A BREEDING BIRD SURVEY OF S...3485 Saddleworth BBS R01 E3 Ecology Ltd. June 2014 5 A. SUMMARY E3 Ecology Ltd was commissioned by EC Harris to undertake a three-visit breeding bird

2014

A BREEDING BIRD SURVEY OF SADDLEWORTH

REPORT NO1 DRAFT

3485 Saddleworth BBS R01

E3 Ecology Ltd.

June 2014

2

Mark Osborne

Status Date Proof Read Approved

Draft 18/05/2014 BC JS

[email protected]

James Streets

Associate

[email protected]

EC Harris

3485

18.06.2014

Associate

Copyright to all written or recorded work howsoever held on whatever medium is vested in E3 Ecology Ltd. On

settlement of all agreed fees, written work produced specifically for the named clients is thereafter regarded as joint

copyright between the named client and E3 Ecology Ltd. No attempts should be made to reproduce any element

of this report for commercial or other purposes, without explicit prior written permission from E3 Ecology Ltd.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. SUMMARY....................................................................................................................... 5

B. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 7

B.1 Background to Development ...................................................................................... 7 B.2 Development Proposals ............................................................................................. 8 B.3 Planning Policy and Legislative Context ..................................................................... 8

National Planning Policy Framework ................................................................................. 8 Legislation referred to in relation to site assessment: ........................................................ 9

B.4 Personnel .................................................................................................................. 9 B.5 Scope of Study .......................................................................................................... 9 B.6 Objectives of Study .................................................................................................... 9

C. SURVEY AREA AND METHODOLOGY ............................................................................... 10

C.1 Survey Area ............................................................................................................. 10 C.2 Methodology ............................................................................................................ 11

Desktop Study .................................................................................................................. 11 Field Survey ..................................................................................................................... 11

C.3 Interpretation of results and evaluation .................................................................... 12

D. RESULTS ...................................................................................................................... 14

D.1 Desktop Study ......................................................................................................... 14 D.2 Field Survey ............................................................................................................. 15

Breeding Birds .................................................................................................................. 15 Territory Map .................................................................................................................... 17

E. ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................................... 18

E.1 Breeding Bird Assessment ....................................................................................... 19 E.2 Potential Bird use through the Year ......................................................................... 19 E.3 Limitations ............................................................................................................... 19

F. IMPACT ASSESSMENT ....................................................................................................... 20

F.1 Protected sites ......................................................................................................... 20 F.2 Breeding Birds ......................................................................................................... 20

G. MITIGATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................ 22

G.1 Mitigation Requirements .......................................................................................... 22 G.2 Additional Enhancement Recommendations ............................................................ 22

H. APPENDIX 1: LEGISLATION AND POLICY ...................................................................... 23


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Table of Figures and Tables Figure 1 – Site Location ........................................................................................................... 7 Figure 2 – Development Proposals .......................................................................................... 8 Figure 3 – Aerial Photograph of the site ................................................................................. 10 Figure 4 – Aerial Photograph Centred on the site with a 500m radius .................................... 10 Figure 5 – Territory map ......................................................................................................... 17


