Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve - North Somerset · Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve Draft...

Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN 2012-2016

CONTENTS Page Page 4.1 Site Analysis 21-22 1.0 INTRODUCTION 4.2 Qualitative Assessment 22-25 1.1 Purpose of plan 1 5.0 VISION, AIMS, OBJECTIVES & ACTION

PLAN

2.0 POLICY CONTEXT 5.1 Vision 26 1-2 5.2 Aims 26-27 3.0 SITE DECSRIPTION 5.3 1 and 5 year priorities 27-28 3.1 Location and access 3 5.4 Action plan 29-40 3.2 Relationship to green infrastructure 3 & 5 6.0 FINANCE 3.3 Ownership and Designations 4 & 6 6.1 Existing expenditure 41 3.4 History 7 7.0 MONITORING & REVIEW 41 3.5 Overview of the park today 7-9 Appendix 1: List of partners 42 3.6 Mapping the park 9-10 Appendix 2: Standard safety risk assessment forms 43-45 3.7 Description of Key Features 11-18 Appendix 3: Interesting and rare plants (photos) 46 3.8 Detailed site statistics 19 Appendix 4: Marketing strategy 47 3.9 Existing management arrangements 20 Appendix 5: Observations and surveys report 2011 48-57 Appendix 6: SSSI Citation 58 Appendix 7: Natural England views about management 59 Appendix 8: List of ‘operations likely to damage’ 60 Appendix 9: Inspection forms 61-63 Appendix 10: RSPB and farmer alliance bird survey 64 Appendix 11: Management and events 2011/12 65-68 Appendix 12: Butterfly survey transect route 69 Appendix 13: Bird survey stops 70

Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve Draft Management Plan Feb 2012 V4

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1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Purpose of the plan The need for site management plans has been identified as a key issue in the recent Green Infrastructure Strategy for the District1. The aim of this plan is to review and update the previous management plan produced for the site in 2006. It covers the period 2012 – 2016. This plan has been prepared in order to provide a framework within which all future management is carried out; and enable any person involved to understand how and why decisions are taken. It identifies specific objectives and priorities for management within the next five years, and sets out aspirations that may be delivered in the future. For the action plan, see pages 29-40. The structure of the plan has been developed using existing good practice including CABE Space’s ‘Guide to producing Green Space Management Plans’2, and guidance within Green Flag3. 2.0 POLICY CONTEXT The Council’s emerging Green Infrastructure Strategy is the primary document describing the need for management plans to deliver the objectives for land under its management. It defines green infrastructure as: “… the network of parks, open spaces, waterways, woodlands, trees, countryside, green corridors and the coastal strip within and between our towns and villages, across the whole of North Somerset.”

1 North Somerset Council’s Green Infrastructure strategy can be found at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/Environment/Parks+and+open+spaces/GreenInfrastructureStrategy 2 CABE Space promotes well-designed parks, streets and squares as a crucial part of our towns and cities. Its publications can be found at www.cabe.org.uk/default.aspx?contentitemid=484 3 The Green Flag is the national standard for parks in England and Wales. More information can be found at www.greenflagaward.org.uk


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The following relates to the key headline areas described in the Sustainable Community Strategy4 and the North Somerset Council Corporate Plan5. Management of green spaces meets North Somerset Council’s main aims of:

Enhancing health and well-being Protecting and improving the environment Building safer and stronger communities

The council has also identified nine key areas where it plans to focus its efforts until 2011 and several of these priorities relate specifically to the role of Green Infrastructure:

Address environmental concerns. Make our streets and communities safer. Ensure development is well planned, with a focus on creating quality facilities and employment opportunities. Improve customer services.

In 2006, the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act was introduced for all public bodies to conserve and enhance biodiversity 6 under this duty. To meet this obligation, the local authority needs to ensure that appropriate management for biodiversity is undertaken on its landholdings. Green infrastructure management plans provide a practical mechanism for meeting this obligation, as they include aspirations and actions for biodiversity. Management of open spaces that contain locally important habitats and species can also contribute directly to aims of the North Somerset Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) – Action for Nature.7 Management plans present opportunities to implement some of the actions within the LBAP, so that priority habitats and species are taken into account in the management of green spaces.

4 www.northsomersetpartnership.co.uk 5 http://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/Your+Council/Policies+plans+and+strategies/Corporate+Plan/ 6 Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the number of species of plants and animals in a given habitat. 7 See https://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/Environment/Conservation/Wildlife/ for link to Action for Nature


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3.0 SITE DESCRIPTION 3.1 Location and access (Map 1 and 2) The site is situated on the southern edge of Uphill village, to the south of Weston-super-Mare. The central grid reference of the site is ST317 583. The area covered by the SSSI is 15.25 hectares; the woodland covers an additional 1.42 hectares and Underwood Field covers 1.1 hectares. There is pedestrian access to the site via Folly Lane, the church path off Uphill Way and via the Uphill boatyard. Vehicular access for management or emergency purposes only is possible from Folly Lane and via the boatyard. Car parking is possible along Uphill Way, including the car park situated towards the wharf entrance which has a designated disabled parking bay. There is also a car park at the entrance to the boatyard, and a bus stop by the sluice gate. There is disabled access onto the hill from the boatyard entrance along the Tidal Trail. The majority of the site is designated as open access land under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act. This allows pedestrian access over most of the site, but introduces an obligation on dog walkers to keep their animals on the lead when agricultural stock are present. Two public footpaths run through the site. Cycling is permitted along the Tidal Trail only. Horse riding is not considered appropriate, since there would be conflict with other site users. Riders would either leave the path, with potential for damage to special features, or the path would have to be fenced, which would be unsightly, detract from the visitor experience and interfere with site management. 3.2 Relationship to other green infrastructure (Map 1) Uphill Hill is at the western end of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and lies to the east of the Severn Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Most of the site is designated as a SSSI and Local Nature Reserve (LNR). The calcareous grassland is within the Mendip Limestone Grasslands Special Area of Conservation (SAC) which means the grassland is of nature conservation value in an international context. The hill lies within a complex of important wildlife sites such as coastal grazing marsh at Bleadon Level and tidal habitats along the Axe Estuary and adjoins Walborough Hill SSSI (an Avon Wildlife Trust LNR), it is also a gateway for many walks in the area.


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3.3 Ownership and designations (Map 2) 3.3.1 Typology Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve is categorised as a Conservation Site within North Somerset’s Green Infrastructure Strategy. This means it is managed primarily for its wildlife and amenity value. 3.3.2 Ownership Uphill Hill is owned and managed by North Somerset Council as Public Open Space for its nature conservation and amenity value. The site has various designations;

At a local level it is designated as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) for its value to wildlife and people At national level as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its species-rich calcareous grassland (this does not include

the woodland or Underwood Field). See appendix 6 for citation. At international level as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for Mendip Limestone Grassland.

The site's conservation status means that management works have to be approved by Natural England. As one of the outstanding calcareous grassland sites in North Somerset, management of this site contributes substantially to the aims of the council's Species Rich Grassland Habitat Action Plan, contained in the North Somerset Biodiversity Action Plan ‘Action for Nature’. It should be noted that, owing to the site's designations and their statutory obligations, North Somerset Council has an obligation to make enhancement of the site's nature conservation value a priority.


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Map 1 Location of Uphill Hill and its relationship to other green infrastructure


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Map 2 Uphill Hill Designations


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3.4 History of the site There is evidence of human activity on the site from the Pleistocene to the present. Numerous mammal remains (e.g. woolly rhinoceros, hyena, bear, ox, cave lion, woolly mammoth, reindeer, giant deer and polecat), dating from the Stone Age, have been found in caves in the quarry area and attributed to the Neanderthals who were believed to have lived in the enclosure area. There is at least one Bronze Age tumulus, situated to the west of the churchyard. The grassland on the upper part of the site, known as The Down, was part of an open field system during the Middle Ages and not enclosed until 1818. Hedges across the site were removed by 1843. A windmill was present here in 1782, although known to be ruined by 1829. A beacon was built on the site of the windmill in 1863 and re-built in 1934 with castellations and an outside stairway. The Down was ploughed during the First World War and intensively farmed, with the addition of fertiliser, immediately after the Second World War. There are several small hollows across the site, which are the result of mining for lead and calamine. During the 19th century the limestone was quarried by villagers as it was common land. They created the rock faces along the northern foot of the hill. Following the enclosure Acts, commercial quarrying arrived in the 1820’s. Associated features include the remains of a lime kiln and an explosives magazine. St Nicholas Church is thought to be the oldest building in Uphill village, built just after the Norman conquest. The church and church yard (including the surrounding wall) is managed by the Churches Conservation Trust. A sheep wash in the south western part of the site was restored in 1995/96. 3.5 Overview of Uphill Hill today


