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Former CEMEX Cement Works, Haslingfield Road, Barrington 7-1 Environmental Statement – Chapter 7: Ecology and Nature Conservation

7. ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION

INTRODUCTION

7.1 This chapter of the ES has been prepared by MKA Ecology and describes an

assessment of the ecological features at the former CEMEX Cement Works in

Barrington. This assessment encompasses all ecological features of the Application

Site and those within the zone of influence.

7.2 The methodologies used to collect the baseline data are described, together with

the methodology for assessing any significant impacts that the Proposed

Development may have. The potential impacts are then assessed and their

significance is discussed, together with appropriate mitigating actions and

enhancement features. Finally residual impacts are described.

7.3 The Proposed Development has two distinct stages which are likely to have

different impacts on the ecological features of the Application Site, as follows;

Construction activities associated with ground works, existing building

demolition and building construction; and

Operational activities associated with the ongoing use of the Proposed

Development.

7.4 Potential impacts are varied and include habitat loss and disturbance of species.

However, opportunities have been optimised to provide appropriate mitigation and

enhancements to deliver biodiversity gains that are suitable for the surrounding

landscape character.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION, POLICY AND GUIDANCE

NATIONAL NATURE CONSERVATION LEGISLATION

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010)

7.5 The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010) transpose the EC

Habitats Directive (1992) and the EC Birds Directive (1979) into UK law. The


Regulations make provision for the designation of Special Areas of Conservation

(SACs) and Special Protected Areas (SPAs) which form a pan-European network of

sites known as Natura 2000 sites.

7.6 The Regulations provide protection for European Protected Species (EPS) against

capture, killing or disturbance (qualified as impacts on the ability of the EPS to

survive, breed, rear young, hibernate or migrate). It is also an offence to destroy,

damage or obstruct a resting place used by an EPS.

Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended)

7.7 The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), and subsequent amendments, is the

principal mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in the UK. The Act

makes provisions for the designations of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)

which comprise examples of outstanding nature conservation or geological interest.

7.8 The Schedules of the Act give protection for species with Schedules 1 – 4 providing

protection for birds, Schedule 5 for notable animals and Schedule 8 for notable

plants. Schedule 9 of the Act specifically addresses non-native species.

Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000)

7.9 The Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) provides further protection for SSSIs

designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and also provides further

protection for particular species making reckless disturbance an offence.

7.10 The Act requires government departments to have regard to biodiversity and

conservation and enables the development of lists of priority habitats and species

to be developed, for which specific conservation measures can be taken.

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006)

7.11 The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC Act) (2006) makes

provision in respect of biodiversity, pesticides harmful to wildlife, protection of

birds and invasive non-native species. Section 40 of the NERC Act also introduced a

new duty on public bodies to have regard to the purpose of conserving biodiversity

in the exercise of their functions. Species and habitats listed on Section 41 of the


NERC Act are included within the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) process. These are

known as Species and Habitats of Principal Importance.

Protection of Badgers Act (1992)

7.12 The original legislation protecting badgers was the Badgers Act (1973), this was

consolidated further with the Badgers (Further Protection) Act (1991) and finalised

in the Protection of Badgers Act (1992). The legislation makes it an offence to

wilfully take, kill, injure or ill-treat a Badger. It is also an offence to disturb,

obstruct, destruct or damage in any part a Badger’s sett.

The Hedgerow Regulations (1997)

7.13 The Hedgerow Regulations (1997) are intended to protect important countryside

hedges from destruction or damage in England and Wales. The regulations set out

a series of criteria with which to assess hedgerows and their value.

NATIONAL NATURE CONSERVATION POLICY AND GUIDANCE

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (2012)

7.14 The key principle of the NPPF is a presumption in favour of sustainable

development, with sustainable development defined as a balance between

economic, social and environmental needs. Paragraph 118 provides context for

nature conservation considerations, stating that in determining decisions local

planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying

the following principles;

If significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (by locating

on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a

last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused;

Proposed development on land within or outside an SSSI, likely to have an

adverse effect on an SSSI (either individually or in combination with other

developments) should not normally be permitted. Where an adverse effect on

the site’s notified special interest features is likely, an exception should only be

made where the benefits of the development, at this site, clearly outweigh both

the impacts that it is likely to have on the features of the site that make it of

special scientific interest;


Development proposals where the primary objective is to conserve or enhance

biodiversity should be permitted;

Opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should

be encouraged;

Planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or

deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss

of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for,

and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss; and

The following wildlife sites should be given the same protection as European

sites: potential SPA and potential SAC; listed or proposed Ramsar sites; and sites

identified, or required, as compensatory measures for adverse effects on

European sites, potential SPA, potential SAC, and listed or proposed Ramsar

sites.

7.15 Paragraph 119 states the presumption in favour of sustainable development does

not apply where development requiring appropriate assessment under the Birds or

Habitats Directives is being considered, planned or determined.

The Natural Choice (2011)

7.16 The UK Government published a white paper ‘The Natural Choice: securing the

value of nature’ in June 2011. This document sets out a series of commitments

relating, in particular, to the protection and improvement of the natural

environment, the development of a green economy, and strengthening the

connection between people and nature.

Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services (2011)

7.17 Biodiversity 2020 provides a strategy to build on the Natural Choice 2011 white

paper and provides a comprehensive picture of how international and EU

commitments are to be implemented. It sets outs strategic direction for biodiversity

policy in terrestrial, aquatic and marine habitats. The mission strategy is;

‘To halt overall biodiversity loss, support healthy well-functioning ecosystems and

establish coherent ecological networks, with more and better places for nature for

the benefit of wildlife and people’.


UK Biodiversity Action Plan

7.18 The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) was published in January 1994 in response to

Article 6 of the Biodiversity Convention, to develop national strategies for the

conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of biological resources.

In 2007, a new updated list of UK BAP Priority Species was published. The full list

of species and habitats are provided on the UK BAP website.

7.19 The UKBAP includes contributions from Government, statutory conservation

agencies, the academic world and the voluntary sector. It committed the then

Government and its agencies to programmes or tasks to conserve species and

habitats. UKBAP priority habitats and species are listed on Section 41 of the NERC

Act.

LOCAL NATURE CONSERVATION POLICY AND GUIDANCE

Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy 2011

7.20 The Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy is designed to co-ordinate the

delivery of Green Infrastructure in the county and in doing so help to reverse the

decline in biodiversity, mitigate and adapt to climate change, promote sustainable

growth and economic development and support healthy living and well-being.

7.21 The Application Site lies within Target Area 6.6 West Cambridgeshire Woodlands

with Strategic Area 6 of the Strategy; Cambridge and Surrounding Areas.

Opportunities highlighted within this target area include;

Biodiversity: improve woodland management and linkage projects, creating

species-rich grasslands and Water Vole conservation;

Climate Change: Woodland management and creation to contribute to the

storage of carbon;

Green Infrastructure Gateways: Developing linkages between villages and

woodlands;

Heritage: Promoting and explaining the history of traditional woodland

management;

Landscape: Improving landscape through woodland and land management;


Publicly Accessible Open Space: Create new areas of accessible green spaces

through woodland creation; and

Rights of Way: Improve links from villages to neighbouring woodlands.

South Cambridgeshire Development Control Policies Development Plan

Document (Adopted July 2007) (forming part of the Local Development

Framework)

7.22 Policies NE/6 and NE/7 of the South Cambridgeshire District Council Local

Development Framework relate specifically to biodiversity. In summary Policy NE/6

states;

1. New development should aim to maintain, enhance, restore or add to

biodiversity.

2. The District Council will refuse development that would have an adverse

significant impact on the population or conservation status of protected species

or priority species or habitat unless the impact can be adequately mitigated or

compensated for.

3. Where there are grounds to believe that a proposal may affect a protected

species or priority species or habitat, applicants will be expected to provide an

adequate level of survey information to establish the extent of the potential

impact together with possible alternatives to the development, mitigation

schemes and / or compensation measures.

4. New development will have regard to the impact, ether direct or indirect, of a

proposal on people’s opportunity to enjoy and experience nature on a site

together with opportunities to improve public access to, and understanding of,

the natural environment.

5. Previously developed land will not be considered to be devoid of biodiversity

value.

6. Exceptionally, where economic or social benefits of a proposal outweigh harm

to an important site or species, the approach will be first to avoid or minimise

the harm, then to seek mitigation of the impact, and finally to secure

appropriate compensation for any residual impact in order to ensure no net loss

of biodiversity.

7. Planning permission will not be granted for development which would have an

unacceptable adverse impact on the biodiversity of the Natural Area which the

site falls within. The Application Site lies within the East Anglian Chalk

Landscape Character Area and Natural Area.


7.23 In summary Policy NE/7 states;

1. Planning permission will not be granted for proposals that may have an

unacceptable adverse impact, either directly or indirectly, on a site of

biodiversity of geological importance.

2. In determining any planning application affecting international, national or

non-statutory protected site the District Council will ensure that the intrinsic

natural features are safeguarded or enhanced.

3. Where appropriate the District Council will ensure the effective management of

designated sites through the imposition of planning conditions or Section 106

agreements.

South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document (Adopted July 2009)

7.24 The Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document forms part of the Local

Development framework and builds on the district wide policies therein. The

Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document states that development proposals

will be considered against the following Biodiversity Issues in order to appreciate

how they have considered the requirements of national policy and the Local

Development Framework:

Protection, enhancement, creation, restoration and management of biodiversity

habitats.

Biodiversity site protection for recognised areas of nature conservation interest.

Mitigation and compensation where biodiversity impacts are predicted.

Planning obligations through the use of Section 106 agreements.

Protection and enhancements of wildlife corridors.

Protection of ancient woodland.

Biodiversity provision in the design of new buildings.

Provision of green roofs and walls.

Maximising the biodiversity potential of agricultural land.

South Cambridgeshire District Council Local Plan (Proposed Submission Version, July 2013)

7.25 Emerging planning policy in the form of South Cambridge Local Plan was submitted

to the Secretary of State in March 2014.


7.26 Policy NH/2 states that development will only be permitted where it respects and

retains, or enhances the local character and distinctiveness of the local landscape

and of the individual National Character Area in which it is located (in this instance

the East Anglian Chalk Landscape Character Area and Natural Area).

7.27 Policy NH/4 relates to biodiversity and in summary states;

1. Development will be permitted where the primary objective is to conserve or

enhance biodiversity.

2. New development must aim to maintain, enhance, restore or add to

biodiversity.

3. If significant harm to the population or conservations status of a Protected

Species, Priority Species or Priority Habitat resulting from development cannot

be avoided, adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then

planning permission will be refused.

4. Where there are grounds to believe that a proposal may affect a Protected

Species, Priority Species or Priority Habitat, applicants will be expected to

provide an adequate level of survey information and site assessment to

establish the extent of a potential impact.

5. Previously Developed Land will not be considered to be devoid of biodiversity.

6. Planning permission will be refused for development resulting in the loss,

deterioration or fragmentation of irreplaceable habitats, such as ancient

woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development clearly

outweigh the loss.

7. Climate change poses a serious threat to biodiversity and initiatives to reduce

its impact need to be considered.

7.28 Policy NH/5 relates to sites of geological and biodiversity importance and in

summary states;

1. Proposed development likely to have an adverse effect on land within or

adjoining a Site of Biodiversity or Geological Importance will not normally be

permitted.

2. In determining any application affecting Site of Biodiversity or Geological

Importance the Council will ensure that the intrinsic natural features of

particular interest are safeguarded or enhanced.


3. Where appropriate the Council will ensure the effective management of

designated sites through the imposition of planning conditions or Section 106

agreements.

7.29 Policy NH/6 relates to Green Infrastructure and in summary states;

1. The Council will aim to conserve and enhance green infrastructure within the

district. Proposals impacting upon this network will not be permitted unless a

clear substantial need can be demonstrated.

2. The Council will encourage proposals which will reinforce the network and

promote public understanding.

3. The Council will support proposals which deliver the strategic green

infrastructure network and priorities set out within the Cambridgeshire Green

Infrastructure Strategy.

4. All new developments will be required to contribute towards the enhancement

of the green infrastructure network within the district.

7.30 Policy NH/7 relates to Ancient Woodlands and Veteran Trees and in summary states

that;

1. Planning permission will be refused for development resulting in the loss of

deterioration of ancient woodland or veteran trees found outside ancient

woodland unless a clear substantial need can be demonstrated.

2. Development proposal affecting ancient woodland or veteran trees will be

expected to mitigate for any adverse impacts and to contribute to further

enhancement and management.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)

7.31 The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough BAP provides a framework for initiating BAP

activities applicable at a local level. Local Habitat Action Plans have been developed

for a range of habitats including arable field margins and brownfield habitats,

which are relevant to the Application Site. Species Action Plans have been

developed for a range of species including Grey Partridge, Pipistrelle bats and

Skylark.


ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY AND SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA

ASSESSMENT OF BASELINE CONDITIONS

Desktop study

7.32 A desktop study was undertaken to obtain existing ecological data for the

Application Site and a 2km buffer surrounding it. Information on statutory and

non-statutory sites designated for their nature conservation value was obtained

together with records of protected and notable species. Desktop study information

can be a useful indication of the ecological receptors within a given area but an

absence of data should not be accepted as an absence of species or habitats. Data

were obtained from the following organisations;

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Environmental Records Centre (CPERC): Non-

statutory site information and protected and notable species records.

Multi-agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC): Statutory

site information.

Field surveys

7.33 Field surveys have been undertaken at the Application Site in order to obtain site

specific data. Furthermore, field surveys on occasions included surrounding

habitats where considered necessary.

7.34 Site specific field surveys undertaken were;

Preliminary Ecological Assessment (comprising desktop study, Phase 1 Habitat

Survey, Protected Species Scoping Survey) 2012 (Thomson Ecology, Appendix

7.1) and 2013/2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.2) following Joint Nature

Conservation Committee (JNCC, 2010) methodology;

Diurnal Bat Inspection Survey (buildings and trees) 2013/2014 (MKA Ecology

Ltd, Appendix 7.3) following Bat Conservation Trust methodology (BCT, 2012);

Bat Hibernation Survey 2013/2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.4) following

BCT (2012) methodology;

Nocturnal Bat Roost and General Bat Activity Survey 2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd,

Appendix 7.5) following BCT (2012) methodology;


Reptile Survey 2013 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.6) following Froglife (1999)

and JNCC (2004) methodologies;

Badger Survey and Badger Bait-marking Survey 2013/2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd,

Appendix 7.7) following bait-marking methodology established by Delahay et

al. (2000);

Wintering/passage Bird Survey 2013/2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.8)

following British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS)

methodology (BTO, 2010) and Scottish Natural Heritage methodology (SNH,

2005);

Breeding Bird Survey (Thomson Ecology, 2012, Appendix 7.9) and Breeding

Bird Survey2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.10) following the BTO reduced

effort Common Bird Census (CBC) methodology (Marchant, 1983 and Bibby et

al., 2000);

Great Crested Newt Survey 2014 (MKA Ecology Ltd, Appendix 7.11) following

English Nature methodology (English Nature, 2001);

Invertebrate Survey 2014 (Colin Plant Associates, Appendix 7.12) using

standard techniques including sweep-netting, beating trees and bushes, suction

sampling, MV light-trapping, actinic light-trapping, pitfall trapping and Malaise

trapping; and

Arboricultural Survey 2014 (ADAS UK Ltd, Appendix 7.13) following

recommendations contained within the British Standard 5837:2012 ‘Trees in

relation to design and construction – Recommendations’.

7.35 Detailed survey reports can be found in Appendices 7.1 to 7.13. Limitations,

constraints and assumptions are described below.

ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT

7.36 The assessment method for this ecological assessment is based on guidance issued

by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM, 2006), now the

Chartered Institute Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) which is then

informed by contextual information for the Application Site and professional

judgement.

7.37 The method involves four key stages:

Baseline Studies;

Identification of Valued Ecological Receptors (VERs) and their sensitivity;


Identification and Characterisation of Potential Impacts; and

Assessment of Impact Significance.

7.38 Following this is an assessment of any ecological enhancement, compensatory or

mitigation measures to avoid or reduce the ecological impacts and finally an

assessment of any residual impacts.

Assessment of ecological value and identification of Valued Ecological Receptors

7.39 Valued Ecological Receptors (VER) are identified from amongst the sites of known

importance for nature conservation, species populations, species assemblages and

habitats present within the zone of influence of the Proposed Development. VER

are habitats and species that are valued in some way, and could be affected by the

Proposed Development. The possible zone of influence was used to inform the

special scope of the desktop study and subsequently refined to inform field surveys.

7.40 The value of sites, populations of species, species assemblages and habitats is

evaluated with reference to their importance in terms of ‘biodiversity conservation’

value (which relates to the need to conserve representative areas of different

habitats and the genetic diversity of species populations).

7.41 For the purposes of this assessment, sites, species populations, species assemblages

and habitats have been valued using the following scale:

International;

National or UK wide;

Regional/County;

District;

Local;

Site; and

Negligible.

7.42 Table 7.1, below, qualifies these criteria.


Table 7.1: Description of VER value classifications

Value of feature

Key examples

International An internationally designated site or candidate site (SPA, pSPA, SAC, cSAC, pSAC, Ramsar site, Biogenetic Reserve) or an area which meets the designation criteria for such sites. Internationally significant and viable areas of a habitat type listed in Annexe 1 of the Habitats Directive, or smaller areas of such habitat, which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. Any regularly occurring, globally threatened species. A regularly occurring population of an internationally important species, which is threatened or rare in the UK, of uncertain conservation status. A regularly occurring, nationally significant population/number of any internationally important species.

National or UK wide

A nationally designated site (e.g. SSSI, NNR) or a discrete area which meets the published selection criteria for national designation (e.g. SSSI selection guidelines) irrespective of whether or not it has yet been notified. A viable area of a UK BAP priority habitat or smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. A regularly occurring significant number/population of a nationally important species e.g. listed on the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). A regularly occurring population of a nationally important species that is threatened or rare in the county or region. A feature identified as being of critical importance in the UK BAP.

Regional/County Viable areas of key habitat identified in the Regional or County BAP or smaller areas of such a habitat, which are essential to maintain the viability of the larger whole. Regional/county significant and viable areas of key habitat identified as being of regional value in the appropriate Natural England Natural Area. A regularly occurring significant population/number of any important species important at a regional/county level. Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species which is listed in a Regional/County RDB (Colston et al., 1997) or BAP on account of its regional rarity or localisation. Sites of conservation importance that exceed the district selection criteria but that fall short of SSSI selection guidelines.

District Areas of habitat identified in a District BAP or in the relevant Natural Area profile. Sites that the designating authority has determined meet the published ecological selection criteria for designation, including Local Nature Reserves selected on District ecological criteria. Sites/features that are scarce within the District or which appreciably enrich the District habitat resource. A diverse and/or ecologically valuable hedgerow network. A population of a species that is listed in a District BAP because of its rarity in the locality or in the relevant Natural Area profile because of its regional rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring, locally significant number of a District important species during key phases of its life cycle.

Local Areas identified in a Local BAP or the relevant natural area profile. Sites/features which area scarce in the locality or which are considered to appreciably enrich the habitat resource within the local context, e.g. species rich hedgerows. Local Nature Reserves selected on Local ecological criteria. Significant numbers/population of a locally important species e.g. one which is listed on the Local BAP.

Site Habitats of moderate to low diversity which support a range of locally and nationally common species.

Negligible Having no/minimal ecological value.


Identification and characterisation of potential impacts

7.43 The magnitude of change for each potential impact is determined using Table 7.2.

Table 7.3 lists the criteria used for characterisation of each potential impact.

Table 7.2: Criterial for magnitude of change

Magnitude of change

Assessment criteria

Large The proposed development will have effects resulting in a change in the integrity of a site, or a change in the ability of a species to retain its current population status (at a regional or higher level).

Medium The proposed development will have effects which would alter key attributes of a site but which would not result in a permanent or widespread change to a site’s evaluation, or will result in permanent or widespread changes in the distribution of a species but not affect its population status at a regional level.

Small The proposed development will have effects which would neither alter key attributes of a site nor change its evaluation, or will affect the distribution or status of a species at a local level.

Negligible/None No discernible impact.

Table 7.3: Characterisation of potential impacts

Characteristic Description Beneficial or adverse

Whether the effect will result in net loss or degradation of a VER or whether it will enhance or improve it.

Magnitude The size or intensity of the effect measured in relevant terms e.g.number of individuals lost or gained, area of habitat lost or created or the degree of change to existing conditions (e.g. noise or lighting levels).

Extent The spatial scope of the effect, for example the physical area affected or the geographical pattern of the effect.

Duration The length of time over which the effect occurs.Reversibility The extent to which effects are reversible either spontaneously or

through active mitigation. Timing and frequency

Consideration of the timing of events in relation to ecological change, some effects may be of greater significance if they take place at certain times of year (e.g. breeding season). The extent to which an effect is repeated may also be of importance.

Assessment of impact significance

7.44 The sensitivity of any species or feature to the Proposed Development must also be

considered when determining the significance of any impact upon a particular

species or habitat. This is based on the conservation value or importance of that

species or habitat, as outlined in Table 7.4.


Table 7.4: Criteria for assessing sensitivity of VER

Sensitivity of VER

Assessment criteria

High Sites, habitats or species of at least regional importance, as identified through field survey, desk survey or consultation or features are likely to be significantly affected by the proposals.

Moderate Sites or species of district or county importance, as identified through field survey, desk survey or consultation or features, although potentially affected, which will not suffer significant effects as a result of the proposals.

Low Sites, habitats or species of local or site importance, as identified through field survey, desk survey or consultation or features which will not be significantly affected by the proposals.

Negligible/None Features of negligible or no ecological value which will not be affected by the proposals.

7.45 The magnitude of impacts can be used, together with the VER sensitivity, in order

to determine the significance of any effects the Proposed Development is likely to

have. It should be noted that such impacts may be beneficial or adverse. The

matrix below (Table 7.5) is used to determine the significance of impacts upon sites

and species.

Table 7.5: Matrix for assessing significance of impacts

Sensitivity of receptor

Mag

nit

ud

e o

f ch

ang

e

High Moderate Low Negligible None

Large Very substantial

Substantial Slight / Moderate

Negligible No effect

Medium Substantial Moderate Slight Negligible No effect

Small Moderate Slight Negligible / Slight

Negligible No effect

Negligible Slight Negligible / Slight

Negligible Negligible No effect

None No effect No effect No effect No effect No effect

7.46 Mitigation/compensation should be provided for all significant adverse effects in

order to prevent any loss in biodiversity and to ensure the Proposed Development

adheres to the policies listed above. With regard to the EIA Regulations if an effect

is thought to be very substantial, substantial or moderate then it is considered

significant.

7.47 The significance of the potential impacts without any mitigation are described in

further detail below relating to each phase of the Proposed Development


(construction and operation). The significance of any residual impacts taking into

account mitigation are then discussed.

Arboricultural Impact Assessment

7.48 The Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) is conducted using a different

methodology. The trees (or groups of trees) are categorised as either unsuitable for

retention ‘U’ grade trees, high quality ‘A’ grade trees, moderate quality ‘B’ grade

trees, or low quality ‘C’ grade trees. The AIA is contained within Appendix 7.12.

LIMITATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS

7.49 It should be noted that ecological surveys provide information from a moment in

time and often represent a sampling of general conditions rather than a precise

measurement of all ecological features. Standard guidance and survey

methodologies were followed where feasible, although in some circumstances

limitations and constraints were encountered during the assessment of baseline

conditions. These limitations are set out below.

Diurnal Bat Inspection Survey

7.50 Many buildings contained a significant amount of dust and debris which may

obscure signs of bat activity, such as the deposition of feeding remains or

droppings.

7.51 Several buildings, or sections of buildings, were inaccessible due to safety concerns

and therefore detailed searches of these areas were not feasible. In these

circumstances areas were surveyed remotely using binoculars. Where a full search

could not be conducted nocturnal surveys were completed to ascertain the

presence or absence of roosting bats.

Hibernation Bat Survey

7.52 Due to safety concerns it was not possible to access the internal parts of all

buildings and automatic bat detectors were used, where feasible, to gather

additional information.


Nocturnal Bat Roost and General Bat Activity Survey

7.53 Results from bat detector surveys are biased towards bats that use louder

echolocation calls. Therefore quiet species, such as Brown Long-eared Bat Plecous

auritus, may be under recorded. To eliminate this constraint, surveyors were vigilant

for visual cues for this species and infra-red video equipment was used, where

required.

7.54 In some circumstances it is not possible to confirm the species of bat with absolute

confidence using sound analysis techniques. In particular some calls of Common

Pipistrelle PIpistrellus pipistrellus and Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus

overlap making species identification difficult. In these circumstances the bat can be

identified as a Pipistrellus sp. only. Within this document where Pipistrellus sp. is

used this refers only to Common Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle. This should not

be interpreted as other species of the Pipistrellus genus, such as Nathusius’

Pipistrelle Pipistrellus nathusii which, although it occurs relatively frequently within

the UK is not commonly recorded. Where Pipistrelle species other than Common or

Soprano are suspected this will be directly referenced and discussed. Similarly calls

of Myotis species can demonstrate a large number of overlapping parameters

making identification difficult. Where this is the case the bat call was assigned as

Myotis sp.

Reptile Survey

7.55 An abundance of natural refugia occurring at the Application Site had the potential

to limit the effectiveness of artificial refugia used during the survey. To eliminate

this constraint all refugia (natural and artificial were checked during survey effort).

7.56 The Application Site boundary was extended following completion of the reptile

survey with the result that some areas were not included within the survey. This

constraint was discussed with the South Cambridgeshire District Council Ecology

Officer and it was not considered to be significant, given the lack of reptile records

on the survey and historical survey data for the Application Site. It was considered

unlikely that reptiles would be present within this extended area given their

absence in adjacent habitat which was highly suitable for these species.


