that protected species may be present.

Desk study data is not likely to be exhaustive and it is therefore possible that protected

species not identified during the data search do in fact occur within the vicinity of the site.


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3. BASELINE CONDITIONS

3.1 Aerial Photography and OS Maps

3.1.1 The site was located on the outskirts of Coventry in an area of mixed residential and agricultural land use. The site was bound to the east by existing residential areas and to the

south and west by arable fields.

3.1.2 The A45 forms the northern boundary with a hotel directly opposite the site and arable land

beyond. A series of hedgerows borders the majority of the site and a narrow woodland in the south-east corner extends along the eastern boundary. A number of water features are located

on site, including four ponds, one lake, two brooks and a drain. A drain corridor extends

westwards into arable and also eastwards into a parkland area.

3.1.3 Natural England’s Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines (English Nature, 2001)

recommend that any waterbodies within 500 m of a site and sites with suitable terrestrial

habitats within 500 m of a waterbody should be assessed for great crested newt potential.

3.1.4 Eight water bodies were identified within a 500m of the site, located in arable land to the south and west. A further four ponds were identified north of the site, however the A45 running

across the northern boundary was considered to form a significant barrier to dispersal.

3.2 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designated Sites

3.2.1 There was one statutory designated site within 2km of the proposed development site:

Tilehill Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); The SSSI is situated 1.5km to the

south of the site, separated by arable fields and a residential development beyond. The

SSSI is 29.5ha and is designated for its diverse woodland and pool habitat.

3.2.2 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified four non-statutory designated Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) (previously Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation)

within 1 km of the site;

Pickford Brook Meadows (LWS): The LWS is situated in the residential area to the east,

sharing a border with the site in the south east corner. Pickford Brook flows out of the application site and into the LWS, passing through an area of semi improved

grassland.

Pickford Farm Ponds (LWS): Pickford Farm Ponds is situated within the much larger

Pickford and Windmill House Farms Ecosite. The LWS is situated approximately 600m to the north of the site, across the A45. The LWS site consists of two fields of species

poor semi improved grassland with a pool in the upper field. No further details were

available for this site.

Pond Farm Pastures LWS. Pond Farm Pastures is a small area within the much larger Brook Farm Ecosite. The site (golf course) forms the north-east part of the Ecosite with


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planted rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), silver birch (Betula pendula) and Lombardy poplar

(Populus nigra ‘Italica’) The LWS is situated 500m south of the site on the edge of a

residential area. The LWS contains a diverse range of habitats and sub-habitats including wet and dry grassland, bare areas, wet ditches, a pond, hedgerows, scrub

and belts of tall herbs.

Coundon Wedge grasslands LWS: Coundon Wedge LWS is situated within the Allesley

Town Fields, Brownshill Green Farm, Northfields Farm and Derelict Orchard Ecosite. The LWS is situated 1km to the north east of the site in a residential area. The LWS

consists of a series of semi improved grasslands, species rich intact hedgerows and

semi natural broadleaved woodland banks, several ponds and a section of the River Sherbourne that paases south west across the LWS.

3.2.3 Consultation also highlighted a number of sites of nature importance, termed Ecosites within

1km of the site boundary. Of these, three had records of protected species:

Blythe House Ecosite: The Ecosite is situated approximately 400m west of the site and

consists of grazed pastureland, old orchard and a number of species rich hedgerows. A large pond on site has historic records of great crested newts (Triturus cristatus).

Eastern Green/Guphill Brook Ecosite. The Ecosite is situated 1km to the south of the

site in the middle of a residential area. The site consists of a narrow strip of

predominantly mown amenity grassland either side of Guphill brook with stretches of courser grasses, tall herbs, scrub and some mature woodland. The site has historic

records of water vole (Arvicola amphibius).

Pickford Brook Ecosite: A large part of Pickford Brook Ecosite falls within the

application site itself. Pickford Brook runs across the site north-west to south-east and is a tributary of the River Sherbourne. Water voles were recorded on Pickford Brook in

2001.

3.2.4 Consultation highlighted a number of other Ecosites within 1km of the site boundary:

Windmill Ecosite: The application site forms a large part of the eastern section of this

Ecosite. The Ecosite consists of improved grasslands and arable fields which are

intensively farmed. No further details were available for this site.

Allesley Park Ecosite: The Ecosite is situated approximately 600m east of the site. The

Ecosite is roughly divided into two; the eastern part is a pitch and putt course and the western part is amenity parkland. There are areas of poor semi improved grassland,

scattered trees, species rich hedgerows and dense continuous scrub around the

borders. The site supports the rare oak-apple gall wasp (Biorhiza pallida).

Alton House Farm/Stone House Farm Ecosite: The Ecosite is situated approximately 1km north of the site. The River Sherbourne potential Local Wildlife Site runs through

the Ecosite. The Ecosite consists of a large mixed farm with ponds and two notable


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beetle species Amara aenea and Bembidium quadrimaculatum recorded on site. It is

also the only known site in Coventry for Platystethus avenarius.

3.3 Biodiversity Action Plans

3.3.1 A search of Defra’s Magic Map Website identified areas of UKBAP Priority habitat in the

locality. Large areas of Deciduous Woodland were associated with Tilehill Wood to the south

and Millison’s Wood to the East with small woodland compartments scattered in the vicinity of the site.

3.3.2 Two areas of Floodplain Grazing Marsh habitat were situated to the east associated with

Coundon Wedge grasslands LWS and a small area of Good Quality Semi Improved Grassland

was situated north, associated with Pickford Farm Ponds Local Wildlife site.

3.3.3 No priority habitats were mapped within the site boundaries.


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4. HABITATS

4.1 Site Summary

4.1.1 The main habitats within the site are described below. The location of each habitat is shown on the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Plan (see Drawing Number BMD.16.004.DR.012) and target

notes are listed in Appendix A.

4.1.2 An indication of the species present in each habitat are listed in Appendix B.

4.2 Grassland

4.2.1 The site was dominated by areas of intensively managed amenity grassland interspersed with

small areas of poor semi-improved grassland. Fairways, tees and greens which constitute the

majority of the land area were amenity grassland and occasional small strips of poor semi improved grassland made up the rough grass areas.

4.2.2 Amenity grassland on the main golf course area and verges was dominated by widespread

common species (see Target Note 1) such as perennial rye grass (Lolium perenne), fescues

(Festuca sp.), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris), cleavers (Galium aparine), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) and daisy (Bellis

perennis).

