8.0 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION 8... · Development in terms of the ecology and nature...

West Cambourne Ecology and Nature Conservation

19102/A5/ES2014 Chapter 8 - December 2014

8.0 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION

Introduction

8.1 This chapter of the ES assesses the likely significant effects of the Proposed

Development in terms of the ecology and nature conservation interests of the Site

within its surroundings and other points of ecological interest within the geographic

frame of reference. It incorporates a summary of the ecological surveys undertaken at

the Site, the full details of which are included as Appendix 8.1.

8.2 The chapter describes the assessment methodology; the baseline conditions at the Site

and surroundings; the likely significant environmental effects; the mitigation measures

required to prevent, reduce or offset any significant adverse effects; and the likely

residual effects after these measures have been employed. This chapter has been

prepared by ESL (Ecological Services) Ltd.

Planning Policy Context

The EC Directive on Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, 1992

(The ‘Habitats Directive’) i

8.3 This Directive gives legal force at EC level to the Convention on Conservation of

European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, 1979 (‘The Berne Convention’). It contributes to

the conservation of biodiversity by requiring Member States to take measures to

maintain or restore natural habitats and wild species at favourable conservation status

by the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). It increases the legal

protection given to selected species, and also modifies the Birds Directive.

Conservation of Species and Habitats Regulations, 2010 ii

8.4 These Regulations replace the 1994 Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.) Regulations

(the ‘Habitats Regulations’). They revise UK implementation to the Habitats Directive by

amending planning legislation, including applications for planning permission and all

other consents and orders by which permission is given to develop land. They contain a

review procedure for plans and projects likely to significantly affect a European site,

and licensing requirements for developments that may affect European Protected

Species.



Circular 06/05 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation iii

8.5 The advice set out in this government circular gives guidance on the law affecting

European sites, protected species and SSSIs. It is soon to be replaced by updated

guidance from Defra covering the same subject areas.

Biodiversity 2020: A Strategy for England’s Wildlife and Ecosystem Services iv

8.6 This document sets out the biodiversity strategy for England and highlights the

Governments ambition to halt the decline in biodiversity, retain wel l functioning

ecosystems and establish ecological networks.

Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006v

8.7 The Countryside and Rights of Way CRoW Act was amended by the NERC Act 2006,

Section 41 (S41) of which requires the Secretary of State, after consulting Natural

England, to publish, and regularly revise, a list of the species and habitats of principal

importance for conserving biodiversity. There are 56 habitats and 943 species of

principal importance on the current S41 list (last reviewed 2010).

Protection of Badgers Act 1992vi

8.8 Subsumed and extended previous legislation protecting this species, making it unlawful

for an animal to be killed, injured or disturbed, or for its sett to be destroyed or

damaged, whether deliberately or recklessly.

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)vii

8.9 In response to the Convention on Biological Diversity, signed in Rio in 1992, the UK

government identified a number of habitats and species, each of which were to have a

detailed Action Plan for their protection and where necessary, restoration. The UK List

of Priority Species and Habitats now covers 1150 species and 65 habitats and the

conservation approach for these is now being developed by a partnership of statutory

and non-statutory agencies and bodies. The duties of government departments in

regard to the UK BAP were first set out in Section 74 of the CRoW Act 2000 and

accompanying guidance.



National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)viii

8.10 The NPPF sets out the Governments policy on all aspects of planning based on the belief

that the purpose of planning is to help achieve sustainable development. A core

principle of the NPPF is the presumption in favour of sustainable development, but in

replacing Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9), it also incorporates measures to conserve

and enhance the natural and local environment, including ‘Biodiversity and Geological

Conservation’.

8.11 Paragraph 118 of the NPPF requires that in determining planning applications the

following principles are applied to conserve and enhance biodiversity:

Significant harm resulting from a development should be avoided, adequately

mitigated, or, as a last resort compensated for; and

Opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be

encouraged.

Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) Natural Environment ix

8.12 This Guidance details key issues in implementing policy to protect biodiversity. It covers

three areas: landscape; biodiversity, ecosystems and green infrastructure; and

brownfield land, soils and agricultural land. The guidance details the sources of further

policy and guidance.