Badger Survey

7.57 Patches of very dense vegetation could not be surveyed in detail due to access

restrictions. In these circumstances the perimeters and paths were inspected for

Badger field signs.

Wintering/passage Bird Survey

7.58 The woodland to the south was included within the Application Site boundary after

the conclusion of the wintering/passage bird surveys and was therefore not

included within this survey effort. The impacts within the woodland are considered

unlikely to significantly impact upon wintering and passage bird communities and

therefore this is not considered to present a significant constraint.

Breeding Bird Survey

7.59 The survey methodology defines a species holding a territory when any breeding

activity is recorded on one or more visits. However, as some migratory species (for

example Firecrest Regulus ignicapillus and Phylloscopus warblers) are known to sing

on migration, there is some potential for over-estimating the breeding population

of such migratory species. This is therefore a cautious approach to ensure that the

greatest potential of the Application Site is recorded through the survey approach,

thereby avoiding any risk of understating the value of the Application Site.

Great Crested Newt Survey

7.60 It was not possible to survey Pond C because access to this area was not permitted.

7.61 It was not possible to use the bottle-trapping technique in all ponds because of

their depth. In these circumstances other survey methodologies (including torch

lighting, netting and egg searching) were used to eliminate this constraint.

7.62 Additional constraints encountered during the Great Crested Newt Survey were

largely due to either vegetation or access difficulties in reaching all banks of the

ponds. This was no more than would be expected for any suite of pond surveys

however, and so is not considered to have affected the overall results.


BASELINE CONDITIONS

DESKTOP STUDY

Statutory Nature Conservation Site Designations

7.63 Two statutorily designated sites were identified within 2km of the Application Site

the desktop study. Barrington Chalk Pit Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is

situated directly north of the Application Site and is designated for its geological

interest with an exposure of the Cretaceous Cambridge Greensand. Barrington Pit

SSSI, which is separate from the chalk quarry, is situated approximately 1.5km

south west of the Application Site and is designated for its geological interest with

a nationally important fossil record of vertebrate fauna from the Pleistocene Period

of the Quaternary. As both of these sites are designated for their geological interest

they are not considered further within this Chapter.

7.64 In addition to these designated sites there is Eversden and Wimpole Wood SSSI and

SAC which is located approximately 4.5km to the west of the Application Site.

Eversden and Wimpole Woods SSSI/SAC are of international significance for their

breeding population of Barbastelle Bat Barbastella barbastellus which are listed on

Annex II of the European Habitats Directive. The Application Site lies just within the

boundary of the Barbastelle Bat Area of Importance for Eversden and Wimpole

Woods SAC as highlighted within the South Cambridgeshire Local Development

Framework Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document.

7.65 The Eversden and Wimpole Wood SSSI/SAC VER is considered to be of

International Value and is therefore of High sensitivity.

Non-statutory Nature Conservation Site Designations

7.66 Two non-statutory sites of nature conservation interest are situated within 2km of

the Application Site which are designated as County Wildlife Sites (CWS).

7.67 Haslingfield Pit CWS is situated approximately 1.5km north east of the Application

Site. Haslingfield Pit supports a population of a Nationally Scarce vascular plant

species Man Orchid Aceras anthropophorum, and supports frequent numbers of at

least six strong calcareous indicator species.


7.68 The River Rhee CWS is situated to the south of the Application Site where it flows

west to east south of Barrington village and then north past Haslingfield and

Harston. Its closest point to the Application Site is approximately 1km to the south.

The River Rhee CWS has been designated because it is a major river not grossly

modified by pollution or canalisation. Additionally it has areas with concentrations

of mature pollard willows. The River Rhee is also known to support populations of

notable species such as Otter Lutra lutra, Water Vole Arvicola amphibious, and

Brown Trout Salmo trutta. The catchment has also historically supported a

population of White-clawed Crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes, although the

current status of this species is unknown.

7.69 Both Haslingfield Pit CWS and the River Rhee CWS are designated at a county level

and therefore they are considered to be of County Value and thus of Moderate

sensitivity.

7.70 The locations of the nature conservation sites with a 2km radius from the

Application Site are shown in Figure 3.3.

EXISTING APPLICATION SITE ECOLOGY

Habitats

7.71 Habitats recorded within the Application Site include semi-natural broadleaved

woodland, broadleaf plantation woodland, mixed plantation woodland, dense

scrub, calcareous semi-improved grassland, tall ruderal, swamp, standing water,

ephemeral/short perennial, introduced shrub and hedgerow. A Phase 1 Habitat map

is provided in Figure 7.1.

Semi-natural broadleaf woodland

7.72 Semi-natural broadleaf woodland was a dominant habitat type to the south and

along the eastern perimeter of the Application Site. These habitat parcels comprised

largely of Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Field

Maple Acer campestris, Sweet Chestnut Castanea sativa, Beech Fagus sylvatica,

Horse Chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum and Alder Alnus glutinosa. The understory

was of low diversity with Rosa sp., Ground Ivy Glechoma hederacea, Ivy Hedera

helix and Bramble Rubus sp., Herb Robert Geranium robertianum.


7.73 The broadleaf woodland in the south of the Application Site was mature with a

number of specimen trees of significant age. In particular are several Horse

Chestnut trees along the banks of the moat and a line of large Beech trees to the

west which are thought to be a relic boundary feature. Much of this section of the

woodland is considered to be planted, possibly originally associated with the

gardens of neighbouring Barrington Hall. The belts of woodland forming the

eastern boundary of the Application Site are also thought to have been initially

planted as buffering for the quarry site.

7.74 This habitat type falls under the UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Lowland Mixed Deciduous

Woodland’ and is also a Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitat. However the semi-

natural broadleaf woodland present within the Application Site is not considered to

be a good example of this due the low species diversity. These woodlands were

overall considered to be of Local Value and therefore of Low sensitivity.

Broadleaf plantation woodland

7.75 This habitat type occurs within the PDL at the Application Site and dominated by

semi-mature trees, some of which are native including Ash Fraxinus excelsior, Horse

Chestnut, Cherry trees Prunus sp. and Sycamore.

7.76 This woodland type is also covered by UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Lowland Mixed

Deciduous Woodland’ and is also a Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitat, however it

was extremely limited in area and because of this and the poor quality of the

woodland it was considered to be of Site Value only and therefore of Low

sensitivity.

Mixed plantation woodland

7.77 A strip of mixed plantation woodland is present along the western perimeter of the

Application Site. This is immature plantation woodland contains broadleaf species

such as Hawthorn and Blackthorn Prunus spinosa and the understory is poor

comprising occasional Ground Ivy and Ivy.

7.78 This woodland type is also covered by UK BAP Priority habitat ‘Lowland Mixed

Deciduous Woodland’ and is also a Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitat, however

was limited in quality and it was thus considered to be of Site Value only and

therefore of Low sensitivity.


Dense scrub

7.79 Areas of dense scrub surrounded the lakes and occurred at other scattered

locations throughout the Application Site. This habitat type was dominated by

Hawthorn and Blackthorn with frequent Bramble and Rosa sp.. Due to the low

diversity and small extent this habitat type was considered to be of Site Value only,

and of Low sensitivity.

Calcareous semi-improved grassland

7.80 Calcareous semi-improved grassland was present within the PDL at the Application

Site and was largely associated with former areas of landscaping around buildings.

These areas contained a moderate diversity of species with strong calcareous

indicators (Yellow-wort Blackstonia perfoliata, Dwarf Thistle Cirsium acaule and

Salad Burnet Sanguisorba minor) and weak indicators (Common Knapweed

Centaurea nigra, Common Centaury Centaurium erythraea, Perforate St John’s-wort

Hypericum perforatum and Cowslip Primula veris).

7.81 This habitat type is covered under UK BAP Priority Habitat ‘Lowland Calcareous

Grassland’ and Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitats. It typically develops on

shallow soils over chalk and is defined by a diverse range of floral species which

support a wide range of specialist invertebrate species.

7.82 Only three strong and four weak calcareous grassland indicator species were

recorded across the entire Application Site during the survey effort. This does not

represent high quality calcareous grassland within the Application Site although it

provides strong evidence of the underlying chalk substrate. Based on the highly

dispersed and low numbers of chalk grassland indicator species within this habitat

type it is not considered to represent a good example of this habitat type, and is

therefore considered to be of Local Value and Low sensitivity.

Tall ruderal

7.83 Small areas of tall ruderal habitat were present at several locations across the

Application Site dominated by species such as Common Nettle Urtica dioica. This

habitat type was considered to have limited ecological value and as such it is

assessed as having Site Value and Low sensitivity.


Swamp

7.84 A small area of swamp habitat present around the perimeter of W1 was dominated

by Common Reed Phragmites australis. Swamp is listed as a UK BAP Priority Habitat

type, however this example of the habitat does not qualify under the criteria as it is

a strip less than 5m wide adjacent to standing water. Therefore this habitat can be

considered of Site Value and Low sensitivity.

Standing water

7.85 A large area of standing water is present within the Application Site. This is a

freshwater lake (referred to as W1) and covers an area of approximately 1ha. No

vegetation was recorded in this water body with the exception of the swamp

habitat described above. This lake makes up part of a wider complex of water

bodies across the former quarry site which is of potential value to bird species.

Overall the standing water within the Application Site is considered to be of Site

Value and Low sensitivity.

Ephemeral/short perennial

7.86 Ephemeral/short perennial was a frequently occurring habitat type across the

Application Site and is typical of quarries and abandoned industrial premises.

Typically no species is dominant and this habitat type is common in the early stages

of succession prior to the formation of grasslands or woodlands.

7.87 These habitat parcels within the Application Site varied with some more vegetated

and others with larger areas of bare ground. Typically these habitats were identified

within the PDL (around the former rail tracks for example) or around the recently

disturbed sections surrounding the lakes. Species composition was varied with

occasional calcareous indicators as described above.

7.88 This habitat type is covered by the UK BAP Priority Habitat ‘Open Mosaic Habitats

on Previously Developed Land’ and the Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitat

‘Brownfield and Built’. It is generally typified by the diversity of habitats contained

within it. These habitats are usually described as ‘brownfield’ and comprise old

industrial or extraction sites with a diverse mosaic of habitats from bare ground, to

early successional vegetation through to more mature areas such as scrub and


woodland. These habitats can provide important foraging and shelter for a wide

range of notable invertebrate species.

7.89 The Application Site is dominated by a mosaic of habitats which are typical of

brownfield sites and these include buildings, bare ground and a diversity of

vegetated habitats such as ephemeral/short perennial, scrub, grasslands and tall

ruderal. Although these habitats may not be of specific ecological value in

themselves their value is increased when considered as part of an overall habitat

mosaic. Overall this habitat type is considered to be of Local Value and Low

sensitivity.

Introduced shrub

7.90 The entrance area to the Main Office Building was bordered by planted beds of

introduced shrubs which had become overgrown. This habitat type is common and

typically contains a high proportion of non-native species. Overall this habitat type

is considered to be of Negligible Value and Negligible sensitivity.

Hedgerows

7.91 An overgrown hedgerow was present to the south west of W1, separating two

vehicle access tracks and running alongside a wet ditch. Species composition was

largely of Hawthorn, Dog Rose, Bramble and Blackthorn interspersed with trees of

Ash, Sycamore and Apple Malus domestica. Two lines of trees ran either side of a

dry ditch to the east of the Fire Pump Station. These comprised Leylandii / Sycamore

mix and Hawthorn respectively.

7.92 Hedgerows are included as a UK BAP and Cambridgeshire BAP Priority Habitat.

However the hedgerows at the site were assessed as being species poor and

contained poor structural diversity. Based on this assessment the hedgerows within

the Application site are considered to be of Site Value and Low sensitivity.

Arable

An arable field is situated to the west of the Application Site and the proposed

footpath to connect the site to the village crosses an additional arable field to the

south. Both areas are intensively cropped. Although arable farmland is considered

to be a Cambridgeshire BAP habitat the extent and intensive management of the


areas within the Application mean that they are considered to be of Negligible

Value and Negligible sensitivity.

Arboriculture

7.93 A number of Arboricultural surveys were undertaken within the Application Site in

May and September of 2014. During the survey a total of 343 individual trees, 34

groups of trees, 9 woodland and six hedgerows were identified. The values of trees

within the potential zone of influence are discussed in greater detail within the

construction impacts section below and within the Arboricultural Impact

Assessment (Appendix 7.12) and the Arboricultural Planning Statement (Appendix

7.13).

Fauna

Amphibians

7.94 The desktop study identified four historical records of Great Crested Newt within

2km of the Application Site. These records indicate current populations of the

species within water bodies in Shepreth (approximately 1.5km to the south) and

Haslingfield (approximately 1.5km to the north east).

7.95 Great Crested Newt surveys were conducted between March and May 2014. The

surveys were undertaken at 12 accessible water bodies within 500m of the

Application Site. During the surveys a small breeding population (maximum count

nine) of Great Crested Newt was recorded at Pond A. Pond A is situated

approximately 10m outside the Application Site boundary within the arable

farmland to the east of the site. Great Crested Newt eggs were recorded at this

location indicating a breeding population of the species.

7.96 The population of Great Crested Newt at Pond A is considered to be of District

Value and therefore of Moderate sensitivity.

