University of South Wales, Treforest Campus May 2018€¦ · Western Ecology has been commissioned...

Western Ecology, 1 Geffery Close, Landrake, Saltash, Cornwall PL12 5HA Telephone: 0800 622 6828

email: [email protected]

The natural choice for good advice

A report by

Yolande Knight BSc (Hons) PhD MRSB

Biodiversity Survey

University of South Wales, Treforest Campus

May 2018

mailto:[email protected]

Treforest Campus, University of South Wales – Biodiversity Survey, May 2018

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Report details

Site name: Treforest Campus, University of South Wales

Site address: Treforest, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL

Grid reference: ST 0809 8862

Survey date: 21st and 22nd May 2018

Report date: 9th August 2018

Report author: Yolande Knight BSc (Hons) PhD MRSB

Report reference: WOR-321

Version: v1

Declaration of compliance

Code of Professional Conduct

The information which we have prepared is true, and has been prepared and provided in

accordance with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Code

of Professional Conduct. We confirm that the opinions expressed are our true and

professional bona fide opinions.

Report authorised by: Colin Hicks BSc (Hons) MCIEEM


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Table of contents

1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 6

1.1. Survey aims ............................................................................................................. 6

1.2. Site location ............................................................................................................. 6

2. Survey methodology ......................................................................................................... 7

2.1. Desktop survey ........................................................................................................ 7

2.2. Field survey ............................................................................................................. 7

2.3. Method for valuation of habitats ............................................................................... 7

2.4. Bat activity survey: remote monitoring ..................................................................... 8

2.5. Survey constraints ................................................................................................... 8

2.6. Study area ............................................................................................................... 8

3. Results .............................................................................................................................. 9

3.1. Site description ........................................................................................................ 9

3.2. Phase 1 habitats ...................................................................................................... 9

3.3. Desktop survey ...................................................................................................... 17

Map 1. Phase 1 habitats ............................................................................................... 18

Map 2. Biodiversity value of habitats ............................................................................. 19

4. Potential for habitats and species of nature conservation importance; evaluation of

ecological features .............................................................................................................. 20

4.1. Habitats of nature conservation Importance ........................................................... 20

4.2. Species of nature conservation importance ........................................................... 20

4.3. Invasive Non-native Species .................................................................................. 26

5. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancement. ........................................................... 27

5.1. Enhancement of woodlands, scattered trees and shrubs, new hedgerows ............ 27

5.2. Enhancement of grassland habitat ......................................................................... 27

5.3. Nectar Bed Plants .................................................................................................. 29

5.4. Watercourses and ponds ....................................................................................... 29

5.5. Enhancement of habitats for bats........................................................................... 30

5.6. Bird boxes .............................................................................................................. 31

5.7. Enhancement for Invertebrates .............................................................................. 32

5.8. Reptile hibernacula ................................................................................................ 33

5.9. On-going biodiversity management and further surveys ........................................ 34

References ................................................................................................................... 35

Appendix 1: ......................................................................................................................... 36

Appendix 2 .......................................................................................................................... 41


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Non-technical summary Western Ecology has been commissioned to provide a biodiversity survey of the Treforest Campus. This report describes the results of this

biodiversity assessment, and a tabulated summary is given here, with maps of habitats and their value also provided in the report.

Habitat assessment

Habitat type Biodiversity

value (CIEEM,

2016)

Habitat of

principal

importance

Local Biodiversity

Action Plan

priority habitat

Suggested management Suggested enhancement

Semi-natural

broadleaved

woodland

Local Yes Yes Where opportunities arise, replace non-native

trees with native trees.

Any arisings from tree management can be

sawn and stacked to form piles of wood

Removal of any invasive non-native shrubs,

such as Rhododendron, should be undertaken

Amenity grassland Negligible No No Any areas of grassland where there is limited

human access could be further enhanced by

reducing the mowing regime to twice a year in

early spring and late summer only

Re-seed with native wildflower-rich seed mix,

where appropriate

Semi-improved

grassland

Site No No Manage to increase biodiversity of sward Re-seed with native wildflower-rich seed mix

Scattered mixed

trees

Site No No - Plant native trees where possible

Dense woody scrub Site No No - -

Introduced shrubs

and trees

Site No No - Plant native trees where possible

Scattered trees Site No No - Plant native trees where possible

Watercourse Site No No Where these watercourses are shaded within

the woodland, careful opening up of the canopy

above would increase opportunities for aquatic

plants

-

Building No No - -

Introduced shrub

planting

Negligible No No - Planting nectar-rich plants

Hardstanding Negligible - - - -


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Ephemeral/short

perennial

Negligible - - - -

Intact hedge, Native

species rich

Local Yes Yes - There are opportunities throughout the Site to

create new native species-rich hedgerows,

and supplement or replace current

ornamental/non-native hedgerows

Intact hedge,

species poor

Negligible No No - -

Species assessment

Species Presence

confirmed

Presence

likely

European

Protected

Species?

Protected under

Wildlife and

Countryside Act

(1981), as amended

Species of

Principal

Importance

Local Biodiversity

action Plan

priority species

Suggested

enhancement

Comments

Noctule bat

Nyctalus noctula

Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes - Recorded here during

remote monitoring

Common Pipistrelle

bat Pipistrellus

pipistrellus

Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during

remote monitoring

Soprano Pipistrelle

bat Pipistrellus

pygmaeus

Yes - Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during

remote monitoring

Long-eared bat

Plecotus sp

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Bat boxes Recorded here during

remote monitoring

Lesser Horseshoe

bat Rhinolophus

hipposideros

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Recorded here during

remote monitoring

Birds (various) Yes - - Yes Yes - Swift boxes; Sparrow

boxes; boxes for

woodland birds

-

Invertebrates

(various)

- Yes - - - - Nectar rich plantings;

insect boxes

Widespread and

common invertebrates

likely to be present


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1. Introduction

Western Ecology has been commissioned to complete a Biodiversity Survey of University of

South Wales (USW) Treforest Campus, south east Wales (Plan 1).

Plan 1: USW Treforest Campus is situated in Pontypridd, south east Wales.

1.1. Survey aims

This report describes the results of an ecological survey and assessment of the site with

regards to biodiversity. This does not include a survey of any buildings, beyond an external,

visual assessment, where appropriate. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancements are

made.

1.2. Site location

The site is situated on the western side of the Rhondda Valley, in the Rhondda Cynon Taff

borough of south east Wales, 16km to the north-west of the centre of Cardiff. The site

measures approximately 16ha, and comprises numerous campus buildings, a mix of amenity

and semi-improved grassland, with introduced shrub planting forming soft landscaping, an

area of semi-natural woodland, hardstanding with car parks, and mixed scattered trees

throughout the Site.

The site is immediately adjacent to a continuation of semi-natural woodland to the west and

north-west, and to the south. Residential areas run along the Rhondda Valley immediately to

the north, south and east of the site, with the wooded River Taff, the dual carriageway A470

and the Taff Trail Cycle Track 300-500 metres to the east.


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2. Survey methodology

2.1. Desktop survey

A desktop survey, using GIS datasets from the Lle Geoportal

(http://lle.gov.wales/catalogue?lang=en&c=2007), was completed to ascertain the

relationship between this Site and any statutory nature conservation sites in the nearby

landscape.

A biodiversity audit was carried out on this campus in 2012 (Clements, 2013) on behalf of

the University of Glamorgan. Results from the audit were taken in to account when

undertaking this current survey.

2.2. Field survey

A Phase I Habitat Survey of the site was carried out on the 21st and 22nd May 2018, an

average air temperature of 20oC, light westerly winds, dry and with some cloud present on

both days.