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Map 3 shows the existing layout of the conservation site. The main biological interest on the site is its unimproved calcareous grassland and populations of rare plant species. See appendix 3 for photographs of some of the interesting and rare plants found on the hill. On the flatter ground at the top of the hill and in the southern edge of the site there are large areas of semi-improved and improved grassland. These are less species-rich than the unimproved grassland, but some of the semi-improved grasslands have increasing populations of grassland species. The other habitat types on site are woodland and scrub, both of which are present in small quantity only. The site is home to a diverse range of bird species. A successful breeding pair of Long Eared Owls were confirmed on the hill in 2010. There were also sightings of two owls in 2011, although it is not known if they were a breeding pair. RSPB red and amber list birds such as Skylark, Linnet, Song Thrush and Lesser Whitethroat have also been observed and Peregrine Falcons regularly hunt over the enclosure. See appendix 5 for 2010 bird surveys. There are good facilities for visitors to the site including the Tidal Trail, interpretation boards and a notice board (installed in 2011) to display events and seasonal information. The quarry provides climbing and abseiling opportunities, including challenging routes for experienced climbers. A café opened in 2011 at the boatyard entrance and this has proved to be very popular with people who visit Uphill Hill. Public Toilets are situated near the boatyard entrance. Historic features such as the lime kiln, sheep wash and explosives store are maintained in good condition. The far reaching views and walks are valued by users of the hill and in 2009 Uphill Hill was South West’s winner in Warburtons Picnic Awards and a picnic bench was installed with the prize money. Cattle continue to graze the hill to maintain the species-rich grassland. Underwood Field (not part of the SSSI) is managed to encourage voles and invertebrates and is grazed less intensively. The grazing agreement is being renewed for another three years (2012-2014) so that the cattle are on the hill in April and then between June until the end of October depending on weather conditions. This regime was introduced in 2005. Stocking density is not fixed, but is kept at an appropriate level for the ground conditions and agreed with North Somerset Council and Natural England. The species-rich fenced off enclosure is grazed by rare breed Soay sheep, normally between October and December although in 2009 they were absent.


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Invasive species such as valerian and cotoneaster that grow on the rock faces (and out-compete native rare plant species) are monitored and removed as appropriate. Ivy was removed and valerian and cotoneaster were treated on the enclosure rock face in 2010. During winter 2011/12, scrub management was carried out on the hill including within the sheep enclosure, the priority being the rock face south of the enclosure where scrub and invasive species were removed by hand cutting and hand pulling in order to maintain and extend populations of rare plants. Funding for a seasonal warden while the cattle are grazing has been through a 5 year Wildlife Enhancement Scheme (WES), a Natural England grant until February 2012. It is planned that in 2012/13 Uphill Hill will be entered into Higher Level Stewardship (HLS), an agri-environment scheme that should provide funding for management tasks over a 10 year period. Whether or not this will include a paid warden post is uncertain. 3.6 Mapping Uphill Hill The site has been mapped in detail using MapInfo, a Geographical Information System (GIS) to plot all the features within the site as follows:


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Map 3 Detailed layout of Uphill Hill

Underwood Field

Enclosure

Sheep Wash

Tower

Explosives Store

Lime Kiln


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3.7 Description of key features Grassland Description The main biological interest on the site is its unimproved calcareous grassland and rare plant species. The unimproved grassland is exceptionally species rich and includes many species that have become uncommon in Britain due to habitat loss and degradation. Rare plant species on the site include three nationally rare Red Data Book Species: honewort (Trinia glauca), somerset hair-grass (Koeleria vallesiana) and goldilocks aster (Aster linosyris). Grazing is vital to maintain the botanical diversity of the grassland. The management has been successful in maintaining the site's two key ecological features: its unimproved calcareous grassland and its rare plant populations. In 2011 the seasonal warden counted 105 Goldilocks Aster stems, an increase from 84 in 2010 and 20-30 in the 2006 management plan. Populations of honewort are monitored by the volunteer warden. The Somerset Rare Plants Group carried out surveys in 2005 and it is hoped that they will carry out further surveys in 2012.

Key Management Issues The key to ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the site's nature conservation value is to ensure that grazing of the site continues. This leaves the site vulnerable to changes in agricultural economy and more particularly to conflicts with dog walkers. Measures to inform dog walkers of the need for proper behaviour are essential. Volunteer wardens and the seasonal warden regularly check on the cattle and Soay Sheep. When funding for the seasonal warden post ends in February 2011, there will need to be more emphasis on volunteers and council staff checking the grazing animals unless funding for a new post can be secured. There is also a ‘cow flag’ at the boat yard entrance to inform users of the hill when cattle are grazing. Under the CROW act dogs must be kept on leads while cattle are grazing. There are signs up at the entrances to the hill to reiterate this.

Grazing is essential to maintain and enhance calcareous grassland plant communities. In August 2009 Natural England assessed the condition of Uphill Cliff SSSI as Favourable.


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Management has also been successful in increasing the nature conservation value of areas of semi-improved grassland. The size of the colony of green-winged orchids and autumn ladies tresses have increased. Other species that continue to spread include important indicators of unimproved grassland such as eyebright and cowslip. Numbers of bee orchid have decreased and pyramidal orchids are not present every year but orchid numbers fluctuate year on year depending on the weather. Species-rich grassland is a priority habitat within North Somerset’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

Cattle on site have occasionally required supplementary feeding. It is essential that this takes place away from areas of diverse vegetation and has been agreed by Natural England. Grazing requires some control of injurious plants and upkeep of fences.

The cow flag

Woodland Description There is a small patch of woodland to the west of Folly Lane which contributes to the diversity of habitats on the hill. It is not particularly diverse and is dominated by ash and sycamore. The woodland is within the Local Nature Reserve. The woodland was assessed by NSC Tree officers in 2010, and the signs denying people entry into the wood (for health and safety reasons) were taken down as a result.

Key Management Issues The woodland would benefit from small scale management including shrub planting and control of sycamore; however these works are low priority compared to the maintenance of more valuable habitats on the hill.

Hedges Description The hedge in front of the sheep enclosure

Key Management Issues


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was laid in 2009 and the vegetation in front of it is cut and removed at the end of the summer. Bramble growing in this hedge needs to be controlled. There is also a gap between the laid hedge and enclosure gate that could be planted up. The hedge between the 2nd gate from the boatyard entrance and the sheep wash is over grown by scrub and would benefit from management. Hedgerows with 5 or more native species are priority habitats within the North Somerset Local Biodiverstity Action Plan.

Laid hedge in front of sheep enclosure

Scrub Description Scrub is dense in places on the lower edge of the hill and dominated by hawthorn, blackthorn and elder. Elsewhere there are scattered patches within grassland areas, sometimes including invasive non-native species such as wall cotoneaster. Scrub control is necessary in some areas to prevent it from spreading. Cotoneasters, which are all introduced, can be particularly damaging due to the horizontal habit of some species, which can shade out large areas of grassland. They also out-compete rare plants growing on rock faces.

Key Management Issues The amount of scrub is carefully managed to provide a balance between providing food and shelter for invertebrates and birds and not encroaching on the grassland and rocky habitats for the rare plants. Cut scrub must not be piled on grassland areas. If burning cuttings on site consent must be given from Natural England. Fire sites must be away from diverse grasslands and fires should be properly managed. Occasionally stump treatment may be necessary after scrub clearance with the agreement of Natural England.


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Scrub management was undertaken in winter 2011/12 in agreement with Natural England.

Tidal Trail Description The Tidal Trail is a disabled access path which runs from the boat yard entrance along the edge of the hill towards the neighbouring Avon Wildlife Trust reserve, Walborough. Cycling is also permitted on this path.

Key Management Issues The path surface is generally good, although some sections would benefit from resurfacing if funding is available.

Interpretation and other signage Description There are 3 interpretation boulders at the main entrances to the site - the boat yard, the church path and Folly Lane. There are also interpretation signs in the castellations of the tower, at the lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash. Brown tourist attraction directional signs point the way to the boatyard and church path entrances to the site. New welcome signs were installed at the main entrances in 2011.

Key Management Issues The interpretation sign at the church path entrance to the hill has been damaged and would benefit from replacement. The installation of way-markers is not considered appropriate as the hill is open access and people can wander where they chose. They would detract from the rural feel of this naturalised site.

New signage installed in 2011


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Historic Features Description The lime kiln, explosives store, sheep wash and tower are generally in good condition. Regular scrub management and vegetation clearance has been carried out to the lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash by the Seasonal Warden. The main tasks in the sheep wash are strimming the floor and cutting back overhanging vegetation from the side walls. The tower gate had a hydraulic self closing mechanism installed to replace the weight system in July 2010.

Key Management Issues Alternative measures to maintain the lime kiln such as spraying should be considered, as pulling weeds may damage the stone by loosening it. All structures need to continue to be inspected and encroaching vegetation needs to be managed. Anti social behaviour around the tower can be a problem, especially during the summer and in 2011 the tower suffered from graffiti. The local Police are informed of incidents on the hill and have helped to reduce the problem. The tower can be locked if anti-social behaviour causes problems.

The Lime Kiln with interpretation sign

The sheep wash

Benches Description There are 14 benches on the hill including 1 picnic bench (funded by prize money from the South West’s winner in Warburtons Picnic Awards 2009). The benches are generally in good condition and the seasonal warden regularly paints the benches along the tidal trail. Two benches situated around the church wall were

Key Management Issues It is not desirable to introduce further benches as they would change the aesthetics of this naturalistic site. Benches also create hot spots where the ground becomes damaged and worn. Most of the existing benches are against the church wall and so are protected from the inquisitive cattle.


