Grove Park School - East Sussex · Grove Park School: Phase 1 Habitat Survey 4 APPENDICES A Relevant Legislation: Protected Species B Summary of Relevant Data provided by Sussex Biodiversity

Ecological Consultant

Grove Park School

Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Grove Park School: Phase 1 Habitat Survey

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Client: Grove Park School Prepared by: Sally Clifton Date: May 2014


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Contents Page

1 Introduction 3 2 Data Review 4 3 Phase 1 Habitat Survey 10 4 Evaluation and Impact Assessment 22

FIGURES

1 Phase 1 Habitat Survey Map

TABLES

1 SxBRC Protected, Notable/Rare, UK Biodiversity Action Plan Species with Potential to Occur in Habitats on the Proposal Sites

2 Summary of Most Recent Bat Records 3 Summary of Most Recent Notable Bird Records 4 Invasive Species with Potential to Occur on the Proposal Sites 5 Birds Observed or Heard during the Phase 1 Habitat Survey


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APPENDICES

A Relevant Legislation: Protected Species B Summary of Relevant Data provided by Sussex Biodiversity Records Centre C Target Notes from Phase 1 Habitat Survey

D Dominant and Characteristic Plant Species Recorded E English – Latin Plant Names F Guidance References on Japanese Knotweed


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1 Introduction Scope of Survey 1.1 In April 2014 Sally Clifton was commissioned by Ms Angela Wellman, Head Teacher of Grove Park School, Crowborough, East

Sussex, to undertake a Phase 1 Habitat Survey at the Primary site of the school. This was required in relation to a planning application for additional parking and future construction of a new driveway (NGR: TQ511304).

The Wider Proposal Site 1.2 The Primary Phase site is located in a suburban part of Crowborough and covers approximately 2 hectares. It is bordered to the north

and west by roads; to the south and south-east there is housing with gardens, and to the north-east is a commercial unit with a concrete yard.

1.3 The school site occupies the landscaped grounds of a former large residential property. In addition to the relatively new school buildings,

existing parking area, playgrounds and gardens, there are large areas of woodland and a number of mature ornamental trees. Survey Objectives

1.4 The aim of the survey was to assess the potential of the proposed development for impact upon features of ecological importance,

including protected species. Particular attention was paid to the two areas most directly affected by the proposed works, and the remainder of the site was surveyed in less detail in order to place these areas in their ecological context.

1.5 Specific objectives included walking the site and ‘target noting’ the following:

• any protected species, signs of and potential habitat for these species (a summary of Protected Species Legislation is

provided in Appendix A); • where potential habitat for protected species is identified, scoping the potential need for more detailed surveys of these

species;


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• any opportunities for biodiversity enhancement, within the scope of the proposed development, to complement existing habitats.

1.6 This report describes the methods, results and conclusions of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey. It also comments on the need for any

further surveys necessary to assess the impact of the proposed development and to prepare appropriate detailed mitigation and enhancement measures.


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2 Data Collection and Review

Introduction

2.1 A report provided by Sussex Biodiversity Records Centre (SxBRC) was reviewed for data of relevance to the proposal site; it included records within approximately 1km of the site. The sources were:

1. Maps 2. Sites with Statutory or Non-Statutory Designations for nature conservation 3. Sussex Protected Species Register 4. Sussex Bat Inventory 5. Sussex Bird Inventory 6. UK BAP Species Inventory 7. Sussex Rare Species Inventory 8. Sussex Invasive Alien Species 9. Full Species List 10. Environmental Survey Directory

2.2 Appendix B summarizes records of relevance to assessment of the potential ecological impact of the proposed developments. The

broad criteria for assessing relevance were as follows (with a few exceptions, where older or more distant records appeared useful):

• records within approximately the last 20 years • records with at least 6 figure grid references (or 4-figure reference with specific location descriptions) • where there is more than one record for closely related sites, only the most recent has been recorded in detail • records from habitats with some possibility of occurring on the survey site • native species only, unless of some particular ecological significance.

2.3 Appendix B also explains abbreviations for status and classifications used in this Appendix. Some ‘status’ classifications which are

less directly relevant to impact assessment have not been included, for example CITES (protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). The review below incorporates information from other sources (for example Natural England’s Nature on the Map) where appropriate for clarification. The occurrence on the proposal site of potentially suitable habitat for the protected species recorded here (and any others) is discussed in chapter 3, following presentation of the site survey results.


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2.4 The potential significance of all these records is evaluated in section 4 of this report.

Review

Summary of Designated Sites in the Vicinity of Proposed Development Site 2.5 This section summarises the features of designated sites within 1 km of the site, as indicated on a map (shown in Figure 1 overleaf) in

the SxBRC report. However it focuses particularly on habitats which could be present, or could reasonably be created, on the proposal site. The actual proposal site has no designations for nature conservation.

Statutory Sites of International Importance: Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Area (SPA), Ramsar Site

2.6 There is a tiny corner of the Ashdown Forest SAC and SPA just under 1 km to the north-west of the site.

Statutory Sites of National lmportance: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), National Nature Reserve (NNR)

2.7 The Ashdown Forest SAC is also designated as SSSI. Its citation describes it as one of the largest single continuous blocks of heath, semi-natural woodland and valley bog in south-east England. It supports several uncommon plants, a rich invertebrate fauna, and important populations of heath and woodland birds. Gorse, Silver birch, Pedunculate Oak and Scots Pine are scattered across the heath, and in some areas form extensive secondary woodland and scrub. The older woodlands consist of Beech and Sweet Chestnut. These contain Bluebell, Bilberry, Hard Fern and Honeysuckle with Birds-nest Orchid and Violet Helleborine found particularly under Beech.

Statutory Sites of Local Importance: Local Nature Reserve (LNR)


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2.8 None.

Non-statutory Sites of Local Importance: Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) 2.9 Just over 0.5km to the south is a small portion of Crowborough Warren SNCI. This site consists of a mosaic of habitats including

woodland, heath, and acid grassland, and is managed as a golf course. The only reference in the citation to habitat most resembling woodland (the only habitat listed which is also present on the proposal site) records dense patches of Bracken, Birch scrub, Bramble, Rose-bay Willowherb and Hemp-agrimony; Birch scrub with Bracken, and elsewhere Rowan and Scot's Pine.

Ancient Woodland 2.10 The SxBRC map does not show any areas of Ancient Woodland. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 2.11 The boundary of the High Weald AONB lies approximately 0.5km to the west of the proposal site. This designation is primarily for

landscape value rather than nature conservation. Figure 1 SxBRC Map showing Locations of Nearest Designated Sites.


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Summary of Relevant Data for Protected, Rare and Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Species

2.12 This section summarises relevant data from sources 3, 4, and 5 listed in section 2.1, but excludes data for Bats and Birds which are

addressed separately below due to their quantity. The search area included any OS 1km square partly falling within 1km of the proposal site.

2.13 These records are for species protected by either local,

national or international legislation. The SxBRC report includes 25 such species which have the

potential to occur in any of the habitats present on the two proposal sites. More detail of designations for these species is provided in Appendix B. Table 1 below summarises these species, giving the most recent records.