Habitats were classified using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology developed by the

Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2010) and modified by the Institute of

Environmental Assessment (IEA, 1995). The main plant species were recorded, and broad

habitat types mapped. Habitats encountered are described within the Results section, with a

map included within the report. Plant species were identified according to Stace (1997) and

are listed in Appendix 1. 'Target notes' are provided for any features of particular interest.

The methodology also requires the recording of conspicuous fauna species, such as birds,

herptiles (i.e. amphibians and reptiles), mammals and invertebrates, such as butterflies and

dragonflies, paying particular attention to the presence of any rare or protected species.

Built structures were not included within this survey, beyond a brief external assessment.

Larger trees, if present, were assessed for bat roosting potential, in accordance with Collins

2016.

2.3. Method for valuation of habitats

The ecological value of habitats present is provided in line with Guidelines for Ecological

Impact Assessment (CIEEM, 2016), and those which are important in terms of legislation or

policy are identified. Table 1 summarises this information and details the extent of each

habitat recorded here, and Map 2 indicates their location.

The nature conservation value, or potential value, of the habitat is determined within the

following geographic context:

International importance (e.g. internationally designated sites such as Special Areas

of Conservation, Special Protection Areas, Ramsar sites);

National importance (e.g. nationally designated sites such as Sites of Special

Scientific Interest or species populations of importance in the Welsh and UK context);

http://lle.gov.wales/catalogue?lang=en&c=2007


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County importance (e.g. SNCI, habitats and species populations of importance in the

context of Cardiff);

Local importance (e.g. important ecological features such as old hedges, woodlands,

ponds);

Site importance (e.g. habitat mosaic of grassland and scrub which may support a

diversity of common wildlife species);

Negligible importance. Usually applied to areas such as built development or areas of

intensive agricultural land.

The examples are not exclusive and are subject to further professional ecological judgment.

2.4. Bat activity survey: remote monitoring

Two Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter SMZC remote bat detectors were deployed onto site on

6th June and left to record until 21st June 2018 (Map 1). After deployment, sonograms were

downloaded and analysed using Kaleidoscope Pro (v4.5.4) and Analook software (ver. 4.2n)

to ascertain which species are recorded within the site.

2.5. Survey constraints

All areas of the site were readily accessible. Although some plant species would have not

been visible during the survey period, within such a small, simple site comprising common

and widespread habitat types, the timing of this survey is not a significant constraint to a

robust initial site assessment.

It should be noted that habitats, and the species they may support, change over time due to

natural processes and because of human influence.

2.6. Study area

The study area was determined by the client, and is hereafter referred to as the ‘Site’. This is

the area included within the line described as “Survey area” within the legend of Map 1.


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3. Results

3.1. Site description

The Site comprises one campus with a number of tarmac access roads, areas of car

parking, and university campus buildings. The majority of the Site surveyed comprises a mix

of grassland (close-managed amenity and semi-improved), hardstanding (including tarmac

and parking areas sparsely vegetated with ephemeral/short perennial), introduced shrub

planting, including non-native hedgerows, scattered trees, and small areas of scrub and tall

ruderals. A number of narrow watercourses are present, with occasional ornamental ponds.

An area of semi-natural ancient woodland (part of Treforest Slopes Site of Importance for

Nature Conservation (SINC)) extends into the campus from the north-western corner, with a

'woodland walk' (developed in 2013) present through the centre of this habitat.

3.2. Phase 1 habitats

Habitats have been classified using the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology, and are

described below and detailed in Map 1. Habitats which are important in terms of legislation

or policy are identified and the extent of all habitats associated with the survey area is given

in Table 1. Plant species that characterise each of these habitats are identified, with a list

given in Appendix 1.

Semi-natural broadleaved woodland

Semi-natural woodland occurs in the central and northern part of the campus as an

extension of the Treforest Slopes SINC present off-site to the north, west and south. A

‘Woodland Walk’ has been created through the centre of this on-site woodland, ending in a

cleared area to the north-west with a children’s play area (Images 1-4).

The entrance to the woodland is immediately behind the Refectory building, and is vegetated

with close medium-mature trees, with frequent Alder Alnus glutinosa, and a mix of native

trees and woody shrubs, including occasional Silver Birch Betula pendula, Elder Sambucus

nigra, Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Hazel Corylus avellana, Goat Willow Salix caprea,

Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur, Common Ash Fraxinus excelsior and Holly Ilex aquifolium.

Rhododenron Rhodondendron ponticum is present within this habitat. The ground flora is

associated with occasionally damp conditions from a small stream running from up-slope to

the west. Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and Ivy Hedera helix are frequent in places, in

particular in areas where the canopy is more open, with a mix of sedges, rushed, ferns and

herbs also present, including: Remote Sedge Carex remota, Wood Sedge Carex slyvatica;

Jointed Rush Juncus articulatus, Soft Rush Juncus effusus; Common Male-fern Dyropteris

filix-mas, Hart’s-tongue Fern Asplenium scolopendrium; Silverweed Potentilla anserina, Herb

Robert Geranium robertianum, Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens, Great Willowherb

Epilobium hirsutum and Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria. Areas of tall ruderals are present

where the woodland walk has been placed, and around more open areas of the canopy,

including Broadleaved Dock Rumex obtusifolius, Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense and

Common Sorrel Rumex acetosa.

More mature trees are present as the path ventures northwards, with larger trees present

around the children’s playground, including Pedunculate Oak, Beech Fagus sylvatica,

Common Ash and Holly. As the ground rises up the hillside, and the habitat becomes less


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damp, the ground flora includes a mix of species preferring drier conditions, with Bracken

Pteridium aquilinum, Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Red Campion Silene dioica and

Yellow Pimpernell Lysmachia nemorum.

Several other streams run from the west down through the woodland as the habitat extends

towards the north-western corner. A narrow strip of woodland habitat is also present in the

far north-western corner of the Site.

Large White Butterfly Pieris brassicae, Robin Erythacus rubecula, Chaffinch Fringilla

coelebs, Song Thrush Turdus philomelos, Wren Troglodytes troglodytes and Great Tit Parus

major were seen within this habitat.

This woodland falls within the definition of ‘Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland’, which is

listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 as a Habitat of Principal

Importance and is a Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat.

This habitat has potential for widespread invertebrates, and small birds and mammals, and

is of Local value for biodiversity.

Image 1. Entrance to the ‘woodland walk’.

Image 2. Densely planted young trees at south-

eastern corner of woodland habitat.

Image 3. More mature trees present to the east of the

woodland walk path.

Image 4. Ground flora within an open glade by the

Children’s play area.


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Dense and woody scrub

There are areas of dense Bramble scrub around much of the boundary habitat of the Site

(Image 5), and along the banks of the central carpark leading to the disused railway tunnel,

with an area of woody scrub (including Rowan Sorbus aucuparia, Sycamore, Cherry Laurel

Prumus laurocerasus,, Hawthorn, with a mix of scrub ground flora, with additional herbs

including Creeping Buttercup, Cleavers Galium aparine and Common Nettle Urticia dioica)

on a bank to the east of the Security Lodge (Image 6). Occasional mature trees are also

present within this habitat.

Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo was seen within this environment.

This habitat has potential for widespread invertebrates, and small birds and mammals, and

is of Site value for biodiversity.

Image 5. Scrub towards the north-eastern boundary.

Image 6. Woody scrub with scattered trees, towards

the south-eastern boundary.