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refurbished in 2011. Bins Description There are no litter bins on the hill as it is a countryside site and we wish to encourage people to take their litter home with them. There are 5 dog bins on site which are emptied three times a week by Environmental Protection.

Key Management Issues Despite an adequate supply of dog bins, regular publicity and a seasonal warden dog mess on the hill remains a problem. Efforts to reduce this should be maintained.

Gates, Fences, Walls and Steps Description Gates are generally in good condition. A new set of steps were constructed in 2011 by the Ground work team – a supervised group of apprentices on the steep ground between the main hill and the entrance to Underwood field. The wall along Uphill Way was rebuilt in 2009 and further repairs were carried out in 2011, including treatment to red valerian. Fences on the hill are checked regularly either by the seasonal warden or the responsible NSC officer. Small repairs are undertaken by the

Key Management Issues The weights on the wooden pedestrian gates along the tidal trail are very heavy and over time are gradually damaging the gates. Options for new gate closures need to be explored. The fencing around the quarry face/sheep enclosure was installed around 25 years ago and is likely to need repairs/replacing in the next few years.

Steps built by the Groundwork


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wardens and fences have been erected in Underwood Field (in 2010 and 2011) to prevent cattle from jumping over the wall.

team in Underwood Field

Fauna Description Dotted bee-fly (Bombylius discolor) was recorded between 2000-2005 although not in 2006. Between 2009 and 2011 the seasonal warden continued to record the presence of dotted bee-fly and noticed that the population was spreading. This is an important record, not only because it itself is nationally rare, but also because as a parasitoid it relies on large populations of Andrena mining bees, many of which are also rare. The dotted bee-fly requires slopes of short sparse grassland and continued grazing of the enclosure is essential for this species and its hosts. Butterflies include small and chalkhill blues. Monitoring has been carried out during the summer by the seasonal warden using Butterfly Trust Conservation methodology (see appendix 5 for 2010 species list) Small blue is largely present in the sheep enclosure area, although cattle grazing is better for this species than sheep grazing.

Key Management Issues The impact of more intensive grazing of the site on invertebrates is not known and they can be vulnerable to increased grazing pressure, particularly in spring. The beneficial impacts of grazing on invertebrates should also be noted. The dotted bee-fly, for example, requires slopes of short sparse grassland and continued grazing of the enclosure is essential for this species and its hosts.


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The most diverse invertebrate populations are within the enclosure, where grazing pressure has not changed. Birds have also been recorded by the seasonal warden and include RSPB red data book species (see appendix 5 for 2010 species list). The RSPB volunteer and farmer Alliance also carried out a bird survey on the hill in 2010. The list of species can be found in appendix 10. Rock face Description The underlying rock is carboniferous limestone which, at the western end of the reserve, has been quarried leaving a sheer cliff face. Nationally Rare plants such as goldilocks aster grow on the rock face. Climbing and abseiling are permitted on the rock face above the car park, but access is not allowed on the rock face within the enclosure. Ground anchors for climbing were installed in 2009 and are checked by Mendip Outdoor Pursuits every 6 months. An annual health and safety report is carried out by Hydrock and held by NSC.

Key Management Issues Non-native invasive species such as valerian, snow-in-summer and cotoneaster need to be controlled so that they do not out-compete rare plants. Valerian and cotoneaster were treated on the rock face along with removal of ivy in 2010. Removal of these species along with scrub was also undertaken on the rock face south of the sheep enclosure in 2011 as part of planned scrub management.


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3.8 Detailed site statistics A detailed asset survey has been undertaken of Uphill Hill, the following is a summary of the features recorded: Soft and hard landscape features

Area (m2)

Total area of site 188,670 Cattle grazed grassland 135,000 Underwood Field 11, 000 Woodland and copse areas 12,000 Boundaries and associated infrastructure

Length (m)

Metal fencing 97 Wooden fencing 1024 Stone wall 1202

Furniture

Number

Interpretation Signs 21 Welcome signs 4 Benches 14 Dog Bin 5 Gates 9


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3.9 Existing management arrangements Management of the site is the responsibility of North Somerset Council, working in consultation with Natural England. Work is overseen by North Somerset’s Green Spaces Survey Officer. There is a management committee which meets quarterly and consists of representatives from North Somerset Council, Natural England, Avon Wildlife Trust, volunteer wardens and residents with the aim of monitoring progress, and taking forward actions identified in the management plan. The management committee also have regular contact with the Uphill Village Society. The hill is grazed with cattle by a local farmer, and the grazing agreement is being renewed to cover the period 2012-14. The fenced off enclosure is also grazed by rare breed Soay sheep. Over the past 5 years a seasonal warden has been employed between April and October, funded by Natural England. Once funding ends in February 2012 it is hoped that Uphill Hill will be entered into Higher Level Stewardship (HLS). Invaluable input has been provided by voluntary wardens, who visit the site almost daily. The Brandon Trust carry out weekly litter picks and small scale vegetation management such as hedge trimming and path clearance. Large tasks such as scrub management are carried out by contractors. Work to trees within the site is carried out either reactively, when events or circumstances arise, or as part of the planned programme of risk reduction. The grass either side of the Tidal Trial from the boat yard entrance to the 2nd gate is cut as part of the council’s grounds maintenance contract. The dog bins are managed under a separate contract within NSC Environmental Protection. Natural England site condition assessment is carried out every 7 years and covers the distribution, structure and species richness of the calcareous grassland and the populations of rare plant species. This may be too infrequent to guide management for certain species so additional monitoring is useful. The condition assessment should be adequate for monitoring the condition and extent of calcareous grassland See appendix 1 for the list of partners involved with the management, maintenance and promotion of the hill.


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4.0 ANALYSIS OF ISSUES 4.1 Site Analysis The following section summarises an assessment of ‘what are we doing well’ and ‘where could we improve’. The analysis has been informed by considering the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) related to the park. What are we doing well? The SSSI status of the site has been assessed as

favourable by Natural England and the species-rich calcareous grassland continues to be maintained by grazing cattle and sheep.

The site is well used with a diverse range of users including school groups, walking groups, dog walkers, cyclists, naturalists and archaeological groups.

Over the past 5 years a seasonal warden has been funded by Natural England. This ends in February 2012.

Further funding for the hill is being sought and steps are being taken to enter the hill into HLS.

Volunteer wardens have been active on the hill for many years

The Brandon Trust have been carrying out litter picking and small scale vegetation management on a weekly basis for the last two years

The site has a good provision of interpretation signage and in 2011 new welcome signs and a notice board were installed to display up-to-date information.

Good community engagement links with the Uphill Village Society, local schools (in particular Uphill Primary), Scouts, Beavers and Cub groups.

Regular surveys take place, including monitoring, in particular butterflies and birds.

Vegetation monitoring takes place for the rarer species

Where could we improve? Funding for future management of the hill (including a

warden post) needs to be secured in 2012/13 or 2013/14, most likely in the form of HLS

Conflict with some dog walkers is an ongoing issue, although this seems to have improved on the past. Keeping dogs on leads when the cattle are grazing and between April and October under the CROW Act needs continued emphasis and enforcement.

Dog fouling is an issue, especially over the winter months when the warden is not present.

A regular volunteer group or voluntary warden who is able to carry out regular small scale practical management tasks and surveys needs to be set up.


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such as Honewort and Goldilocks Aster, both of which are increasing in numbers on the site.

Underwood field (which is not part of the SSSI) is managed to encourage a more diverse invertebrate population and to increase vole numbers for the benefit of the raptor populations, in particular long eared owls which have bred for two consecutive years.

NSC continues to work closely with Natural England and Avon Wildlife Trust to ensure the best management for the site.

The site infrastructure is continually assessed and improvements are made where appropriate

4.2 Qualitative assessment 4.2.1 A Welcoming Place The site is highly attractive to local residents and visitors because of the rural nature of the site despite its proximity to an urban area, the calcareous grassland which is rich in flowers and insects, it offers extensive views and it is a gateway for walks within an exceptionally diverse landscape. It allows access to historic features such as the limekiln, sheep wash and explosives store. There are interpretation signs at the main entrances, next to the lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash, as well as in the castellation of the tower. There are also new welcome signs at the main entrances that were installed in 2011. 4.2.2 Healthy, Safe and Secure The quarry face is inspected annually by external contractors as part of the council’s quarry risk management programme. Where hazards are assessed as ‘substantial’ the recommendations from the report are taken forward. Rock fall warning signs and cliff edge warning signs were erected in early 2010. The quarry face is fenced off and there are danger signs warning people of the cliff edge. The fence is checked monthly by either the seasonal warden or the NSC officer responsible for the site.