4.2.3 Areas of poor semi improved grassland constituting rough areas between fairways and

alongside boundary hedges (see Target Note 2) were species poor, dominated by common and widespread species including, Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), cock’s-foot (Dactylis

glomerata), creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense), nettle (Urtica dioica), common bent (Agrostis

capillaris), false oat grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), cleavers and cow parsley (Anthriscus

sylvestris).

4.3 Tall Ruderal

4.3.1 Small areas of tall ruderals were scattered across the site, in corners and along boundary

hedges. These areas were dominated by a mosaic of common and widespread species such

as stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), willowherb (Epilobium sp), teasel (Dipsacus fullonum), hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium), creeping thistle, weld (Reseda luteola), mugwort

(Artemisia vulgaris), lesser burdock (Arctium minus), spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare), white dead

nettle (Lamium album), etc.

4.3.2 Areas of tall ruderal habitat were scattered along the southern boundary and on a raised bank

adjacent to the car park in the north of the site. A larger area was present on a mound

interspersed with patches of rough grassland to the west of the main car park (see Target Note

3).


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4.4 Other Habitat

4.4.1 A small area of compost heaps and debris piles were situated on the northern boundary

against H1 adjacent to the maintenance buildings B1 & B2. The area was in use and included various piles of grass cuttings and vegetation heaps (see Target Note 4).

4.5 Trees & Woodland

4.5.1 A narrow strip of broadleaf plantation was located in the south-east corner along the eastern

boundary of the site (see Target Note 5). Trees present included silver birch (Betula pendula) ash (Fraxinus excelsior), field maple (Acer campestre), wild cherry (Prunus Avium) and

sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). Ground flora was limited, including widespread species

such as wood avens (Geum urbanum), cow parsley, nettle and cleavers.

4.5.2 Scattered lines of trees were present across the site between fairways and rough areas.

Species present included pedunculate oak (Quercus robur), silver birch, plum (Prunus sp),

Norway spruce (Picea abies), weeping willow (Salix babylonica), Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris),

common alder (Alnus glutinosa), sycamore and occasional lines of Leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) and cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) along site boundaries.

4.6 Hardstanding

4.6.1 Hardstanding areas were restricted to the north of the site predominantly associated with car

parking facilities and access roads between parking and hotel facilities.

4.6.2 Two parking areas were present, located either side of the main hotel, leisure and golf

complex to the east and west. These areas were bordered by intensively managed amenity

grassland with occasional introduced shrubs.

4.7 Buildings

4.7.1 A number of buildings were present on site (see Appendix A for photographs of features):

4.7.2 A building (B1) was located on the edge of the western car park, a simple open fronted, steel

framed, breeze block maintenance shed.

4.7.3 A similar structure (B2) was located adjacent to B1 with enclosed walls and skylights.

4.7.4 A small brick built structure was situated to the west of the main lake (P5). The building was

locked and was likely used as a maintenance shed.

4.7.5 A pitched roofed, two storey, brick built hotel block (B4) was located on the northern boundary

adjacent to the A45. The roof was likely to have a void within the pitched roof. Tiles and brick work were generally in good condition.

4.7.6 A similar structure (B5) located alongside B4 had a pitched tiled roof with occasional missing

tiles noted but generally the building was in good condition.


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4.7.7 A single storey, brick built, pitch roofed building (B6) was located to the west of B5 and had a

series of small roof voids above the ground floor with occasional missing tiles and gaps noted.

4.7.8 A similar single storey ‘L’ shaped annex building (B7) was located to the south of B6 had pitched roof with occasionally missing tiles.

4.7.9 Another single storey structure (B8) located to the south of B7 had occasional missing tiles

associated with its tiled roof.

4.7.10 The main hotel block included three groups of buildings including a modern accommodation

block (B9) overlooking the golf course to the south, a modern accommodation block to the

west (B10) and the main hotel building (B11) to the north of the block. All buildings had tiled

pitched roofs with roof voids likely to be present within the structures.

4.8 Waterbodies

4.8.1 A number of water bodies were scattered across the site including four ponds and one small

lake. The water bodies were bound by amenity grassland with shallow banks and variable

marginal habitat supporting occasional hard rush (Juncus inflexus), soft rush (Juncus effuses) and canary reed grass (Phalaris arundinacea).

4.8.2 A pond (P1) was located in the north of the site, isolated by hardstanding access roads linking

parking facilities. The pond was surrounded by amenity grassland with limited marginal habitat

which included, hard rush, soft rush, fools water cress (Apium nodfilorum), yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus), great willow herb (Epilobium hirsutum) and lily (Nymphaeles sp.). Common

duckweed (Lemna minor) was also present.

4.8.3 A pond (P2) was located in the west of the site, surrounded by amenity grassland. Limited

marginal habitat was present including hard rush, soft rush, compact rush (Juncus conglomeratus), reed mace (Typha latifolia) and some patches of willow (Salix sp.) scrub and

scattered weeping willow (Salix babylonica). A small island was present in the centre of the

pond.

4.8.4 A cluster of three water bodies were located at the centre of the site as described below;

4.8.5 A pond (P3) was located in the central cluster of water bodies, surrounded by amenity

grassland. Limited marginal habitat was present including soft rush, hard rush and occasional

canary reed grass. The pond was connected to a narrow stream (W1) flowing into the pond at the south-western corner and flowing out of the south-eastern corner.

4.8.6 A pond (P4) was located in the central cluster of water bodies, surrounded by amenity

grassland. This pond was connected to P5 by a narrow waterway. Limited marginal habitat

was present including soft rush, hard rush and occasional canary reed grass.

4.8.7 A lake (P5) was located in the central cluster of water bodies surrounded by amenity

grassland. This lake was the largest water body on site with marginal areas supporting a more

diverse assemblage of species. Species present included hard rush, soft rush, canary reed


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grass, yellow iris, greater willow herb and occasional weeping willow. A large island feature

was present within the lake supporting scattered scrub and marginal edges.

4.9 Running water

4.9.1 There were four watercourses running through the site. Banks were dominated by short

amenity grassland with only limited marginal areas supporting occasional hard rush, soft rush,

and canary reed grass.

4.9.2 A narrow stream (W1) originating in the north of the site flowed south into pond P3. Limited

marginal areas supported little vegetation other than ruderals.

4.9.3 Pickford Brook (W2) flowed north-west to south-east across the site, feeding ponds P3, P4 and

the lake P5. Limited marginal areas supported occasional soft rush, hard rush, canary reed grass and fools water cress. Occasional patches of lesser celandine (Ficaria verna) was also

present on the banks.

4.9.4 A narrow stream (W3) flowed west-east across the southern end of the site. The banks

supported minimal marginal habitat with occasional in stream species such as water crowfoot (Ranunculus sp) also present.