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A. SUMMARY

E3 Ecology Ltd was commissioned by EC Harris to undertake a three-visit breeding bird survey of land at Saddleworth, Diggle to accompany a planning application. It is proposed to construct a school and associated infrastructure. Habitats on site are dominated by pasture fields, with a dense grassland sward approximately 40cm in height throughout the survey period, interspersed with hawthorn scrub. The Diggle Brook flows south through the centre of the site, whilst a small pond is situated to the south of the site. The Huddersfield narrow canal is present abutting the eastern boundary. A small stand of broadleaf woodland is present on the northern boundary. Consultation with the Multi Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) website indicated that two parts of the South Pennine Moors Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are present within 3km of the site, the Peak District Moors Phase 1 SPA (approx.. 1.5km east) and the South Pennine Moors Phase 2 SPA (approx.3km north east). The overall site was found to support approximately 26 territories of 15 species in 2014. Of the 15 recorded species, six are recognised as being of conservation concern1, with a single red listed species, (house sparrow) and five amber listed species (dipper, dunnock, grey wagtail, mallard and whitethroat). Based on the habitats present, the site has a very limited suitability to support nocturnal or crepuscular species, species that are active primarily during twilight, and therefore may be present but are hard to record during survey. The ornithological assemblage is likely to remain largely the same throughout the year with the majority of species forming loose flocks and ranging throughout a wider area in the winter months. The overall breeding bird assemblage of the site is likely to be of low ecological value, based on the diversity and numbers recorded during surveys. Two of the species, dipper and grey wagtail, recorded as part of the assemblage are considered to be of ecological value at the parish level due to their scarcity within the parish. It is anticipated that the proposed development will have only limited impacts on the site’s breeding bird assemblage. The site supports low densities of breeding species, typical to the area and habitats present, though including two scarcer species, grey wagtail and dipper. As such impacts of the development are likely to include:

Loss of some areas of grassland and areas of scattered scrub providing foraging nesting habitat for limited range of bird species;

Potential displacement of species considered to be important at a parish level;

A risk of harm to nesting birds within habitats to be lost;

Loss of a small area of winter foraging habitat that potentially may be used sporadically and in small numbers by wader species associated with the neighboring upland areas;

Increased disturbance due to change of land use and construction works;

Loss of ground nesting opportunities associated with the pasture fields; and

Short term disruption to territories present within adjacent areas during the construction phase.

1 Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans A and Gregory RD (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. British Birds 102, pp296–341


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In order to protect wild birds, their nests and eggs from damage and destruction, no areas that are suitable for supporting nesting birds will be cleared during the bird breeding season (March to August inclusive). This applies to all vegetation, including grassland habitats present within the site and any bridge structures associated with the watercourse. In order to minimise the impacts of the development on local populations of breeding birds, the following measures would be proposed:

10 open fronted and 10 hole nest boxes to be erected within all areas of retained woodland, suitable for a range of species recorded within the survey.

A minimum of a 2m buffer should be maintained from the bank top of Diggle Brook to minimise disturbance to bird species, including grey wagtail and dipper.

Areas of grassland would be retained where possible to increase nesting opportunities and invertebrate numbers and foraging for a range of bird species.

Areas of longer grassland would be created to provide a foraging habitat for barn owl and other predators.

High intensity lighting will be avoided wherever possible and light spillage into adjacent mitigation areas will be minimised.

Future landscaping works will seek to create a structurally diverse site, which in the long-term will provide a greater range and quantity of bird nesting and foraging opportunities to those existing. If you are assessing this report for a local planning authority and have any difficulties interpreting plans and figures from a scanned version of the report, E3 Ecology Ltd would be happy to email a PDF copy to you. Please contact us on 01434 230982.


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B. INTRODUCTION

E3 Ecology Ltd was commissioned by EC Harris to undertake a three-visit breeding bird survey of land at Saddleworth, Diggle, to accompany a planning application.

B.1 Background to Development

The site is located near Diggle, Oldham at an approximate central grid reference of SE 001 072. Site location is illustrated below in Figure 1.

Figure 1 – Site Location

The general land use in the surrounding area is dominated by pasture fields and some scattered scrub. Residential dwellings are present to the west; whilst a former mill is present abutting the northern boundary. The most recent aerial photograph of the development area indicates that habitats on site are dominated by pasture fields. The Diggle Brook flows south through the centre of the fields and the Huddersfield narrow canal lies adjacent to the east of the site. A small stand of broadleaf woodland is present on the northern boundary which adjoins other woodland and scrub, and connects the site into the wider area. Other woodland is present within 500m and includes a small stand to the west, and a large mosaic of woodland and scrub to the south of the site adjacent to the canal.


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B.2 Development Proposals

It is proposed to construct a school and sports hall with associated soft and hard landscaping, in addition to playing fields, within the survey area. Figure 2, below, illustrates the currently available plans for the proposed development. The area to the north eastern corner of the site was added to the development area after the breeding bird survey work was undertaken.