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Ground anchors for climbing and abseiling are inspected every 6 months by Mendip Outdoor Pursuits. Regular infrastructure inspections are carried out by the seasonal warden, volunteer wardens and NSC officer. Any issues are reported to the responsible officer at North Somerset Council and repairs/refurbishments are carried out where required. See appendix 2 for standard safety risk assessment forms and appendix 9 for inspection forms. The seasonal warden has been carrying out additional recorded inspections for the lime kiln, explosives store, sheep wash and tower. Walkover surveys identify trees that require work to reduce the risk of harm to within acceptable limits, following North Somerset Council’s Tree Risk Management programme. Between surveys the woodland and other trees on the site are under an informal ‘lay-person’ inspection. 4.2.3 Clean and well maintained The site is generally well maintained. Volunteers carry out regular litter picks and path clearance and contractors empty the dog bins three times a week. Volunteers regularly undertake litter picking and site infrastructure is in good condition. The tidal trail would benefit from resurfacing in some areas. Maintenance and repairs in 2011 include building new steps in Underwood field and construction of a new fence to prevent cattle jumping over the wall. A broken post on one of the pedestrian gates was replaced and small fence repairs were carried out by the seasonal warden, volunteer wardens and contractors. Scrub management was undertaken on and around the rock face south of the enclosure and the seasonal warden carried out vegetation clearance around the lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash. Anti social behaviour and miss-use can be a problem during the summer, but working closely with the local Police has helped to reduce and control further incidents. Although the car park would benefit from improvement, this is not a priority for the management of the site, and it is still well used. 4.2.4 Sustainability The majority of the site is traditionally grazed, rather being cut by machinery. Repairs to infrastructure are either carried out by the seasonal warden, volunteer warden or by local contractors where ever possible, who use local suppliers. Bench refurbishments


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carried out by Somerset Wood Recycling, a not for profit social enterprise using local recycled wood. Where ever possible cut vegetation is left on site. Fertilisers are not used on site, and herbicide use is kept to an absolute minimum 4.2.5 Conservation and Heritage Assessment of the site’s nature conservation condition is one of Natural England’s statutory duties, since the site is a SSSI. The grassland was assessed as ‘Favourable’ in 2009. This is due to the continued cattle grazing on the main hill, sheep grazing in the enclosure and management of scrub and invasive species. The continuity of graziers on the hill must be maintained. Populations of nationally rare plants have been maintained or increased in numbers. Rare plants are monitored annually by the seasonal warden and volunteer wardens and data is sent to Bristol Environmental Records Centre (BRERC). Somerset hair grass and honewort were last monitored by the Somerset Rare Plants Group in 2005. The previous management plan recommended monitoring every three years. The volunteer warden has monitored honewort, but Somerset hair grass requires a specialist group. It is hoped that the Rare Plants Group will be surveying honewort, Somerset hair grass and other red data book species in 2012. Use of herbicides is restricted (apart from targeted stump treatment and treatment of valerian where absolutely necessary) and fertilisers are not used on site. No soils or similar materials are to be imported. Vegetation clearance has been carried out in the lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash by the seasonal warden. Alternative measures to maintain the lime kiln such as spraying should be considered, as pulling the weeds may loosen the stones. All structures need to continue to be inspected and encroaching vegetation needs to be managed. Part of the retaining wall along Uphill Way was rebuilt in 2009. The tradition of lighting a beacon on the hill (in the tower) at New Year’s Eve and to commemorate events such as royal jubilees has been maintained by the Uphill Village Society. The consultation in 2010 for the introduction of a Dog Control Order for “Dogs on leads” on the hill while cattle are grazing was unsuccessful due to the number of dog walkers that protested. It is still a requirement under the CROW Act that dogs are kept on leads while stock are grazing.


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The 2006 management plan recommends investigating the feasibility of occasional sheep grazing on the main hill. Sheep are more preferable grazers than cattle as they are the traditional livestock in this area, but this would not be possible as the hill would have to be fenced off from the public because of dogs. A structural report was commissioned and repairs were made to the lime kiln in 2008. 4.2.6 Community Involvement Volunteer wardens continue to inspect the hill almost daily. The Brandon Trust carry out weekly litter picks and regular events and activities are held on the hill which attract all age groups. Despite regular advertising for volunteers there has not been any uptake, although efforts to attract volunteers are being maintained. 4.2.7 Marketing The Council website needs to be updated with its own page on Uphill Hill, with more information on the value of the site and volunteering opportunities and activities. The hill is promoted by Uphillviews (the village magazine) as well as other leaflets and publications such as the Visitors Guide and Uphill Walks booklet produced by the Uphill Village Society and NSC. The revised edition of the Uphill walks booklet was reprinted and re launched in September 2010. Copies are available on the Village Society website notice board (www.uphillvillage.org.uk). The visitors guide is regularly distributed in the village by the volunteer warden and also goes out at the village fetes and events. The NSC website has a link to the Wild Spaces website with information on the hill, and the Village Society website also includes information on the site. There is good on site provision of information in the form of interpretation boards and a notice board. The seasonal warden advertises for volunteers. In November 2011 an article was put in the Uphillviews magazine and the notice board to attract volunteers. The Avon Wildlife Trust also advertised for a joint volunteer to cover Walborough and Uphill Hill. 4.2.8 Management Management focuses on maintaining and enhancing the wildlife and amenity value of the site. The management committee meet quarterly and acts as a forum for discussion and takes forward actions identified in the management plan.


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Partnership working with community groups and volunteers, Avon Wildlife Trust, Uphill Village Society and the Police/PCSO is an important part of the management of the hill and will be continued. This plan will be used to guide the management of Uphill Hill over the next 5 years. 5.0 VISION, AIMS, OBJECTIVES & ACTION PLAN This section uses the analysis of the site made in previous sections as follows: to re-enforce the vision for Uphill Hill; to summarise the overall aims for Uphill Hill for the next 5 years; to summarise our 1 year and 5 year priorities for Uphill Hill; to provide a detailed 5 year action plan for Uphill Hill with aims, objectives and actions, as illustrated below: 5.1 Vision “To conserve and enhance Uphill Hill’s species-rich calcareous grassland, rare plants and associated wildlife through grazing and scrub management whilst maintaining public enjoyment and understanding of the site” 5.2 Aims – This is how we plan to achieve the Vision, by focusing on a number of important key areas: The Table below shows the key management Issues for the sites as defined by Green Flag criteria A Welcoming Place Ensure that Uphill Hill Local Nature

Reserve is welcoming and accessible

Sustainability Adopt environmental management

principles to reduce the impact of management operations on the environment

Community Involvement To recognise and encourage further

community involvement in the conservation site through consultation, events and activities.


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Healthy, Safe and Secure Work towards keeping risk as low as

reasonably possible for all users of the conservation site

Conservation Maintain the species-rich calcareous

grassland in favourable condition. To maintain and extend populations of

rare plants To maintain and enhance the

biodiversity of the site, making the most of opportunities that will benefit wildlife

Marketing To actively promote the LNR to all

potential users.

Clean and Well Maintained To maintain good standards of

cleanliness and site maintenance

Heritage Maintain and/or enhance the site’s

important history and archaeology Maintain the strategic significance of

the conservation site in the Green Infrastructure Strategy.

Management To provide a responsive, flexible and

high quality management service.

5.3 Summary of 1 and 5 year priorities This section summarises our priorities for 2011, and sets out our aspirations and priorities for the next five years. The realisation of these aspirations will be strongly influenced by the availability of resources (see section 6.0). Each year, we will review our progress against the action plan and draw from the aspirations to inform future action plans. Priorities for 2012 Apply for Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) funding. Continue grazing Survey Somerset hair grass, honewort and other red

Priorities for the next 5 years (2012 – 16) Acquire funding for long term management of the hill,

including the resources for a seasonal warden post. Continue to graze cattle and sheep to maintain and enhance


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data book species. Continue regular species surveys/monitoring Continue events and activities in the absence of

seasonal warden Recruit volunteers and warden to carry out small scale

practical management tasks Continue to engage with dog walkers Investigate options to improve gate closures

the calcareous grassland Carry out scrub management and removal of invasive

species in agreement with Natural England to maintain populations of rare plants.

Maintain species surveys and monitoring Continue to hold events and activities on the hill Repair/replace fencing around quarry face/sheep enclosure if

required Continue to engage with dog walkers Build and maintain relationships with volunteers, community

groups, Police/PCSO and different user groups Seek to reduce antisocial behaviour


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5.4 5 year action plan Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources

(staff/capital/ revenue)

A welcoming Place Ensure that Uphill LNR is welcoming and accessible

A1.1) Maintain signage and other entrance infrastructure

A1.1.1) Ensure entrance signs and interpretation are in acceptable condition A1.1.2) Update information in the notice board on a regular basis to include information on site management, species, events and volunteer opportunities.

Ongoing Quarterly

NSC Officers/Volunteers/Seasonal warden NSC Officers/Volunteers/Seasonal warden

A1.2) Maintain access and pathways to an acceptable standard

A1.2.1) Continue to cut grass either side of tidal trail within area that is not grazed. A1.2.2) Keep paths clear of over hanging vegetation. Cut hedge along tidal trail in 2012. A1.2.3) Clear detritus as required

Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing

NSC grounds maintenance contract Volunteers/Seasonal Warden Volunteers/NSC Officers/Seasonal Warden

A1.3) Seek funding to maintain Seasonal Warden Post

A1.3.1) Apply for Higher Level Stewardship (HLS)

2012 NSC Officer time

Healthy, Safe and Secure


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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)

Work towards keeping risk as low as reasonably possible for all users of the conservation site A2.1) Keep risk of harm from trees to a minimum

A2.1.1) Carry out tree inspections as part of the NSC tree risk management policy.