4.9.5 A small stream flowed out of the southern extent of P5 and joined W2 and W3 at the southern

end of the site. The stream had short mown banks.

4.10 Hedgerows

4.10.1 A number of hedgerow features were present along boundaries of the site. Hedgerows tended

to be species poor, dominated by hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), hazel (Corylus avellana)

and elder (Sambucus nigra).

4.10.2 A hedgerow (H1) formed a small part of the northern boundary next to the access roads. The hedgerow was overgrown, 3m wide, dominated by hawthorn and elder with occasional ivy

(Hedera helix) and no significant ground flora.

4.10.3 A hedgerow (H2) formed a small part of western boundary located in north-west corner

adjacent to residential property. The hedgerow was a trimmed garden hedge, 1.5m wide composed exclusively of common privet (Ligustrum vulgare) with no ground flora.

4.10.4 A hedgerow (H3) formed a southern boundary extending along adjacent arable fields in the

west of the site. The hedgerow was 1.5m wide, dominated by hawthorn, hazel, elder and field maple. Ground flora included, lords and ladies (Arum maculatum), nettle, ivy, cleavers and

garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata).

4.10.5 A hedgerow (H4) formed the length of the western boundary adjacent to arable fields. The

hedgerow was trimmed, 1.5m wide and showed evidence of past management. Dominant species present included hawthorn with occasional holly (Ilex aquifolium), elder, bramble,


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blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and ash. Ground flora was limited to common species including

ivy and cleavers.

4.10.6 A hedgerow (H5) ran the length of the southern boundary adjacent to arable fields. The hedgerow contained frequent large hawthorn stools with elder, holly, hawthorn, hazel, and

occasional mature oaks (Quercus robur). Ground flora present included occasional woodland

indicators such as foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), lords and ladies, bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) and bugle (Ajuga reptans).

4.10.7 A small section of hedgerow (H6) was present within the northern portion of the site, situated

on the western bank of W1. The hedge was over mature and dominated by hazel, hawthorn

and willow with ground flora limited to ivy and common tall ruderal species.

4.10.8 A trimmed Leyland cypress hedge (H7) was situated along the north-east boundary of the site.

The hedge was dominated by cypress with no ground flora and was closely associated with

the nearby amenity grassland.


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5. PROTECTED SPECIES

5.1 Overview

5.1.1 The legislation that relates to the protected species referred to in this section is included in Appendix C. Additional species/species groups have been considered as part of this report;

however, only those that operate within the same geographical range and where suitable

habitats are present within or adjacent to the site are included below

5.2 Amphibians

5.2.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified records for great crested

newt, common frog (Rana temporaria) and smooth newt (Lissortiton vulgaris) within the vicinity

of the site. Of the records provided, none were recent, the latest was from 1997.

5.2.2 The great crested newt records provided by Warwickshire Biological Records Centre were

confined to Pickford Farm Ponds LWS, approximately 600m to the north-west separated from

the site by the significant dispersal barrier of the A45.

5.2.3 Eight ponds were identified within 500m of the site boundary. These ponds were located in arable fields along boundary features connected to the site. Other pond features were present

in the locality separated from the site by dispersal barriers such as roads, residential areas and

extensive unconnected arable land.

5.2.4 The great crested newt Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) is a quantitative measure of habitat quality that evaluates the suitability of habitat for great crested newts (ARG UK, 2010). The

scoring evaluates the suitability of the habitat quality and quantity for great crested newts

based on a numerical score for ten indices. Table 4.1 below lists the score achieved for each

of the indices and calculates their subsequent HSI score for the five water bodies on site. Access to offsite ponds was not available at the time of survey.


14

Table 4.1 Habitat Suitability Scores

Water Bodies Pond 1 Pond 2 Pond 3 Pond 4 Pond 5

SI1-Location A 1 A 1 A 1 A 1 A 1

SI2-Pond area m² 50 0.05 >2000 - 250 0.5 550 1 >2000 -

SI3-Pond drying Never 0.9 Never 0.9 Never 0.9 Never 0.9 Never 0.9

SI4-Water quality Mod 0.67 Poor 0.33 Mod 0.67 Mod 0.67 Mod 0.67

SI5-Shade 30% 1 10% 1 10% 1 30% 1 10% 1

SI6-Fowl Absent 1 Absent 1 Pos 0.67 Pos 0.67 Major 0.01

SI7-Fish Absent 1 Absent 0.67 Pos 0.67 Pos 0.67 Pos 0.67

SI8-Ponds 16 0.95 16 0.95 16 0.95 16 0.95 16 0.95

SI9-Terrestrial habitat Poor 0.33 Mod 0.67 Poor 0.33 Poor 0.33 Poor 0.33

SI10-Macrophytes 20% 0.5 10% 0.35 0% 0.3 0% 0.3 10% 0.35

HSI Score

0.59 0.70 0.65 0.68 0.42

Below average Good Average Average Poor

5.2.5 Of the five water bodies on site, one scored poor, one below average, two average and one

good.

5.2.6 Due to the presence of ponds of good and average suitability for great crested newts on site,

the presence of offsite ponds in close proximity to the site and local records of amphibians in the study area it is considered that further investigation is necessary to determine the

ecological value of the site for great crested newt (and other amphibians) and whether the

proposed scheme would have significant impacts on populations of great crested newt, if

present.

5.3 Avifauna

5.3.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified no bird records for the

locality.

5.3.2 During the site survey a number of common bird species were recorded within the site and in the surrounding locality. Species identified included, dunnock (Prunella modularis), robin

(Erithacus rubecula), blackbird (Turdus merula), wren (Troglodytes troglodytes), goldcrest

(Regulus regulus), great tit (Parus major), long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus), chaffinch


15

(Fringilla coelebs), blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) and black headed gull (Chroicocephalus

ridibundus).

5.3.3 A number of wildfowl species associated with the two larger water bodies P2 and P5 were identified including moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), coot, (Fulica atra) mallard (Anas

platyrhynchos) and grey lag goose (Anser anser). .

5.3.4 A skylark (Alauda arvensis) was heard singing within an arable field to the south of the site.

5.3.5 No ground nesting species were recorded within the application site. The site was considered

unlikely to provide nesting habitat for ground nesting species such as skylark due to the

intensively managed grassland and regular human activity.

5.3.6 The site boundary hedgerows could support a range of nesting bird species during the breeding season. The wider hedges on site have dense bases which would provide nesting

opportunities for smaller passerines and the mature trees may provide nesting opportunities

for other species including cavity nesting species.