Introduced shrubs; scattered trees

Areas of introduced shrub planting (Image 7), and scattered native and non-native trees

(Image 8), are present throughout the campus, providing soft landscaping around the

campus buildings and areas of hardstanding. Species include Beech, Pedunculate Oak,

Common Lime Tilia x vulgaris, Himalayan Birch Betula utilis, Holly, Dogwood (Cornus sp.)

and Bird Cherry Prunus padus. Ornamental shrub planting includes Cherry Laurel, Oleaster

Eleagnus sp. and Garden Privet Ligustrum ovalifolium. The understorey to this landscaping

includes a range of native ferns, grasses, ruderals and other herbs, including Cock’s-foot

Dactylis glomerata, Yorkshire Fog Holcus lantana, Pendulous Sedge Carex pendula, Red

Campion and Wood Avens Geum urbanum.

This habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.


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Image 7. Introduced shrub planting by the ‘Hub’.

Image 8. Scattered trees, south-eastern quarter.

Hedges

Occasional managed hedges are present within the Site, including Cherry Laurel, Dogwood

and Hazel. Native occasionally-managed hedging of Hawthorn, Hazel, Goat Willow and Field

Maple Acer campestre are present at the north-eastern-most Site boundary (Image 10).

Native hedges are listed under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 as a Habitat

of Principal Importance and are a Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat. The hedges

present on Site would not qualify as ecologically important for the purposes of the Hedgerow

Regulations 1997.

The native hedge habitat is of Local value for biodiversity and provides nesting habitat for

widespread and common birds, a nectar source for insects and is likely to accumulate flying

insects in sufficient quantities for foraging bats.

The non-native hedge habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.

Image 9. Close-managed ornamental hedging

towards the centre of the Site.

Image 10. Occasionally managed native hedge,

north-eastern boundary.

Amenity grassland; semi-improved neutral grassland

The Site has large areas of close-managed amenity grassland (Image 11), with limited grass

and herb species including dominant Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne, frequent Red


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Fescue Festuca rubra and occasional Yorkshire Fog, Sweet Vernal-grass Anthoxanthum

odoratum and Annual Meadow-grass Poa annua. Limited herb species include sparse

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg., White Clover Trifolium repens and Creeping

Buttercup.

Areas of semi-improved grassland, with a greater range of herb and grass species, are

present throughout the campus, around the north-western area of the woodland habitat, and

left to grow and flower in patches around residential buildings in the western half of the Site

(Image 12). Occasionally managed semi-improved grassland is also present in the north-

eastern corner of the Site. Species present include frequent Perennial Rye, Yorkshire Fog,

Sweet Vernal-grass, with occasional False Oat-grass Arrhenatherum elatius agg., Meadow-

foxtail Alopecurus pratensis and Cock’s-foot. Occasional Field Wood Rush is also present,

along with ruderals such as Spear Thistle and Dandelion. Herbs include Self-heal, Oxeye

Daisy, Lesser Trefoil, Scarlet Pimpernel, Germander Speedwell, Cut-leaved Crane’s-bill and

Red Cover. Occasional seedlings including Buddleia, Hazel and Birch are also present

within this habitat.

Blackbird Turdus merula, Jackdaw Corvus monedula, Carrion Crow Corvus corone,

Eurasian Magpie Pica pica, White-tailed Bumblebee Bombus lucoram and Hoverfly

Platychertrus sp. were observed within the semi-improved grassland habitat.

The amenity grassland habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity, whilst the semi-

improved grassland habitat is of Site value for biodiversity.

Image 11. Close-managed amenity grassland at the

centre of the Site.

Image 12. Semi-improved grassland within the

residential north-western quarter of the Site.

Tall ruderals

Areas of tall ruderal vegetation, including Docks, Common Nettle, Willowherbs Epilobium sp.

and Creeping Thistle, are present scattered through the Site, at the margins of grassland

and woodland, along cleared ground and tracks at the edge of the Woodland area, and on

areas of disturbed ground towards the northern boundary of the Site.

This habitat is of Site value for biodiversity


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Hardstanding; ephemeral/short perennial vegetation

Much of the Site comprises hardstanding in the form of tarmac access roads, paths and car

parking. Occasional areas of bare ground and concrete lattice are present towards the

northern boundary (Image 13), with sparse ephemeral/short perennial vegetation such as

Annual Meadow-grass, Creeping Buttercup, Common Mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum,

Lesser Trefoil and Dandelion.

A low-growing, species-poor Sedum Sedum sp. roof is present on the Hub in the centre of

the Site (Image 14).

These habitats are of Negligible value for biodiversity.

Image 13. Bare ground and concrete lattice towards

the north-eastern corner of the Site.

Image 14. Sedum roof on the Hub, centre of the Site.

Water courses; ponds

Three narrow streams flow down from the western slope of the campus, arising off-site, and

running into culverts (see Images 15 and 16). The water is clear and runs over a gravelly

substrate. The bankside vegetation of the streams running through the woodland and scrub

is a mix of ruderal and scrub vegetation, with negligible aquatic vegetation, whilst one of the

streams flows into a series of small ornamental concrete ponds, vegetated with non-native

ornamentals including New Zealand Flax Phorium sp. and Yucca Yucca sp. (Image 17). At

the time of survey, water levels were low.

These habitats are of Site value for biodiversity.


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Image 15. Culvert at eastern edge of woodland.

Image 16. Ornamental planting around one

watercourse.

Image 17. Small ornamental concrete pond.

Buildings

Campus buildings were briefly surveyed from the exterior. A number of campus

accommodation buildings have supported bats in the past (Clements, 2013), with the newer

accommodation blocks (Mountain Halls) having artificial bat roosts built in to the south-facing

walls (Image 18), but no records of usage. Clements (2013) identified the Ty Crawshay

building as having potential for crevice-dwelling bats, as did the Lodge Building at Forest

Grove entrance, Glamorgan Lodge, Glamorgan Court (Image 19) and the Brecon Complex

of buildings. A known bat roost of Soprano Pipistrelles is present in a building (8 Forest

Grove) adjacent to the south-western boundary, and not included in this survey (Clements,

2013 and per. comms).

The southern entrance to a disused former railway tunnel is present towards the centre of

the Site (Image 20), with previous evidence indicating that it is not a preferred roost

(Clements, 2013).


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Image 18. South-facing, built-in bat roosts in

Mountain Halls.

Image 19. Northern-most extent of Glamorgan Court

residential block.

Image 20. Southern entrance to disused former railway tunnel,

bird box to the upper RHS with an in-use Great Tit's nest.

Walls

Occasionally vegetated stone retaining walls are present towards the entrance to the

disused railway tunnel, with occasionally vegetated concrete walls scattered through the

campus. Vegetation includes dominant Ivy, with occasional ornamental climbers.

This habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity.

Fencing

Sections of the Site is bounded by wire fencing, with occasional metal and wooden fencing

present within the Site itself.

This habitat is of Negligible value for biodiversity.


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Table 1. Phase 1 habitats within the footprint of the Site, their extent and value in a

geographical context (CIEEM, 2016).

Phase 1 habitat type Area (m2) Value

Semi-natural broadleaved woodland 23550 Local

Dense and woody scrub 5250 Site

Introduced shrubs and trees 2570 Site

Scattered trees 3930 Site

Intact hedge species-poor 780 Negligible

Intact hedge species-rich 160 Local

Amenity grassland 29910 Negligible

Semi-improved grassland 330 Site

Hardstanding 55050 Negligible

Ephemeral/short perennial 480 Negligible

Buildings 36300 Varied

3.3. Desktop survey

Statutory Nature Conservation Sites

No Sites of Special Scientific Interest (Wales) are situated within 1km of the Site

Map 1. Phase 1 habitats

Map 2. Biodiversity value of habitats


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4. Potential for habitats and species of nature conservation

importance; evaluation of ecological features

Habitats have been assessed from the results of the field survey for their potential to support

the following protected species. Ecological features that have the potential to be present

have been assessed in the light of current nature conservation policy and wildlife legislation

(see Appendix 2).