Inspection logged Every 4 years. Last survey carried out in 2010.

Tree Officers

A2.2) Maintain infrastructure to an acceptable standard

A2.2.1) Inspect quarry fence, record inspection and carry out repairs as necessary. A2.2.2) Replace quarry/sheep enclosure fence A2.2.3) Carry out regular recorded inspections of infrastructure (including the lime kiln, explosives store, sheep wash, tower, benches, gates, dog bins, signs, walls etc) and action repairs/refurbishment where required. Volunteers should report any problems or health and safety issues to NSC.

Inspection logged Inspections logged

Monthly This needs to be assessed annually but is likely to require replacement between 2012-14 Monthly

NSC officer/Seasonal Warden/Countryside budget. HLS NSC officer/Seasonal Warden/Volunteers

A2.3) Continue quarry inspections

A2.3.1) Hydrock to continue annual inspections and

Annually

Revenue


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written report. Where a hazard is identified as ‘substantial’ work will be carried out. A2.3.1) Mendip Outdoor Pursuits to continue ground anchor inspections

Twice a year – in November and May

Revenue

A2.3) Continue to inform public when the cattle are grazing so that dogs are kept on leads.

A2.3.1) Fly the ‘Cow Flag’ at the boat yard entrance when cattle are grazing A2.3.2) Put up laminated signs at the entrances to the hill.

When the cattle are on the hill (April + June-November)

Seasonal Warden/Rangers Seasonal Warden/NSC officer

A2.4) Continue to publicise the importance of keeping dogs on leads

A2.4.1) Include information on appropriate signage, display in notice board and in newsletters, hand out leaflets.

Ongoing Seasonal Warden/Volunteers/NSC officer

Clean and Well Maintained To maintain good standards of cleanliness and site maintenance A3.1) Reduce littering and dog fouling

A3.1.1) Continue to litter pick alongside path as part of grass cutting A3.1.2) Continue to empty dog bins A3.1.3) Volunteers to

Ongoing 3x per week Weekly

NSC grounds maintenance contract Environmental Protection Brandon


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continue litter picking A3.1.4) Publicise the importance of picking up after your dog

Ongoing

Trust/Volunteer Warden NSC officer/Seasonal Warden/Volunteers

A3.2) Maintain site infrastructure

A3.2.1) See A2.2.3 A3.2.2) Carry out vegetation/scrub clearance from lime kiln, explosives store and sheep wash as required. A3.2.3) Seek funding to re-surface areas of the Tidal Trail where required

Annually 2012-2014

Seasonal Warden/Volunteers

Sustainability Adopt environmental management principles to reduce the impact of management operations on the environment A4.1) Continue to graze site A4.1.1) Renew cattle grazing

agreement for 2012-14. A4.1.2) Continue to graze sheep (preferably Soays) in enclosure

2011/12 Annually between October-December

NSC officer time Volunteer Warden/NSC officer.

A4.2) Where possible use local and recycled materials for new structures

A4.2.1) Investigate opportunities on a case by case basis

As required NSC officer

A4.3) Where possible keep A4.3.1) Create habitat piles Ongoing Volunteers/Seasonal


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wood from trees on site in woodland A4.3.2) Leave standing dead wood where possible

Warden

A4.4) Where appropriate compost cut vegetation on site

A4.4.1) lose cut scrub in areas of dense scrub/copse. This must be agreed with Natural England in advance as other options may be more appropriate.

Ongoing HLS

Conservation To maintain and enhance the species-rich calcareous grassland To maintain and extend populations of rare plants To maintain and enhance the biodiversity of the site, making the most of opportunities that will benefit wildlife A5.1) Continue to graze site to maintain and enhance species-rich calcareous grassland

A5.1.1) Graze the main grassland with young cattle (bullocks or heifers) in April and then between June-October/November (depending on grass growth). From June to November the stocking rate should be increased to a number appropriate to the amount of grazing. A5.1.2) With the consent of Natural England allow supplementary feeding of hay (usually barley straw)

Annually April + June-November As required

Seasonal Warden/Volunteer Warden/NSC officer


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but not concentrates on the south side of the hill. A5.1.3) Pull common ragwort from grazing area, and stinking iris and burdock in enclosure. Bag and dispose of off site. A5.1.3) Graze the enclosure with sheep, preferably Soays or a similar breed between October and December.

April-August, annually Annually October-December

Volunteers/Volunteer warden Volunteer Warden/ NSC officer

A5.2) Continue scrub management to maintain and extend populations of rare plants.

A5.2.1) Assess scrub management required in consultation with Natural England, Including control of scrub on rock faces. A5.2.2) Dispose of cut scrub by losing in areas of dense scrub/copse agreed with Natural England. Burning may be considered in areas away from diverse grassland, but consent from Natural England must be obtained in advance. A5.2.3) Stump treatment

Every two years. Assessment and scrub management carried out in winter 2011/12. Next assessment due winter 2013/14. Work must be carried out outside the bird nesting season.

HLS


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may be required as part of scrub management with the consent of Natural England. A5.2.4) Top thistles to prevent spreading. Maintain thistles in agreed areas.

April, and August annually

Seasonal warden/Volunteers

A5.3) Control invasive species to maintain and extend populations of rare plants.

A5.3.1) Carry out an annual assessment of rock faces and remove invasive species as appropriate in consultation with Natural England. A5.3.2) Control invasive species where they are having a detrimental effect e.g. on habitats or where it causes structural damage. If the application of herbicide is the only viable means of control then Natural England must give their consent.

Annual assessment. Work to rock face south of enclosure carried out winter 2011/12.

HLS NSC officer/Natural England

A5.4) Continue to Carry out rare plant surveys/monitoring

A5.4.1) Continue to count plants and flowering stems of goldilocks aster and record. A5.4.1) Continue to record numbers of bee orchids, pyramidal orchids, green

Annually, September Annually

Volunteer Warden/Seasonal Warden


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winged orchids, common spotted orchids and autumn ladies tresses. A5.4.2) Monitor/survey honewort, Somerset hair grass and other red list plants. A5.4.3) Natural England to carry out site condition assessments

2012 and 2015 Every 7 years. Last assessment in August 2009.

Somerset Rare Plants Group and Somerset Botany Group Natural England

A5.5) Continue to carry out fauna surveys/monitoring and record results.

A5.5.1) Carry out bird surveys using Seasonal Wardens 2010 methodology. See appendix 13 for survey stops. A5.5.2) Monitor butterfly populations using established transect route (appendix 12) following Butterfly Conservation Trust methodology. A5.5.3) Record presence/absence of dotted bee fly near enclosure by visiting twice in April annually.

Annually in May, June, July and August At least monthly, between April-September annually April, annually

Seasonal warden/volunteers Seasonal warden/volunteers Seasonal warden/volunteers


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A5.6) Enhance woodland structure and improve biodiversity

A5.6.1) Carry out small scale management such as sycamore and ash coppicing and planting In agreement with Tree officers/Biodiversity Officer.

Ongoing Tree Officer/Biodiversity Officer/Seasonal Warden/Volunteers

A5.7) Maintain hedges and improve connectivity where possible

A5.7.1) Assess development of laid hedge in front of sheep enclosure and carry out pruning and removal of brambles as required A5.7.2) Assess hedge for re-laying in 2015. A5.7.3) Seek to restore hedge between the sheep wash and 2nd gate which has become over grown with bramble. A5.7.4) Trim hedge that overhangs fence line along public footpath at the top of Folly Lane. A5.7.5) Gap up hedgerows with appropriate native species where possible

Annually, Between October and February. 2015 2012-2016 Annually, between October and February. Ongoing, between October and February.

HLS HLS/Countryside budget Seasonal Warden/Volunteer Warden/Volunteers Seasonal Warden/Volunteer Warden/Volunteers


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A5.8) Manage vegetation in front of laid hedge to maintain a diverse and tall vegetation structure to provide seeds and cover for wildlife.

A5.8.1) Allow vegetation to grow and cut and remove the arisings between October and November every year.

Annually, Between October and November.

A5.9) Investigate putting up animal boxes in the woodland next to Underwood Field

A5.9.1) Investigate the need for owl boxes and bat boxes and implement if appropriate

2012 NSC Officer

Heritage Maintain and/or enhance the site’s important history and archaeology A6.1) Continue to light tower beacon to commemorate special occasions

A6.1.1) Liaise with Uphill Village society and provide ranger support if required.

Ongoing Uphill Vilalge Society/Rangers

A6.2) Continue to maintain historic features

A6.2.1) See A2.2.3 and A3.2.2

A6.3) Investigate links with archaeological groups to maintain historical structures.

A6.3.1) Liaise with NSC archaeologist

2012 NSC Officer

Community Involvement To recognise and encourage further community involvement in the conservation site through consultation, events and activities. A7.1) Recruit additional volunteer warden and volunteers to assist in site management and monitoring

A7.1.1) Work with AWT to recruit joint voluntary warden for Uphill Hill and Walborough and advertise for volunteers in notice board and in publications.