Table 1 SxBRC Protected, Notable/Rare, UK Biodiversity Action Plan Species with Potential to Occur in Habitats on the Proposal Sites

Common Name Latin Name Most Recent Record

Purple Emperor Apatura iris 2006 Buff Ermine Spilosoma luteum 2013 Oak Hook-tip Watsonalla binaria 2013 Small Phoenix Ecliptopera silaceata 2013 Knot Grass (moth) Acronicta rumicis 2013 Brown-spot Pinion Agrochola litura 2013 Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis 2013 Green-brindled Crescent Allophyes oxyacanthae 2013 Mouse Moth Amphipyra tragopoginis 2013 Small Square-spot Diarsia rubi 2013 Rosy Rustic Hydraecia micacea 2013 Dot Moth Melanchra persicariae 2013 Rosy Minor Mesoligia literosa 2013 Shoulder-striped Wainscot Mythimna comma 2013 White Admiral Limenitis camilla 2006 Red-green Carpet Chloroclysta siterata 2013 Stag Beetle Lucanus cervus 2010 Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus 2010 Common Toad Bufo bufo 2011 Slow Worm Anguis fragilis 2006 Grass Snake Natrix natrix 2002 Common Lizard Zootoca vivipara 2002 Adder Vipera berus 2008 Hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus 2006 Dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius 2010


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Summary of Relevant Data for Bats 2.14 Table 2 lists the most recent records for Bat species within any OS 1km square partly falling within 1km of the proposal site. All

species of Bat and their roosts are protected by UK and European law, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA) in the UK and the Habitats Directive in the EU.

Table 2 Summary of Most Recent Bat Records


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Summary of Most Recent Records for Notable Birds 2.15 The SxBRC report lists 113 species of birds recorded between 1954 and 2012 falling within 1km of the proposal site. It then provides

details of ‘Notable Birds’, which are those having at least one of the following designations:

• Schedule 1 birds, that is birds listed on Schedule of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981; • Biodiversity Action Plan Species (UK BAP); • bird species on the England Biodiversity List of the Natural Environment & Rural Communities (NERC) Act; • Birds of Conservation Concern 3 (2009): Red, Amber and Green lists, in decreasing order of ‘concern’.

2.16 Table 3 summarises most recent records of Notable Birds within 1km of the proposal site. Table 3 Summary of Most Recent Notable Bird Records

Common Name Latin Name Most Recent Records

Bat sp. Chiroptera 2004 Brown Long-eared Bat Plecotus auritus 2010 Common Pipistrelle (45 kHz) Pipistrellus pipistrellus 2011 Long-eared sp. Plecotus sp. 2007 Nyctalus Bat species Nyctalus sp. 2010 Pipstrelle sp. Pipistrellus sp. 2012 Serotine Eptesicus serotinus 2007 Soprano Pipstrelle (55 kHz) Pipistrellus pygmaeus 2012


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Common Name Latin Name Most Recent Records

Common Swift Apus apus 2009 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 2008 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 1986 Red Kite Milvus milvus 2011 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2007 Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo 2011 Wood Lark Lullula arborea 2005 Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes 1983 Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra 1999 Willow Tit Poecile montanus 1999 Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla 2011 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix 2012 Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata 2005 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos minor 1993


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Summary of Invasive Alien Species

2.17 Table 4 lists those invasive species recorded within 1 km of the proposal sites and occurring in habitats which are also present on these sites.

Table 4 Invasive Species with Potential to Occur on the Proposal Sites

Common Name Latin Name Most Recent Record

Nuttall's Waterweed Elodea nuttallii 2006 New Zealand Pigmyweed

Crassula helmsii 2006

Parrot's-feather Myriophyllum aquaticum 2006 Hybrid bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta x hispanica

= H. x massartiana 2006

Cherry Laurel Prunus laurocerasus 2006 Japanese Knot-weed Fallopia japonica 2006 Indian Balsam Impatiens glandulifera 2006 Rhododendron Rhododendron ponticum 2006 Yellow Archangel Lamium galeobdolon subsp.

argentatum 2006

Winter Heliotrope Petasites fragrans 2006 Lily Beetle Lilioceris lilii 2011 Harlequin Ladybird Harmonia axyridis 2010


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3 Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Introduction

3.1 The survey area is indicated by the heavy black line in Figure 1. The survey was carried out on the morning of 10 April 2014; the weather was dry, fairly cool and initially overcast but with sunny intervals. The survey methods were based on those given in the Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey (JNCC 2007) and general best practice.

3.2 April is an appropriate time of year for this type of survey, especially for woodland habitats when many ground flora species are likely

to be in flower, though some later flowering species may not be visible at this time. Most protected species of fauna can also be identified by their signs. It is considered that the habitats on the survey site were such that evaluation of their ecological significance and potential to support protected species was feasible on the date of survey. Methods and Approach

Habitats and Plants

3.3 All areas of the survey site were visited as far as access allowed, and immediately adjacent areas were viewed wherever practicable.

The habitat types were noted and mapped in accordance with the Phase 1 Habitat Survey Handbook categories. Areas too small to map and features of any conservation interest have been identified using Target Notes (Appendix C). In addition any features in adjacent areas were noted where these were considered relevant to assessment of potential ecological impacts of the proposed development.

3.4 For each habitat unit the dominant and characteristic plant species observed during the survey were recorded. The nomenclature for

the flora is that of Stace (1999). This list of species is not intended to be exhaustive, but serves to broadly characterize the habitat and to identify any species of conservation interest visible at the time of the survey.

3.5 The Phase 1 Habitat Survey maps natural and semi-natural habitats, together with certain structural features such as fences where these are of ecological significance. The results of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey were mapped at a scale of approximately 1:1500.


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Protected Species of Fauna

3.6 Any protected species of fauna, signs of their presence, and potential habitat for them, were recorded in the Target Notes. The protected species which from knowledge of this type of area were more likely to be present received particular attention, as listed below, but notes were also made on signs of any other animal activity. The list also indicates the suitability of the survey date for each species:

• Badgers (optimal; February to May is their most active period);

• Bats (optimal for assessment of habitat);

• Hedgehog (optimal for direct observation and for assessment of habitat); • Breeding bird habitat (optimal for direct observation and for assessment of habitat ); • Common Reptiles (for direct observation in suitable weather and for assessment of habitat). • Amphibia (for direct observation and for assessment of habitat);

• Invertebrates (optimal for many species, though a little early for some groups).

Badger (Meles meles) 3.7 The following signs can indicate the presence of Badger:

• Footprints, dung pits, snuffle holes, runways through vegetation; • latrines and stray hairs on boundary hedges, walls, fences; • sett-building activity in hedgerows, earth banks, woodland and scrub: discarded bedding, recent spoil heaps.

Bats 3.8 Trees on and immediately adjacent to the proposal site were checked for:


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• holes that extend upwards into the tree; • rot or storm damage;

• spaces behind flaking or peeling bark;

• dense cover of ivy, droppings;

• scratch marks or oil stains.

No buildings on the site would be affected by the proposed works so these were not assessed for this group. Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) 3.9 There is currently no standard method for surveying Hedgehogs (though the Mammal Society have a survey method in preparation.)

Some indication of the presence of Hedgehogs can be obtained by looking for the following signs:

• Droppings: 50mm long, 10mm wide – black in colour, containing insect remains;

• Footprints: Hind 40-45mm long, 25mm wide / Front 40mm long, 25mm wide;

• Summer nests: made of grass, lined with moss and leaves, situated in woodland and hedges;

• Winter nests: made of neatly packed grass, dry bracken and leaves, situated at the base of trees, in tree hollows, compost heaps and old Rabbit burrows.