5.3.7 Due to the presence of areas of scrub, hedgerows and trees it is likely that the site could afford nesting opportunities for common bird species in the locality and limited foraging areas.

However, based on the habitats present and the managed nature of the site, the site is

considered to be of local importance (within the zone of influence only) with regards to birds.

5.4 Badger

5.4.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified a number of badger

(Meles meles) records including a record of a sett on the western boundary of the site and four

fatalities along the A45 adjacent to the site.

5.4.2 An active badger sett with at least five entrances was identified on site, associated with H3. Evidence of recent activity was abundant including fresh prints, latrines, snuffle holes and

occasional fresh bedding outside burrows. The sett was located in the same area as the sett

previously identified by a record held with the Warwickshire Biological Records Centre.

5.4.3 Generally, the site provided limited foraging areas for badgers, associated with small patches

of scrub, ruderals and rough grass along the boundaries. Areas of badger foraging were

evident on site boundaries with prints and snuffle holes often encountered along hedgerows.

5.4.4 Based on local records, presence of setts and abundant field signs, badgers are present on site. However, the heavily managed nature of the site and limited suitable foraging habitat

confined to small areas of scrub associated with boundary features mean the site is

considered to be of local importance (within the zone of influence only) with regards to

badgers. The hedgerow features link to adjacent hedgerows and arable land as such form part of a larger foraging area for the species


16

5.5 Bats

5.5.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified a small number of records

for unspecified bats and common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus). The most recent sightings were located 1km to the south of the site on the edge of a residential development.

5.5.2 During the survey a visual assessment of all trees within and adjacent to the site was

undertaken to determine their potential to support bat roosts (as per categories listed within Collins, 2016). Buildings were also visually assessed for signs of bat activity and roosting

potential.

5.5.3 A mature oak located within H4, on the western boundary of the site was assessed as having

moderate bat roosting potential. The tree had a large central cavity, occasional smaller cavities and splits. A mature oak to the south of the north-eastern car park, situated within a fairway

was also considered to have moderate bat roosting potential.

5.5.4 Another tree within H4 at the southern end of the hedgerow was assessed as having low bat

roosting potential due to the potential to support limited roosting features. Three mature oak trees situated within H5 were also considered to support low bat roosting potential associated

with ivy cladding and limited splits and small cavity features.

5.5.5 All other trees assessed during the site survey were classified as having negligible bat roosting

potential (i.e. trees with no potential to support bats).

5.5.6 A number of buildings were present on site and were generally well maintained. From an

initial ground level inspection the brick built buildings were considered to provide low bat

roosting potential based on occasional lifted tiles and potential access to internal roof void

features. These buildings included B3 to B11.

5.5.7 In order to assess the value of the structures on site a detailed inspection to include internal

and external inspections of low potential structures is required to search for signs of use by

bats and to confirm the potential suitability for bats.

5.5.8 B1 and B2 were modern structures offering limited bat roosting features and as such were

considered to be negligible bat roosting features.

5.5.9 The site offered limited bat foraging habitat in the form of boundary hedgerows and internal

features such as tree lines and the brook/stream corridors. Generally the open, managed areas of the golf course were considered to be of negligible value for bats, with smaller linear

features such as stream and hedgerows to be of low suitability for commuting and foraging

bats.

5.5.10 Due to the presence of low suitability habitat features for bats associated with built structures and smaller, linear habitat features there is a need for further investigation to determine the

ecological value of the site for bat species and whether the proposed scheme would have

significant impacts on populations of bat species, if present.


17

5.6 Reptiles

5.6.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified no reptile records for the

locality.

5.6.2 The majority of the site does not support suitable reptile habitat owing to the dominance of

heavily managed, species poor amenity grassland. The only suitable habitat present on site

providing the structural diversity to support reptiles was the raised area of compost and debris piles adjacent to the main car park. This area contained piles of vegetation and debris that

could provide suitable hibernation/shelter habitat for reptiles such as grass snake (Natrix natrix)

and slow worm (Anguis fragilis) and may also provide suitable egg-laying habitat for grass

snakes. Debris piles within this area may also provide suitable basking habitat and hibernacula for common lizards (Zootoca vivipara).

5.6.3 Due to the presence of features that may provide suitable habitat for reptiles there is a need for

further investigation to determine the ecological value of the site for reptiles and whether the

proposed scheme would have significant impacts on populations of reptiles, if present.

5.7 Water vole

5.7.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified one record of water vole

(Arvicola amphibius) within the site, on W3 at the southern end of the site and several records

associated with Coundon Wedge grasslands LWS to the east and Eastern Green/Guphill Brook to the south.

5.7.2 Coundon Wedge grasslands are located 1km north east of the site with the A45 acting as a

barrier to dispersal. With no aquatic link or suitable habitat corridor to the site movement of

water vole from the north is considered unlikely.

5.7.3 Eastern Green/Guphill Brook is located approximately 1km south of the site in the residential

area of Eastern Green. There is no link between the water courses on site and Guphill Brook

and as such movement of water vole form the south is considered to be unlikely.

5.7.4 No signs of water vole were identified on site. A number of small mammal prints were noted during the survey, however none were positively identified as water vole and could be

attributed to brown rate activity due to absence of other signs of water voles e.g. feeding

remains and droppings.

5.7.5 Generally, the watercourses on site had only small areas of suitable marginal habitat. However

the habitat survey was conducted outside of the optimal survey period for water voles and as

such signs of water vole activity may be evident later in the season.

5.7.6 Due to the presence of historic records for the site itself and local records for water voles further investigation is required to determine the ecological value of the site for water voles and

whether the proposed scheme would have significant impacts on water voles, if present.


18

5.8 Invertebrates

5.8.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified no records for notable

invertebrates on the site. A number of records exist for notable invertebrates in the vicinity. Allesley Park Ecosite, located approximately 600m east of the site supports the rare oak-apple

gall wasp. Alton House Farm/Stone House Farm approximately 1km north of the site supports

two notable beetles, Amara aenea and Bembidium quadrimaculatum and Platystethus avenarius.

5.8.2 The boundary hedgerows and mature trees are considered to be the most important habitats

for invertebrates, but nevertheless the value of the site with regards to invertebrates is

assessed to be of local importance (within the zone of influence only) due to the dominance of species-poor managed grassland habitat in the site.

5.9 Other species

5.9.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified a single record for dead

hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) on A45 adjacent to the site. The hedgerows networks along the site boundaries could provide limited foraging, shelter and over-wintering opportunities for

hedgehog but generally the habitats on site were considered to be of low value for this

species.