Reptiles

7.97 The desktop study identified three records of Grass Snake Natrix natrix within 2km

of the Application Site. These records were made in Haslingfield and on the River

Rhee in Barrington. No other reptile species were noted within the desktop study.


7.98 Reptile surveys were conducted within parts of the Application Site in September

2013 during which no reptiles were recorded. It was concluded that it is highly

unlikely that a population of Common Lizard Lacerta vivipara is present and,

although not recorded, occasional Grass Snake may occur.

Breeding birds

7.99 The desktop study provided records of 50 protected and notable bird species that

have been recorded within 2km of the Application Site. The majority of these

species are rare visitors and unlikely to breed within the habitats of the Application

Site. This includes species such as Dotterel Charadrius morinellus, Black Tern

Chlidonias niger, Bittern Botaurus stellaris and Hoopoe Upupa epops.

7.100 Some of the protected and notable species identified with the desktop study do

have the potential to breed at the Application Site. These include Barn Owl Tyto

alba, Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula, Linnet Carduelis cannabina, Quail Coturnix

coturnix, Starling Sturnus vulgaris, Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra, Hobby Falco

subbuteo, Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur, Firecrest, Grey Partridge Perdix perdix,

Dunnock Prunella modularis, House Sparrow Passer domesticus, Little Ringed Plover

Charadrius dubius, Marsh Tit Poecile palustris, Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus,

Red Kite Milvus milvus, Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus, Skylark Alauda arvensis,

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos, Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata and

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella. These species comprise several which are

included on the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) Red and Amber Lists (Eaton

et al., 2009) and a number are also UK BAP and Species of Principal Importance.

Furthermore a number of these potential breeding species are listed on Schedule 1

of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and as such are afforded additional

protection whilst nesting and with dependent young. Peregrine Falcon, listed on

Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), is known historically to

breed within the wider quarry site.

7.101 The CBC survey conducted between March and May 2014 identified 39 species

within the Application Site, 20 of which were considered to be breeding. One

additional species (Little Ringed Plover) was recorded outside of the Application Site

boundary but within the zone of influence of the Proposed Development. The

assemblage of birds was found to be typical of lowland farmland and woodland

with two protected species specifically associated with the quarry habitat (Peregrine

Falcon and Little Ringer Plover).


7.102 Of the 39 species recorded within the Application Site during the CBC survey 16

met the criteria for conservation concern. A further species meeting the criteria,

Little Ringed Plover, was recorded during the survey but not within the Application

Site boundary. Due to the proximity of the Little Ringed Plover territory this species

has been included within this assessment. Table 7.6 shows the species which met

the criteria for conservation concern and the number of territories recorded. Species

highlighted in bold were considered to be breeding within the Application Site

boundary.

Table 7.6: Bird species meeting criteria for conservation concern in CBC survey (breeding species highlighted in bold)

Species

No

. ter

rito

ries

An

nex

1 a

Sch

edu

le 1

b

UK

BA

P/SP

I c

Loca

l BA

P d

Red

Lis

t e

Am

ber

Lis

t e

Mallard - Kestrel 1

Peregrine -

Little Ringed Plover* 1

Redshank -

Common Gull -

Stock Dove 2

Green Woodpecker -

Skylark 2

Whitethroat 2

Lesser Whitethroat -

Song Thrush 5

Dunnock 7

Linnet -

Bullfinch -

Yellowhammer 1

Reed Bunting - a Annex 1 of the EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC) b Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) c UKBAP species and Species of Principal Importance on Section 41 of NERC Act (2006) d Cambridgeshire BAP species e Species listed on Red or Amber list of Birds of Conservation Concern * Little Ringer Plover territory outside Application Site boundary

7.103 Little Ringed Plover is an uncommon breeding species within Cambridgeshire with

approximately 30 – 50 breeding pairs annually (Bacon et al., 2013). A single

territory was recorded outside the Application Site boundary located between W1

and the Northern Lagoon. The territory recorded during the CBC is considered to be


of County Value and therefore of Moderate sensitivity. Although the territory is

outside the Application Site it is still considered to be within the zone of influence.

7.104 Peregrine Falcon is an uncommon breeding species within Cambridgeshire with

approximately four to six breeding pairs annually (Bacon et al., 2013). The species

was recorded perching and flying over the Application Site and was considered to

be breeding on the quarry face approximately 750m to the north. Although this

species was not recorded breeding within the Application Site the occasional

presence of this species is considered to be of County Value and therefore of

Moderate sensitivity.

7.105 The remaining assemblage of breeding birds was considered to be a typical

example of lowland farmland and woodland avifauna. Although species of

conservation concern were recorded within the habitats no significant populations

were identified. The breeding bird assemblage (excluding Peregrine and Little

Ringed Plover) is considered to be of Site Value and therefore of Low sensitivity.

Wintering/passage birds

7.106 The desktop study identified records of 50 notable or protected bird species that

have been recorded within 2km of the Application Site. Several of these species are

summer migrants and therefore highly unlikely to be present during winter (e.g.

Common Tern, Quail, Turtle Dove and Yellow Wagtail). Suitable winter habitat is

available within the Application Site for a number of these species including

Redwing Turdus iliacus and Fieldfare Turdus pilaris.

7.107 The wintering and passage bird survey, conducted between November 2013 and

March 2014, identified 39 species within the survey area. Of these species 15 met

the criteria for conservation concern. The species of conservation concern are

shown in Table 7.7.


Table 7.7: Bird species meeting criteria for conservation concern in wintering/passage bird survey

Species

Max

imu

m

cou

nt

An

nex

1 a

Sch

edu

le 1

b

UK

BA

P/SP

I c

Loca

l BA

P d

Red

Lis

t e

Am

ber

Lis

t e

Mallard 383 Kestrel 2

Peregrine 1

Woodcock 1

Black-headed Gull 374

Herring Gull 1

Stock Dove 5

Green Woodpecker 2

Skylark 7

Starling 24

Fieldfare 1

Redwing 1

Dunnock 2

House Sparrow 1

Linnet 2 a Annex 1 of the EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC) b Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 c UKBAP species and Species of Principal Importance on Section 41 of NERC Act 2006 d Cambridgeshire BAP species e Species listed on Red or Amber list of Birds of Conservation Concern

7.108 Of the notable species recorded during the wintering/passage bird survey only three

were recorded in significant numbers. Mallard were recorded in high numbers

although their population is thought to be increased by stocking for shooting

purposes. Furthermore the largest congregations of Mallard were recorded within

and around the Northern Lagoon which falls outside the Application Site. A

significant number of Black-headed Gull was recorded on one occasion within the

arable fields to the north of the Application Site. A single Peregrine was recorded

on one occasion perching on the chimney within the PDL.

7.109 The presence of Peregrine Falcon within the Application Site is considered to be a

VER of County Value and therefore of Moderate sensitivity.

7.110 Significant numbers of Mallard were recorded within and just outside the

Application Site boundary. However, because the population is thought to be

enhanced by released birds this VER is considered to be of Local Value only and

thus of Low sensitivity.


7.111 On a single occasion a significant number of Black-headed Gull were recorded

within the arable field beyond the Application Site boundary. Due to the occasional

presence of this greater population this VER was considered to be of Local Value

and therefore of Low sensitivity.

7.112 The remaining assemblage of passage/wintering birds (excluding Peregrine Falcon,

Mallard and Black-headed Gull) was considered to be a typical example of lowland

farmland and woodland avifauna. Although species of conservation concern were

recorded within the habitats no significant populations were identified. The

passage/wintering bird assemblage is considered to be of Site Value and therefore

of Low sensitivity.

Badger

7.113 The desktop study identified 63 historical records of Badger within 2km of the

Application Site and the species is known to be widespread throughout the area.

7.114 The Badger surveys undertaken between December 2013 and April 2014 identified

a total of nine Badger setts within and surrounding the Application Site some of

which were disused. Table 7.8 provides a summary of these setts. Full details of sett

locations are provided in the Confidential Appendix.

Table 7.8: Summary of Badger setts

Sett Sett type Description

1 Main 10 well used, 7 partially used, 6 disused and 2 collapsed entrances connected by paths, snuffle holes and adjacent latrines. Freshly dug earth, Badger hair and bedding present at several of the entrances indicating current use at the time of survey. Outside Application Site boundary.

2 Main An abandoned former main sett, possibly currently being used as a subsidiary sett. 9 partially used, 15 disused and 4 collapsed entrances. Outside Application Site boundary.

3 Outlier 1 disused hole. Outside Application Site boundary. 4 Outlier 1 collapsed hole. Inside Application Site boundary. 5 Outlier 1 disused hole. Inside Application Site boundary.6 Outlier 1 collapsed hole. Inside Application Site boundary.

7 Outlier 1 well used hole with signs of fresh digging, and 1 disused hole.Inside Application Site boundary.

8 Subsidiary 1 well used, 1 partially used and 2 disused entrances. Freshly dug earth at well used hole indicating current use at the time of survey. Inside Application Site boundary.

9 Main 6 well used, 6 partially used and 13 disused holes. Remains of bedding and Badger hair were found at several sett entrances indicating current use. Snuffle holes and latrines also present close to sett. Inside Application Site boundary.


7.115 High levels of activity were recorded at the Application Site and these were

focussed around the woodland edges with occasional activity within the PDL. The

bait-marking survey indicated that two main Badger clans were present at and

around the Application Site with a territory edge running along the southern

boundary of the North Lagoon. It is considered unlikely that the PDL is used as a

significant commuting route by Badgers although some use is expected. The areas

around the Northern Lagoon (outside the Application Site boundary) are considered

to provide important foraging areas for the local Badger population.

7.116 The Badger population, and associated setts, foraging areas and commuting routes,

are considered to be a VER of Local Value and are therefore of Low sensitivity.

Bats

7.117 The desktop study identified the confirmed presence of five species of bat within

2km of the Application Site which were Common Pipistrelle, Daubenton’s Bat

Myotis daubentonii, Natterer’s Bat Myotis nattereri, Noctule Nyctalus noctula and

Barbastelle. Furthermore unidentified Pipistrellus sp. has been recorded as has

Long-eared Bat Plecotus sp., presumed to be a Brown Long-eared Bat. These species

all demonstrate a certain amount of flexibility in their roosting requirements and all

will roost within buildings or trees.

7.118 The diurnal bat inspection survey identified nine buildings with a low potential to

support roosting bats, seven buildings with a moderate potential to support

roosting bats and one building with a confirmed bat roost. Five buildings were

considered to have no potential to support roosting bats.

7.119 Three buildings were considered to be suitable for hibernating bats due to the cool,

stable and humid conditions. Hibernation bat surveys undertaken between

December 2013 and February 2014 showed that no hibernation bat roosts were

present.

7.120 Bat droppings, indicating the likely presence of a Brown Long-eared Bat feeding

roost, were recorded in the Packing Building. However, no bats were recorded

emerging from or entering this building during the nocturnal bat surveys and

therefore this roost was considered to be only occasionally used.


7.121 A transitory roost for a single Common Pipistrelle was recorded within the Electrical

Shop (which falls outside the Application Site boundary). A transitory mating roost

for Soprano Pipistrelle (maximum four individuals) was recorded within the Storage

Building.

7.122 The diurnal bat inspection survey identified 74 trees with potential to support

roosting bats. Surveys were undertaken at seven trees which were considered to be

within the zone of influence of the Proposed Development. No bats were recorded

roosting within the trees at the Application Site.

7.123 Low to moderate levels of bat activity were recorded at the Application Site with

five species recorded throughout the survey period (Common Pipistrelle, Soprano

Pipistrelle, Noctule, Brown Long-eared Bat and an unidentified Myotis sp. likely to

be Natterer’s Bat or Daubenton’s Bat). Higher levels of activity were recorded in the

woodland to the south and along the tree lined perimeters to the east and south of

the Application Site. A Common Pipistrelle commuting route was recorded running

from the woodland to the south of the site north through the PDL.

7.124 Overall the bat activity was considered to be typical of the area being dominated by

common species (Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle and Brown Long-eared

Bat) with occasional occurrence of rarer species (Noctule and Myotis sp.). The bat

species assemblage at the Application Site was considered to be a VER of Local

Value and thus of Low sensitivity.

7.125 The Brown Long-eared Bat feeding roost within the Packing Building, the transitory

roost for Common Pipistrelle within the Electrical Shop (which falls outside of the

Application Site boundary) and the transitory mating roost for Soprano Pipistrelle

with the Storage Building were each considered to be of Local Value and therefore

of Low sensitivity.

Invertebrates

7.126 The desktop study identified an historical record (2004) of Small Blue Butterfly

Cupido minmus (a UKBAP and Species of Principal Importance) within the wider

quarry site. Chalk Carpet Moth Scotopteryx bipunctaria (a UK BAP and Species of

Principal Importance) has also been recorded within the wider quarry site.


7.127 Site survey visits for invertebrates were made from May to September 2014. Specific

surveys for Small Blue were not undertaken as it was clear that there was no food

plant for this species (Kidney Vetch Anthyllis vulneraria) within the Application Site.