Breeding Bird Habitat 3.10 Potential Bird Breeding habitat for various different species could include Trees, Dense Hedge, Scrub, undisturbed areas of

Grassland and Tall Ruderal vegetation. The locations of these were recorded in the Target Notes. In addition a list was made during the survey of any bird species seen or heard. However this was not the main focus of the survey, and did not represent a comprehensive bird survey, but serves only to characterize the potential of the habitat.


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Reptiles

3.11 Assessment for this group was based on direct observation and also habitat suitability, as follows:

Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis):

• Scrub; • rough Grassland (particularly with areas of rubble, hardstanding, log piles to provide shelter and hibernacula); • thick ground vegetation: less often found basking than other British reptiles; • habitats influenced by man, including gardens.

Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara): • open patches for basking, especially sunny piles of stones, rubble and wood; • ground cover of ivy for feeding and shelter from predators; • dense but short, open vegetation; • Scrub.

Grass Snake (Natrix natrix):

• Water bodies or damp habitat surrounded by long grass, scrub or woodland.

Adder (Vipera berus):

• Scrub


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• Woodland edge habitats

• Heathland

Amphibia, including Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) 3.12 Still water (with good quality) of a suitable size, ideally with some submerged and emergent vegetation, adjacent to suitable terrestrial

habitat for foraging and hibernation. Invertebrates 3.13 Given the diversity of Invertebrates as a group, although any observations of species of particular interest would be noted during a

Phase 1 Habitat Survey they would not be representative of the true diversity present on a site. However, the presence of any habitats with particular Invertebrate potential were noted, for example:

• rotting wood (habitat for saproxylic invertebrates, including rare beetles);

• trees known to support a high diversity of invertebrates, for example willows and oaks;

• Species-rich Grassland, especially for Moths, Butterflies, Bees, Hoverflies, Grasshoppers and Crickets;

• aquatic habitats such as Ponds and Streams

3.14 Absence of protected fauna or their signs does not necessarily confirm absence of these species. Where the presence of habitat suitable for protected species indicates the need for more detailed surveys, recommendations for these are given in chapter 3.

Survey Results Summary Description of Habitats

3.15 The following paragraphs provide a broad description of those habitat types present on the site which are listed and defined in the Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology. Their potential to support protected species is described in section 3.31 onwards. The Phase 1


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Habitat Map is provided in Figure 1; habitat areas on the Phase 1 Habitat Survey Map are not to scale, and the locations of features are also not exact except where these features are shown on the base map. Target Notes providing fuller descriptions of the features recorded are provided in Appendix C and a list of dominant and characteristic plant species recorded during the survey in Appendix D, with English and Latin names in Appendix E.

Habitats on the Area Proposed for Additional Car Parking

A 1.1 Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland 3.16 This habitat type best describes the proposed additional parking area, though the portion closest to the drive is considerably

influenced by human activity. There are some bare areas here, and also significant patches of Japanese Knotweed and a few ornamental species including daffodils. There are a few quite mature Beech trees, and widely scattered young trees, mostly Silver Birch with occasional Ash, Holly and Cherry Laurel. The rather sparse Shrub layer has Bramble, and occasional Goat Willow, Elder and Holly saplings, giving way to Cherry Laurel further from the drive. The ground flora is mostly dominated by Ivy, with scattered shoots of the invasive species Japanese Knotweed, together with Hogweed and occasional Bluebell, Lords-and-Ladies, Wood Avens, Common Nettle and Ground Ivy.

Habitats on the Area Proposed for New Driveway A 1.1 Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland 3.17 This habitat type also best describes the woodland proposed for the new driveway. It is understood that the proposed route would

cross the eastern half of this area though the exact location was not known at the time of survey. Though much of the woodland is heavily dominated by Cherry Laurel, in the western half there are a few semi-mature Holly, Sycamore, Beech and Yew. This half has an understorey of scattered Elder, Field Maple and Goat Willow, but also extensive stands of Japanese Knotweed. In the eastern half there is even denser Cherry Laurel, but also a single mature Cedar, with occasional Bird Cherry, Ash and Holly. The ground flora of the western half includes Lords-and-ladies, Male Fern and Wood Avens, and widespread Ivy, with Common Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock, Cow Parsley and Fumitory in less shaded areas along the edges. In the eastern half the general ground flora is even more sparse, with widespread Ivy, but occasional Herb Robert, Lords-and-Ladies and Hogweed around the less shaded borders. The northern edge of this woodland is worn by use for additional car parking.

B 2.2 Semi-improved Neutral Grassland

3.18 Along the southern edge of the above woodland is a bank and verge, the latter also extending round parts of the eastern side of the

woodland. The upper part of the bank is comprised of a less frequently mown mosaic of Semi-improved Neutral Grassland and Tall


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Ruderals, merging with the woodland edge flora. Grassland species here include Perennial Rye-grass, Barren Strawberry, Bluebell, Primrose and Speedwell species.

C 3.1 Tall Ruderals

3.19 The Tall Ruderal component of the above mosaic includes Lords-and-Ladies and seedlings of Sycamore and Holly, with some Hogweed around the eastern verge. The stands of Japanese Knotweed in other habitats are also mapped as Tall Ruderals, though the areas shown are indicative only, and given the speed with which this species spreads the marked areas are likely to underestimate their significance.

J 1.2 Amenity Grassland

3.20 The lower part of the above bank is managed as more frequently mown Amenity Grassland, dominated by Perennial Rye-grass,

Annual Meadow-grass, Common Cat’s-ear, Creeping Buttercup, Daisy, Dandelion and Selfheal.

Habitats on the Remainder of the Site of Relevance to Assessment of Impact

A 1.1 Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland 3.21 The remainder of the block of Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland adjacent to the proposed new car park has similar plant

composition to the proposal site, but with denser Bramble and no bare patches except along the boundary with gardens to the north, where there are also patches of Wild Garlic, Bracken and Ground Elder. In the middle of this woodland is a very mature Beech, and along the southern edge there are mature specimen Scots Pine, Cedar and Monkey Puzzle trees, beside an unsurfaced track through the woodland. The eastern part of this woodland block has denser Cherry Laurel, and also extensive litter (including asbestos-type roofing material) adjacent to the commercial buildings. Towards the south of this woodland is a very mature Beech. Along much of the fence between this woodland and the adjacent lawn is a dense belt of Japanese Knotweed.

3.22 The small block of land between the two existing entrance drives is predominantly Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland, with some

mature Horsechestnut, Sycamore and (probably ornamental) Cherry trees. The understorey includes Holly, Cherry Laurel and Bramble. The small grassland glade is described below (3.28).

3.23 In the southern corner of the school site there is further Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland. This has a mature Pedunculate Oak,

Sycamore and several Yew with bare patches beneath them, and an understorey dominated by Cherry Laurel and Bramble. The ground flora includes Ivy, Wild Garlic, Lesser Celandine and Lesser Periwinkle, and occasional Male Fern. This area also has an extensive stand of Japanese Knotweed.


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3.24 Just to the north of this woodland is a short row of semi-mature (non-native) Coast Redwoods. The limited ground flora beneath these

trees includes Bluebell, possibly planted.

A 2.1 Dense Scrub

3.25 The western boundary of the site (not accessible during the survey) appears to be Dense Scrub dominated by Cherry Laurel with some Yew, non-native conifers and ornamental shrubs, and the ground flora includes some Bluebell.

B 2.2 Semi-improved Neutral Grassland

3.26 Along the north-western edge of the woodland adjacent to the proposed parking area (that is, bordering the existing drive) there is a

verge of Semi-improved Neutral Grassland. Dominant species include Perennial Rye-grass, Cock’s-foot, Creeping Buttercup, Bluebell, Dandelion, Herb Robert, Cow Parsley and Ribwort Plantain, together with some ornamental species. Shoots of Japanese Knotweed are growing in cracks along the edge of the drive beside this verge.