Figure 2 – Development Proposals

(Reproduced from HLM Architects)

B.3 Planning Policy and Legislative Context

National Planning Policy Framework

Plan policies and planning decisions should be based upon up-to-date information about the natural environment (Paragraph 158 and 165).

Plan policies should promote the preservation, restoration and recreation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the recovery of priority species (Paragraph 117).

Local planning authorities should set out a strategic approach in their Plans, planning positively for the creation, protection, enhancement and management of networks of biodiversity and green infrastructure. (Paragraph 114).

When determining planning applications in accordance with the Local Plan and the presumption in favour of sustainable development local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying a number of principles, including if significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided, adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused. (Paragraph 118).


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Legislation referred to in relation to site assessment:

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010)

Birds Directive (1979) (as amended)

The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar) (1971)

Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended)

Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2007)

UK Biodiversity Action Plan2

Greater Manchester Local Biodiversity Action Plan

Birds of Conservation Concern3 Details of the above can be found within Appendix 2.

B.4 Personnel

Survey work and reporting was undertaken by:

Mark Osborne Btech (Hons) MCIEEM

Jamie Coleman BSc ACIEEM The project was supervised by:

Becky White MA MSc MCIEEM Details of experience and qualifications are available at www.e3ecology.co.uk.

B.5 Scope of Study

For this site the whole site area as well as a 50m buffer around the periphery of the red line boundary was appraised where access was available. A 2km buffer from the site was used for the data search.

B.6 Objectives of Study

The objectives of the study were to: -

identify/assess breeding bird species present

assess the sensitivity of the species present, and the habitats they depend on

develop mitigation proposals The study area includes the site and adjacent land, where possible, to allow for possible secondary impacts in line with Natural England recommendations.

2 JNCC and Defra (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group). 2012. UK Post-2010 3 Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans A and Gregory RD

(2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. British Birds 102,pp296–341

http://www.e3ecology.co.uk/


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C. SURVEY AREA AND METHODOLOGY

C.1 Survey Area

Figure 3 illustrates the survey area whilst Figure 4 illustrates the broad habitats present on site and within an approximate 500m buffer zone to provide context.

Figure 3 – Aerial Photograph of the survey area

(Reproduced under licence from Google Earth Pro.)

Figure 4 – Aerial Photograph Centred on the site with a 500m radius

illustrating the setting and the habitats it supports


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(Reproduced under licence from Google Earth Pro.) The study area has been based on professional judgement using the habitats on site, the surrounding habitats, geographical knowledge of the local area and the nature of the proposed development.

C.2 Methodology

Desktop Study

Consultation was undertaken for the following statutory protected sites designated for ornithological interests within 10km of the site boundary (5km for SSSI’s).

Special Protection Areas (SPAs);

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs); and

Ramsar sites.

Field Survey

Survey Equipment

The following items of equipment were utilised during survey work and analysis:

RSPB HD 10x42 Binoculars

Apple iPad

“GIS Pro” mapping application

Breeding Bird Survey Methods

The Territory Mapping Method was used to survey the study area for breeding birds. This is closely based on that adopted by the British Trust for Ornithology’s Common Bird Census, and is outlined in detail in Gilbert, Gibbons & Evans4 and Bibby, Burgess & Hill5. The site was surveyed by an experienced ornithologist who is able to identify all commonly occurring UK bird species by sight and call. Initially, the habitats were studied and assessed for their likely bird use. The surveyor moved slowly around the site, stopping to scan for birds using high quality binoculars and where appropriate, a telescope. Birds seen or heard were recorded as accurately as possible on a plan of the site using an Apple iPad running the ‘GIS Pro’ application. Survey techniques used good field craft to minimise disturbance to birds, wearing dull clothes, avoiding being silhouetted against the skyline, moving slowly and then spending time in one location to allow birds to become active again. Where sensitive species are present, such as nesting raptors, priority has been given to protecting the birds rather than gathering very detailed information, generally by quiet observation from a distance. The identity and activity of all birds were mapped using the British Trust for Ornithology’s standard list of codes for bird species and activities. Care was taken to record as much detail as possible, such as the age and sex of the bird, as such detail is often vital during analysis. Other species and habitats of nature conservation value were recorded where possible.