7.128 Chalk Carpet Moth was recorded at the Application Site on a single occasion and it

is suspected that this species may be associated with the semi-improved calcareous

grassland present within the Application Site boundary.

7.129 A total of 14 moth species were recorded which are listed as ‘research only’ species

with the UKBAP and are considered to be ‘not yet rare’. A single Red Data Book

Species was recorded, the anthomyid fly Eustalomyia hilaris, although this species

has an unknown life cycle and ecology. The ground bug Stictopleurus

punctatonervosus was recorded and this species was previously considered to be

extinct within the UK although is now recorded on regular basis. A total of 29

Nationally Scarce species were recorded, three of which are Nationally Notable

category Na (Long-winged Cone-head Conocephalus discolor, the wasp Gorytes

laticinctus and the flea beetle Longitarsus parvulus). Fifteen further species were

recorded as Nationally Notable category Nb. Eleven species of Diptera (flies) were

recorded as Nationally Notable category N. A total of 37 species were recorded as

Nationally Local.

7.130 A total of 823 terrestrial species were recorded which is relatively high with

approximately 10% of these recorded as notable species. Analysis showed that the

species assemblage associated with unshaded early successional habitats is in

favourable condition. It also showed that Specific Assemblage Types associated

with a rich flower resource and scrub edge are in a favourable condition.

7.131 It is considered likely that the larger part of the Application Site, comprising

building and hardstanding, is of little value to invertebrate species. The remaining

habitats (ephemeral/short perennial or early successional grasslands) could be

described as Open Mosaic Habitat on PDL which is a UK BAP priority habitat and

habitat of principal importance. However, it is considered that the small sections of

this habitat within the Application Site form a small part of a larger unit associated

with the entire quarry. Invertebrate species are frequently mobile and there is also

considerable potential for the notable species recorded to be associated with the

larger areas of habitat found outside the Application Site.


7.132 The invertebrate species assemblage within the Application Site contains a diverse

invertebrate fauna. Species assemblages associated with unshaded early

successional habitat were of note, as well as those associated with rich flower

resources and scrub edge. Although a good diversity of species was recorded the

Application Site is likely to only represent only a small proportion of the wider

valuable habitats and therefore this VER is considered to be of District Value and

thus of Moderate sensitivity.

Summary

7.133 Table 7.9 below provides a summary of the VER which have been identified.

Table 7.9: Summary of VER values and sensitivities

VER Value criteria Sensitivity

Evesden and Wimpole Wood SAC/SSSI International High Haslingfield Pit CWS County Moderate River Rhee CWS County Moderate Semi-natural broadleaf woodland Local Low Broadleaf plantation woodland Site Low Mixed plantation woodland Site Low

Dense scrub Site Low Calcareous semi-improved grassland Local Low Tall ruderal Site Low Swamp Site Low Standing water Site Low Ephemeral/short perennial Local Low Introduced shrub Negligible Negligible Hedgerow Site Low Arable Negligible Negligible Great Crested Newt District Moderate Little Ringed Plover (breeding season) County Moderate Peregrine Falcon (breeding season) County Moderate General breeding bird assemblage Site Low Peregrine Falcon (wintering/passage seasons) County Moderate Mallard (wintering/passage seasons) Local Low Black-headed Gull (wintering/passage seasons) Local Low General wintering/passage bird assemblage Site Low Badger Local Low Bat assemblage Local Low Brown Long-eared Bat feeding roost (Packing Building) Local Low Common Pipistrelle transitory roost (Electrical Shop) Local Low Soprano Pipistrelle transitory mating roost (Storage Building)

Local Low

Invertebrate assemblage District Moderate

ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS

7.134 Without mitigation, the Proposed Development has the potential to have a range of

effects upon the ecological features identified at the Application Site. The following


sections identify potential effects both during and after construction. The

significance of these effects is assessed using the methodology described above.

7.135 Impacts associated with the construction phase of the Proposed Development could

include;

Habitat loss;

Habitat fragmentation;

Disturbance to wildlife;

Soil compaction, resulting in changes to flora and fauna; and

Pollution events.

7.136 Impacts associated with the operational phase of the Proposed Development could

include;

Disturbance caused by noise or light; and

Disturbance caused by operational activities.

Biodiversity design considerations

7.137 Throughout the design process of the Proposed Development consideration has

been given to the ecological features of the Application Site and opportunities to

provide biodiversity enhancement features. The significance of the potential effects

of the Proposed Development, detailed below, do not take into account the

features which are described in further detail in the mitigation section.

7.138 Biodiversity design features within the Proposed Development include;

Calcareous habitats (meadowland);

Native planting (scattered trees, shrubs and hedgerows);

Enhancement of existing, and provision of new, aquatic habitat; and

Bird and bat box provisions.

7.139 Furthermore it is assumed that best working practices will be followed during

construction to prevent or minimise environmental impacts. These practices will be

set out within the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).


CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Nature Conservation Site Designations


7.140 No direct impacts are predicted on the Eversden and Wimpole Wood SAC/SSSI. The

Application Site lies within the Barbastelle Bat Area of Importance for Eversden and

Wimpole Woods SAC. However, this species of bat was not recorded during

nocturnal survey effort at the Application Site. It is therefore anticipated that

although there will be some habitat loss within the Barbastelle Bat Area of

Importance for Eversden and Wimpole Woods SAC the change as a result of this

predicted impact on the VER is anticipated to be None and there will be No Effect.


7.141 No direct or indirect impacts are predicted on Haslingfield Pit CWS and the River

Rhee CWS. These sites are both situated over 1km from the Application Site and

construction activities (resulting in noise, light, vibration or dust deposition) are

unlikely to have any significant direct or indirect impacts at this distance. Thus the

predicted change on the VER is anticipated to be None and there will be No Effect.

Habitats


7.142 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 1.08ha of semi-natural

broadleaf woodland at the Application Site, primarily associated with the car

parking area to the south. This VER is considered to be of Local Value and its

sensitivity is considered to be Low. The magnitude of change for this VER is

considered to be Small as this habitat is widespread throughout the landscape and

the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local level. Therefore the predicted

significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.


7.143 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 0.10ha broadleaf plantation

woodland at the Application Site. This VER is considered to be of Site Value and its



considered to be Small as this habitat is widespread throughout the landscape and

the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local level. Therefore the predicted

significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.

Mixed plantation woodland

7.144 The mixed plantation woodland within the Application Site is being retained as part

of the Proposed Development. Due to the retention of this habitat there are no

predicted impacts and therefore there will be No Effect.

Dense scrub

7.145 The Proposed Development will result in the maximum loss of 1.93ha of dense

scrub habitat at the Application Site (although there is scope to retain some

existing areas of scrub around W1). This VER is considered to be of Site Value and

its sensitivity is considered to be Low. The magnitude of change for this VER is

considered to be Small as the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local level.

Therefore the predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is

Negligible/Slight.

Calcareous semi-improved grassland

7.146 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 1.67ha of semi-improved

calcareous grassland at the Application Site. This VER is considered to be of Local

Value and its sensitivity is considered to be Low. The magnitude of change for this

VER is considered to be Small as the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local

level. Therefore the predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is

Negligible/Slight.

Tall ruderal

7.147 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 0.28ha of tall ruderal habitat at

the Application Site. This VER is considered to be of Site Value and its sensitivity is

considered to be Low. The magnitude of change for this VER is considered to be

Small as the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local level. Therefore the

predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.


Swamp

7.148 The swamp habitat within the Application Site is being retained as part of the

Proposed Development. Due to the retention of this habitat there are no predicted

impacts and therefore there will be No Effect.

Standing water

7.149 The standing water habitat (W1) within the Application Site is being retained as

part of the Proposed Development. Due to the retention of this habitat there are no

predicted impacts and therefore there will be No Effect.

7.150 There will be a loss of ephemeral water bodies within the Application Site (the

Wheelwash and parts of Ditch A) and these impacts are discussed in relation to

Great Crested Newt below.


7.151 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 3.23ha of ephemeral/short

perennial habitat at the site. This VER is considered to be of Local Value and its


considered to be Small as the change is unlikely to impact beyond the local level.

Therefore the predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is

Negligible/Slight.

Introduced shrub

7.152 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 0.03ha of introduced shrub at

the site. This VER is considered to be of Negligible Value and its sensitivity is

considered to be Negligible. Therefore the loss of this habitat type is likely to be of

Negligible significance.

Hedgerows

7.153 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 395m of hedgerow at the site.

This VER is considered to be of Site Value and its sensitivity considered to be Low.

The magnitude of change for this VER is considered to be Small as this habitat is

widespread throughout the landscape and the change is unlikely to impact beyond


the local level. Therefore the predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse

impact is Negligible/Slight.

Arable

7.154 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 2.69ha of Arable. This VER is

considered to be of Negligible Value and its sensitivity is considered to be

Negligible. Therefore the loss of this habitat type is likely to be of Negligible

significance.

Arboriculture

7.155 Approval is sought for the maximum development land use zones and the three site

access points from Haslingfield Road as discussed in Chapter 4 Proposed

Development. As the layout of the residential development and landscaping within

these development land use zones is a reserved matter, the Arboricultural Planning

Statement (Appendix 7.14) focusses on what trees will be impacted on during the

construction of the maximum development footprint of the car park and the 3 site

accesses. These are therefore not discussed below.

7.156 The layout of the residential development, including the alignment of the internal

road is indicative therefore the impacts to the trees that could be impacted on

during the construction of the residential development is based on the illustrative

Masterplan could change.

7.157 Based on the illustrative Masterplan the following number and grades of trees will

be require removal:

18 ‘B’ grade trees

3 ‘B’ grade tree groups

19 ‘C’ grade trees

7 ‘C’ grade tree groups

Part of a ‘C’ grade tree group

Two ‘U’ grade trees will require removal also.

7.158 Landscaping is a reserved matter; therefore based on the illustrative Masterplan this

will require the removal of a single ‘C’ grade tree and a ‘C’ grade woodland.


7.159 Layout of the pedestrian and cycle from the residential development to the school

will require the removal of 22 ‘C’ grade trees together with part of a ‘C’ grade tree

group. At this stage the alignment of the footpath to the school is not fixed

therefore this impact assumes worst case.

7.160 In order to allow the connection of the proposed footpath to the village with the

existing footpath, this will require the removal of parts of a ‘C’ grade hedgerow, a

‘C’ grade tree and a ‘U’ grade group of trees.

7.161 In order to construct the western footpath to the quarry a single ‘C’ grade

hedgerow will be removed with a single ‘C’ grade tree.

7.162 The Arboricultural Impact Assessment is contained in Appendix 7.13 which details

the above in more detail.

Fauna

Amphibians

7.163 The Proposed Development will result in habitat loss for the Great Crested Newt

breeding population at Pond A. 2.4ha of suitable terrestrial habitat will be impacted

within 250m of Pond A. This habitat comprises grassland and woodland and is

likely to provide foraging habitat for the species as well as resting places.

7.164 With the presence of a Great Crested Newt breeding population in close proximity

to the construction footprint there is a risk of killing or injuring individuals of the

species during the construction of the Proposed Development. Great Crested Newt

is a European Protected Species and killing or injuring and destroying resting places

would constitute an offence under UK wildlife legislation unless otherwise

mitigated and licensed.

7.165 The groundworks for the Proposed Development will also result in the loss of a

single water body (the Wheelwash) and result in impacts on a single ditch (Ditch A).

However, no Great Crested Newt were recorded in these locations and they were

both considered to be less suitable for the species. Their loss would nevertheless

represent a loss of opportunity for the species.

7.166 The population of Great Crested Newt at Pond A is considered to be of District

Value and therefore of Moderate sensitivity. The loss of terrestrial habitat is


anticipated to result in a Small magnitude of change because the distribution of

the species at a local level is unlikely to be changed due to the widespread

availability of other habitats. Therefore the predicted significance of this Adverse

impact is Slight.

Breeding birds

7.167 In terms of effects, the following are considered likely to occur as a result of the

construction phase of the Proposed Development:

1. Disturbance due to:

Increased presence of people, vehicles;

Changes in artificial lighting;

Changes in sound and vibration from excavation and construction; and

Changes in water turbidity from sheet pilling and dredging.

2. Loss of habitat due to:

Laying of infrastructure; and

Ground clearance.

7.168 The Little Ringed Plover breeding population of County Value and Moderate

sensitivity is susceptible to disturbance and loss of habitat impacts (as detailed

above). In particular, changes in sound and vibration arising from excavation and

construction works, in combination with the increased presence of people on the

Application Site, are likely to lead to the displacement of breeding Little Ringed

Plover during the construction phase. It is therefore considered that the

Construction Phase of the Proposed Development will result in a Temporary

Adverse impact of Medium magnitude. Therefore the significance of this impact is

considered to be Moderate. This effect was considered likely to affect the entire

breeding population of Little Ringed Plover located within the zone of influence of

the Application Site when works are undertaken during the Little Ringed Plover

breeding season (between the months of March and July inclusive). It is considered

likely that the effect will operate throughout the duration of the construction

phase. It is considered likely that this is a Reversible effect.