2011/12 NSC Officer/AWT

A7.2) Continue to support existing volunteer groups and

A7.2.1) Provide Brandon Trust (and others) with tools,

Ongoing NSC Officer/Seasonal Warden


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seek other groups that could be involved.

litter pickers, bin bags and gloves if required A7.2.2) Maintain regular communication A7.2.3) Contact other groups that may be interested in maintenance tasks e.g Osprey Outdoors

Marketing To actively promote the LNR to all potential users. A8.1) Raise awareness of the conservation site and promote volunteering opportunities, events and activities.

A8.1.1) See marketing strategy (appendix 4)

Ongoing

NSC Officer/Seasonal Warden/Volunteers/ AWT

Management To provide a responsive, flexible and high quality management service. A9.1) Seek funding for maintenance and seasonal warden post

A9.1.1) Apply for HLS 2012 NSC officer

A9.2) Volunteer activities to be tied into the specific aims and priorities of the management plan

A9.2.1) Arrange regular meetings to agree on a work schedule.

Quarterly NSC officer

A9.3) Carry out user survey A9.3.1) Ask visitors to fill out standard form

2012 NSC officer/Volunteers

A9.4) Continue partnership working

A9.4.1) Continue quarterly management committee


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meetings A9.4.2) Maintain links with Avon Wildlife Trust A9.4.3) Maintain links with Uphill Village Society A9.4.4) Seek to reduce anti social behaviour and miss-use by continuing to work with local Police/PCSO and increase volunteer presence. Put telephone number to report miss-use in notice board.

October, Annually Ongoing

NSC officer, Volunteers, Visitors to the hill.

A9.5) Monitor and review site management

A9.5.1) Hold regular management meetings/site visits

Quarterly NSC officer

A9.6) Respond to public reports quickly and efficiently

Ongoing NSC officer/Volunteers


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6.0 FINANCE 6.1 Existing expenditure 5 year grant funding from Natural England for up to £14,000 a year until February 2012 for seasonal warden and scrub

management Additional maintenance and repairs/upkeep of infrastructure approx £2500 a year Dog bin emptying approx £500 a year 7.0 MONITORING AND REVIEW The management plan sets out a clear and detailed 5 year action plan, and outlines a number of aspirations. It is our intention that the action plan will form an integral part of the responsible officers overall annual work plan and targets, which will be reviewed on an ongoing basis through one to one meetings with managers and the more formal performance review process. The action plan will also be reviewed by the management committee quarterly, and progress monitored. This will be used to inform the action plan for the following year, and if appropriate, make minor changes to the overall management plan. The management plan will be subject to a major review every 5 years, when it will be re-drafted and subject to consultation to develop a plan for the following 5 years.


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Appendix 1 Uphill Hill LNR list of partners

NAME OF ORGANISATION CONTACT NAME

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

North Somerset Council

Katie Spencer Green Spaces Asset Officer

Overall management of site


Susan Stangroom Biodiversity Officer

Technical advice relevant to site


Cllr Clive Webb Chairman of management committee

Natural England

Karen Pollock Conservation Officer

Ensure correct management of SSSI’s

Avon Wildlife Trust

Tim Curley Reserves Manager

Management of adjacent site (Walborough LNR)

N/A

Volunteer wardens Regular site visits

Uphill Village Society Stewart Castle Works in partnership with council and contributes financially to projects

Updated November 2011


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Appendix 2 Standard Safety Risk Assessment Forms

Existing Control measures : (eg. Safe Methods of Work, Training/Information/Instructions, NSC guidance/best practice, PPE etc)

1. The quarry face is securely fenced, with warning signs, and is checked on a regular basis.

2. Signage informs visitors at all entrances when cattle are grazing, and a flag is also flown to reinforce this message.

3. This is a natural hazard of the site and is obvious from the main stone dust pathway through the site.

4. This contains a reasonable depth of water during times of high rainfall and is securely fenced with signage.

5. Dog Control Orders are in place allowing prosecution of anyone failing to pick up after their dog. Dog bins are situated at all entrances. Seasonal wardens are employed to help ensure dog owners comply with the requirements of the site. In the absence of a seasonal warden volunteers and NSC officer are regularly present on site.

6. Paths are checked regularly for trip hazards by volunteers/warden and NSC officer

Action Required: Ensure signage and fencing remains intact. Written Procedure Completed? YES / NO

WORK ACTIVITIES FOR: Visitors to Uphill Hill

DIRECTORATE: Development & Environment

Name of Assessor Katie Spencer

Date 24 November 2011

Activities Identified: Uphill Hill is a popular place with local people and visitors to the area for relaxation and the walking of dogs. Associated Hazards:

1. Steep quarry face 2. Presence of cattle 3. Steep ground 4. Sheep wash 5. Dog fouling 6. Paths 7. Cattle Drinking Troughs

People at risk: Visitors to the hill, contractors.


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Existing Control measures : (eg. Safe Methods of Work, Training/Information/Instructions, NSC guidance/best practice, PPE etc) Specialist environmental contractors are taken on to do this work who have their own risk assessments and whose staff are trained. Scrub clearance takes place during the winter months when visitor numbers are less and when cattle are not usually on the hill. Action Required: Ensure contractor aware of risks and risk assessment scrutinised. Ensure all fires extinguished before site is left.

Written Procedure Completed? YES / NO

WORK ACTIVITIES FOR: Burning of scrub, Uphill Hill


Name of Assessor Katie Spencer


Activities Identified: Scrub is occasionally cleared from the hill and is either burnt on site or lost in a suitable rough patch of ground. Burning is only as approved by Natural England and usually involves either burning in bramble patches or on corrugated iron on the quarry floor. Associated Hazards: Fire causing burns or remaining hot enough to damage people or livestock. People at risk: Contractor, visitors to the hill, members of staff.


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Existing Control measures : (eg. Safe Methods of Work, Training/Information/Instructions, NSC guidance/best practice, PPE etc) Wardens are advised at no time to put themselves in danger and to avoid confrontation. Any issue that they feel unable to deal with should be referred to the Green Spaces Officer. Their role should not involve enforcement but they do become known to local site users and do advise on site requirements such as dogs on leads whilst cattle are grazing. The seasonal warden is provided with a mobile phone for general use, and also in case of any emergency situations. Action Required: Ensure new wardens are advised of role and responsibilities.

Written Procedure Completed? YES / NO

WORK ACTIVITIES FOR: Uphill Hill wardens


Name of Assessor

Katie Spencer


Activities Identified: Uphill hill is a public open space used for quiet relaxation and is very popular with dog walkers. The hill is grazed by cattle during the summer. Volunteer wardens assist council officials in management and monitoring of the site. Wardens are aware of the everyday hazards associated with the site such as quarry face, steepness of slopes, presence of cattle and rough, slippery paths. Associated Hazards: The main hazard to wardens is members of the public and their unpredictability when being asked to do something to which they may object.


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Appendix 3 Interesting and rare plants on Uphill Hill

These are photographs of some rare and interesting plants found on Uphill Hill. Some of the rarest species are Somerset hair grass (no photo), honewort, goldilocks aster (no photo), eyebright, horseshoe vetch, kidney vetch and cowslips. Others are not very common such as the bee orchid, green-winged orchid, pyramidal orchid and autumn ladies tresses.

Bee Orchid

Green winged orchid Green winged orchid

Autumn ladies tresses

Pyramidal orchid

Honewort Photographer: J R Crellin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/

Eyebright Photographer: J R Crellin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/

Kidney Vetch Photographer: J R Crellin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/

Cowslip

Horseshoe Vetch Photographer: J R Crellin http://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/


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Appendix 4 Marketing Strategy

Objectives We aim to encourage and increase the number of visitors to Uphill Hill Local Nature Reserve by creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing an environment conducive to leisure activities and relaxation.

Actions Our objectives will be met through the actions outlined below:

a) Site entrances to display welcoming signs. These signs give an overview of the site along with historical and wildlife information. b) Increase the number of events held on Uphill Hill. A number of events have been held on the hill in 2011. These have catered for all age groups and have been very popular. These events will be built on in the future and the venue used whenever possible. c) Raise awareness of the site through promotional literature and Council’s website.

A visitor guide and walks booklet have been produced and are made available at Tourist Information Centres, libraries, sports centres and other Council outlets. The volunteer warden also hands out these leaflets and they are easily available on the internet. Volunteers working on the site will be encouraged to hand out these leaflets. d) Produce press releases about events and developments.

Ensure events are advertised in the local press along with news of any significant developments on the site. e) Residents’ survey.

These should be undertaken every few years, to be delivered to residents with statutory Council literature to avoid excessive postal charges. f) Encourage input from voluntary wardens.

Voluntary wardens are very helpful with the management of the site. Any local person interested in taking on this role should be encouraged to help in whatever way they can. g) Keep local Village Society aware of site developments.

The Village Society forms a useful link between the District Council and local residents. A regular article is written for the Uphill Village Society quarterly newsletter giving information on current issues. h) Make every effort to keep the site clean.