4 Gilbert, G., Gibbons. D.W. & Evans. J. 1998. Bird Monitoring Methods: A manual of techniques for key UK

species. RSPB 5 Bibby, C., Burgess, N.D., Hill, D.A, Mustoe, S. (2000) Bird Census Techniques


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Three visits were made to the survey area, a single visit in April, May and June 2014. The dates and times of each visit were noted (Table 1) together with the weather conditions during each visit (Table 2). Survey visits were timed to avoid the peak in bird activity during the hour before dawn and focused on the more uniform period of activity between sunrise and midday. The area of buildings and woodland to the north of the current development boundary were not included within the survey area as this area was added after survey work had been undertaken. However, given that this area largely comprises buildings and hard standing and that the woodland is to be retained post development, this is not considered to have affected the assessments made. Where habitats are appropriate, the survey may include dusk/dawn or night-time survey work to pick up crepuscular and nocturnal species.

Survey timing and Weather conditions

Table 1. Survey visit dates and timings

Visit Date Time

A 17/04/2014 0715-0930

B 15/05/2014 0830-1030

C 13/06/2014 0720-0830

Table 2. Weather Conditions During the Survey Visits

Date Cloud cover Precipitation Wind Temperature Visibility

17/04/2014 100% None SW3 7oC >2

15/05/2014 70% None W2 14oC >2

13/06/2014 80% None SW0-1 14 oC >2

C.3 Interpretation of results and evaluation

Field maps were generated for each visit and contain all records of all species for that visit. Interpretation of the three breeding bird maps is not such a simple process that unambiguous rules can be used. The general aim is to identify clusters of registrations that refer to one pair of breeding birds. These clusters are called territories and results are presented in terms of the number of territories. Where separate territories are not clearly defined, pairs were considered separate from each other if greater than 1km (waterfowl and raptors), 500m (pigeons, game birds, and crows) or 200m (all other species) apart, with this distance reflecting the relative distance that birds might move between survey visits. All survey data was recorded electronically in the field, using an Apple iPad running the ‘GIS Pro’ application. This enables more accurate mapping of territories, as the three breeding bird maps (one for each of the visits) can be analysed as separate layers within a single map, and therefore clusters of registrations are relatively easy to detect. The final breeding bird map presented in this report has the species code recorded around the centre of its likely territory. All sections of the study area were evaluated to provide an assessment of their ornithological value. This assessment took into account a number of criteria, including the rarity of the species in question, both on a national and local scale, the diversity of species present and the quality of the surrounding habitat. The overall site value in ornithological terms was assessed using a four tier system, taking into account both national and local declines:


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1. Annex 1 Species 2. Schedule 1 Species 3. UK BAP Species 4. Birds of Conservation Concern


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D. RESULTS

D.1 Desktop Study

Consultation was undertaken with the Local Records Centre, and the MAGIC website was checked for any notable species records. The following information was obtained regarding protected sites and statutory areas located within 10 km of the site. Special Protection Areas/Ramsar Sites Consultation indicated that two areas of the South Pennine Moors SPA but no Ramsar sites are present within 10km of the site.

Peak District Moors (South Pennine Moors phase 1)

South Pennine Moors (Phase 2) South Pennine Moors SPA (approx. 1.5km to the east)6 The South Pennine Moors SPA (including the proposed extension to encompass Eastern Peak District Moors SSSI) includes the major moorland blocks of the South Pennines from Ilkley in the north to Leek and Matlock in the south. It covers extensive tracts of semi-natural moorland habitats including upland heath and blanket mire. The site is of European importance for several upland breeding species, including birds of prey and waders. Both merlin and golden plover spend some of their time feeding outside the SPA on adjacent areas of in-bye land. The northern end of the South Pennine Moors SPA is within 10 km of the North Pennine Moors SPA which supports a similar assemblage of upland breeding species. Other protected areas Consultation with the Multi Agency Geographic Information systems for the Countryside (MAGIC) website identified that there are no designations within the site. Though a single SAC, eight SSSIs and six local nature reserves within 10km, all are listed below: SAC