7.169 The Peregrine Falcon breeding population of County Value and Moderate


above). In particular, the loss of foraging habitat from the Application Site as a


result of construction works is likely to lead to the displacement of foraging

Peregrine during the Construction Phase. It is therefore considered that the


Adverse impact of Medium magnitude. Therefore the significance of this impact is

considered to be Moderate. This effect was considered likely to affect the entire

breeding population of Peregrine located within the zone of influence of the

Application Site when works are undertaken during the Peregrine breeding season

(between the months of March and July inclusive). It is considered likely that the

effect will operate throughout the duration of the construction phase. It is

considered likely that this is a Reversible effect.

7.170 The general breeding bird assemblage of Site Value and Low sensitivity is

susceptible to disturbance and loss of habitat impacts (as detailed above). In

particular, the loss of nesting habitat from the Application Site as a result of

construction works, in combination with changes in sound and vibration and the

increased presence of people, are likely to result in the displacement of breeding

birds in general during the construction phase. It is therefore considered that the


Adverse impact of Small magnitude. Therefore the significance of this impact is

considered to be Negligible/Slight. This effect was considered likely to affect the

majority of the general breeding bird assemblage located within the zone of

influence of the Application Site when works are undertaken during the general

breeding bird season (between the months of March and August inclusive). It is

considered likely that the effect will operate throughout the duration of the

construction phase. It is considered likely that this is a Reversible effect.


7.171 In terms of effects, the following are considered likely to occur as a result of the

construction phase of the Proposed Development:


Increased presence of people, vehicles;

Changes in artificial lighting;

Changes in sound and vibration from excavation and construction; and

Changes in water turbidity from sheet pilling and dredging.

2. Loss of habitat due to:

Laying of infrastructure; and


Ground clearance.

7.172 The Peregrine Falcon wintering population of County Value and Moderate


above). As described above this may result in the displacement of foraging

Peregrine Falcon during the construction phase resulting in a Temporary Adverse

impact of Medium magnitude and Moderate significance.

7.173 Significant numbers of Mallard were recorded within and just outside the

Application Site boundary. The Proposed Development will primarily affect suitable

habitat surrounding W1 through disturbance associated with construction activities

and personnel. However, Mallard is known to be relatively tolerant to disturbance

and the sensitivity of the species was considered to be Low. Disturbance is likely to

result in a Temporary Adverse impact of Small magnitude during the construction

phase as the Proposed Development. Therefore the significance of this impact is

considered to be Negligible/Slight. It is considered likely that the effect will

operate throughout the duration of the construction phase and this is considered

to be a Reversible effect.

7.174 A significant number of Black-headed Gull were recorded within the arable field

beyond the Application Site boundary. This population is considered to be a VER of

Local Value and Low sensitivity. The Proposed Development will generate

Temporary Adverse impact on the species due to disturbance is likely to result in a

change of Small magnitude which is of Negligible/Slight significance.

7.175 The remaining assemblage of passage/wintering birds (excluding Mallard, Peregrine

Falcon and Black-headed Gull) was considered to be of Site Value and Low

sensitivity. The proposed development will generate Temporary Adverse impacts

of Small magnitude due to disturbance and habitat loss. However, most of these

impacts will be Reversible as alternative habitats for these species are thought to

be widespread across the landscape. Therefore the significance of this impact is

considered to be Negligible/Slight.

Badger

7.176 The Proposed Development will require construction works within 30m of Sett 8

which is a subsidiary sett comprising one well-used entrance and one partially-used

entrance. There is a risk of disturbance of Badgers occupying this sett which would

be an offence under UK wildlife legislation.


7.177 Ground works to facilitate the construction of the Proposed Development will result

in the loss of foraging habitat for Badger. However, the dominant habitat to be lost

is the PDL (comprising buildings and hardstanding) which is of little value to

foraging Badger. The construction of the car park within the woodland, even at

maximum extent, will not directly impact upon active Badger setts, although this

may result in a small loss of foraging habitat for the species.

7.178 The Badger bait-marking survey indicated that two Badger clans are present at the

Application Site situated to the north (outside the Application Site boundary) and

within the woodland to the south. The territory boundary appears to comprise the

PDL and the area between W1 and the Northern Lagoon. It is therefore concluded

that the northern and southern main setts are not closely related and high levels of

commuting across the Application Site are unlikely.

7.179 The assemblage of Badger setts, foraging areas and commuting routes are

considered to be of Local Value and therefore of Low sensitivity. The construction

associated with the Proposed Development will result in disturbance of a subsidiary

sett, loss of small areas of foraging habitat and the loss of minor commuting routes

for the species. This change is considered to be of a Small magnitude and therefore

the predicted significance of this Temporary Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.

Bats

7.180 The ground clearance works will result in the loss of foraging habitat for bat

species. Furthermore the removal of features within the Application Site (such as

the large buildings or tree lines) has the potential to disrupt commuting routes

which typically run in line with linear features. The assemblage of bat species, and

the activity within the Application Site, is considered to be of Local Value and Low

sensitivity. The magnitude of change as a result of these impacts is considered to be

Small because of the widespread availability of other habitats within the area

which are also likely to be used by these bat species. Therefore the predicted

significance of this Temporary Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.

7.181 No night time lighting of the construction site will occur (beyond that already

present at the Application Site), thereby avoiding potential adverse effects on

nocturnal and crepuscular species such as bats. This will be stipulated in the CEMP

for the Proposed Development.


7.182 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of three bat roosts (a Brown Long-

eared Bat feeding roost, a transitory roost for a single Common Pipistrelle and a

transitory mating roost for four Soprano Pipistrelle). All British bats are European

Protected Species and individuals are protected from killing or injuring and their

roosts are protected from damage, disturbance or obstruction. The buildings

containing these roosts (Packing Building and Storage Building) are all scheduled

for demolition which would result in the permanent loss of the roosts (for which a

derogation licence would be required) and potential killing or injuring of bats in the

absence of mitigation.

7.183 The loss of roosts is anticipated to result in a Small magnitude of change for these

VER as the distribution of these species is likely to be affected at a local level. The

fact that the roosts are transitory indicates that other roosts are available within the

area. Therefore the predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is

Negligible/Slight.

Invertebrates

7.184 The ground clearance works will result in the loss of habitat for invertebrate

species, the assemblage of which is considered to be of District Value and

Moderate sensitivity. Species assemblages associated with unshaded early

successional habitat were of note, as well as those associated with rich flower

resources and scrub edge.

7.185 The groundwork is likely to result in the loss of these habitat types within the

Application Site although they are considered to form a small part of wider mosaic

of habitats within the wider quarry site. Due to the availability of habitats within

the wider quarry this impact is unlikely significantly to change the VER at a local

level and thus the magnitude of change is anticipated to be Small. Therefore the

predicted significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is Slight.

Summary

7.186 Table 7.10 provides a summary of the construction phase impacts.


Table 7.10: Characterisation of potential construction impacts

VER Magnitude of change

Adverse /beneficial

Duration Significance

Semi-natural broadleaf woodland habitat loss

Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Broadleaf plantation woodland habitat loss


Dense scrub habitat loss Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Semi-improved calcareous grassland habitat loss


Tall ruderal habitat loss Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Ephemeral/short perennial habitat loss


Hedgerow habitat loss Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Great Crested Newt habitat loss

Small Adverse Permanent Slight

Breeding Little Ringed Plover Medium Adverse Temporary Moderate Breeding Peregrine Falcon Medium Adverse Temporary Moderate General breeding bird assemblage

Small Adverse Temporary Negligible /slight

Wintering Peregrine Falcon Medium Adverse Temporary Moderate Wintering Mallard Small Adverse Temporary Negligible

/slight Wintering Black-headed Gull Small Adverse Temporary Negligible

/slight General wintering bird assemblage

Small Adverse Temporary Negligible /slight

Badger Small Adverse Temporary Negligible /slight

Bat assemblage Small Adverse Temporary Negligible /slight

Bat roost loss Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Invertebrates Small Adverse Permanent Slight

POST-CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Nature Conservation Site Designations


7.187 The Proposed Development will bring a greater human population in closer

proximity to Eversden and Wimpole Wood SAC/SSSI although the 4.5km distance is

unlikely to result in a significant increase in visitor pressure to this site and the

associated disturbance.

7.188 Lighting associated with the Proposed Development has the potential to disrupt

commuting routes for bats and diminish the value of their foraging habitat. No


Barbastelle were recorded on the Application Site and therefore the impact on this

feature of the VER is anticipated to be None and there will be No effect.



proximity to Haslingfield Pit CWs and the River Rhee CWS. Haslingfield Pit CWS is

not directly accessible via a public footpath. The River Rhee is only accessible in

small parts by public footpath but the bankside meadows to the south of

Barrington Pit SSSI are open to the public. It is therefore anticipated that although

there may be a small increase in visitor pressure, and associated disturbance, the

magnitude of this change is likely to be Negligible and therefore the significance of

this Adverse impact is anticipated to be Negligible/Slight.

Habitats

7.190 No potential effects are anticipated on habitats further to those identified during

the construction phase.

Fauna

Amphibians

7.191 No further loss of habitat for Great Crested Newt is anticipated during the post-

construction phase of the Proposed Development. The introduction of a human

population in close proximity to the Great Crested Newt breeding pond may result

in some increase in disturbance (e.g. deposition of rubbish). These predicted

impacts are not considered to be significant as Pond A is located off-site and

positioned away from proposed footpaths. The change as a result of this effect is

considered to be Negligible and therefore the predicted significance of this

Permanent Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.

Breeding birds

7.192 During the post-construction phase, the following potential effects have been

identified:



Increased presence of people, vehicles; and

Changes in artificial lighting.

2. Increase on mortality due to:

Increase in the presence of domestic predators (cats).

7.193 The Little Ringed Plover breeding population of County Value and Moderate

sensitivity is susceptible to disturbance and increased mortality impacts (as detailed

above). In particular, the increased presence of people on the Application Site, in

combination with the increased presence of domestic predators on the Application

Site, are likely to lead to the displacement of breeding Little Ringed Plover during

the post-construction phase. It is therefore considered that the post-construction

phase of the Proposed Development will result in a Permanent Adverse impact of

Medium magnitude. Therefore the impact on the Little Ringed Plover is considered

to be of Moderate significance. This effect was considered likely to affect the entire

breeding population of Little Ringed Plover located within the zone of influence of

the Application Site during the Little Ringed Plover breeding season (between the

months of March and July inclusive). It is considered likely that the effect will

operate throughout the duration of the Post-construction Phase. It is considered

likely that this is a Reversible effect.

7.194 The Peregrine Falcon breeding population of County Value and Moderate


above). In particular, the loss of foraging habitat from the Application Site as a

result of the Proposed Development is likely to lead to the displacement of foraging

Peregrine Falcon during the post-construction phase. It is therefore considered that

the post-construction phase of the Proposed Development will result in a

Permanent Adverse impact of Medium magnitude. Therefore the impact on

Peregrine Falcon is considered to be of Moderate significance. This effect was

considered likely to affect the entire breeding population of Peregrine located

within the zone of influence of the Application Site. It is considered likely that the

effect will operate throughout the duration of the post-construction phase. It is


7.195 The general breeding bird assemblage of Site Value and Low sensitivity is

susceptible to disturbance, loss of habitat and increased mortality impacts (as

detailed above). In particular, the loss of nesting habitat from the Application Site

as a result of the Proposed Development, in combination with the increased


presence of people and domestic predators, are likely to result in the displacement

of breeding birds in general during the post-construction phase. It is therefore

considered that the post-construction phase of the Proposed Development will

result in a Permanent Adverse impact of Small magnitude. Therefore the

significance of this impact is considered to be Negligible/Slight. This effect was

considered likely to affect the entire general breeding bird assemblage located

within the zone of influence of the Application Site. It is considered likely that the

effect will operate throughout the duration of the Post-construction Phase. It is



7.196 During the post-construction phase, the following potential effects have been

identified:


Increased presence of people, vehicles; and

Changes in artificial lighting.

2. Increase on mortality due to:

Increase in the presence of domestic predators (cats).

7.197 The Proposed Development is expected to have Permanent Adverse effects on

Peregrine Falcon due to loss of hunting habitat for the species and disturbance due

to increased presence of people and vehicles. This impact is likely to be of a

Medium magnitude and therefore the significance of this impact is predicted to be

Moderate. This effect was considered likely to affect the entire breeding population

of Peregrine located within the zone of influence of the Application Site. It is

considered likely that the effect will operate throughout the duration of the post-

construction phase.

7.198 Mallard is a generalist species that usually adapts easily to new environments and

the sensitivity of the species is considered to be Low although Permanent Adverse

impacts of a Small magnitude are expected due to disturbance (increased presence

of people and vehicles and increases in artificial lighting). Therefore the significance

of this impact is considered to be Negligible/Slight.


7.199 Black-headed Gull considered to be a generalist species that usually adapt easily to

new environments and that will not be significantly affected by the proposals. A

Permanent Adverse impact of Small magnitude is expected due to disturbance

(increased presence of people and vehicles and changes of artificial lightning) as

part of the Proposed Development during the post-construction phase. Therefore

the predicted significance of the impact on the VER is Negligible/Slight. It is

considered likely that the effect will operate throughout the duration of the post-

construction phase. Furthermore, it is considered likely that this is a Reversible

effect.