4.1. Habitats of nature conservation Importance

Notable habitats

Habitats are protected under international and national legislation including The

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, and Wildlife and Countryside Act

1981 (as amended). These have been formulated into policy measures, with many examples

protected under formal site designations such as SSSIs and SACs.

Lowland mixed Deciduous Woodland

The semi-natural woodland within the north-western quarter of the Site is a Local

Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat and a Habitat of Principal Importance (Section 7 of

the Environment (Wales) Act 2016).

Intact species-rich Hedges

Areas of hedging within the Site (in particular towards the north-eastern boundary) are a

Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat and a Habitat of Principal Importance (Section

7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016).

4.2. Species of nature conservation importance

Many native wild plants and animals are protected by law with the two main legal

instruments being the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. The latter consolidates

amendments to the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations 1994 which transposed

into UK Law the EU Habitats Directive.

A range of species of fungi, plant or animal are listed in Section 7 of the Environment

(Wales) Act 2016 as being of principal importance for the purposes of conserving

biodiversity. There is a need for these species to be taken into consideration by a public

body when performing any of its functions with a view to conserving biodiversity. These

species are the subject of National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans.

Amphibians

The four native widespread amphibians (Common Frog, Common Toad, Common Newt and

Palmate Newt) are given limited protection from trade under the Wildlife and Countryside Act

1981 (as amended).

Great Crested Newt and Natterjack Toad and their breeding sites and resting places (during

all parts of their lifecycle) are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as

amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.


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The very rare Pool Frog, only recently recognised as a native amphibian, is fully protected

under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from killing, injury, trade and

disturbance, whilst their habitats are also protected.

Great Crested Newt, Natterjack Toad and Common Toad are listed as species 'of principal

importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity' in Wales.

There are some aquatic habitats associated with the Site and its boundaries that could

potentially support breeding Amphibians, including the ornamental ponds, and areas of

standing water: during the survey, these had low water levels. Taking in to account the

areas of damp ground within the woodland habitat, there may be also be potential for

hibernating and/or foraging common Amphibian species in the woodland and woody scrub

habitat, in particular towards the north-western corner of the Site.

Badger

Badgers are protected from persecution or ill-treatment under the Protection of Badgers Act

1992.

The woodland habitat towards the north-west, in particular in relation to its connectivity to

extended semi-natural woodland to the north, west and south, has potential for Badgers.

However, no evidence of setts or obvious tracks, latrines or areas of foraging were noted

during this survey. Although the majority of the Site is heavily disturbed and well-lit, there is

potential for Badger to pass through the woodland areas at night whilst foraging or

commuting through the wider landscape.

Bats

Bat species, and their breeding or resting places (roosts), are protected under the Wildlife

and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species

Regulations 2017. They are identified as European Protected Species. Under these laws it is

an offence to:

capture, kill, disturb or injure bats (on purpose or by not taking enough care);

damage or destroy a breeding or resting place (even accidentally);

obstruct access to their resting or sheltering places (on purpose or by not taking

enough care); or

possess, sell, control or transport live or dead bats, or parts of them.

Seven species of bat are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of

conserving biodiversity”.

All the trees present on Site were assessed for roosting bats, following Clements 2013 with

respect to identifying individual, or groups of trees, of interest. The majority were assessed

as being of either Category 2B or 3 (i.e. moderate to low/low potential) according to Collins,

2016, with trees in these categories not requiring further survey work prior to any tree-works

or felling. One mature Beech was identified as 2A/2B (i.e. has high to moderate potential). A

summary of trees identified as 2A-2B category is provided in Table 2.


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Table 2: Summary of visual assessment of trees for potential to support roosting bats.

Tree No. (Target note) Species Potential (Collins 2016)

T1 Pedunculate Oak 2B



T4 Group (woodland walk) Pedunculate Oak 2B






T10 Group of 3 Beech 2B

T11 Group of Pedunculate Oak 2B

T12 Beech 2A/2B


T14 Group of 3 Pedunculate Oak 2B

Category 2B trees should be treated in a precautionary manner, whilst Category 2A trees

would require further detailed survey before any felling or other significant tree works are

undertaken.

The buildings present on Site were briefly surveyed externally, from ground height. There is

may be some potential for void and/or crevice-roosting bats on a number of buildings (as per

Clements, 2013), however, a further, more detailed survey would be required to determine

this.

Bat boxes on trees within the woodland habitat were identified by Clements, 2013, but were

not observed during this survey. Integral bat boxes on the southern walls of Mountain Halls

have not been surveyed, and usage has not been characterised.

The woodland habitat provides good foraging habitat for bats, with connectivity out to a

significant area of further semi-natural and ancient woodland to the north, west and south.

The grassland, introduced shrub and hardstanding habitat within the rest of the Site provides

negligible potential for bats, and is well-lit, reducing potential in particular for light-averse

bats such as Horseshoe, Myotid and Long-eared: research into habitat preferences of bats

in Britain (Walsh and Harris, 1996) found that although bats could be found in almost all

habitats, they showed clear preference for woodland edges and water bodies, along with

treelines and hedgerows. The woodland within, and woody scrub habitats fringing the Site, in

particular to the west and north-west, have potential for foraging and commuting bats.

Remote bat detectors were deployed in two positions within the Site (Map 1).

A remote detector attached to a tree close to the Day Care centre between 6th and 21st June

recorded 6325 bat calls comprising 5649 calls from Common Pipistrelle, 646 calls from

Soprano Pipistrelle, 15 calls from Noctule, 13 calls from Long-eared and 2 calls from Lesser

Horseshoe (Table 3 and Chart 1).


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Summed call duration was 63747 seconds for Common Pipistrelle, 6232 second for Soprano

Pipistrelle and 157 seconds for Noctule, 62 seconds for Long-eared and 9 seconds for

Lesser Horseshoe. This equates to bats being active within the range of the remote unit for

9.5% of the survey period for Common Pipistrelle, 0.93% for Soprano Pipistrelle, 0.02% for

Noctule, 0.009% for Long-eared and 0.001% for Lesser Horseshoe

Bat activity levels at this site are high for Common Pipistrelle and moderate for Soprano

Pipistrelle, and probably relate to these bats foraging along tree margins in this location.

A remote detector attached to a tree near the security building (Map 1) between 6th and 13th

June recorded 12 bat calls, all from Common Pipistrelle. Bats are seldom active in this

location.

Table 3. Bat calls recorded during remote monitoring Site Species Calls during

survey period

Summed duration

(seconds)

Percentage of survey time that bats are active

within range of remote detector

Day Care

Centre

Common

Pipistrelle

5649 63747 9.5

Soprano

Pipistrelle

646 6232 0.93

Noctule 15 157 0.02

Long-eared 13 62 0.009

Lesser

Horseshoe

2 9 0.001

Lesser HorseshoeLong-eared

NoctuleSoprano Piistrelle

Common Pipistrelle

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Spec

ies

Ca

lls

per

nig

ht

Date

Chart 1. Calls per night during remote monitoring near the Day Care Centre


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Birds

All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) from

being killed, injured or captured whilst their nests and eggs are protected from being

damaged, destroyed or taken. Birds which are listed under Schedule 1 of the Act are given

additional protection against disturbance.

A number of species of bird are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of


A number of common birds were observed during the survey (see 3.1 Site description).

Great Tits were seen nesting in a bird box placed on the south-facing entrance wall of the

disused tunnel. Other bird boxes were present throughout the woodland, shrub and

scattered tree habitat present on Site. it is likely that occasional common bird species nest

within the woodland habitat within the north-western quarter of the Site, with smaller birds,

such as House Sparrows, making use of crevices present within buildings on Site.