South Pennine Moors SSSIs

Ladcastle And Den Quarries

Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Rake Dike

Lowside Brickworks

South Pennine Moors

Standedge Road Cutting

Park Clough

Dark Peak South Pennine Moors SSSI (7.2km north east) supports a breeding bird assemblage of regional and national importance. This included large numbers of breeding merlin, golden plover and twite, which are of international importance7. There are also populations of skylark, curlew, lapwing, snipe, redshank, peregrine, short-eared owl, wheatear, whinchat, ring ouzel stonechat, common sandpiper, grey wagtail, ringed plover, shelduck and dipper.

6 http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-2001 7 http://www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk/citation/citation_photo/1007196.pdf


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Dark Peak (6.2km north east) supports nationally important breeding populations of golden plover and dunlin. There are also very significant numbers of meadow pipit, merlin, curlew, red grouse, short-eared owl, twite, peregrine, ring ouzel, wheatear, whinchat, tree pipit, redstart, green woodpecker, wood warbler, pied flycatcher, dipper, grey wagtail, Common sandpiper8. The other SSSI’s are not noted for their ornithology. Consultation with the local record centre showed records of curlew, lapwing and spotted flycatcher within 2km.

D.2 Field Survey

Breeding Birds

Breeding bird surveys in 2014 recorded the presence of 26 territories of 15 species within the survey area. In addition, Figure 3, section E3 illustrates the approximate location of each territory of the 15 species considered to be breeding within the site.

Table 3: Breeding Bird Territories

Species Territories /

pairs An

nex 1

Sch

ed

ule

1

UK

Bio

div

ers

ity L

ist

Sp

ecie

s

Breeding Species

BTO Code

Blackbird B 2

Blue Tit BT 3

Chaffinch CH 1

Dipper DI 1

Dunnock D. 1

Goldfinch GO 1

Greenfinch GR 1

Grey Wagtail GL 1

House Sparrow HS 4

Mallard MA 1

Moorhen MO 1

Robin R. 2

Whitethroat WH 1

Wood Pigeon WP 2

Wren WR 4

Total 15 26 Notes: Red List Species are listed by the RSPB as species of high national conservation concern. Amber List species are listed by the RSPB as species of medium national conservation concern9

Table 4 highlights species that were recorded during the surveys, though were not considered to be breeding within the site.

8 http://www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk/citation/citation_photo/1003028.pdf 9 Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans A and Gregory RD

(2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the

Isle of Man. British Birds 102,pp296–341.


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Table 4: Non breeding birds recorded during surveys

Species

Nu

mb

er

An

nex 1

Sch

ed

ule

1

UK

Bio

div

ers

ity

Lis

t S

pecie

s

Non Breeding Species BTO Code

Canada Goose CG 6

Carrion Crow C. 2

House Martin HM 4

Jackdaw JD 10

Lapwing L. 1

Linnet LI 9

Magpie MG 1

Nuthatch NH 1

Raven RN 1

Swift SI 3

Tawny Owl TO 2

Willow Warbler WW 2

Total 12 42 Notes: Red List Species are listed by the RSPB as species of high national conservation concern. Amber List species are listed by the RSPB as species of medium national conservation concern10

10 Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans A and Gregory RD

(2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the

Isle of Man. British Birds 102,pp296–341.


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Territory Map

Figure 5 – Territory map


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E. ASSESSMENT The value and significance of the habitats and species found was assessed against the following criteria developed from the Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment produced by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management11.

Table 5 - Ecological Impact Assessment Valuation

Level of Value Examples

International

An internationally designated site or candidate site.

A viable area of a habitat type listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive, or smaller areas

of such habitat, which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole.

Any regularly occurring population of an internationally important species, which is

threatened or rare in the UK.