5.10 Flora

5.10.1 Consultation with Warwickshire Biological Records Centre identified no records for notable

flora on the site.

5.10.2 Owing to the heavily managed nature of the site and lack of species diversity, the site is

considered to be of low value for county rare plants.

5.10.3 The southern hedgerow (H5) was a mature feature which supported a good range of

woodland indicator species.

5.11 Invasive non-native species

5.11.1 No invasive non-native species were recorded within the site.


19

6. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Development Proposals

6.1.1 At the time of writing, the proposals have yet to be confirmed in detail but it is understood that the site is being promoted for residential use and would include areas of residential

development, open space and landscaping.

6.2 Statutory/Non-Statutory Designated Sites

6.2.1 One designated site was present in the locality. The scheme is at a scale that is not anticipated to adversely affect the nature conservation interest of Tilehill Wood SSSI.

6.2.2 Four non-statutory LWS sites are present within the study area.

6.2.3 Two sites, to the north are separated by the A45, a significant barrier to dispersal and as such are unlikely to be adversely affected due to the distance and presence of anthropogenic

barriers.

6.2.4 Pond Farm Pastures LWS is located over 600m south of the site on the border of a residential

area and as such is a distant feature likely to be unaffected by the development proposals.

6.2.5 Pickford Brook Meadows LWS is located in the residential area to the east, sharing a border

with the site in the south east corner. As such, the site proposals would need to consider the

value of the habitats and species present as informed by this study and subsequent protected

species assessments and provide adequate protection and enhancement measures where needed. The proposed on site provision of accessible green space is likely to reduce visitor

pressure on nearby existing green space areas.

6.2.6 The site itself has local designations with regard to Ecosite status, related to the Pickford

Brook. As such, the site proposals would need to consider the value of the habitats and species present as informed by this study and subsequent protected species assessments

and provide adequate protection and enhancement measures where requried.

6.3 Habitats

6.3.1 The proposed residential development site would impact on an area of low value habitat associated with an operational golf course. Features of interest include the boundary

hedgerows and linear features within the site including streams, a brook, ponds, a lake and

groups of semi-mature trees.

6.3.2 Protection and enhancement proposals where required are provided at Section 6.5 below to

ensure impacts are negated and that the scheme would result in a net gain for biodiversity.


20

6.4 Protected Species

6.4.1 Below is the potential impact to species and species groups that may be adversely affected as

a result of development. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires that developments should “contribute to conserving and enhancing the natural environment”.

Thus, where appropriate, recommendations have also been made to enhance the sites

biodiversity for these species.

Amphibians

6.4.2 Five ponds are present on site with two of average and one of good suitability for great crested newt. There are also a number of other ponds in the locality and local records for amphibians

in the vicinity of the site.

6.4.3 The likelihood of great crested newt presence is therefore considered to be medium and as

such further surveys are required of ponds on site and those in close proximity to assess the presence/absence of great crested newt.

Reptiles

6.4.4 The application site generally lacks suitable habitat for reptiles due to extensive areas of

heavily managed amenity grassland and lack suitably diverse habitat for reptiles. The only

habitat with suitable structural diversity was associated with the debris and compost heaps adjacent to the western car park.

6.4.5 It is considered that there is potential for reptiles to be present in this area and if amphibian

species are also present on site this could also attract predatory species such as grass snake.

As such, a reptile presence/absence survey is required at suitable habitat areas on site.

Avifauna

6.4.6 It is not anticipated that the site supports significant numbers of notable bird species.

Nevertheless, the site provides limited breeding opportunities for birds and thus, it is

recommended that any vegetation removal is undertaken outside of the breeding bird season

(March to September inclusive). However, should these works be required within the breeding bird season then it is recommended that a check for breeding birds is undertaken by a

suitably experienced surveyor prior (within 24 hours) of works commencing. If a nest (or nest

in construction) is found, a suitable stand-off area should be maintained until the young have

fledged.

6.4.7 In line with the NPPF, it is recommended that any proposed tree and shrub planting within

landscaped areas includes native fruit bearing specimens to increase foraging opportunities

for birds within the site. Species such as crab apple (Malus sylvestris), dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), hazel (Corylus avellana), rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) and wild cherry (Prunus avium)

are considered appropriate for this development as they have both aesthetic and nature

conservation qualities.


21

Badger

6.4.8 An active badger sett was recorded within H3 on the southern boundary of the western portion

of the golf course. Badger foraging was also observed within H4.

6.4.9 If development works are likely to affect the badger sett (i.e. works within 20m of the sett) then a Natural England licence may be required if significant disturbance is likely.

6.4.10 The sett is situated in a significant hedge feature which is recommended for retention (see

below) and as such it is considered that with careful planning the sett could be retained and

buffered with landscaping to allow badgers to continue to use the sett and also forage in new habitat areas on site.

Bats

6.4.11 The site is not considered to be of significant importance for bat species but the smaller linear

features and potential roost features associated with the trees and buildings on site may

support low numbers of common bat species. The species and numbers of bats present on site will be confirmed through further survey works.

6.4.12 As such, where possible these features should be retained and enhancement for bats and new

habitat creation works should aim to create linear habitats to complement existing features

such as hedgerows, swales and grassland margins.

6.4.13 In terms of lighting it is recommended that the use of artificial lighting (during construction and

operation) follows the protocols outlined in the Institute for Lighting Engineers document

“Guidance for the Reduction of Obtrusive Lighting” (2005) and BCT’s “Artificial Lighting and

Wildlife Interim Guidance: Recommendations to Help Minimise the Impact of Artificial Lighting” (2014) to minimise disturbance and sky-glow across the site and particularly towards the BHS

area to the north and east. Security lighting should be pre-fitted to the new buildings to ensure

that uncontrolled lighting is minimised. By installing lighting during the construction phase, the lighting level and directionality can be controlled to ensure that lighting remains appropriate

and sensitive.

Water Vole

6.4.14 The status of water vole at the site is to be confirmed through further survey at an appropriate

time of year.

6.4.15 If water vole are found to be present on watercourses then retention of the streams and enhancements for water vole would be required.