Common Dormice

Common (or Hazel) Dormice, and their breeding and resting places, are protected under the

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and

Species Regulations 2017. They are identified as a European Protected Species, and listed

as a species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity”. They are

also listed as a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species

Dormice are arboreal and are found within species-rich woodland, hedgerow and woody

fruiting scrub. The majority grassland and hardstanding habitat within the Site has negligible

potential for Dormice, with the Site isolated within a well-lit urban landscape. There is limited

potential for Dormice within the woodland and woody scrub habitat within the Site, due to on-

going disturbance (via the woodland walk) and well-lit areas beyond the woodland boundary,

and no populations of Dormouse are known to be in the area.

Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are partially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. Hedgehogs are

listed as a species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity” and

are a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species

The majority grassland and hardstanding habitats associated with the Site provide negligible

potential for Hedgehog, whilst the woodland in the north-west provides some potential, with

good connectivity out to the wider landscape.

Reptiles

All native reptiles are protected to some degree under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

(as amended) whilst our two rarest species, the Sand Lizard and Smooth Snake, are given

full protection under the Act and also identified as European Protected Species.

The four common species (Slow Worm, Adder, Grass Snake and Common (Viviparous)

Lizard) are protected from deliberate killing, injury and trade.


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The two rare species, Sand Lizard and Smooth Snake, are given more protection that

includes protection from capture and deliberate or reckless killing, injury or disturbance.

Their breeding or resting places are also protected from obstruction or damage, even if it

were accidental. Slow Worm, Sand Lizard, Grass Snake, Adder and Common Lizard are

local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species.

All six native reptiles are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of


Although much of the campus comprises close-managed amenity grassland and

hardstanding, there is some potential for reptiles due to the mosaic nature of habitats across

the Site, with areas of longer semi-improved grassland, scrub and ruderals, adjacent to

hardstanding, areas of gravel and woodland edges. The majority of the grassland does not

have suitable structure for hibernation, although there are south-east facing banks within the

residential blocks that might have low potential for foraging reptiles. Damp areas within the

woodland might have potential for hibernating reptiles.

Otter

Otter, and their breeding or resting places (holts and couches), are protected under the

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and The Conservation of Habitats and

Species Regulations 2017. They are identified as European Protected Species.

Otter are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of conserving

biodiversity”, and are a local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species

Otter are normally associated with running water and larger water bodies containing fish.

The heavily disturbed and well-lit location, isolation within a wider urban environment, and

limited habitat that might provide foraging or hibernation opportunities both within and near

the Site suggests that it has negligible value for Otter.

Water Vole

Water Vole is protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as

amended). Water Vole are listed as species “of principal importance for the purpose of

conserving biodiversity”, and are local Biodiversity Action Plant priority species

There are no potential habitats on Site for Water Vole, and there is negligible potential for

Water Vole.

Invertebrates

Over 26,000 species of insects are recorded in the UK, with over 40 species given full

statutory protection in the UK under either European or British legislation.

A small number of common invertebrates were observed during the survey (see 3.1 Site

description). The close-managed amenity grassland and hardstanding has negligible

potential for invertebrates, whilst the woodland and scrub around the Site has some potential

to support common and widespread invertebrates. The potential for any rare or protected

species to be present is considered to be negligible.


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Notable plant species

The limited and isolated habitats at this Site have negligible potential for the presence of

notable plant species.

4.3. Invasive Non-native Species

Rhododendron, listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as

amended) with respect to England and Wales, was noted on the Site.


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5. Recommendations for biodiversity enhancement.

Undertaking biodiversity enhancement is an opportunity to provide new benefits for

biodiversity through the creation of new habitats, enhancing existing habitats or providing

new features, with the aim of improving ecological resilience and adaptation to climate

change.

The Treforest Campus offers a number of possibilities for the enhancement of biodiversity

value. However, any measures identified and recommended would be required to fit in to the

attendant constraints relating to the site as a public and working space, such as health and

safety, and security concerns, and be achievable within available resources. A number of

simple recommendations are suggested as follows:

5.1. Enhancement of woodlands, scattered trees and shrubs, new hedgerows

Although the area of woodland present on Site is part of a SINC, management is

encouraged to enhance diversity for wildlife and plant species. Where opportunities arise to

replace non-native trees, both within the woodland habitat, and in relation to scattered tree

and shrub planting throughout the Site, new plantings of native tree and shrub species which

are appropriate to the location are recommended. There are also opportunities throughout

the Site to create new native species-rich hedgerows, and supplement or replace current

ornamental/non-native hedgerows. New hedgerows should be of entirely native species, with

a minimum of seven species present.

Species recommended include; Silver and Downy Birch, native Dogwood, Hazel, Hawthorn

and Blackthorn, Holly, Wild Cherry, Pedunculate Oak, Willow (Goat and Grey), Rowan,

Common Gorse and Guelder Rose.

Any arisings from tree management can be sawn and stacked to form piles of wood, situated

in shaded locations within the woodland: these piles provide habitat for a range of wildlife.

Any trunks or boles of large trees, should be left standing in situ where possible, or lain

safely on their side, again in a shady location.

Removal of any invasive non-native shrubs, such as Rhododendron, should be undertaken,

felled at ground level and the stumps treated with a suitable herbicide. This is of particular

importance in the woodland area, with respect to potential invasion into the wider woodland

SINC off-site. Any arisings should be removed off-site.

NB: any clearance of woodland or shrubs should avoid the main bird-nesting season which

runs approximately from March to August inclusive. If works during this time is unavoidable,

it should be undertaken after a survey by a qualified ecologist to ensure that no nesting birds

are present/will be affected. This is a statutory requirement.

5.2. Enhancement of grassland habitat

Occasional areas of grassland habitat within the campus are under a management regime

which sees these areas left to flower and develop, in particular around the residential


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buildings. At the time of survey, mowing of much of the grassland in the campus had cut

down areas of wildflowers and flowering grass whilst flowering was still in progress.

Any areas of grassland where there is limited human access could be further enhanced by

reducing the mowing regime to twice a year in early spring and late summer only, with

arisings being removed for composting. The larger areas of grassland on south-east facing

banks throughout the campus have particular potential for a change in management regime

(see Image 21), with additional areas present between residential blocks and the western

woodland edge (Image 22). If there is concern regarding pedestrian usage, areas identified

as having potential for wildlife could be fenced off to avoid foot-fall. The species diversity can

be increased further by either continuing to add wildflower and appropriate grass seed (in

particular mixes that encourage the formation of tussock structure to the grassland to

support reptiles), or could also be increased by removing the present sward and reseeding

with a mixture of diverse native species, including nectar-rich meadow-flower mixes, with the

aim of increasing the diversity of nectar-rich plants, and attracting larger numbers of insects.

Grassy verges through the woodland walk could also be managed to encourage woodland

species, strimming alternate sections in late summer, every other year, raking and removing

the arisings for compost.

If a commercial grassland mix is used, the seed is best sown in the autumn or spring. The

seed must be surface sown, either applied by machine or broadcast by hand. Do not

incorporate or cover the seed, but firm in with a roll, or by treading, to give good soil/seed

contact.

Image 21. South-east facing bank, residential area.

Image 22. Managed grassland, western edge of

woodland.

First year management

Most sown grass species are perennial and will be slow to germinate and grow, and will not

usually flower in the first growing season. There may be a flush of annual weeds from the

soil in the first growing season. This weed growth is easily controlled by topping or mowing.

On-going management

Once established, species-rich grassland requires minimal maintenance. However

management will be required to limit encroaching ruderals and other unwanted weeds using

spot treatment. Cutting should be done on a rotational basis, so that no more than half of


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any new grassland habitat is cut in any one year, leaving part as an undisturbed refuge for

wildlife. Grassland cutting should be completed by use of light machinery (such as a self-

propelled mower or hand strimmer) to prevent compaction of this area of limited habitat.