Any regularly occurring, nationally significant population/number of any internationally

important species.

National

A nationally designated site.

A viable area of a priority habitat identified in the UK BAP, or smaller areas of such

habitat, which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole.

Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important species, which is threatened

or rare in the region or county.

A regularly occurring regionally or county significant population/number of any nationally

important species.

A feature identified as of critical importance in the UK BAP.

Regional

Viable areas of key habitat identified in the Regional BAP or smaller areas of such

habitat, which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole.

A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a regionally important species.

County

County designated sites.

A viable area of a habitat type identified in the County BAP.

Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species which is listed in a

County “red data book” or BAP on account of its regional rarity or localisation.

A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a species important in a County

context.

District

Areas of habitat identified in a District level BAP.

Sites designated at a District level.

Sites/features that are scarce within the District or which appreciably enrich the District

habitat resource.

A population of a species that is listed in a District BAP because of its rarity in the locality.

Parish

Area of habitat considered to appreciably enrich the habitat resource within the context of

the Parish.

Local Nature Reserves.

Local

Habitats and species that contribute to local biodiversity, could only be replicated in the

medium term, but are common in the local area.

Loss of such habitats would ideally be mitigated if local biodiversity is to be conserved

and enhanced.

Low

Habitats of poor to moderate diversity such as established conifer plantations, species

poor hedgerows and unintensively managed grassland that may support a range of Local

BAP species but which are unexceptional, common to the local area and whose loss can

generally be readily mitigated.

Significant populations are considered to be at least 1% of the total population of that species within that regional category.

11 Institute for Ecology and Environmental Management (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in

the United Kingdom (Version 7 July 2006). http:/www.ieem.org.uk/ecia/index.html.


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E.1 Breeding Bird Assessment

The survey area supports a limited range of habitats that provide moderate quality foraging and nesting habitat for a range of bird species. The grassland on site provides nesting opportunities for a limited range of ground nesting species, including skylark and lapwing; however none were recorded breeding on site. This is likely due to the height and density of the sward, the presence of a public footpath and the relatively poor sightlines due to a combination of the topography and the scattered scrub. The limited scrub within the site provides greater opportunities, with an assemblage typical to the area present, supporting species in low numbers. Species associated with the Diggle Brook are limited, though include both dipper and grey wagtail, species typical of this upland location, though present in low numbers. The woodland abutting the northern boundary of the survey area provides nesting opportunities for species such as robin and blackbird. Though the diversity of woodland species present was poor. The habitats on site provide a foraging resource for owls and other raptors, however the site is not considered to provide nesting opportunities for either. Tawny owl were recorded calling to the west during surveys undertaken for other taxa. The overall breeding assemblage of the site is considered to be of low ecological value, supporting low numbers of a range of species typical to the area. As stated above dipper and grey wagtail are scarcer breeding species and as such are likely to be of parish value. Both these species are cited on the South Pennine Moors SAC and SSSI. However given the distance to the designated sites these individuals are not considered to form part of the particular assemblages.

E.2 Potential Bird use through the Year

The ornithological assemblage is likely to remain largely the same throughout the year with the majority of species forming loose flocks and ranging throughout a wider area in the winter months. The assemblage may be augmented in winter with both redwing and fieldfare, wintering thrushes that may sporadically feed within the site. The site may provide a staging post for upland wader species, principally snipe and lapwing, prior to the breeding season, though it is likely that due to the nature of the fields and the habitats present this will only be in very low numbers.

E.3 Limitations

It is considered that there were no limitations to survey.


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F. IMPACT ASSESSMENT This section assesses the effects of the designed scheme, assuming good general working practices, but without additional targeted mitigation.

F.1 Protected sites

A number of both internationally (SPAs and SACs) and nationally (SSSIs) important sites are present within 10km, cited for or at least in part their ornithological importance. Due to the distances from these sites and the habitats present within the proposed development site no impacts are predicted. Two species, dipper and grey wagtail, associated with the water course flowing through the site, are mentioned on the South Pennine Moors SSSI designation. They are however not considered to be linked to this site. In addition, due to their specific habitat requirements, provided the watercourse is retained and buffered, they are not likely to be displaced.