6.4.16 General watercourse enhancements are detailed below.

Other Species

6.4.17 No significant impacts on notable species are anticipated.


22

6.5 Additional Suggested Measures for Biodiversity Enhancements

6.5.1 The main body of the site is of low ecological value due to low species diversity (although the

findings of the further protected species surveys may increase the value of rough grassland, watercourse and wetland features if they are found to support notable species) and thus

development provides the opportunity to significantly enhance the site biodiversity. Additional

biodiversity enhancements could include:

Planting residential gardens with a range of native shrubs and trees, particularly

fruit/seed bearing species and those that provide pollen and/or nectar (such as Prunus

sp., malus sp., Sorbus sp., Viburnum sp., etc) will increase habitat opportunities for

species such invertebrates, bats and birds;

The hedgerow features (particularly H3, H4 and H5) on the site boundaries should be retained and buffered against development areas and managed to promote bushy

growth and to control outward growth. Small habitat features should be created within

the hedges (e.g. small log piles);

The provision of artificial bird boxes targeting notable bird species associated with sub-urban habitat such as house sparrow and bullfinch should be installed on new buildings

where appropriate and within retained trees and shrubs;

Provision of bat boxes on trees to provide additional bat roosting features within the tree

resourcing (type of box to be informed by the further survey work);

Providing gaps beneath residential garden gates/fences (c. 10cm x 15cm) to facilitate the

movement of small mammals (e.g. hedgehogs) between new residential gardens and

adjacent landscape/existing habitat areas;

Retention of pond features and enhancement (full requirements to be informed by the further amphibians surveys) to benefit species such as invertebrates, birds, bats and

amphibians. This could include management of over shading vegetation, creation of log

piles near to ponds, promoting marginal edges and introduction of wetland plant species

to margins;

Retention of mature tree resource where possible or replacement of lost trees;

Retention of watercourses and enhancements to the corridor for wildlife. Allow banks to

develop rough grassland/marginal strips along the corridor, supplementary planting to

increase species richness and creation of additional ponds/swales along the corridor;

and

Use of SUDs systems to create biodiverse areas in close association with retained

habitats and new landscaped areas.


23

6.6 Recommended Further Ecological Surveys and Mitigation

6.6.1 Table 6.1 summaries further ecological survey and mitigation requirements relevant to this

scheme.

Table 6.1. Recommended further ecological surveys and mitigation

Species/Features & Location

Recommended Survey/Action

Potential Impact/Mitigation

Survey Timings

Avifauna

Vegetation

Nesting bird check prior to removal of suitable nesting bird habitats. NB: only required if works undertaken during the breeding bird season.

Disturbance of breeding birds. Area to be declared free immediately prior to site works. Replace tree losses with replacement planting and/or artificial bird boxes.

Construction stage

March to September.

Reptiles

Site boundaries

Reptile surveys at optimum time of year.

Undertake presence/absence surveys of area of rough ground along north-western boundary and also other rough grassland areas as appropriate.

April to June and September


24

Amphibians

Site ponds and suitable adjacent pond features (TBC)

Amphibian surveys at optimum time of year

Undertaken presence/absence surveys of onsite ponds and also nearby ponds in adjacent land where relevant

March to June

Water vole

Watercourse

Survey during optimum time of year.

Undertaken water vole survey along watercourses to search for signs of water vole activity and active burrows

April to October

Badger

Hedgerows

Further mitigation works may be required dependent on final development designs

Undertake further activity surveys to inform impact assessment/licence application if required.

Only required if sett cannot be accommodated within the landscape areas.

TBC


25

Bats

Buildings and Site

Further buildings inspection and activity surveys to inform bat activity and potential roosting sites

Building inspections

Activity surveys – seasonal visits: spring/summer and autumn visit

Anytime

May, July and September survey visit


26

7. REFERENCES

ARG UK (2010). ARG UK Advice Note 5: Great Crested Newt Habitat Suitability Index.

Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the United Kingdom

Bat Conservation Trust (2014). Artificial Lighting and Wildlife Interim Guidance:

Recommendations to Help Minimise the Impact of Artificial Lighting

Collins J (2016). Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines, 3rd

edition. Bat Conservation Trust, London

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2016). Guidelines for

Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland (Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal)

English Nature (2001). Great crested newt mitigation guidelines. English Nature

Hundt L (2012). Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd edition. Bat Conservation Trust

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2012). Guidelines for Preliminary

Ecological Appraisals.

Institute of Environmental Assessment (1995). Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment

Institute of Lighting Engineers (2005). Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light

JNCC (2010). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey: A technique for environmental audit.

English Field Unit, Nature Conservancy Council

JNCC (2004). The Bat Workers Manual. 3rd Edition

Mitchell-Jones A, J, (2004). Bat Mitigation Guidelines, English Nature, Peterborough

Stace. C. A. (2011). ‘New Flora of the British Isles’. Third Edition. Cambridge University Press

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey Fish Park, Energy Park, Fleetwood BMD.15.016.RP.801

8. PLANS

Client

Project

Drawing Title

DateDrawn

Job No.

Checked

Scale

Reviewed

Sheet Size

Drawing Number

Revision

Rev Description Date

15.005

LB

NTS

LB

A3

This drawing is the property of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd. Copyright is reserved by them and the drawing is issued on the condition that it is not copied, reproduced, retained nor disclosed to any unauthorized person either wholly or in part without the consent of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd.

Bradley Murphy Design Ltd5 The CourtyardHatton Technology ParkDark LaneHattonWarwickshireCV35 8XB

t: 01926 676496e:[email protected]

16/05/2016

LAND AT WINDMILL HOTEL COVENTRY

NT

SITE LOCATION

BRACEBRIDGE HOLDINGS

BMD.16.004.DR.001 -16.004

NT LB

1:12,500

KEY:

SITE BOUNDARY

EASTERN GREEN SUEDRAFT ALLOCATION

Client

Project

Drawing Title

DateDrawn

Job No.

Checked

Scale

Reviewed

Sheet Size

Drawing Number

Revision

Rev Description Date

15.005

LB

NTS

LB

A3

This drawing is the property of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd. Copyright is reserved by them and the drawing is issued on the condition that it is not copied, reproduced, retained nor disclosed to any unauthorized person either wholly or in part without the consent of Bradley Murphy Design Ltd.

Bradley Murphy Design Ltd5 The CourtyardHatton Technology ParkDark LaneHattonWarwickshireCV35 8XB

t: 01926 676496e:[email protected]

14/04/2016

LAND AT WINDMILL HOTEL COVENTRY

CS

PHASE 1 HABITAT SURVEY PLAN

BRACEBRIDGE HOLDINGS

BMD.16.004.DR.002 -16.004

NT LB

XX

KEY:

TARGET NOTES

TREES AND WOODLAND

AMENITY GRASSLAND

ARABLE GROUND

WATERBODIES

HEDGEROWS

SITE BOUNDARY

BROAD-LEAVED PLANTATION FEATURE

POOR SEMI-IMPROVED GRASSLAND

COMPOST HEAP/DEBRIS PILE

BUILDING

A

A

SI


ii

9. APPENDICES


iii

A. TARGET NOTES

Feature Photograph of feature

1 Example of amenity grassland associated with managed golf course areas illustrating short grassland areas with smaller rough sections as well as scattered trees.