3.27 Just south of the woodland adjacent to the proposed parking area is a small area of grassland, best described as Semi-improved

Neutral Grassland but apparently planted or sown. It is comprised mostly of wildflower species, including Fritillary, Lesser Celandine, Lesser Periwinkle, Meadow Buttercup, Primrose, Lungwort, Wild Garlic and Rosebay Willowherb, but with a few ornamental species including Daffodil.

3.28 On the southern edge of the block of woodland between the existing entrance drives is a small glade of Semi-improved Neutral

Grassland This is dominated by Bluebell, Perennial Rye-grass, Creeping Buttercup and Cow Parsley, with patches of Common Nettle and Docks. The western edge is worn by use for additional car parking.

G1 Pond

3.29 This small circular Pond appears to be lined with butyl rubber, which is damaged in a number of places so that only the lower portion (approximately half its area) contains water. The actual Pond could not be accessed directly but appears to be largely vegetated with emergent species dominated by Marsh Marigold and Yellow Iris. The surrounding banks, which are partly paved, also support Bluebell, Common Nettle, Goosegrass, Rosebay Willowherb and Bird Cherry. The Pond is surrounded by a fence with a locked gate.

J 1.2 Amenity Grassland

3.30 Between the school buildings and the woodland which includes the proposed car park area is a strip of lawn managed as Amenity

Grassland. It is crossed by a paved path and there are scattered semi-mature Ash, Horse-chestnut and Silver Birch. The grassland is


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dominated by Perennial Rye-grass, Daisy and Creeping Buttercup. All along the chainlink fence separating this lawn from the adjacent woodland (described above in 2.21) there are shoots of Japanese Knotweed extending into the lawn from the significant stand of this species within the woodland. A bare strip along this lawn edge suggests this invasive plant may have been sprayed with herbicide in the past, but it has clearly not yet been eradicated. The garden south of the school buildings also has small blocks of Amenity Grassland. J 3.6 Buildings

3.31 The school buildings, including the garage near the proposed parking area, are all of modern construction and appear unlikely to have potential as habitat for bats. These buildings were not inspected as they would be unaffected by either proposed developments. Immediately to the south of the school buildings is a garden and play areas, partly bare ground and partly Amenity Grassland. J4 Bare Ground

3.32 The existing entrance drives, parking areas and surfaces around buildings are all metalled or paved, and some of the play areas are also metalled or have protective surfaces. The woodlands have small bare patches due to wear by humans and vehicles.

Protected Species Badgers 3.33 No signs of current activity by Badger were recorded during the survey. There are at least four former badger setts within the school

site with at least ten holes between them. All are classed as disused and were probably abandoned many years ago. One former sett with at least two holes is probably just inside the rear boundary of the proposed additional parking area. The western end of the woodland proposed for the new drive also has a former Badger sett with at least four holes. One of these has collapsed, another appears to have been blocked up with large branches, and another appears to have been blocked with bricks. The eastern end of this wood has at least one disused badger hole, possibly on or near the route of the new drive.

3.34 The woodland adjacent to the proposed parking area has a further long-disused badger sett near to a very mature Beech. This has at

least three holes and several more collapsed holes. There could be other setts in areas not accessed during this survey (including the western Scrub belt) and not directly affected by the proposed developments, but it seems likely that these would also be disused due to prolonged human activity on the site.


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Bats

3.35 No signs of current activity by Bats were recorded during the survey. Both woodlands to be affected by the proposed developments

include a number of mature trees with holes, cracks, crevices and flaking bark with low potential to support roosting Bats. The semi-mature and younger trees have negligible potential, except for those heavily covered in Ivy, which could have low potential. The buildings, being of fairly modern construction, have negligible potential for Bats. The garden includes a tunnel-like earth covered feature, understood to be a play area for students, which could have very low potential to support Bats.

Hedgehog 3.36 No signs of Hedgehog were observed during the survey, though some of the garden areas adjacent to woodland could have low

potential for this species especially if provided with enhancement features such as ‘hedgehog houses’.

Breeding Birds 3.37 All the mature and semi-mature trees, and the denser shrubs have good potential to support nesting birds, both in holes in the trunks

and amongst the canopies. Common birds observed or heard during the survey are listed below in Table 5, though this survey did not include a detailed nesting bird survey. No Notable Birds (as listed in Appendix B) were observed on the site.

Table 5 Birds Observed or Heard during Phase 1 Habitat Survey

Blackbird Turdus merula Great Tit

Parus major Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto Robin Erithacus rubecula

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Magpie Pica pica

Starling Sturnus vulgaris Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus


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Reptiles 3.38 No signs of Reptiles were observed during the survey. Both the woodland areas proposed for the additional parking and the new drive

have low-moderate potential to support Reptiles, in particular Slow Worm and Common Lizard, especially along their edges. Other habitats on the site with low-moderate potential to support Reptiles include the less shady parts of other woodland areas. The western Scrub belt, and the Semi-improved Neutral Grassland areas have low potential for Reptiles. The Pond together with its banks and nearby grassland areas have medium potential to support Grass Snake.

Amphibia 3.39 No signs of Amphibia were observed during the survey. The Pond has medium potential to support common Amphibia such as

Common Frogs and Toads, and possibly the smaller newt species (Palmate and/or Smooth Newt). In its current condition it has only low potential to support Great Crested Newt.

Invertebrates 3.40 On this single visit in April, Invertebrates could only be assessed in terms of the potential of habitats to support this group. The Pond

has some potential to support aquatic species of Invertebrates, including Dragonflies, Damselflies, Mayflies, Water Beetles, Water Boatmen, Pondskaters, etc. The grasslands, woodlands and specimen trees (especially the native species) have good potential for a wide variety of Invertebrates including Butterflies and Moths, Bees, Flies, Beetles, Ants etc, all of which in turn provide food resources for birds and other predators. The rotting tree stumps in the woodland also provide potential habitat for saproxylic Invertebrates (those feeding on decaying material), such as Stag Beetles. Some ornamental flowering plants in the gardens also provide nectar and pollen as food resources for Invertebrates.

Invasive Species Japanese Knot-weed 3.41 Extensive stands of this invasive species were noted in all four woodlands on the site, together with shoots in cracks along the edges

of the entrance drive. It is also spreading from the southern edge of the eastern woodland into the lawn just east of the school buildings. The implications of this are discussed in the Evaluation section of this report.

Cherry Laurel


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3.42 This invasive species is present as a dense thicket in the woodland proposed for the new drive, in woodland adjacent to the area

proposed for additional parking and in the western scrub belt. It is scattered throughout the remaining woodlands. The leaves and fruits of this species are poisonous.

Nuttall's Waterweed, New Zealand Pigmyweed and Parrot's-feather 3.43 The Pond was observed from outside the fence, so any submerged aquatics present were not visible. This Pond is potentially suitable

for any of these three invasive species, though given the abundance of emergent species their presence is unlikely. 3.44 None of the other invasive species listed in the SxBRC report were recorded during the present survey.


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4 Evaluation and Impact Assessment Evaluation 4.1 This evaluation focuses on the two areas of woodland potentially affected by the

proposed developments. Reference is made to other areas only where they are ecologically related to these two areas, or may have scope for mitigation or enhancement works.