Appropriate seed mixtures are available commercially, with the charity Flora Locale

providing a list of British suppliers for grass, wildflower and meadow seed mixes:

https://www.floralocale.org/British+and+Irish+Flora+Suppliers?structure=page24182&page_r

ef_id=746

5.3. Nectar Bed Plants

In addition to the enhancement of lawn areas with meadow-flower planting (see 5.1.

Enhancement of grassland planting), there are opportunities to enhance the Site's planting

scheme to include nectar-producing native plants, with the aim of attracting a wide range of

nectar-feeding invertebrates, such as butterflies and hoverflies, and their associated

predators and parasites. In addition to available grassland, meadow and woodland

wildflowers could be planted in boxes situated around the Site, allowing seed collection in

late summer/autumn. This should include a range of annual and/or perennial plants that

flower through spring and summer, and that are native to Wales. Examples include:

Spring-flowering: Oxlip, Cowslip, Bluebell, Ox-eye Daisy, Foxglove, Selfheal, Red Campion,

Primrose and Wild Daffodil

Summer-flowering: Greater Knapweed, Common Mallow, Scentless Mayweed, Harebell,

Yellow Rattle and Common Agrimony.

Further examples of suitable species can be found at Wildlife Trusts Wales

https://www.wtwales.org/plantwildflowers, with Flora Locale providing a list of British seed

suppliers (see above).

5.4. Watercourses and ponds

The current narrow watercourses present on Site are, for the most part, shaded through the

woodland, or diverted in culverts or artificial concrete channels, and are of low value for

biodiversity. Taking into account the need to manage these watercourses for drainage and

health and safety purposes, there is potential to enhance this habitat for wildlife. Where

these watercourses are shaded within the woodland, careful opening up of the canopy

above would increase opportunities for aquatic plants, whilst also enhancing the biodiversity

of the woodland habitat itself. Due to the woodland habitat being part of a SINC, consultation

with the South and West Wales Wildlife Trust (https://www.welshwildlife.org/) is

recommended.

The ponds present at the centre of the Site are artificial, with non-native ornamental planting,

and of low biodiversity value. Enhancement could be undertaken through a 're-wilding' of the

habitat, with the planting of native plants such as Willow along the edges, backfilling with soil

to create areas for native emergent and marginal water-plants, and providing shaded areas.

Deep-water plants could also be introduced, allowing silt accumulation over time, creating a

natural substrate for native invertebrates and aquatic plants.

https://www.floralocale.org/British+and+Irish+Flora+Suppliers?structure=page24182&page_ref_id=746

https://www.floralocale.org/British+and+Irish+Flora+Suppliers?structure=page24182&page_ref_id=746

https://www.wtwales.org/plantwildflowers

https://www.welshwildlife.org/


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Detailed design would be required to take into account issues of flow- and flood-control and

any other health and safety issues.

5.5. Enhancement of habitats for bats

The disused railway tunnel was not evaluated during this survey: however, Clements (2013)

considers a number of ways this tunnel could be enhanced for roosting bats.

Bat boxes are present within the woodland, with integral bat boxes situated on the southern

walls of Mountain Halls. Clements (2013) identified that a number of the woodland bat boxes

were situated in unsuitable locations, or installed at the wrong height. The current bat box

scheme should be reviewed in detail, and re-established with appropriate

locations/situations. Advice on bat box installation can be found via the Bat Conservation

Trust website (http://www.bats.org.uk/), or via a qualified ecologist.

With respect to roosting opportunities within woodland habitat, new roosting opportunities for

non-light-averse bats, such as Common Pipistrelle, could be created using Schwegler 2F bat

boxes (Figure 1) that could be fitted on to suitable trees under the guidance of suitably

qualified ecologist.

Figure 1. 2F Schwegler bat tube

The 2F is the standard and most popular bat box and is ideal as a starter box to see if there

are bats in your area or to provide much needed secure roosting space. It has been

designed as a summer roosting space for bats and has a simple entrance hole at the front. It

has a removable front panel and can be converted in to a bird nest box using a replacement

1B front panel if there is no evidence of bat activity after a couple of years. The 2F is

manufactured from long-lasting Woodcrete, which is a blend of wood, concrete and clay

which will not rot, leak, crack or warp, and will last for at least 20 – 25 years, making it

suitable for long-term mitigation projects. Woodcrete is breathable and maintains a stable

temperature inside the box and the 2F is painted black to absorb warmth. It also provides a

good rough surface for bats to cling on to and climb. The 2F bat box can be sited in trees or

on buildings and is best positioned at a height of between 3 to 6 metres. Bat boxes should

ideally be sited in open sunny positions and in groups of 3 to 5 boxes facing different

directions to provide a variety of microhabitats. Please note that once bats have inhabited a

roost site, they may only be disturbed by a licensed bat worker (taken from NHBS website).

With respect to roosting opportunities on buildings present on Site, there is potential to use

boxes suitable for wall installation (for example, the Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter

http://www.bats.org.uk/


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Figure 2), fitting them somewhere sheltered, ideally with a south-east facing aspect, and with

easy access to foraging habitat such as adjacent woodland. These should be fitted under the

guidance of a suitably qualified ecologist.

Figure 2. Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter.

The Schwegler 2FE wall-mounted bat shelter can be fixed to outside walls to provide a

summer hide-away for bats, with Common Pipistrelle, Natterer's Bat and Long-eared Bat

species using it, often in small groups. The interior has shaped cavities in various sizes

where the animals can roost giving optimum body contact. It is made from Schwegler wood-

concrete, which can be painted with air-permeable paint when installed on external walls.

5.6. Bird boxes

There are a number of bird boxes installed throughout the woodland habitat, although some

are sited in unsuitable locations. The current bat box scheme should be reviewed in detail,

and re-established with appropriate locations/situations. There may be opportunities to

install specialised boxes for declining species such as Swifts, Starling and House Sparrow

on buildings around the Site.

Swifts

For example, at least 17A Schwegler Swift Nest Boxes (Triple Cavity) (Figure 3) could be

situated at height on any suitable tall buildings, such as the residential blocks, located under

the eaves, facing south-east. These Swift Nest Boxes can help this species by providing

valuable nesting locations, and installation of several units is an ideal way to support a Swift

colony. The Swift Box No. 17A is made from a special mixture of compressed plant fibres

and concrete which enables it to provide good insulation and an extremely long life. This is

an extended box that can accommodate three pairs of swifts in parallel, assisting in the rapid

formation of swift colonies. The box is supplied in a natural grey colour, but can be painted to

match the background using an air-permeable paint (taken from NHBS website). Swifts can

be encouraged to occupy such boxes by broadcasting pre-recorded swift nesting calls during

the nesting season.


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Figure 3. No. 17A Swift Nest Box (Triple Cavity)

Sparrows

New nesting opportunities should be provided for Sparrows, through the provision of bird

nesting boxes: this could include several Sparrow Terraces (Schwegler 1SP Figure 4) fitted

to suitable buildings around the Site: any that have sheltered, south, east or south-east

facing walls, facing towards suitable woodland or other semi-natural habitat. This terrace has

been designed to help redress the balance of falling House Sparrow numbers. The current

UK population of 6 million pairs is half what it was in 1980 and this is thought to be due to

habitat destruction and lack of suitable nesting spaces. Sparrows are social birds and like to

nest in company. Each terrace provides ideal nesting opportunities for three families. Made

of wood-concrete mix, this terrace is durable, breathable and will last many decades.