View looking east from western boundary.

2 Example of poor semi-improved grassland edge of rough grassland against managed amenity grassland.

View looking east along H3 of the southern boundary of the western portion of the golf course


iv

3 Area of tall ruderal habitat

situated on earth mound on the northern boundary of the site.

View looking south across mound.

4 Area of compost heaps and debris piles along northern boundary of the site.

View looking east toward B2.

5 Broad-leaved plantation feature situated on the southern portion of the eastern boundary.

View looking south through plantation.


v

B1 Open fronted maintenance

shed of breeze block/steel frame construction with corrugated sheet roof.

View looking northwest towards B1 with B2 in background.

B2 Maintenance shed of breeze block/steel frame construction with corrugated sheet roof.

View looking west towards B2.

B3 Small, brick built structure to the west of the P5.

View looking north west towards B3.


vi

B4 Two storey, brick built annex

block with large pitched roof.

View looking west to southern elevation.

B5 Two storey, brick built annex block with large pitched roof.

View looking north-west towards B5.

B6 One storey, brick built annex block with pitched tiled roof.

View looking north-west towards B6.


vii

B7 One storey, brick built ‘L’

shaped annex block with pitched tiled roof.

View looking east towards western section of B7 parallel to B6.

B8 One storey, brick built ‘L’ shaped annex block with pitched tiled roof.

View looking north-east towards B8.

B9 Southern accommodation building of main hotel block.

View looking west towards B9 from eastern car park.


viii

B10 Two storey, ‘L’ shaped, western

accommodation building, part of main hotel block.

View looking north-east towards western end of B10.

B11 Three storey, main hotel building at entrance to site.

View looking south west towards B11 from car park at main entrance.

P1 Small pond in north of site surrounded by amenity grassland and isolated by access roads. Pond supported limited marginal vegetation including hard rush, soft rush, fools water cress, yellow iris and great willow herb.

View looking northwest across P1 from access road.


ix

P2 Pond in west of site on golf

course, surrounded by amenity grassland. Limited marginal vegetation included hard rush, soft rush, compact rush, reed mace, patches of willow scrub and scattered weeping willow. In the centre of the pond was a small island.

View looking west across P2.

P3 Pond in central cluster of water bodies, surrounded by amenity grassland. Pond connected to W1 flowing into pond at south-west corner and out at south-east corner. Limited marginal vegetation included soft rush, hard rush and occasional canary reed grass.

P4 Pond in the central cluster of water bodies to east of P3, surrounded by amenity grassland. Pond connected to P5 by a narrow waterway. Limited marginal vegetation included soft rush, hard rush and occasional canary reed grass.

View looking east across P4.


x

P5 Lake in central cluster of water

bodies to east of P4, surrounded by amenity grassland. Largest water body on site with more extensive marginal areas supporting hard rush, soft rush, canary reed grass, yellow iris, greater willow herb and occasional weeping willow. Pond had an island with wildfowl present.

View looking west across P5.

W1 Narrow stream originating in north of site flowing south into P3. Limited marginal areas supported little vegetation other than ruderals.

View looking north upstream.

W2 Pickford Brook, flowing north-west to south-east across the site feeding P3, P4 and P5. Short mown banks with marginal areas supported occasional soft rush, hard rush, canary reed grass and fools water cress.

View looking south-east downstream.


xi

W3 Narrow stream flowing west-

east across the southern end of the site. Short mown banks supported minimal marginal habitat with occasional in stream species such as water crowfoot.

View looking west upstream.

W4 Small stream flowing out of southern extent of P5 and joining W2 and W3 at the south-east corner of site. Short mown banks supported minimal marginal vegetation.

View looking north up stream.

H1 Hedge situated along northern boundary next to access roads. Hedgerow was overgrown, 3m wide, dominated by hawthorn and elder with occasional ivy and no significant ground flora.

View looking west along northern boundary.


xii

H2 Hedge situated on western

boundary in north-west corner adjacent to residential property. Trimmed garden hedge, 1.5m wide composed exclusively of privet with no ground flora.

H3 Hedge situated along southern boundary in west of site. Hedgerow trimmed, 2m wide, dominated by hawthorn, hazel, elder and field maple. Ground flora included, lords and ladies nettle, ivy, cleavers and garlic mustard Extensive badger activity identified along length of hedgerow and sett in eastern corner.

View looking east.

H4 Hedge situated along western boundary. Trimmed, 1.5m wide dominated by hawthorn with occasional holly, elder, bramble, blackthorn and ash. Ground flora was limited to common species including ivy and cleavers.

View looking north along western boundary.


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H5 Hedge situated along southern

boundary adjacent to arable fields. Dense, old hedge with good range of species and occasional mature oaks. Ground flora included occasional woodland indicators such as foxglove, lords and ladies, bluebell and bugle

View looking east along southern boundary.

H6 Hazel dominated hedgerow situated along the western bank of W1.

View looking south along stream corridor.

H7 Leyland cypress hedge situated on north-eastern boundary of the site adjacent to an area of amenity grassland.


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B. INDICATIVE SPECIES LIST

Flora Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) Bramble (Rubus fruticosa agg) Broadleaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius) Bugle (Ajuga reptans) Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) Canary reed grass (Phalaris arundinacea) Cherry laurel (Prunus lauroceraus) Cleavers (Galium aparine) Cocks foot (Dactylis glomerata) Common alder (Alnus glutinosa) Common bent (Agrostis capillaris) Common cleavers (Galium aparine) Common duckweed (Lemna minor) Common elder (Sambucus nigra) Common nettle (Urtica dioica) Common privet (Ligustrum Vulgare) Common ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) Compact rush (Juncus Conglomeratus) Cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) Creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens) Creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans) Creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense) Daisy (Bellis perennis) Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Dog-rose (Rosa canina) False oat grass (Arrhenatherum elatius) Fescues (Festuca sp.) Field maple (Acer campestre) Fools water cress (Apium nodfilorum) Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) Great willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) Hard rush (Juncus Inflexus) Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) Hazel (Corylus avellana) Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) Holly (Ilex auifolium) Ivy (Hedera helix) Lesser burdock (Arctium minus) Lesser celandine (Ficaria verna) Leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) Lords and Ladies (Arum maculatum) Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris) Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) Nettle (Urtica dioica) Norway spruce (Picea abies) Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur) Perennial rye grass (Lolium perenne) Plum (Prunus domestica) Privet (Ligustrum vulgare) Reed mace (Typha latifolia) Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) Self heal (Prunella vulgaris) Silver birch (Betula pendula)