Designated Areas 4.2 The school site has no designations for nature conservation. The nearest

designated site, Crowborough Warren SNCI, is over 0.5km away, and any ecological links between this and the proposal sites are considered to be negligible.

Habitats on the Proposed Development Areas 4.3 Both proposal sites currently support Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland.

However, although there are a few mature trees in the vicinity of these areas, the remaining features are of rather limited ecological interest. Tree and shrub diversity is generally quite low; the area of woodland proposed for a new drive is heavily dominated by Cherry Laurel, casting dense shade contributing to very low diversity ground flora. In both woodland much of the ground flora is dominated by Ivy. The only Ancient Indicator Species recorded in the proposed parking area were Bluebell and Holly. The proposed drive area had only Holly within the woodland, though the southern edges also had Bluebell and Barren Strawberry.

4.4 A further significant ecological factor likely to be reducing plant diversity in these and

other woodlands on the school site is the presence of extensive stands of Japanese Knotweed in both proposal sites (and also in cracks in the adjacent existing drive). This perennial invasive species grows very rapidly from rhizomes in the spring to a height of about 3m in mid-summer, and within a few years forms dense stands which severely shade out native species. This invasive plant is also known to grow through cracks in rock, concrete and tarmac, and mown or broken parts of the plant can root easily and form new plants. The rhizomes of Japanese Knot-weed can grow underground up to seven metres from the parent plant, and rapidly send up new shoots. The spread of this plant to new sites may be caused by the transport of mown vegetation or contaminated topsoil: fragments of rhizome as small as 1 gram can produce new plants. Appendix F lists some guidance on management of Japanese Knotweed.

4.5 Clearly this invasive species will need to be eliminated prior to development to

ensure it does not damage new surfaces and is not spread to a wider area on contractors vehicles. Although not directly related to the proposed development sites, it is relevant to note that unless this invasive species is also eliminated elsewhere on the school site it could spread and cause damage to other wildlife and built structures. In particular where it is spreading from woodland into the lawn just east of the school buildings, mowings from this lawn could result in colonisation of new areas.

Protected Species


31

4.6 No signs of current activity by Badgers were recorded during the survey; all the former badger setts noted, including those on or near the two proposal sites, appeared to be long disused.

4.7 While no current signs of Bat activity were observed, many of the mature trees have

potential to support roosting Bat species. It is understood that none of these trees is to be affected by the proposed developments; however if any work is required to these trees or major boughs on them, a detailed Bat survey should be carried out.

4.8 While no signs of Hedgehog were observed during the survey, some of the garden

areas adjacent to woodland could have low potential for this species. 4.9 All the mature and semi-mature trees and the denser shrubs in the proposed

development areas have good potential to support nesting Birds. 4.10 Both the woodland areas proposed for the new developments have low-moderate

potential to support Reptiles, in particular Slow Worm and Common Lizard, especially along their edges, but negligible potential for Amphibia. However the Pond has considerable potential for enhancement for this group.

4.11 The two proposal areas are of only moderate value for Invertebrates, having rather

low species diversity. However some dead tree stumps may be of value for this group and should be preserved if feasible.

Potential Impact Assessment 4.12 Potentially adverse ecological impacts which could occur from the proposed works

in both development areas in the absence of any measures to mitigate these effects include the following:

• Loss of up to 600m2 (?) of fairly poor quality Semi-natural Broad-leaved

Woodland for the new parking area, and up to 200m2 (?) for the new driveway;

• Damage to about 6 mature trees or their roots in each area; • Loss of these areas of bird nesting habitat; • Damage to any Reptiles present, and loss of their habitat; • Disturbance to birds and other wildlife from noise during construction and

future use; • Significant risk of spreading Japanese Knotweed in both areas.

Mitigation and Enhancement Measures 4.13 In addition to mitigation of potential impacts, national and local planning policy

requires that as part of proposed developments, opportunities should be identified for enhancement of the nature conservation value of the vicinity of the proposal.

4.14 The recommended mitigation measures for this scheme should include the following

for both proposal areas:

• as far as possible, complete avoidance of mature trees;


32

• providing root-zone protection in the vicinity of any mature trees, extending at least beyond the edge of the canopy;

• the most appropriate mitigation for loss of these areas of fairly poor quality

woodland is considered to be improved management of the remaining woodland, including:

o elimination of Japanese Knotweed o elimination of Cherry Laurel over areas of remaining woodland at

least the size of the woodland to be lost to the proposed developments. Following its removal, natural recolonisation by native species is likely to be more beneficial than re-planting;

• detailed survey for Reptiles;

• Bat survey on the mature trees would only be necessary if any major

boughs required removal for safety reasons;

• conducting the works outside of the Bird Breeding season would ensure there is no disturbance to this group other than loss of habitat;

• loss of nesting habitat could be offset by the addition of bird boxes to the

more diverse parts of existing woodland.

4.15 In addition to the above mitigation measures, suitable enhancement measures could include some of the following:

• restoration of the Pond to its former area by repairing the lining; • addition of Bat boxes to existing mature trees;

• installation of ‘Hedgehog houses’ to the woodland edge by the garden;

• moving log piles to edges of woodland where they can be used by basking

Reptiles. Residual Impact 4.16 Implementation of the above mitigation measures will ensure there is very unlikely to

be significant adverse impacts upon the ecological resources of the site, or other adjacent areas, from this development. Undertaking an appropriate selection of the enhancement measures will make the site not only more attractive to wildlife but more interesting for staff and students using the site.


33

APPENDIX A Relevant Legislation: Protected Species


34

Relevant Legislation: Protected Species The following paragraphs summarize legislation relating to the protected species with the greatest likelihood of occurring on the site. Badger Badgers (Meles meles) and their setts are protected under various legislation, drawn together under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. This makes it a criminal offence to:

• wilfully kill, injure, take, possess, or cruelly ill-treat a Badger, or to attempt to do so;

• interfere with a sett by damaging or destroying it;

• obstruct access to, or any entrance of, a Badger sett;

• disturb a Badger when it is occupying a sett.

A Natural England licence is required to disturb or interfere with setts; guidelines are provided by Natural England on which particular activities are licensable. For example, a licence is required for works with heavy machinery within 30m of an active Badger sett. This legislation effectively prevents development on a site, or within 30m of a site, with an active Badger sett without mitigation being agreed with Natural England and carried out prior to construction works. Bats (This group appears unlikely to be affected by the proposed works due to the absence of mature trees along the survey route with potential to support Bats. However the legislation relating to them is included here as a precaution.) All 16 British bat species are fully protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as updated by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. They are also all included on Schedule 2 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations 1994 as European Protected Species. This legislative context makes it an offence to:

• intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or capture bats; • deliberately or recklessly disturb bats (whether in a roost or not); • damage, destroy or obstruct access to bat roosts.

Further protection is given to rarer bat species (Greater Horseshoe Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Lesser Horseshoe Rhinolophus hipposideros , Barbastelle Barbastella barbastellus and Bechstein’s bat Myotis bechsteini). These, together with Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus spp.), are also UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Species. A Natural England licence is required to handle or disturb bats. Hedgehog Hedgehogs are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) Schedule 6. They are also protected under the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996. In November 2008


35

they also became a UK Biodiversity Action Plan [BAP] Priority Species. Hedgehogs may not be trapped without a licence from Natural England. Breeding Birds Birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as updated by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000). With certain exceptions, it is illegal to:

• intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird; • intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while that nest is in use or

being built; • intentionally take or destroy an egg of any wild bird.