F.2 Breeding Birds

A summary of the likely impacts on numbers of breeding bird territories at Saddleworth are provided within Table 6.

Table 6. Breeding Bird Predicted Impacts

Breeding Species No.

Territories

Predicted Number of Territories Displaced Without

Mitigation or Compensation

Overall Predicted

Impact with Mitigation and Compensation

Significance of Impact in Regional Context

Conservation Priority Species (UKBAP,

Amber and Red list species)

Dipper 1 0 None None

Dunnock 1 0 None None

Grey Wagtail 1 0 None None

House Sparrow 4 1 None Negligible

Mallard 1 0 None None

Whitethroat 1 0 None None

Other breeding species

Blackbird 2 1 None Negligible

Blue Tit 3 2 None Negligible

Chaffinch 1 1 None Negligible

Goldfinch 1 1 None Negligible

Greenfinch 1 0 None None

Robin 2 0 None None

Woodpigeon 2 1 None Negligible

Wren 4 0 None None

Moorhen 1 0 None None

Total 26 7

Habitat loss is likely to be limited to the grassland habitats and minor areas of scattered scrub present in the northern section of the site. As such the number of territories lost will be minimised. Based on the development proposals (Figure 2) it is considered that approximately seven territories will be displaced as a result of the development. It is


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anticipated that the biggest impact will be upon the species nesting within the scattered scrub (blue tit, goldfinch, house sparrow and woodpigeon), present in the northern section of the site. As these are commonly occurring species, were recorded in small numbers and are very likely to be accommodated within the wider area and the site post development, the impacts are likely to be negligible. As the watercourse and adjacent scrub habitat will be retained; preserving nesting and foraging opportunities associated with it, as well as providing commuting routes, impacts on the wider assemblage are likely to be limited. Although constructional disturbance may take place, it is likely that, based on the species present, this will be minimal, with exception of areas where habitat is to be lost. The landscaping associated with the final development will provide greater opportunities for many of the species, with the retained habitat complemented by structurally diverse areas of green space. The managed playing fields will provide an increased area of managed grassland, potentially increasing the possible area for wintering or passage birds, such as lapwing, associated with the uplands.

Impacts to birds of the proposed development

A summary of the likely effects of the proposed development, without appropriate targeted mitigation include:

Loss of some areas of grassland and areas of scattered scrub providing foraging nesting habitat for limited range of bird species;

A risk of harm to nesting birds within habitats to be lost;

Loss of a small area of winter foraging habitat that potentially may be used sporadically and in small numbers by wader species associated with the neighbouring upland areas;

Increased disturbance due to change of land use and construction works; and

Loss of ground nesting opportunities associated with the pasture fields.

Short term disruption to territories present within adjacent areas during the construction phase.


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G. MITIGATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

G.1 Mitigation Requirements

In order to protect wild birds, their nests and eggs from damage and destruction, no areas that are suitable for supporting nesting birds will be cleared during the bird breeding season (March to August inclusive). If any development work is undertaken within the breeding season, checking surveys, by a suitably qualified ecologist, will be required to ascertain that active nests are absent.

G.2 Additional Enhancement Recommendations

In order to minimise the impacts of the development on local populations of breeding birds, the following measures would likely be proposed:

10 open fronted and 10 hole nest boxes to be erected within all areas of retained woodland, suitable for a range of species recorded within the survey.

Areas of grassland and woodland would be retained where possible to increase nesting opportunities and invertebrate numbers and foraging for a range of bird species.

Areas of longer grassland would be created to provide a foraging habitat for barn owl and other predators.

High intensity lighting will be avoided wherever possible and light spillage into adjacent mitigation areas will be minimised.

Future landscaping works will seek to create a structurally diverse site, which in the long-term will provide a greater range and quantity of bird nesting and foraging opportunities to those existing.