Fauna Black headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) Blackbird (Turdus merula) Blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) Coot (Fulica atra) Dunnock (Prunella modularis) Goldcrest (Regulus regulus) Great tit (Parus major) Greylag goose (Anser anser) Long tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) Magpie (Pica pica) Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) Robin (Erithacus rubecula) Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) Offsite Skylark (Alauda arvensis)


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Soft rush (Juncus effusus) Spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare) Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) Water crowfoot (Ranunculus sp.) Weeping willow (Salix babylonica) Willow (Salix sp.) Willowherb (Epilobium sp.) Weld (Reseda luteola) White clover (Trifolium repen) White dead nettle (Lamium album) Wild cherry (Prunus Avium) Wood avens (Geum urbanum) Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) Yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus)


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C. RELEVANT LEGISLATION Herpetofauna All native herpetofauna receive some legal protection in Great Britain arising from the following legislation:

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (in Great Britain);

Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004;

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 1994 (as amended) (in Scotland); and,

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (in England & Wales). In England and Wales they are all listed on schedule 5 of the 1981 act and the more threatened species (the great crested newt Triturus cristatus, natterjack toad Epidalea calamita, pool frog Pelophylax lessonae, sand lizard Lacerta agilis and smooth snake Coronella austriaca) are also listed on schedule 2 of the 2010 Regulations, which designate them ‘European protected species’ (In Scotland natterjack toads and great crested newts are protected through the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations, 2004). The legislation effectively creates two levels of protection. The European protected species receive strict protection, making it an offence to capture, possess, disturb, kill, injure, or trade in individuals of these species. In addition it is an offence to damage or destroy the places they use for breeding or resting. The remaining reptile species (common lizard Lacerta vivipara, slow worm Anguis fragilis, adder Vipera berus and grass snake Natrix natrix) are protected against killing, injuring and unlicensed trade only. Whilst the remaining amphibian species (smooth newt Lissotriton vulgaris, palmate newt Lissotriton helveticus, common frog Rana temporaria and common toad Bufo bufo) are protected only against unlicensed trade. The legislation applies to all life stages of these animals. Bats

All bat species are afforded full protection under UK and European legislation, including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) and the Conservation (Natural habitats &c.) Regulations 2010 (as amended). Together, this legislation makes it illegal to:

Intentionally or deliberately take, kill or injure a bat;

Damage to, destruction of, and obstruction of access to, a bat roost; and,

Disturbance of a bat occupying a roost.

A bat roost is defined in the legislation as “any structure or place which a bat uses for shelter or protection”.

Bat foraging and commuting routes are not directly protected under the wildlife protection legislation described above. However, loss of important foraging areas and/or commuting routes could potentially constitute a disturbance offence, as defined by the Conservation (Natural habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended). The loss of a commuting route providing the only access to a roost could also potentially constitute indirect damage/destruction of a breeding site/resting place under the Conservation (Natural


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habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) and damage/destruction/obstruction of a placed used for shelter/protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

Even where the loss of foraging habitats and commuting routes does not constitute an offence under the wildlife protection legislation, the presence of such habitats is still a material consideration under the National Planning Policy Framework and planning authorities are legally obliged to take regard for such habitats under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

Breeding Birds Under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), a wild bird is defined as any bird of a species that is resident in or is a visitor to the European Territory of any member state in a wild state. Game birds, however, are not included in this definition (except for limited parts of the Act). They are covered by the Games Acts, which fully protect them during the closed season.

All birds, their nests and eggs are protected by law and it is an offence, with certain exceptions, to;

Kill, injure or take any wild bird;

Take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is being built or in use;

Take or destroy the eggs of any wild bird; and,

Possess or control any wild bird or egg unless obtained legally.

Birds listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) are afforded additional protection, which makes it an offence to disturb a bird while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of such a bird. The UK's birds can be split in to three categories of conservation importance - red, amber and green. Red list criteria:

Globally threatened;

Historical population decline in UK during 1800–1995;

Severe (at least 50%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years, or longer-term period (the entire period used for assessments since the first BoCC review, starting in 1969); or,

Severe (at least 50%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years, or the longer-term

period. Amber list criteria:

Species with unfavourable conservation status in Europe (SPEC = Species of European Conservation Concern);

Historical population decline during 1800–1995, but recovering; population size has more than

doubled over last 25 years;


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Moderate (25-49%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years, or the longer-term

period;

Moderate (25-49%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years, or the longer-term period;

Moderate (25-49%) decline in UK non-breeding population over last 25 years, or the longer-term

period;

Rare breeder; 1–300 breeding pairs in UK;

Rare non-breeders; less than 900 individuals;

Localised; at least 50% of UK breeding or non-breeding population in 10 or fewer sites, but not applied to rare breeders or non-breeders; or,

Internationally important; at least 20% of European breeding or non-breeding population in UK

(NW European and East Atlantic Flyway populations used for non-breeding wildfowl and waders respectively).

Green list species occur regularly in the UK but do not qualify under any or the above criteria. Badger

Badgers and their setts are legally protected under The Protection of Badgers Act (1992), which is based primarily on the need to protect badgers from baiting and deliberate harm or injury. Under this legislation it is illegal to:

Wilfully kill, injure, take, or cruelly ill-treat a badger, or attempt to do so;

Possess any dead badger or any part of, or anything derived from, a dead badger; and,

Intentionally or recklessly interfere with a sett which includes, disturbing badgers whilst they are

occupying a sett, damaging or destroying a sett, causing a dog to enter a sett, or obstructing

access to it.

A badger sett is defined in the legislation as “any structure or place, which displays signs indicating current use by a badger”.

Water Vole

The water vole is fully protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and is a priority conservation species.

It is an offence under the legislation to:

intentionally capture, kill or injure water voles damage, destroy or block access to their places of shelter or protection (on purpose or by not

taking enough care) disturb them in a place of shelter or protection (on purpose or by not taking enough care)


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possess, sell, control or transport live or dead water voles or parts of them (not water voles bred

in captivity)

European Hedgehog The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) are listed as Priority Species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

PHASE 1 Windmill final - Coventry · Windmill Village Hotel Golf and Leisure BMD.16.004 1 1....

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Transcript of PHASE 1 Windmill final - Coventry · Windmill Village Hotel Golf and Leisure BMD.16.004 1 1....