Schedule 1 of the Act contains a list of birds for which all offences carry harsher penalties and for which the following additional protection applies. Under the legislation it is illegal to:

• intentionally or recklessly disturb a Schedule 1 bird while it is building a nest or is in or

near a nest containing eggs or young; • intentionally or recklessly disturb dependent young of such a bird.

The breeding season for most birds is between March and August. Breeding bird surveys (undertaken without contravening the above legislation) do not require a licence. Reptiles All British reptile species are listed on Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as updated by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000). The commoner species (Adder Vipera berus, Grass Snake Natrix natrix, Slow Worm Anguis fragilis and Common Lizard Lacerta vivipara receive partial protection under part of Section 9(1) and all of Section 9(5). As such it is an offence to:

• intentionally or recklessly kill or injure any individual; and • sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale or publish

advertisements to buy or sell individual reptiles. However, survey for the commoner species of reptiles does not require a licence. Amphibia Great Crested Newts are listed on Schedule 5 and Countryside Act 1981, as updated by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. They are also all included on Schedule 2 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations 1994 as European Protected Species. They are also listed on Annexes II and VI of the EC Habitats Directive, and they are UK Biodiversity Action Plan Species. This legislative context makes it an offence to:

• intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or capture these species; • possess them;


36

• intentionally or recklessly damage, destroy, obstruct access to any structure or place used by these species for shelter or protection, or disturb an animal occupying such a structure or place; or

• sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for the purpose of sale (live or dead animal, part

or derivative) or advertise for buying or selling these things. A Natural England licence is required to disturb or handle Great Crested Newts. The commoner amphibia (Palmate Newts, Smooth Newts, Common Frogs and Common Toads) are all protected against sale only under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.


37

APPENDIX B Review of Relevant Data from Sussex

Biodiversity Records Centre


38

Protected, Notable/Rare and UK Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species (other than Bats and Birds)

Common Name Latin Name Designation Grid Ref. Most

Recent Record

Distance & Direction from Site

Source

Purple Emperor Apatura iris W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.5a & 9.5b),

TQ500293 2006 1.7km to SW Sussex Rare Species Inventory

Buff Ermine Spilosoma luteum

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species

TQ52263000 2013 1.5km to E UK BAP Species Inventory

Oak Hook-tip Watsonalla binaria



Small Phoenix Ecliptopera silaceata



Knot Grass (moth) Acronicta rumicis Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species


Brown-spot Pinion Agrochola litura Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species


Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis



Green-brindled Crescent

Allophyes oxyacanthae



Mouse Moth Amphipyra tragopoginis

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in



39

England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species

Small Square-spot Diarsia rubi Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species


Rosy Rustic Hydraecia micacea



Dot Moth Melanchra persicariae



Rosy Minor Mesoligia literosa



Shoulder-striped Wainscot

Mythimna comma



White Admiral Limenitis camilla IUCN (2001) - Vulnerable; Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species


Red-green Carpet Chloroclysta siterata

Sussex Rare Species Inventory TQ52263000 2013 1.5km to E Sussex Rare Species Inventory

Stag Beetle Lucanus cervus Habitats Directive Annex 2 - non-priority species; Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; Sussex Rare Species Inventory; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species; Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Schedule 5 Sections (9.5a; 9.5b)

TQ519312 2010 1.2km to NE UK BAP Species Inventory, Sussex Rare Species Inventory

Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 2010 (Sch. 2), W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 All Sections), Bern Convention

TQ528309 2010 1.7km to ENE Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species


40

Appendix 2, Habitats Directive Annex 2 -non-priority species, Habitats Directive Annex 4, UK BAP P

Inventory

Common Toad Bufo bufo

W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.5a & 9.5b), Bern Convention Appendix 3, UK BAP P

TQ529300 TQ517306

2006 2011

1.8km to E 0.8km to ENE

UK BAP Species Inventory

Slow Worm Anguis fragilis

W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.1 (killing/injuring)), W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.5a & 9.5b), Bern Convention Appendix 3 UK BAP P

TQ529300 2006 1.8km to E Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species Inventory

Grass Snake Natrix natrix

W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.1 (killing/injuring)), W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.5a & 9.5b), Bern Convention Appendix 3, UK BAP P

TQ518317 2002 1.8km to NNE Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species Inventory

Common Lizard Zootoca vivipara Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; Sussex Protected Species Register; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species; Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Schedule 5 Sections (9.1 killing/injuring; 9.5a; 9.5b)

TQ518317 2002 1.8km to NNE Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species Inventory

Adder Vipera berus

W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.1 (killing/injuring)), W&C Act 1981 (Sch. 5 Sec. 9.5a & 9.5b), Bern Convention Appendix 3, UK BAP P

TQ500316 2008 1.8km to NW Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species Inventory

Hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus

Bern Convention Appendix 3 UK BAP P

TQ519296 TQ529300

2000 2006

1.3km to ESE 1.9km to E

UK BAP Species Inventory

Dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius

European Protected Species; Habitats Directive Annex 4; Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - Species of Principal Importance in England (sec; Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan; Sussex Protected Species Register; UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species; Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Schedule 5 Sections (9.4b; 9.5a; 9.5b; Schedule 5)

TQ5019131291 TQ5254730984

2006 2010 (5 records close by)

1.3km to NW 1.5km to ENE

Sussex Protected Species Register, UK BAP Species Inventory


41

Bat Records Summary Common Name Latin Name Total No of

Records Bat sp. Chiroptera

15

Brown Long-eared Bat Plecotus auritus

4

Common Pipistrelle (45 kHz) Pipistrellus pipistrellus

13

Long-eared sp. Plecotus

3

Nyctalus Bat sp. Nyctalus

1

Pipstrelle sp. Pipistrellus

28

Serotine Eptesicus serotinus

3

Soprano Pipstrelle (55 kHz) Pipistrellus pygmaeus

1

Species Records Common Name Latin Name Grid Ref. Most Recent

Records Distance & Direction from Site

Source

Bat sp. Chiroptera

TQ514297 2004 1.3km to SSE Sussex Bat Inventory Report

Brown Long-eared Bat

Plecotus auritus TQ504314 TQ504300

2010 1996

1.5km to NW 1.3km to WSW

Sussex Bat Inventory Report

Common Pipistrelle (45 kHz)

Pipistrellus pipistrellus TQ508307 TQ506309 TQ510310 TQ500314 -

2011 2011 2010 2010

0.7km to NNW 1.5km to NW 1.3km to N 1.5km to NW



42

505319 Long-eared sp. Plecotus sp. TQ506310

TQ505300 TQ528308

2007 2007 2006

1.5km to NW 1.3km to WSW 1.3km to SW


Nyctalus Bat species

Nyctalus sp. TQ500315 2010 1.5km to NW Sussex Bat Inventory Report

Pipstrelle sp. Pipistrellus sp. TQ51703065 TQ514309 TQ5017031171 TQ528306 TQ515318

2012 2011 2006 2005 2001

0.8km to ENE 0.6km to NE 1.5km to NW 1.3km to SW 0.8km to ENE


Serotine Eptesicus serotinus TQ505300 2007 1.3km to WSW


Soprano Pipstrelle (55 kHz)

Pipistrellus pygmaeus TQ504307 2012 1.5km to NW Sussex Bat Inventory Report

Bird Records Notable Bird Species Common Name Latin Name Status* Grid Ref. Most Recent

Records Distance & Direction from Site

Source

Common Swift Apus apus Amber TQ517300 2009 0.8km to ENE

Sussex Notable Bird Report

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea No 6 fig. ref. 2008 Sussex Notable Bird Report