Figure 4. Schwegler 1SP Sparrow Terrace

The terrace can be fixed on to the surface of a suitable wall or incorporated into the wall. It is

suitable for all types of houses in built-up areas, and on industrial and agricultural buildings

such as barns, sheds and factories. Due to its weight (15kg), it is not suitable for fences or

garden sheds. Ideally place the terrace two metres or more above the ground. Either

installed on the surface of the wall using the plugs and screws, or installed directly into the

wall. Cleaning is advisable but not necessary. The front panel can be removed by turning the

screw hook. The Sparrow Terrace is available in either Stone or Brown (taken from NHBS

website).

5.7. Enhancement for Invertebrates

In addition to enhancing overall Site biodiversity through the planting of native woody shrubs

and trees, and increasing the biodiversity of grassland and nectar-rich species, there may be

opportunities for providing insect boxes around the Site, for example, within areas of raised

introduced shrub planting (Schwegler Clay and Reed Insect Nest, Figure 6). There may also


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be opportunities to install Bumblebee nests in suitable locations at the edges of the north-

westerly grassland slopes or raised bed and boundary planting areas. The steep banks

within the residential areas may be suitable for creation of bare cliffs suitable for mining bees

and wasps.

Figure 6. Schwegler Clay and Reed Insect Nest.

5.8. Reptile hibernacula

There is potential for Reptiles to be present within this Site. To enhance the Site for Reptiles

and overwintering invertebrates, reptile hibernacula could be created (relating also to

woodland management and enhancement, see 5.1.).

The following has been taken from The Reptile Habitat Management Handbook, Published

by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, 655A Christchurch Road, Boscombe,

Bournemouth, BH1 4AP. ISBN 978-0-9566717-0-7:

The body of a reptile hibernaculum can contain a range of materials. For example, cut timber, brash, inert hardcore, bricks, rocks, grubbed up tree roots or building rubble. These features can provide a convenient way of using waste materials and arisings from site management. Materials that will decompose should not be placed beneath heavy components such as bricks or rocks, to avoid the risk of collapse. Wood chippings or loose topsoil can be incorporated into the construction, to pack some of the larger cavities (reptiles can squeeze into small spaces, which may afford them protection from predators, such as mustelids or rats). There should be access points around the edges. These are best created by ensuring that timber or rubble protrudes from the edge, creating crevices that allow reptiles to get deep inside. It is not recommended to use pipes to create access points. Reptiles appear to prefer using more ‘natural’ cracks and holes. Pipes are also prone to blocking or becoming dislodged with time, meaning that access is considerably limited if they are the only entrance and exit points. There is no single perfect hibernation site, and managers should consider what fits best on their site. The key design features are;

• a sunny position,

• a well-drained site, not prone to flooding,

• orientation so that one of the long banks faces south,


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• access to reptiles through openings of some sort,

• location in a patch of habitat favourable for dispersal, such as tussocky grassland,

• minimal public disturbance,

• size at least 4 m long, by 2 m wide by 1 m high, and ideally much larger.

Depending on soil conditions and hydrology, it is often preferable to dig a pit, and then place the materials partially buried inside, rather than just creating a mound on the surface. Materials to help drainage, such as slotted pipes and gravel, can be placed in the structure. However, on impermeable soils or in low-lying areas it may be safer to create an entirely above-ground structure, to reduce the risk of winter flooding. In areas of grassland or other herbaceous vegetation, turf should be removed from the footprint of the reptile bank, so that it can used to cover the completed construction. In most cases the rapid establishment of vegetation cover on reptile banks will be important. If this cannot be achieved by use of turf, then seeding with a meadow mix may be required. It can be beneficial to plant or translocate scrub to the immediate north of the feature, as this will provide shelter and cover.

5.9. On-going biodiversity management and further surveys

It is recommended that a five-year Biodiversity Management Plan for this Site, in conjunction

with all other USW campus sites, should be drawn up and implemented, setting out key

biodiversity features and assets of the site, with proposed management schema to maintain

or enhance the habitats and potential for wildlife. Further surveys may be required to:

provide additional data; refine the current biodiversity survey; confirm the use of any

biodiversity enhancements, such as bat or bird boxes; clarify any statutory responsibilities

and inform on-going management. This plan should be reviewed and updated at five-yearly

intervals. It is recommended that appropriate local bodies and stakeholders be included as

consultees.


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References

Clements, D. (2013) University Glamorgan Biodiversity Audit: Treforest Campus. David Clements Ecology Ltd. CIEEM, 2016. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment: Terrestrial, Freshwater and Coastal. Technical Guidance Series. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, 43 Southgate Street, Winchester, Hampshire.

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

(3rd edition). The Bat Survey Trust, London. ISBN-13 978-1-872745-96-1

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

Assessment, Institute of Environmental Assessment. E&FN Spon, aJn Imprint of Chapman

and Hall. London.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee, 2010. Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey - a

Technique for Environmental Audit. Reprinted by JNCC, Peterborough

JNCC and Defra (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group), 2012. UK Post-2010

Biodiversity Framework. July 2012.

Stace, C., 1997. New Flora of the British Isles. 2nd edition. Cambridge University Press,

Cambridge.

Walsh, A. L. and Harris, S. 1996. Foraging habitat preferences of vespertilionid bats in Britain. Journal of Applied Ecology 33: 508-518.

http://www.jncc.gov.uk/page-2468

http://www.jncc.gov.uk/page-2468


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Appendix 1: Species recorded during Site survey

Trees and shrubs Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable

Acer campestre Field Maple

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore

Aesculus hippocastanum Horse Chestnut

Alnus glutinosa Alder

Betula pendula Silver Birch

Betula pubescens Downy Birch

Betula utilis Himalayan Birch

Buddleia davidii Buddleia

Buxus sempervirens Box

Calluna vulgaris Heather

Cornus sanguinea Dogwood

Corylus avellana Hazel

Elaeagnus sp. Oleaster

Fagus sylvatica Beech

Fraxinus excelsior Common Ash

Hebe sp. Hebe

Ilex aquifolium Holly

Kerria japonica Japanese Kerria

Ligustrum ovalifolium Garden Privet

Mahonia sp. Oregon Grape

Picea sp. Pine

Prunus cv. Ornamental Cherry

Prunus laurocerasus Cherry Laurel

Prunus padus Bird Cherry

Prunus spinosa Blackthorn

Quercus ilex Holm Oak

Quercus robar Pedunculate Oak

Rhododendron ponticum Rhododendron Schedule 9

Ribes sp. Currant

Rosa sp. Rose

Rubus fruticosus agg. Bramble

Salix caprea Goat Willow


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Salix fragilis Crack Willow

Sambucus nigra Elder

Sorbus acuparia Rowan

Sorbus sp. A Whitebeam

Taxus baccata Yew

Tilia x vulgaris Lime

Ulex sp. Gorse

Herbaceous plants Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable

Aquilegia vulgaris Columbine

Agrostis stolonifera Creeping Bent-grass

Agrostis capillaris Common Bent

Allium sp. Ornamental Onion

Alopecurus pratensis Meadow Foxtail

Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel

Angelica sylvestris Wild Angelica

Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass

Anthriscus sylvaticus Cow Parsley

Arrhenatherum elatius False Oat-grass

Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Black Spleenwort

Bellis perennis Daisy

Blechnum spicant Hard Fern

Brachypodium sylvaticum False-brome

Bromus hordeaceous Soft Brome

Bromus sp. Brome

Cardamine hirsuta Hairy Bitter-cress

Cardamine pratensis Cuckoo-flower

Carex flacca Glaucous Sedge

Carex hirta Hairy Sedge

Carex pendula Pendulous Sedge

Carex remota Remote Sedge

Carex sylvatica Wood Sedge

Centaurea nigra Common Knapweed

Cerastium fontanum Common Mouse-ear

Chamerion angustifolium Rosebay Willowherb

Cirsium arvense Creeping Thistle

Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle


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Clematis vitalba Traveller's Joy