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Appendix 5 Observations and survey reports 2010

Observations and Surveys 2010 By Chris Olive (Seasonal Warden)

This report is intended to pull together the observations and survey results for the period between April 2010 and October 2010 and includes all results from both Bird and Butterfly surveys and any other observations recorded over this period. It is not exhaustive and does not contain recordings of all species of flora and fauna on the reserve but does give a good indication of the notable species that visit and use the site.

Bird survey This year was the first year that a regular Bird survey was performed on the site and picked up on many species of bird. At first the survey was in the form of a transect but this proved to be unsuccessful. This was replaced by a survey which consisted of recording the highest number of each species of bird observed within 15 minutes on seven carefully selected sites around the nature reserve. These were “Kestrel cliffs” (sat at the picnic bench), “Sheepwash hedgerow” (sat by the Sheepwash), the “Far southern corner”, “Woodpecker wood” (sat by the large pit), “Underwood field” sat at the top looking across and down, “Hairgrass rock” by the enclosure opposite the benches by the church and “Beefly path” the path that runs along the top of the tidal trail hedgerow.

Black backed gull Black headed gull

Blackbird Black cap

Blue tit Buzzard

Carrion crow Chaffinch Chiff Chaff

Collared dove Common pheasant

Cormorant Dunnock Goldfinch Great tit

Greater-spotted woodpecker Green woodpecker

Greenfinch Grey Heron

Grey Wagtail Herring Gull

House martin Jackdaw Kestrel

Lesser Black-backed gull Lesser Whitethroat

Linnet Little Egret

Long Eared Owl Long-tailed tit

Magpie Mallard


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Raven Robin Rook

Shelduck Skylark

Song thrush Sparrow

Sparrow hawk Starling Swallow

Swift Wheatear

White dove Whitethroat Woodpigeon

Wren The results show that 48 different species of bird were observed during the survey across the 7 sites. The recording of the Long-eared owl was particularly important as it is the first record of this notably rare bird. A pair of Long-eared owl fledglings were spotted off survey and the adult continues to be observed throughout October, along the Tidal trail and in the Sheepwash area. Also spotted off survey have been:

Peregrine falcons, 4 of, circling high above the enclosure and the tower in early April. Clearly hunting.

A Red kite was observed nearby on Warlborough flying west to east towards Bleadon hill in early October.

Tawny owls have been spotted at the Folly lane area during the summer months. A Barn owl was spotted during September hunting over the reserves. Three Oyster catchers were observed in the spring in the Cliff area and could have

been looking for a suitable nesting site.

Long eared owl


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20th May

27th May

4th June

10th June

16th June

24th June

9th July

22nd July

2nd Aug

4th Aug 22nd Aug Totals

Black backed gull 1 1 3 5 2 2 14 Black headed gull 2 4 3 2 11 Blackbird 12 9 5 9 6 1 1 4 3 2 3 55 Black cap 1 1 Blue tit 3 3 1 2 12 2 23 Buzzard 1 2 2 5 Carrion crow 3 27 3 7 2 6 4 9 3 4 68 Chaffinch 3 8 1 8 5 1 1 1 1 29 Chiff Chaff 2 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 3 15 Collared dove 1 3 4 Common pheasant 1 1 Cormorant 1 1 Dunnock 2 5 4 1 1 2 2 2 19 Goldfinch 3 10 8 10 16 4 4 1 9 3 2 70 Great tit 4 2 1 2 2 2 1 5 4 2 25 Greater-spotted woodpecker 1 1 Green woodpecker 3 1 4 8 Greenfinch 1 1 2 1 2 7 Grey Heron 1 1 2 2 2 8 Grey Wagtail 1 1 Herring Gull 10 5 15 17 11 8 21 13 19 10 9 138 House martin 2 2 16 20 Jackdaw 11 7 10 42 9 6 20 12 29 146 Kestrel 4 1 2 2 4 2 7 8 2 4 2 38 Lesser Black-backed gull


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Lesser Whitethroat 1 1 Linnet 2 1 2 2 1 8 Little Egret Long Eared Owl 2 2 Long-tailed tit 2 2 2 7 13 Magpie 3 9 4 6 13 3 4 12 10 4 7 75 Mallard 4 5 2 1 12 Raven 2 2 Robin 3 1 1 1 1 1 6 8 8 30 Rook 1 2 2 2 1 8 Shelduck 1 1 Skylark 3 1 1 5 Song thrush 1 1 2 Sparrow 1 1 Sparrow hawk 1 1 2 Starling 10 7 15 6 4 19 61 Swallow 5 6 8 6 4 3 5 5 18 60 Swift 14 2 8 6 2 17 21 4 74 Wheatear 2 2 White dove 1 3 4 Whitethroat 1 2 4 1 7 1 1 1 1 1 20 Woodpigeon 5 7 7 13 9 3 13 16 15 8 7 103 Wren 5 5 7 9 5 2 1 3 6 2 4 49


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Butterfly

This years Butterfly transect was performed jointly by both myself and a volunteer who unfortunately wasn’t able to do as much as she had wished and hence the records have been sparse this year. I propose that next year the Warden performs a transect weekly and that if volunteers wish to assist then they will accompany the Warden as apposed to performing the survey for him. This will avoid the problem this year of unreliability. The Results The butterfly results for 2010 on Uphill Local nature reserve. Species recorded: Small Skipper Large Skipper Large White Small White Green-veined White Orange Tip Small Copper Common Blue Holly Blue Red Admiral Small Tortoiseshell Peacock Comma Speckled Wood Wall Brown Meadow Brown Brown Argus Chalkhill Blue Marbled White Painted Lady Gatekeeper Small Blue


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Butterfly recordings 2010

Small/Essex Skipper2%

Large Skipper1%

Brimstone0% Large White

10% Small White6%

Green-veined White0%

Orange Tip0%

Small Copper2%

Common Blue27%

Holly Blue0%

Red Admiral2%

Small Tortoiseshell1%

Peacock1%

Comma0%

Speckled Wood2%

Wall Brown1%

Hedge Brown0%

Meadow Brown21%

Ringlet0%

Small Heath 0%

Brown Argus1%

Chalkhill Blue3%

Marbled White0%

Grayling0%

Painted Lady1%

Gatekeeper15%

Small Blue4%

Small/Essex Skipper

Large Skipper

Large White

Small White

Green-veined White

Orange Tip

Small Copper

Common Blue

Holly Blue

Red Admiral

Small Tortoiseshell

Peacock

Comma

Speckled Wood

Wall Brown

Meadow Brown

Brown Argus

Chalkhill Blue

Marbled White

Painted Lady

Gatekeeper

Small Blue


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The results show that this year was a good one for the Common blue, the Meadow brown and the Gatekeeper butterflies. Large white numbers in comparison seem to be lower then normal and this may be a trend locally or even nationally. Painted lady numbers are well down on last years numbers and goes to show what an exceptional year for them last year was. The rare Chalkhill blue makes up a pleasing 3% of the total but the Brown Argus only makes up 1% of the total this year. No Brimstones were recorded this year but the Warden observed several on site off transect.

Other notably observations

As In previous years, Grass snakes have been observed on the hill. This year they were observed in late September and occurred in the dense vegetation on verges at the Folly lane entrance to the site. Frogs and toads have also been observed this year. The frogs where seen in the Sheepwash field and could have originated either from the Sheepwash or the surrounding Rhyne’s in that area. Toads where observed on the lower northern slopes in early September when the Warden was removing scrub in that area. No in depth Invertebrate survey took place this year but notably species where observed and recorded. These include:

Great green bush cricket Field Cricket Meadow Grasshopper Common Field Grasshopper Cock chaffer Hoverflies (various species)


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Spotted bee fly Various Shield bugs Various dung fly species Bumble bees (B lapidarius, B terrestris, B lucorum, B horturum.) Frog hopper Dragon flies (Emperor, Ruddy darter)

Many other more common invertebrate species are clearly present on the site but have not been official recorded and this should be remedied by the future warden. Perhaps a regular surveyor can be sourced voluntarily or a general species count to calculate an average should be conducted. A healthy population of Badgers still inhabit the reserve with latrine sites and setts throughout the area. These have been recorded again and go in with the previous year’s larine maps. The uncovering of the cave at the Cliff/quarry face has provided another latrine site and the sett within the enclosure seems to be getting bigger. Continuation of this annual count of latrines could be complemented by a “Badger spotting” event where actual numbers can be estimated. Foxes have been observed on numerous occasions with 2 cubs also being observed during July towards the southern corner of the reserve. Rabbit numbers in comparison have gone down and could be related to the thriving fox population or maybe the reoccurrence of Myxomatosis. A rabbit which had clearly died from contracting the Myxoma virus was spotted at the top of the enclosure in May. This needs to be monitored. Common shrew and Vole corpses have been observed around the site on numerous occasions. With the increase in predator species that prey upon them, it can be deduced that the rodent population, in particularly the Field vole population is thriving. After speaking in depth with Chris Sperring from the Hawk and Owl trust and with Karen Pollock of Natural England, it was decided that Underwood field would be less intensively grazed allowing the grass to become longer a thus encouraging the habitat for these field rodent species, invertebrates and all species that feed upon them. It will be interesting to compare the results from this season and the next after the changes have really taken effect. As with last year, it would be beneficial for a small mammal survey to be conducted on the reserve to record numbers and plot trends in populations.