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Amber Schedule 1

No 6 fig. ref. 1986 Sussex Notable Bird Report

Red Kite Milvus milvus Amber Schedule 1

TQ518301 2011 0.7km to E Sussex Notable Bird Report

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus No 6 fig. ref. 2007 Sussex Notable Bird Report

Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo Schedule 1 TQ517306 TQ528305

2011 2001

0.7km to E 1.3km to SW


Wood Lark Lullula arborea Amber Schedule 1

TQ504291 2005 1.4km to SW Sussex Notable Bird Report


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BAP NERC

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes

BAP NERC


Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra Schedule 1 TQ528305 1999 1.3km to SW Sussex Notable Bird Report

Willow Tit Poecile montanus Red TQ500314 1999 1.5km to NW Sussex Notable Bird Report

Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla Amber Schedule 1

TQ514309 2011 0.6km to NE Sussex Notable Bird Report

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix Red BAP NERC

TQ501314 TQ504313

2012 2012

1.5km to NW 1.3km to WSW


Dartford Warbler Sylvia undata Amber Schedule 1

TQ500317 TQ501313 TQ502314

2005 2004 2002

1.5km to NW 1.5km to NW 1.5km to NW


Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

Dendrocopos minor Red BAP NERC


*Status: Amber Unfavourable Conservation Status in Europe Red Globally Threatened according to IUCN criteria;

BAP Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan NERC England Biodiversity List under the Natural Environment & Rural Communities (NERC) Act Schedule 1 Listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Sussex Invasive Alien Species Common Name Latin Name Grid Ref. Most Recent

Record Distance and Direction from Site

Source

Hybrid bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta x hispanica = H. x massartiana

TQ514309 TQ529300

2006 2006

0.7km to NE 1.9km to E

Sussex Invasive Alien Species Report

Cherry Laurel Prunus laurocerasus TQ529300 TQ514309 TQ509318

2006 2006 2004

1.3km to E 0.6km to NNE 1.2km to N


Japanese Fallopia japonica TQ514309 2006 0.6km to NNE Sussex Invasive Alien


44

Knotweed TQ529300

2006 1.3km to E

Species Report

Nuttall's Waterweed

Elodea nuttallii TQ529300 2006 1.3km to E


New Zealand Pigmyweed

Crassula helmsii TQ529300

2006 1.3km to E


Parrot's-feather Myriophyllum aquaticum

TQ529300

2006 1.3km to E


Indian Balsam Impatiens glandulifera TQ529300 TQ528300

2006 2005

1.3km to E 1.8km to E


Rhododendron Rhododendron ponticum

TQ528300 TQ529300

2005 2006

1.8km to E 1.3km to E


Yellow Archangel Lamium galeobdolon subsp. argentatum

TQ529300

2006 1.3km to E


Winter Heliotrope Petasites fragrans TQ53F 2006 N/K Sussex Invasive Alien Species Report

Lily Beetle Lilioceris lilii TQ517306 2011 0.7km to E Sussex Invasive Alien Species Report

Harlequin Ladybird Harmonia axyridis TQ51703065 2010 0.7km to E Sussex Invasive Alien Species Report


45

APPENDIX C: Target Notes from Phase 1 Habitat Survey


46

Target Notes These Target Notes (TNs) provide descriptions which either characterize the habitats present at the location, or identify features of ecological interest, based on observations during the survey. These include signs of, or habitat potentially suitable for, protected species. Records of common, mobile fauna observed (birds, butterflies) are described in section 2. The locations of these Target Notes are indicated on the Phase 1 Habitat Map (Figure 1); however it should be noted that the locations of features which are not marked on the original base map are only shown very approximately. The features recorded are evaluated in more detail in the main text of the report. Fuller lists of dominant plant species are provided in Appendix C, and English and Latin names in Appendix D. Areas Directly Impacted by Proposed Developments 1. The (approximate) area proposed for car parking is Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland. It has a few quite mature beech trees, and widely scattered young trees, mostly Silver Birch with occasional Ash, Holly and Cherry Laurel. Some of the younger trees are covered in Ivy. There are bare areas nearest to the drive. The rather sparse Shrub layer has patches of Japanese Knotweed, Bramble, and occasional Goat Willow, Elder and Holly saplings, giving way to Cherry Laurel further from the drive. The ground flora is mostly dominated by Ivy, with scattered shoots of the invasive species Japanese Knotweed, Hogweed and some ornamental daffodils, and occasional Bluebell, Lords-and-Ladies, Wood Avens, Common Nettle and Ground Ivy. This area has low potential for common reptiles, in particular Common Lizard and Slow Worm, and some of the more mature trees have low potential to support Bats, and it is of value for nesting birds. Near the rear edge of the proposed car park area there are at least two old Badger holes, which appear to have been disused for a number of years. 2. This and area 3 are comprised of Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland. Area 2 (the western half) is dominated by Cherry Laurel but with scattered semi-mature Holly, Sycamore and Yew. The understorey includes extensive stands of Japanese Knotweed as well as occasional Elder, Field Maple and Goat Willow. The ground flora includes Lords-and-ladies, Male Fern and Wood Avens, and widespread Ivy, with Common Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock, Cow Parsley and Fumitory in less shaded areas along the edges. There are at least four old, long-disused Badger holes; one has collapsed, another appears to have been blocked up with large branches, and another blocked with bricks. This woodland has low potential for common reptiles, in particular Common Lizard and Slow Worm, and some of the more mature trees have low potential to support Bats. It is also of value for nesting birds 3. This area is the eastern half of the above Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland; it is understood that the proposed new access route would traverse this area though the exact location was not known at the time of survey. It is almost completely dominated by dense Cherry Laurel, with even fewer other tree species including a single mature Cedar, occasional Bird Cherry, Ash and Holly. Ivy is also widespread, with some Herb Robert, Lords-and-Ladies and Hogweed around the less shaded borders. A further old, disused Badger hole is also present. This part of the woodland also has low potential for Common Lizard and Slow Worm, and the more mature trees have low potential to support Bats, and it is also of value for nesting birds 4. Along the southern edge of the above woodland is a verge and bank. The lower part is managed as Amenity Grassland and the upper part is comprised of a mosaic of Tall Ruderals