7.200 The remaining assemblage of passage/wintering birds (excluding Mallard, Peregrine

Falcon and Black-headed Gull) was considered to be of Site Value and Low

sensitivity. Some Permanent Adverse impacts are predicted as a result of

disturbance, increased risk of predation and changes in artificial lighting. However,

as impacts are not expected to affect the distribution or status of these species at a

local level the magnitude of change is considered to be Small. Therefore the

predicted significance of these impacts on the VER is considered to be

Negligible/Slight.

Badger


proximity to the Badger population in and around the Application Site. This has the

potential to result in some indirect disturbance of setts from human interference

such as noise and artificial light as well as a higher risk of road traffic accidents.

However, as impacts are not expected to affect the distribution or status of these

species at a local level the magnitude of change is considered to be Small.

Therefore the predicted significance of these impacts on the VER is considered to be

Negligible/Slight.

Bats

7.202 During the operational phase of the Proposed Development there is potential for

disturbance impacts on bats as a result of lighting associated with the dwelling

houses and infrastructure. Bat roosting behaviour, commuting and foraging activity

can be dramatically affected by artificial lighting. Although the Application Site is

currently well-lit in parts it is anticipated that the Proposed Development will result

in more widespread lighting impacts (although a detailed lighting strategy is not

set out within this outline application). These impacts may affect the assemblage of


bats at a local level with the loss of foraging habitat and disruption of commuting

routes and therefore the predicted magnitude of change for the VER is Small. The

anticipated significance of this Permanent Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight.

Invertebrates

7.203 No potential effects are anticipated on invertebrates further to those identified

during the construction phase.

Summary

7.204 Table 7.11 provides a summary of the post-construction phase impacts.

Table 7.11: Characterisation of potential post-construction impacts

VER Magnitude of change

Adverse /beneficial

Duration Significance

River Rhee CWS recreational disturbance

Negligible Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Great Crested Newt recreational disturbance

Negligible Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Breeding Little Ringed Ploverdisturbance

Medium Adverse Permanent Moderate

Breeding Peregrine Falcon Medium Adverse Permanent Moderate General breeding bird assemblage


Wintering Peregrine Falcon Medium Adverse Permanent Moderate Wintering Mallard Small Adverse Permanent Negligible

/slight Wintering Black-headed Gull Small Adverse Permanent Negligible

/slight General wintering bird assemblage


Badger Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Bat assemblage Small Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

MITIGATION MEASURES

Construction Environmental Management Plan

7.205 Measures to protect existing ecological feature within the site will be outlined in

the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) as well as defined within

the planning conditions imposed upon the granted permission. The CEMP will be

developed before works begin on the Application Ssite.


7.206 The CEMP will set out measures to prevent or minimise the risk of dust deposition,

pollution and contamination of land which will follow Environment Agency’s

Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPG). The document will also set out restrictions on

night time lighting to prevent or minimise adverse impacts on species groups such

as foraging or commuting bats.

7.207 The CEMP will set out measures for the protection of retained habitats such as

scrub and trees adjacent to the construction zone in accordance with BS5837:2012.

7.208 Timing constraints for the clearance of vegetation will be set out within the CEMP

to ensure the protection of active birds’ nests. Clearance works will take place

outside the breeding period and where this is not feasible checks will be

undertaken for active breeding sites and, where found, these will be protected until

breeding attempts are completed.

7.209 Due to the residual low risk of Grass Snake presence the CEMP will set out standard

measures to minimise harm to this species.

Habitats

7.210 A total of approximately 2ha of scrub habitat will be provided within the landscape

design post-development, in large part associated with the calcareous grassland

provisions surrounding the lake (W1). The planting will comprise native species

such as Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel Corylus avellana, Dogwood Cornus sanguinea

and Spindle Euonymus europaeus. The scrub planting will provide habitat for

breeding birds (including Dunnock and House Sparrow) as well as food plants and

structured vegetation for a range of terrestrial invertebrate species.

7.211 A total of approximately 3ha of calcareous grassland will be planted as part of the

Proposed Development, the majority of which will be around the lake (W1) and

along the railway line which bisects the site. A standard calcareous grassland seed

mix, such as Emorsgate EM6, will be used and opportunities for seed harvesting

from other areas of the site explored. These calcareous habitats will not only have

intrinsic ecological value but they will also support a range of notable faunal

species such as butterflies, moths and beetles. These include the chalk specialists

Small Blue butterfly and Chalk Carpet moth. The provision of these herb-rich

calcareous habitats will mitigate for the loss of the semi-improved calcareous


grassland and calcareous species within the ephemeral/short perennial habitats at

the Application Site.

7.212 A number of water attenuation features covering approximately 0.15ha in area will

be included within the Proposed Development which will take the form of

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) which will serve a dual purpose by

maintaining the hydrological status and provided an ecologically valuable habitat.

These swales will be vegetated and seasonally wet and seeded with a suitable

aquatic grassland mix, such as Emorsgate EM8, which contains specialist aquatic

species such as Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria and Ragged Robin Silene flos-

cuculi. The introduction of aquatic habitat will not only allow for a greater diversity

of botanical species within the Application site but it will also attract a range of

invertebrate species such as dragonflies.

7.213 Scattered trees will be planted throughout the Proposed Development as part of

the planting scheme. The provision of these scattered trees will mitigate for the

losses that will occur as part of the site clearance. Native species will be planted

including Rowan Sorbus aucuparia, Wild Service Sorbus torminalis, Oak Quercus

robur, Hornbeam Carpinus betulus and Silver Birch Betula pendula. The scattered

trees will provide habitat for breeding birds as well as food plants for a range of

terrestrial invertebrate species such as moths. Scattered trees can also offer focal

points for foraging bats and tree lines can provide navigational features for

commuting bats.

Arboriculture

7.214 An Arboricultural Planning Statement has been produced to support the outline

planning application and is contained in Appendix 7.14. The Arboricultural

Planning Statement details the root protections areas and mitigation measures in

line with the recommendations contained in section 5.4 of BS5837:2012.

Fauna

Amphibians

7.215 All mitigation work associated with Great Crested Newt will be carried out

following a European Protected Species Derogation Licence application. Measures


will be required to ensure no killing or injuring of individuals during works and

habitat provisions to ensure the continued conservation status of the species.

7.216 The mitigation will focus on exclusion of Great Crested Newt from the construction

footprint using exclusion fencing and trapping following methodologies within the

Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines (English Nature, 2001).

7.217 In order to compensate for the loss of terrestrial habitat for Great Crested Newt as a

result of the Proposed Development any loss of habitat will be offset with

alternative provisions to include the creation of approximately 5ha of suitable

terrestrial habitats (calcareous grassland and scrub) and provision of new ponds

and water bodies which will largely take the form of water attenuation features

described above and will be approximately 0.15ha. Furthermore enhancement of

the Moat Pond will be undertaken by planting of native aquatic plant species and

removal of some surrounding trees in order to open up light into the pond to

promote colonisation of Great Crested Newt. Other features such as log-pile refuges

will also be positioned on the Application Site.

Birds

7.218 In order to avoid permanent adverse impacts upon breeding Little Ringed Plover, a

wader scrape built to specifications suitable to support breeding Little Ringed

Plover will be created on land located at least 250m from the Application Site

boundary in order to provide suitable nesting habitat for Little Ringed Plover which

will not be subjected to increased disturbance and mortality impacts as a result of

the Proposed Development. The wader scrape will be created prior to the

commencement of construction works in order to compensate for the loss of

nesting habitat from the Application Site as a result of the construction works.

7.219 In order to generate permanent beneficial impacts upon foraging Peregrine Falcon

and the general bird assemblage, habitat creation and enhancement works will be

undertaken in key areas of the Application Site. In particular, new calcareous

grassland (3ha) and scrub (2ha) habitats will be created around W1 to provide

suitable nesting and foraging habitat for the bird assemblage. These habitat

creation works, in combination with enhancement works to W1 (affecting 1.42ha

of standing water), are anticipated to increase prey availability for Peregrine Falcon,

and other species, thereby enhancing foraging habitat for this species within the

Application Site.


Badger

7.220 In order to avoid disturbance impacts on Sett 8 a Badger Development Licence will

be sought to facilitate the temporary closure of this set for the duration of the

potential disturbance. Sett 8 is a subsidiary sett and therefore its temporary closure

does not necessitate the provision of artificial sett habitat.

7.221 The CEMP will detail requirements for Badger checks during construction to review

activity. Close boarded fencing will be installed around the perimeter of the

construction footprint during works to prevent Badger activity within this area

during the construction period.

7.222 The habitat enhancement features described above (to include scrub and grassland)

will provide foraging habitat for Badgers post-development. These foraging

habitats fall broadly within the same location as baseline conditions and therefore

no significant impacts on clan structure and dynamics are predicted.

7.223 In order to facilitate movement of Badger through the Application Site in an east to

west direction a vegetated corridor of scrub, scattered trees and calcareous

grassland will be created alongside the existing rail track. Furthermore fencing,

where required, within the Proposed Development will be designed to facilitate the

movement of Badgers through the area with regular gaps at ground level.

Bats

7.224 All mitigation works associated with bat roosts will be carried out following a

European Protected Species Derogation Licence application. Measures will be

required to ensure no killing or injuring of individuals during works and habitat

provisions to ensure the continued conservation status of the species.

7.225 In order to avoid killing or injuring individuals during works any bats will be

excluded from roosts following guidelines set out within the Bat Mitigation

Guidelines (English Nature, 2004). Prior to exclusion alternative roosting

opportunities will be made available through the provision of bat boxes within the

mature trees around the Application Site. Timing constraints will be placed on

exclusion works to avoid the sensitive hibernation period (November to February

inclusive).


7.226 In order to ensure the continued conservation status of the species within the

Application Site a bat box scheme will be developed to incorporate boxes within

the mature trees and integrated boxes within the new structures (such as Schwegler

Bat Tube 1FR). The proposed habitat enhancement features (to include scrub and

grasslands) will provide foraging areas for bats with a rich prey resource.

7.227 Bat roosting behaviour, commuting and foraging activity can be dramatically

affected by artificial lighting. A sensitive lighting strategy will be developed for the

Application Site at the detailed planning stage which will ensure no lighting of

roosting provisions. Tree lines and woodland edges to the south and east of the

Application Site will remain unlit and a dark corridor will be created along the

existing rail track to facilitate the movement of bats in an east west direction.

Invertebrates

7.228 The proposed habitat enhancement features (to include scrub and grasslands) will

mitigate for the loss of these habitat types available for invertebrate species within

the construction footprint. These habitats will provide food plants for both Small

Blue butterfly and Chalk Carpet moth. The scrub/grassland interface and the species

rich calcareous grassland will benefit the notable species assemblages associated

with scrub edge and rich flower resources which are present within the Application

Site.

Bird and bat boxes

7.229 In order to enhance opportunities for nesting birds, boxes will be positioned at the

site for key species. Target species will include Swift, House Sparrow and Starling

which are species of conservation concern (UKBAP, NERC Act and BoCC Red list).

Generalist boxes will also be included to suite a wider variety of species such as Blue

Tit and Great Tit.

7.230 Bat boxes will be mounted on trees and built structures at the site. A range of

boxes will be used to suite crevice dwelling species such as Pipistrelle bats. Boxes

will include Schwegler 1FF, Schwegler 2F and Schwegler 1FQ.

7.231 All bat and bird boxes will be positioned in optimal locations as required by each

species group. Bat boxes will be positioned facing south to maximise solar heating

and will not be directly lit. Bird boxes will be positioned away from direct sunlight


and close to surrounding vegetation. The location, siting instructions and ongoing

management of the bird and bat boxes will be described in the Nature Conservation

Management Plan.

Nature Conservation Management Plan (NCMP)

7.232 Measures to ensure the ongoing sensitive management of the ecological

enhancement features and other habitats within the Development Site will be set

out within a Nature Conservation Management Plan (NCMP).

7.233 The NCMP will outline management regimes for the calcareous grassland, details of

sensitive timing for hedge and scrub trimming and cleaning and management of

bat and bird boxes.

RESIDUAL EFFECTS

Habitats

7.234 There will be a net loss of woodland habitat (approximately 1.08ha) as a result of

the construction of the car park and informal and formal open space to the south

of the Proposed Development. However, this woodland is of Local Value and Low

sensitivity and therefore the predicted significance of this residual Adverse impact

is Negligible/Slight and Permanent.

7.235 Existing scrub habitats will be retained and incorporated into the new planting

where feasible. The provision of this new scrub within the Proposed Development

will mitigate for the loss of other areas of scrub habitat as a result of the site

clearance. It is anticipated that, once established, there will be no residual effect on

this habitat type.

7.236 Lowland calcareous grassland is a Habitat of Principal Importance (NERC Act 2006),

UK BAP and Cambridgeshire BAP habitat. A net gain in calcareous grassland, of

approximately 1.5ha, will result in a Small Permanent and Beneficial residual

impact of Negligible/Slight significance.