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H. APPENDIX 1: LEGISLATION AND POLICY The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010) Translates the Birds Directive and Habitats Directive into UK Law12.

Birds Directive (1979) (as amended) Provides a framework for the conservation and management of, and human interactions with wild birds in Europe. The identification and classification of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for rare or vulnerable species listed in Annex I of the Directive, as well as for all regularly occurring migratory species, paying particular attention to the protection of wetlands of international importance1. Annex 1 Species These are rare breeding European birds such as golden plover and hen harrier, which are afforded special protection under Annex 1 of the EC Birds Directive and if recorded breeding on site will greatly increase the conservation value of the assemblage, with single pairs leading to at least county value up to national and international for SPA classified/significant populations. The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar) (1971) Wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention1.

Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended) Consolidates and amends existing national legislation to implement the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats and Council Directive on the conservation of wild birds (Birds Directive) in Great Britain.

The Act provides for the notification and confirmation of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) – these sites are identified for their flora, fauna, geological or physiographical features – by the country conservation bodies in England (Natural England).

Schedule 1 Species These are rare or threatened breeding UK birds, such as peregrine or corncrake, which are afforded special protection under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). In addition to the protection from killing or taking that all birds, their nests and eggs have under the Act, Schedule 1 birds and their young must not be disturbed at the nest.

These species are in general scarce breeders and will increase the ornithological value of the site in at least a district context. However, it includes barn owl, a much more common species, which is unlikely to be of greater than parish value, with the exception of more urban locations.

Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2007) The Act requires the Secretary of State to publish a list of habitats and species which are of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England13.

In addition, the following key documents were referred to:

12 www.jncc.defra.gov.uk 13 www.naturalengland.gov.uk


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UK Biodiversity Action Plan14 The UK BAP describes the biological resources of the UK and provides detailed plans for conservation of these resources. Action plans for the most threatened species and habitats are set out to aid recovery.

Greater Manchester Local Biodiversity Action Plan Identifies local priorities for biodiversity conservation and work to deliver agreed actions and targets for specific habitats and species. Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs) are delivered through wide local partnerships that involve wildlife organisations, local authorities, businesses and other interested parties15. BAP lists include both rare and common species whose populations’ have declined. On most sites it is likely to be the common species that are likely to be present, resulting in local to district value depending on numbers. Birds of Conservation Concern16 Several long-term surveillance programmes are undertaken in the UK. The data from these

schemes allow the population status of Britain’s birds to be regularly reviewed, it is from these

data that

Red List species These are listed by the RSPB as species of high national conservation concern. Species are included on this list if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

Globally threatened;

Historical population decline in UK during 1800-1995;

Rapid (> 50%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years; and

Rapid (> 50%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years. Amber List species These are listed by the RSPB as species of medium national conservation concern. Species are included on this list if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

Historical population decline during 1800-1995, but now recovering with population size having more than doubled over the last 25 years;

Moderate (25-49%) decline in UK breeding or non-breeding population or breeding range over the last 25 years;

Species of European Conservation Concern;

Five year mean of between only one and 300 breeding pairs in the UK;

>50% of the UK breeding or non-breeding population in ten or fewer sites;

>20% of the European breeding population in the UK; and

>20% of the NW European (wildfowl), East Atlantic Flyway (waders) or European (others) non-breeding populations in the UK.

These birds of conservation concern are often common species or locally scarce species such as starling and tree sparrow, which may increase a sites value.

14 JNCC and Defra (on behalf of the Four Countries’ Biodiversity Group). 2012. UK Post-2010 15 www.nebiodiversity.org.uk 16 Eaton MA, Brown AF, Noble DG, Musgrove AJ, Hearn R, Aebischer NJ, Gibbons DW, Evans A and Gregory RD

(2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. British Birds 102,pp296–341

Documents

A BREEDING BIRD SURVEY OF S...3485 Saddleworth BBS R01 E3 Ecology Ltd. June 2014 5 A. SUMMARY E3 Ecology Ltd was commissioned by EC Harris to undertake a three-visit breeding bird