Cymbalaria muralis Ivy-leaved Toadflax

Dactylis glomerata Cock's-foot

Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hairgrass

Digitalis purpurea Foxglove

Dryopteris filix-mas Common Male-fern

Epilobium hirsutum Great Willowherb

Epilobium tetragonum Square-stemmed Willowherb

Equisetum arvense Field Horsetail

Erica cinerea Bell Heather

Festuca rubra Red Fescue

Filipendula ulmaria Meadowsweet

Fragaria vesca Wild Strawberry

Galium aparine Cleavers

Galium palustre Common Marsh-bedstraw

Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved Cranesbill

Geranium robertianum Herb Robert

Geranium sanguineum Bloody Crane's-bill

Geum urbanum Wood Avens

Glyceria declinata Small Sweet-grass

Hedera helix Ivy

Helminthotheca echoides Bristly Oxtongue

Heracleum sphondylium Hogweed

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog

Holcus mollis Creeping Soft-grass

Hyacinthoides hispanica Spanish Bluebell

Hyacinthoides non-scripta Bluebell

Hypochaeris radicata Common Cat's-ear

Iris sp. Ornamental Iris

Juncus articulatus Jointed Rush

Juncus effusus Soft Rush

Lamiastrum galeobdolon ssp. argentatum Variegated Yellow Archangel

Lapsana communis Nipplewort

Leucanthemum vulgare Oxeye Daisy

Lolium perenne Perennial Rye

Lonicera periclymenum Honeysuckle


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Lotus corniculatus Common Bird's-foot Trefoil

Luzula campestris Field Wood-rush

Lysmachia nemorum Yellow Pimpernel

Medicago lupulina Black Medick

Mentha sp Mint

Myosotis sp. Forget-me-not

Narcissus sp. Garden Daffodil

Phorium sp. New Zealand Flax

Phyllitis scolopendrium Hart's-tongue Fern

Pilosella officianarum Mouse-eared Hawkweed

Plantago lanceolata Ribwort Plantain

Plantago major Broad-leaved Plantain

Poa annua Annual Meadow-grass

Polygonum aviculare Knotgrass

Potentilla anserina Silverweed

Potentilla vulgaris Creeping Cinquefoil

Primula veris Cowslip

Prunella vulgaris Self-heal

Pteridium aquilinum Bracken

Ranunculus acris Meadow Buttercup

Ranunculus flammula Lesser Spearwort

Ranunculus repens Creeping Buttercup

Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary

Rumex acetosa Common Sorrel

Rumex crispus Curled Dock

Rumex obtusifolius Broad-leaved Dock

Scrophularia auriculata Water Figwort

Scrophularia nodosa Common Figwort

Senecio jacobaea Ragwort

Senecio vulgaris Groundsel

Sonchus asper Prickly Sowthistle

Stachys sylvatica Hedge Woundwort

Silene dioica Red Campion

Taraxacum officinalis agg. Dandelion

Teucrium scorodonia Wood Sage

Trifolium dubium Lesser Trefoil


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Trifolium pratense Red Clover

Trifolium repens White Clover

Urtica dioica Common Nettle

Veronica beccabunga Brooklime

Veronica Chamaedrys Germander Speedwell

Veronica serphyfolium Thyme-leaved Speedwell

Vicia sativa Common Vetch

Vinca cv. Cultivated Periwinkle

Viola Riviniana Common Dog-violet

Yucca sp. Yucca

Invertebrates Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable

Bombus lucoram White-tailed Bumblebee

Bombylius major Bee Fly

Calopteryx virgo Beautiful Demoiselle

Catocala nupta Red Underwing Moth

Eristalis pertinax Hoverfly

Pieris brassicae Large White Butterfly

Platychertrus sp. Hoverfly

Birds Additional species recorded during 2012 audit Notable

Carduelis carduelis Goldfinch

Corvus corone Carrion Crow

Corvus corax Raven

Corvus monedula Jackdaw

Erythacus rubecula Robin

Fringilla coelebs Chaffinch

Phylloscopus collybita Chiffchaff

Prunella modularis Dunnock

Parus major Great Tit

Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler

Pica pica Eurasian Magpie

Sitta europaea Nuthatch

Sylvia atricapilla Blackcap

Troglodytes troglodytes Wren

Turdus merula Blackbird

Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Wales BAP;

Red


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Appendix 2

Legislation and Policy used to assess habitats and species

Environment (Wales) Act 2016

This Act of the National Assembly for Wales puts in place legislation to enable the on-going

planning and management of the natural resources of Wales.

European Habitats and Species Directive (CEC, 1992)

The main aim of the Habitats Directive is to promote the maintenance of biodiversity by

requiring Member States to take measures to maintain or restore natural habitats and wild

species listed on the Annexes to the Directive at a favourable conservation status,

introducing robust protection for those habitats and species of European importance.

European Red Data lists (IUCN, 2000)

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN and the European Commission have

been working together on an initiative to assess around 6,000 European species according

to IUCN regional Red Listing Guidelines. Through this process they have produced a

European Red List identifying those species which are threatened with extinction at the

European level so that appropriate conservation action can be taken to improve their status.

European Council Birds Directive (CEC, 1979)

The Directive provides a framework for the conservation and management of, and human

interactions with, wild birds in Europe. An important part of this Directive is the identification

and classification of Special Protected Areas (SPAs) to protected vulnerable bird species

listed in Annex 1 of the Directive and regularly occurring migrating species.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended)

This Act is the primary legislation that protects animals, plants and certain habitats in the UK.

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 consolidate and update the

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, and transpose Council Directive

92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (“the Habitats

Directive”) and elements of Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds (“the

Birds Directive”) in England, Wales, and to limited extent, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The objectives of the Habitats Directive is to protect biodiversity through the conservation of

natural habitats and species of wild fauna and flora. The Directive lays down rules for the

protection, management and exploitation of such habitats and species.

The Regulations place a duty on the Secretary of State to propose a list of sites which are

important for either habitats or species. These sites form a network termed Natura 2000 and

include Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2017/1012/pdfs/uksi_20171012_en.pdf

http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/wildlife/protect/bird-habitat/habitat2010.htm


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Protection of Badgers Act 1992

The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 consolidated and improved previous legislation. Under

the Act it is an offence to kill, injure or take a Badger, or to damage or interfere with a sett

used by a Badger unless a licence is obtained from a statutory authority.

The Hedgerow Regulations 1997

The Hedgerows Regulations 1997 protect certain hedgerows from being removed (uprooted

or destroyed) if they meet certain criteria.

The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000

This Act increases measures for the management and protection for Sites of Special

Scientific Interest (SSSI) and strengthens wildlife enforcement legislation.

Circular 06/2005 Biodiversity and geological conservation – statutory obligations and

their impact within the planning system

This circular provides administrative guidance on the application of the law relating to

planning and nature conservation as it applies in England. It complements the national

planning policy in the National Planning Policy Framework and the Planning Practice

Guidance.

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006

The Act made amendments to the both the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the

Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act 2000. For example, it extended the CROW

biodiversity duty to public bodies and statutory undertakers.

UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework, 2012

The ‘UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework’, published in July 2012, succeeds the UK BAP

and ‘Conserving Biodiversity – the UK Approach’, and is the result of a change in strategic

thinking.

The natural choice: securing the value of nature (2011) (Natural Environment White

Paper)

This White Paper outlines the Governments vision for the future of landscape and

ecosystem services.

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1160/contents/made

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1160/schedule/1/made

http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-6189

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