7.237 The Proposed Development will result in the Permanent loss of tall ruderal habitat

within the Application Site which will not be replaced thus resulting in a residual

Adverse impact of Negligible/Slight significance.


7.238 A single water body of poor quality (the Wheelwash) will be lost and impacts are

predicted upon a ditch (Ditch A) of poor quality. However a number of water

attenuation features covering approximately 0.15ha in area will be included within

the Proposed Development which is likely to result in a Small Permanent and

Beneficial residual impact of Negligible/Slight significance.

7.239 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 3.23ha of ephemeral/short

perennial vegetation which will not be replaced. However, this habit is of Local

Value and Low sensitivity and therefore the predicted significance of this residual

Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight and Permanent. The residual effect of this on

invertebrates is discussed below.

7.240 The Proposed Development will result in the loss of 395m of hedgerow on the

western side of W1 which will not be replaced. However, this habit is of Local

Value and Low sensitivity and therefore the predicted significance of this residual

Adverse impact is Negligible/Slight and Permanent. Furthermore, this habitat will

be replaced in part by similar scrub features as described above.

7.241 Whilst some impacts are predicted upon the trees present at the Application Site it

is feasible to introduce measures such as no-dig designs to footpaths, and

protection of RPA. By implementing these measures the Proposed Development can

be achieved by minimising tree loss and impacts upon the landscape in the context

of trees.

Fauna

Amphibians

7.242 It is requirement by law to mitigate for impacts on European Protected Species such

as Great Crested Newt and provide opportunities to enhance the conservation

status of the species where possible. Under licence measures will be taken to ensure

no killing or injuring of individuals and enhanced habitat provisions will be made

for the species through grassland and scrub planting and the creation of new

aquatic habitat and the restoration of existing water bodies. It is anticipated that

this will result in a Small Permanent Beneficial change for this VER resulting in a

residual impact of Slight significance.


Birds

7.243 Whilst the Proposed Development is likely to lead to the displacement of Little

Ringed Plover from the zone of influence of the Application Site due to disturbance

and loss of habitat impacts, the creation of replacement breeding habitat off site as

mitigation will result in no net change in the breeding status of the species at the

County scale. Therefore the residual effect of the Proposed Development upon

breeding Little Ringed Plover is likely to be No Effect.

7.244 Whilst the Proposed Development is likely to lead to the displacement of foraging

Peregrine Falcon during the construction phase due to disturbance and loss of

habitat impacts, the creation of new grassland and scrub habitats are likely to result

in enhanced foraging habitat for the species within the Application Site during the

post-construction phase. Therefore the residual effect of the Proposed Development

upon foraging Peregrine Falcon is likely to be a Permanent Moderate Beneficial

impact.

7.245 The Proposed Development is likely to lead to the displacement of the general bird

assemblage (including Mallard and Black-headed Gull) during the construction

phase due to disturbance and habitat impacts. During the post-construction phase,

the Proposed Development is likely to lead to increased mortality in the general bird

assemblage due to the increased presence of domestic predators. However, the

creation of large areas of new grassland and scrub habitat within the Application

Site is likely to increase the area of available suitable nesting or over-wintering

habitat during the post-construction phase. Therefore the residual effect of the

Proposed Development upon the general bird assemblage is likely to be a

Permanent Negligible/Slight Beneficial impact.

Badger

7.246 Closure of setts under licence, where required, will limit disturbance to Badgers

during development. Habitat provisions and features will provide foraging areas

and scope for movement of Badgers post-construction. However, some small

disturbance impacts may occur post-development and therefore there is a

Permanent Adverse residual impact on the VER of Negligible/Slight significance.

Bats


7.247 It is requirement by law to mitigate for impacts on European Protected Species such

as bats and to provide opportunities to enhance the conservation status of the

species where possible. Under licence measures will be taken to ensure no killing or

injuring of individuals and enhanced roosting provisions will be made for the

species through a bat box scheme. Habitat enhancements in the form of species

rich calcareous grassland and scrub are likely to benefit bat activity at the Proposed

Development and a sensitive lighting strategy will ensure lighting impacts are

minimised. It is therefore anticipated that there will be Permanent Beneficial

impact on this VER resulting in a residual impact of Negligible/Slight significance.

Invertebrates

7.248 Habitat enhancement features will provide alternative habitat for key species

assemblages associated with scrub edge and rich flower resources. However, due to

the permanent loss of ephemeral/short perennial habitat there will be residual

impacts on species assemblages associated with unshaded early successional

habitats. This will result in a Permanent Adverse impact of Slight significance.

7.249 Table 7.12 provides a summary of residual effects.


Table 7.12: Summary of construction and post-construction residual effects on ecology and nature conservation

Impact Nature of Impact Pre-mitigation Significance

Mitigation Measure Adverse or Beneficial

Duration Post – Mitigation Significance

Construction


Habitat loss Negligible /slight

n/a Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight




Dense scrub Habitat loss Negligible /slight

Retention/replacement Neutral Permanent No effect

Semi-improved calcareous grassland


Replacement habitat Beneficial Permanent Negligible /slight

Tall ruderal Habitat loss Negligible /slight





Hedgerow Habitat loss Negligible /slight


Great Crested Newt Habitat loss Slight Replacement habitat Exclusion protection measures

Beneficial Permanent Slight

Breeding Little Ringed Plover

Habitat lossDisturbance

Moderate Off-site replacement habitat Neutral Permanent No effect

Breeding Peregrine Falcon


Moderate Replacement habitat

Beneficial Permanent Moderate

General breeding bird assemblage


Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat Timing works

Beneficial Permanent Negligible /slight

Wintering Peregrine Falcon


Moderate Replacement habitat


Wintering Mallard Habitat lossDisturbance

Negligible /slight







Wintering Black-headed Gull


Negligible /slight



General wintering bird assemblage


Negligible /slight



Badger Habitat lossDisturbance

Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat Exclusion to minimise disturbance

Neutral Permanent No effect

Bat assemblage Habitat lossDisturbance

Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat


Bat roost loss Habitat lossDisturbance

Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat Exclusion protection measures


Invertebrates Habitat loss Slight Replacement habitat Adverse Permanent Slight

Post-Construction River Rhee CWS Recreational disturbance Negligible

/slight n/a Adverse Permanent Negligible /slight

Great Crested Newt Recreational disturbance Negligible /slight


Breeding Little Ringed Plover

Disturbance Moderate Off-site replacement habitat Neutral Permanent No effect

Breeding Peregrine Falcon

Disturbance Moderate Replacement habitat


General breeding bird assemblage

Disturbance Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat


Wintering Peregrine Falcon

Disturbance Moderate Replacement habitat


Wintering Mallard Disturbance Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat


Wintering Black-headed Gull


Replacement habitat


General wintering bird assemblage


Replacement habitat






Badger Disturbance Negligible/slight


Bat assemblage Disturbance Negligible /slight

Replacement habitat Lighting strategy



CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

7.250 The following adverse residual effects will occur:

Recreational disturbance of the River Rhee CWS ((negligible/slight, permanent);

Loss of woodland (negligible/slight, permanent);

Loss of ruderal habitat (negligible/slight, permanent);

Loss of ephemeral/short perennial habitat (negligible/slight, permanent);

Loss of hedgerow (negligible/slight, permanent);

Disturbance of Badger and Great Crested Newt (negligible/slight, permanent);

and

Loss of ephemeral invertebrate habitat (slight, permanent).

7.251 Four committed development schemes are considered in the assessment of

cumulative impacts.

7.252 S/1080/10/CM concerns the importation of restoration materials into the quarry and

restoration of the area to agricultural and nature conservation after-uses. This is

unlikely to result in further significant cumulative impacts on woodland, hedgerow

or tall ruderal habitats. Although some temporary disturbance of Badger may occur

the restored quarry is likely to result in beneficial impacts on the population

through the provision of foraging habitat and no further permanent disturbance

would be expected following completion to increase the significance of the impact.

Although the restoration of the quarry was predicted to result in a loss of quarry

floor habitat the impact of this on invertebrate communities was considered to be

of negligible significance. Therefore the cumulative effects associated with this

application are unlikely to increase any significance of impact.

7.253 S/2309/06/O and S/1152/12/RM concern a residential development in Hauxton,

approximately 3.5km to the north east of the Application Site. These committed

developments are unlikely to result in further significant cumulative impacts on

woodland, hedgerow or tall ruderal habitats as the site is on PDL. The distance of

this residential development is unlikely to result in further cumulative impacts of

recreational disturbance on the Badger population at the Application Site. The

committed development may result in some loss of ephemeral habitats although

these are considered unlikely to increase the significance of impacts on invertebrate

assemblages.


7.254 S/1029/10/F concerns a small residential development (14 dwellings) in Foxton,

approximately 2km to the south east of the Application Site. The scale of this

committed development is unlikely to result in further significant cumulative

impacts on woodland, hedgerow, tall ruderal or ephemeral habitats. Furthermore

the scale of the committed development is unlikely to result in further recreational

disturbance to the Badger population at the Application Site.

SUMMARY

7.255 The Application Site is situated on the fringes of Barrington village approximately

9.5km to the south west of Cambridge city. The Application Site comprises PLD with

concrete hardstanding, buildings and ephemeral early successional habitats. Other

naturalised habitats within the Application Site included woodlands, scrub,

grassland and open water.

7.256 Several sites of nature conservation interest are situated in close proximity to the

Application Site. Direct impacts on these areas are not predicted although non-

significant residual impacts associated with recreational disturbance are predicted

for accessible areas of the River Rhee CWS.

7.257 Although the site comprises habitats which are heavily influenced by human

activities there are features of ecological value. These include habitats such as semi-

improved calcareous grassland, scrub, woodland and hedgerow. These habitats

have some intrinsic value due to the botanic diversity they contain. Calcareous

grassland, woodland and hedgerow are Habitats of Principal Importance, UK BAP

and Cambridgeshire BAP habitats. However, the examples recorded within the site

were considered to be a poor representation of these habitats with relatively low

species diversity and losses associated with the Proposed Development were

considered to be of negligible/slight significance.

7.258 The masterplan for the Proposed Development includes large scale habitat creation

features including the provision of 3ha of calcareous grassland habitats which will

result in non-significant permanent beneficial impacts. Replacement scrub habitat

and new aquatic habitat will be provided although there will be non-significant

adverse impacts as a result of the permanent loss of woodland, ephemeral,

hedgerow and ruderal habitat.


7.259 A small breeding population of Great Crested Newt is situated outside the

Application Site boundary but within the zone of influence. To mitigate for loss of

terrestrial habitat alternative provisions will made. New aquatic habitat will be

created and existing water bodies will be enhanced to increase their suitability for

the species. Some non-significant residual effects associated with recreational

disturbance may occur although on balance the conservation status of the species

will not be impacted and possible enhanced.

7.260 Breeding Little Ringed Plover and Peregrine Falcon are present within the zone of

influence and these species are considered to be county value. Some potential

impacts associated with disturbance of breeding Little Ringed Plover will be offset

with the provision of an off-site wader scrape. The provision of enhanced habitats

throughout the proposed development are likely to maintain and provide enhanced

foraging areas for Peregrine and other breeding and wintering avifauna.

7.261 Badger activity was recorded at the Application Site and within the surrounding

zone of influence. Temporary closure of setts close to the construction footprint will

be required to minimise disturbance. Upon completion widespread foraging

opportunities for Badger will remain with features included within the design to

facilitate movement of the species. Some non-significant residual impacts

associated with recreational and lighting disturbance may occur.

7.262 Three bat roosts are present within the Application Site for Common Pipistrelle,

Soprano Pipistrelle and Brown Long-eared Bat. These roosts are considered to be of

lower conservation value and mitigation and enhancement measures will ensure

permanent, non-significant beneficial effects. The bat species assemblage and

activity was considered to be of local value and habitat features within the scheme,

and a sensitive lighting strategy, will ensure permanent, non-significant beneficial

effects for bats at the site.

7.263 A relatively high diversity of invertebrate species was recorded at the Application

Site including chalk specialist such as the Chalk Carpet moth. Important

assemblages associated with scrub edge, flower rich areas and unshaded early

successional habitats were recorded. Habitat provisions in the form of calcareous

grassland and scrub will provide features for invertebrates post-construction. There

will be a residual permanent adverse impact of slight significance due to the loss of

ephemeral habitats but the provision of high quality habitats is, on balance,

considered likely to provide an overall biodiversity gain.


7.264 The CEMP will outline measures to protect ecological features within the site during

the construction phase. A NCMP will outline long-term measures for management

of the ecological features of the proposed development. This will ensure success in

delivering valued habitats and species which reflect and add to the diversity of the

surrounding landscape.

7.265 Some non-significant residual effects are predicted and these are associated with

recreational disturbance (of the River Rhee CWS, Badgers and Great Crested Newt)

and permanent habitat loss (woodland, ephemeral, ruderal and hedgerow

habitats). Although residual adverse impacts are predicted these are not considered

to be significant and on balance it is considered that the Proposed Development

will deliver biodiversity gains through the provision of extensive areas of calcareous

grassland and other appropriate ecological features for the landscape.


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