47

and Semi-improved Neutral Grassland. The lower grassland is dominated by Perennial Rye-grass, Annual Meadow-grass, Common Cat’s-ear, Creeping Buttercup, Daisy, Dandelion and Selfheal. The Tall Ruderal area includes Lords-and-Ladies and seedlings of Sycamore and Holly. Remaining Areas of the Site 5. Between the proposed car park area and the school buildings there is a garage then Amenity Grassland managed as lawn, with scattered semi-mature Ash, Horse-chestnut and Silver Birch. The grassland is dominated by Perennial Rye-grass, Daisy and Creeping Buttercup. This lawn is separated from the woodland by a chainlink fence, along which shoots of Japanese Knotweed are extending into the lawn from a significant stand of this species within the woodland, described below at 13. 6. To the south-east of this lawn is a small area of Semi-improved Neutral Grassland comprised mostly of wildflower species, apparently planted or sown. These include Fritillary, Lesser Celandine, Lesser Periwinkle, Meadow Buttercup, Primrose, Lungwort, Wild Garlic and Rosebay Willowherb. This area is likely to be of some value for invertebrates. 7. This Pond was not directly accessible for close observation, but appears to be butyl rubber lined, and leaking so that only the lower portion (approximately half its area) contains water. However it is largely vegetated with emergent species dominated by Marsh Marigold and Yellow Iris. The banks also support Bluebell, Common Nettle, Goosegrass, Rosebay Willowherb and Bird Cherry. This pond is likely to be of value for some Pond invertebrates and possibly amphibians, though in its current condition it has only low potential to support Great Crested Newt. 8. On the eastern edge of the garden area south of the school buildings is a short row of semi-mature (non-native) Coast Redwoods. This is of limited ecological value for native invertebrates but has good potential to support nesting birds, including Nuthatches which burrow into the soft bark. The limited ground flora beneath includes Bluebell, possibly planted. 9. To the south of the garden and play area there is further Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland, traversed by a path. This area also has an extensive stand of Japanese Knotweed. There is a mature Pedunculate Oak, Sycamore and several Yew, with bare patches beneath them, and an understorey dominated by Cherry Laurel and Bramble. The ground flora includes Ivy, Wild Garlic, Lesser Celandine and Lesser Periwinkle, and occasional Male Fern. There are a few piles of branches and twigs, possibly intended as reptile habitat. However these appear unlikely to be used in this shaded area with little ground flora, and might be used more by reptiles if located in a sunny area amongst grassland or on woodland edges. This area currently has very low potential for reptiles. 10. The western boundary of the site (not accessible during the survey) appears to be Dense Scrub dominated by Cherry Laurel with some Yew, non-native conifers and ornamental shrubs, and the ground flora includes some Bluebell. This area is likely to be of some value for nesting birds, but not for any other protected species. 11. The remainder of the block of woodland adjacent to the proposed new car park has similar plant composition to area 1, but with denser Bramble and no bare patches except along the boundary with gardens to the north, where there are also patches of Wild Garlic, Bracken and Ground Elder. Beside an unsurfaced track along the southern edge there are mature Scots Pine, Cedar and Monkey Puzzle. There is a grassy verge beside the drive, with some ornamental species. Japanese Knotweed is growing in cracks along the edge of the drive. The eastern part of this woodland block has denser Cherry Laurel, and extensive litter (including asbestos-type roofing material) adjacent to the commercial buildings. Towards the south of this


48

woodland is a very mature Beech, and nearby a long-disused Badger sett with at least three holes and several collapsed. 12. Along much of the fence between woodland no. 11 and the lawn at no. 5 is a dense belt of Japanese Knotweed, which has already spread into the lawn area. (Japanese Knotweed rhizomes can grow up to 7 metres from the aerial stems in a single season.) 13. The school buildings are all of modern construction and appear unlikely to have potential as habitat for bats. These buildings were not inspected as they would be unaffected by either proposed developments. 14. Between the school buildings (13) and the southern block of woodland (9) is a garden and play areas, partly bare ground and partly Amenity Grassland. 15. The area between the existing exit drives is Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland, with a small glade of Semi-improved Neutral Grassland on its southern side. The woodland includes several mature trees including Horsechestnut


49

APPENDIX D: Dominant and Characteristic Plant Species

Recorded


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Dominant and Characteristic Plant Species Recorded

English Plant Name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Annual Meadow Grass √ Ash √ √ √ √ Barren Strawberry √ Beech √ √ √ Bird Cherry √ √ Bluebell √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Bracken √ √ Bramble √ √ √ √ √ Broad-leaved Dock √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Cedar sp. √ √ Cherry Laurel √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Cherry sp. √ Cock’sfoot √ √ Common Cat’s-ear √ Common Nettle √ √ √ √ √ √ Conifers (non-native) Cow Parsley √ √ √ √ Creeping Buttercup √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Creeping Cinquefoil √ √ Daisy √ √ √ √ √ Daffodil (ornam.) √ √ Dandelion √ √ √ √ √ Elder √ √ √ Field Maple √ Forget-me-not √ Fritillary √ Fumitory sp. √ Garlic Mustard Goat Willow √ √ √ Goosegrass √ √ √ Ground Elder √ Ground Ivy √ √ Herb Robert √ √ √ Hogweed √ √ √ Holly √ √ √ √ √ √ Horse-chestnut √ √ Ivy √ √ √ √ √ Japanese Knot-weed √ √ √ √ √ Lesser Celandine √ √ Lesser Periwinkle √ Lords-and-Ladies √ √ √ √ √ Lungwort √ Male Fern √ √ √ Marsh Marigold √ Meadow Buttercup √ √ √ Monkey-puzzle √


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Pedunculate Oak √ √ Perennial Rye Grass √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Primrose √ √ √ Ragwort √ √ Raspberry √ √ Red Dead-nettle √ √ Ribwort Plantain √ Rosebay Willowherb √ √ St. John’s-wort (ornam.) √ √ Scot’s Pine √ Selfheal √ Silver Birch √ √ √ √ Soft-rush √ √ √ Speedwell sp. √ √ √ √ Sycamore √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Wild Garlic √ √ √ Willowherb sp. √ √ Wood Avens √ √ √ Yellow Iris √ Yew √ √ √


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APPENDIX E English – Latin Plant Names


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English – Latin Plant Names

English plant name Latin name Annual Meadow-grass Poa annua Ash Fraxinus excelsior Barren Strawberry Potentilla sterilis Beech Fagus sylvaticus Bird Cherry Prunus avium Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta Bracken Pteridium aquilinum Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolius Cedar Cedrus sp. Cherry Laurel Prunus laurocerasus Cherry sp. Prunus sp. Coast Redwood Sequoia sempervirens Cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata Common Cat’s-ear Hypochaeris radicata Common Nettle Urtica dioica Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens Daisy Bellis perennis Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. Elder Sambucus nigra Field Maple Acer campestre Fumitory sp. Fumaria officinalis Goat Willow Salix caprea Ground Ivy Glechoma hederacea Herb Robert Geranium robertianum Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Holly Ilex aquifolium Horsechestnut Aesculus hippocastanum Ivy Hedera helix Japanese Knot-weed Fallopia japonica Lord’s-and-ladies Arum maculatum Lungwort Pulmonaria officinalis Male Fern Dryopteris filix-mas Monkey-puzzle Araucaria araucana Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur Perennial Rye-grass Lolium perenne Primrose Primula vulgaris Ragwort Senecio jacobaea Raspberry Rubus idaeus Red Dead-nettle Lamium purpureum Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata Rosebay Willowherb Chamerion angustifolium Scot’s Pine Pinus sylvestris


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Selfheal Prunella vulgaris Silver Birch Betula pendula Soft-rush Juncus effusus Speedwell sp. Veronica sp. Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus Wood Avens Geum urbanum Yellow Iris pseudacorus Iris pseudacorus Yew Taxus baccata


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APPENDIX F Guidance References on Japanese Knotweed https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/japanese-knotweed-managing-on-development-sites http://www.ceh.ac.uk/sci_programmes/documents/japaneseknotweed.pdf http://www.property-care.org/pdfs/PCA%20Japanese%20Knotweed%20Code%20of%20Practice%20%202013.pdf

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/japanese-knotweed-managing-on-development-sites

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/japanese-knotweed-managing-on-development-sites

http://www.ceh.ac.uk/sci_programmes/documents/japaneseknotweed.pdf

http://www.property-care.org/pdfs/PCA%20Japanese%20Knotweed%20Code%20of%20Practice%20%202013.pdf



Documents

Grove Park School - East Sussex · Grove Park School: Phase 1 Habitat Survey 4 APPENDICES A Relevant Legislation: Protected Species B Summary of Relevant Data provided by Sussex Biodiversity