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Appendix 6 Citation


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Appendix 7 Natural England Views about management

Views About Management A statement of English Nature’s views about the management of Uphill Cliff Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

This statement represents English Nature’s views about the management of the SSSI for nature conservation. This statement sets out, in principle, our views on how the site’s special conservation interest can be conserved and enhanced. English Nature has a duty to notify the owners and occupiers of SSSI of its views about the management of the land.

Not all of the management principles will be equally appropriate to all parts of the SSSI. Also, there may be other management activities, additional to our current views, which can be beneficial to the conservation and enhancement of the features of interest.

The management views set out below do not constitute consent for any operation. English Nature’s written consent is still required before carrying out any operation likely to damage the features of special interest (see your SSSI notification papers for a list of these operations). English Nature welcomes consultation with owners, occupiers and users of the SSSI to ensure that the management of this site conserves and enhances the features of interest, and to ensure that all necessary prior consents are obtained.

Management Principles In order to maintain a species-rich sward and its associated insects and other invertebrates, calcareous grassland requires active management. Without management it rapidly becomes dominated by stands of rank grasses, such as Tor-grass. These grasses, together with the build up of dead plant matter, suppress less vigorous species and lower the diversity of the site. Eventually, the site will scrub over. Traditionally, management of calcareous grassland is achieved by grazing. The precise timing and intensity of grazing will vary both between and within sites, according to local conditions and requirements (such as type of stock or the needs of particular vegetation types, individual plants or animals; certain invertebrates, for example, can benefit from the presence of taller vegetation) but should aim to keep a relatively open sward without causing excessive poaching. Light trampling can be beneficial by breaking down leaf litter and providing bare patches for seed germination and some invertebrates. An element of managed scrub, both within and fringing calcareous grassland, can be of great importance to certain birds and invertebrates but excessive scrub should be controlled. No other management should be routinely required. The application of pesticides, including herbicides, or any fertilizer would be damaging and should be avoided. Uphill Cliff Views About Management, Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, Schedule 11(6) Version date: 07/02/03 Page 59 of 72


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Appendix 8 Operations likely to damage the special Interest of Uphill Hill (Natural England). Operations likely to damage the special interest Site name: Uphill Cliff OLD1000858 Ref. No. Type of Operation 1 Cultivation, including ploughing, rotovating, harrowing, and re-seeding. 2 Changes in the grazing regime (including type of stock, intensity or seasonal pattern

of grazing and cessation of grazing). 3 Stock feeding. 4 The introduction of or changes in the mowing or cutting regime (including hay

making to silage and cessation). 5 Application of manure, fertilisers and lime. 6 Application of pesticides, including herbicides (weedkillers). 7 Dumping, spreading or discharge of any materials. 8 Burning. 9 The release into the site of any wild, feral or domestic animal*, or any plant or seed. 10 The killing or removal of any wild animal*, including pest control. 11 The destruction, displacement, removal or cutting of any plant or plant remains,

including tree, shrub, herb, hedge, dead or decaying wood, moss, lichen, fungus, leaf-mould and turf.

12 The introduction of tree or woodland management including afforestation and planting.

13a Drainage (including moor-gripping and the use of mole, tile, tunnel or other artificial drains).

14 The changing of water levels and tables and water utilisation (including irrigation, storage and abstraction from existing water bodies and through boreholes).

20 Extraction of minerals, including topsoil, subsoil, and lime. 21 Construction, removal or destruction of roads, tracks, walls, fences, hardstands,

banks, ditches or other earthworks, or the laying, maintenance or removal of pipelines and cables, above or below ground.

22 Storage of materials. 23 Erection of permanent or temporary structures, or the undertaking of engineering

works, including drilling. 24 Modification of natural or man-made features, clearance of boulders, large stones,

loose rock or scree and battering, buttressing or grading rock-faces and infilling of quarries.

26 Use of vehicles likely to damage or disturb features of interest. 27 Recreational or other activities likely to damage features of interest. * ‘animal’ includes any mammal, reptile, amphibian, bird, fish or invertebrate.


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Appendix 9 Inspection forms SITE: UPHILL HILL, CHURCH PATH ENTRANCE

DATE: CHECKLIST TICK COMMENTS Railings

Entrance signs

Seats

Quarry fencing / signs

Fencing top of enclosure

Tower

Miscellaneous

Boxes to be ticked when inspection made. No comments implies all satisfactory.


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SITE: UPHILL HILL, BOATYARD ENTRANCE

DATE:

CHECKLIST TICK COMMENTS Main entrance signs

Main entrance gates

Cleanliness of paths

Enclosure fencing (Aug – Nov)

Padlock & chain on both gates to enclosure

Entrance gate/padlock/signs

Gate from Walborough/sign

Top gate/sign

Miscellaneous



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SITE: UPHILL HILL, FOLLY LANE ENTRANCE

DATE:

CHECKLIST TICK COMMENTS Main entrance signs

Main entrance gate padlocked properly?

Cleanliness of paths

Trees alongside main track

Fence by wood

Troughs (March)

Miscellaneous



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Appendix 10 RSPB Volunteer and Farmer Alliance 2010 Uphill Hill Bird Survey – Key Results Red Species of high conservation concern Amber Species of medium conservation concern Green Species of lower conservation concern Species List Dunnock (Amber) Green Woodpecker (Amber) House Sparrow (Red) Kestrel (Amber) Lesser Black-Backed Gull (Amber) Linnet (Red) Mallard (Amber) Sky Lark (Red) Starling (Red) Swift (Amber) Swallow (Amber) Song Thrush (Red) Whitethroat (Amber) Willow Warbler (Amber)


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Appendix 11 Management, maintenance, events and activities 2011/12

Management plan objective

Action Supporting image

To maintain and enhance calcareous grassland plant and invertebrate

communities

Grazing Cattle grazed the hill in April and between June and November. The Grazing agreement is being renewed for the period 2012-2014. Rare breed Soay Sheep from the Cobthorn Trust (rare breeds trust) grazed the enclosure between November 2011 and January 2012. The sheep will return in October 2012.

Soay sheep hiding in scrub

To maintain and enhance calcareous grassland plant and invertebrate

communities

Scrub Management Scrub management was carried out in the sheep enclosure in November 2011, and on the rest of the hill including the rock

face to the east of the enclosure in January

2012.

Sheep enclosure Community involvement Hedge maintenance

Osprey Outdoors (a community interest

company aiming to get mental health service

users and unemployed etc outdoors) cleared bramble from our laid hedge and

planted up the gap between the hedge and the enclosure gate with native hedge whips in

January 2011.


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To actively promote the LNR to all potential users.

Notice Board A notice board was installed at the boat yard entrance. This displays seasonal information on wildlife, site management and amenities and has been successfully used to advertise for volunteers. It is planned that a regular volunteer group will be set up ready to start in the spring.

To improve site interpretation

Signs New signage to welcome people and inform users of restrictions were installed at the main entrances in April 2011

Healthy, safe and secure Steps

A group of apprentices from the Groundwork Trust constructed these steps to improve access into Underwood field.

To maintain the site in

safe condition Boundary features

New fencing was installed by the water trough where the wall is low. A number of small fence repairs were carried out by contractors, the seasonal warden and volunteer wardens. The wall along Uphill way was re-built in two sections in November 2011.


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To maintain a record and

monitor management

Surveys The seasonal warden continued bird, butterfly, dotted bee fly and plant surveys in 2011. The Somerset Rare Plants group should be undertaking red data list plant surveys in 2012, including honewort and Somerset Hair grass.

Honewort

To maintain and enhance the site’s access

infrastructure

Litter picking Carried out nearly every day by volunteer warden and once a week by the Brandon Trust (learning disabilities charity). The seasonal warden also carries out litter picking.

Community Involvement/maintain links with Uphill Village Society.

Uphill Village Scarecrow event The seasonal warden took part 2011’s event in September, displaying His Mr Men at the top of the tower.

Marketing/awareness

Guided Walks The seasonal warden lead a guided walk on the natural history of the hill in July 2011. During the summer the Somerset Wildlife Trust also led a guided walk on the hill with help from the seasonal warden. Our seafront ranger also led a walk on the quarrying and geology of the site in September 2011.


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Moth Hunt The seasonal warden set up the moth trap on the hill in the evening and then people were invited to come along to identify them in the warmth of the victory hall in Uphill village the following day.

Treasure Hunt This was a really popular event with families in July. Maps are questions were given out by the seasonal warden and sweets were awarded for prizes.


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Appendix 12 Butterfly Survey Transect Route The route should be walked starting from Folly Lane and butterflies should be recorded within a 5metre ‘box’ in front of you, following the Butterfly Conservation Trust’s methodology. Records should be sent to the Butterfly Conservation Trust.


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Appendix 13 Bird Survey Stops Stand (or sit) at each of these 7 stops for a period of 15 minutes. Record the bird species and also the number, by recording the largest number you see together at one time e.g. If you see 1 male blackbird and then if flies away and you see another male black bird, only record the number as 1, as they could be the same bird rather than 2 different ones.

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