Local Planning Policy

South Cambridgeshire District Council Core Strategy (January 2007) x

8.13 The adopted Core Strategy sets out the Council’s overall vision for future development

in the district. Protection of biodiversity and ecological assets and the requirement for

provision of biodiversity gain are addressed in objective ST/i which seeks:

To ensure that any new development results in appropriate provision for the

protection and enhancement of native biodiversity in order to contribute towards

biodiversity gain, whilst having regard to the site’s current biodiversity value.

Opportunities for increased access to the countryside and enjoyment of

biodiversity should be viewed as integral aspects of new development.



South Cambridgeshire District Council Development Control Policies DPD (July 2007)xi

8.14 Relevant policies in the DPD relating to ecology and nature conservation are as follows:

DP/1 Sustainable Development which requires that development be consistent

with the principles of sustainable development, as appropriate to its location,

scale and form. Its 18 criteria for assessing this include the requirement to

conserve and where possible enhance biodiversity of both species and habitats;

DP/2 Design of New Development which states that development should be of

high quality design, and should conserve or enhance important environmental

assets of the site; and

NE/6 Biodiversity which requires that new development aims to maintain,

enhance, restore or add to biodiversity and that it takes opportunities to achieve

positive gain. It further states that development that would have an adverse

significant effect on a protected species or a priority species or habitat will be

refused unless such effects are adequately mitigated or compensated.

South Cambridgeshire District Council Trees and Development Sites SPD xii

8.15 This SPD expands on the Development Control Policy providing additional information on

how the policy of adequately addressing trees through the development process will be

implemented.

South Cambridgeshire District Council Biodiversity SPDxiii

8.16 This SPD expands on the Development Control Policy providing additional information on

how the policies which seek to ensure that biodiversity is adequate ly protected and

enhanced throughout the development process will be implemented.

South Cambridgeshire Local Plan Proposed Submission (July 2013) xiv

8.17 The Local Plan Proposed Submission includes the following policies relevant to the

Development:

S/2 Objectives of the Local Plan - Key Objective b states ‘New development

should enhance the area, and protect and enhance biodiversity ’;

S/8 Cambourne West Sustainable villages policy item 4 states that land is

allocated subject to ‘existing woods, hedges, unimproved grassland areas and



water features will be retained which could contribute to the character and

amenity of Cambourne West, managed to enhance their ecological value and

linked together by areas of open space to provide a network of accessible green

infrastructure’;

CC/8 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems includes a criterion to demonstrate

that ‘opportunities have been taken to integrate sustainable drainage within the

development, create amenity, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to a network

of green open space’;

NH/4 Biodiversity sets out seven objectives which seek to maintain, enhance,

restore and add to biodiversity; and

NH/5 Sites of Biodiversity and Geological Importance sets out details of how

statutory and non statutory sites will be protected from adverse effects.

Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy (2011)xv

8.18 One of the four objectives of this strategy is to ‘reverse the decline in biodiversity’

through the county-wide creation of a strategic network of green infrastructure which

will amongst other things seek to ‘join up wildlife habitats’ and protect and enhance

habitats and wildlife sites and link key habitats.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough BAPxvi

8.19 Local Biodiversity Action Plans use a partnership approach to identify local prio rities and

to determine the contribution they can make to the delivery of national Species and

Action Plan targets. The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough BAP, produced by the

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Biodiversity Partnership, was first published in 2000.

Currently action plans have been prepared for 15 Priority Species, eight Priority Habitats

and five Broad Habitats included in the UK BAP, together with two species and 12

habitats of county importance.

Assessment Methodology and Significance Criteria

8.20 Effects may be adverse, negligible or beneficial. In accordance with IEEM guidance

(2006)xvii, they are determined by first undertaking baseline surveys of the Site and

using the results of these surveys, with existing information gained by consultation or

desk study, to assess the nature conservation value of habitats, communities and

species (Valued Ecological Receptors or VERs) on, using or close to the Site, in local or

wider contexts. Consideration is then given to the extent to which any of these



communities or species could be affected (e.g. lost, damaged, disturbed or subject to

severance such as to reduce their viability as a result of the development) and the

proportion of each community or species affected.

8.21 An ecologically significant impact is de fined as ‘an impact (negative or positive) on the

integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and/or the conservation status of habitat or

species within a geographical area’. In assessing the impact the following possible

outcomes have been taken into consideration: the VER will be removed or changed; the

extent, nature, structure or function of the VER habitat will be altered; the population

size or viability of a VER species will be altered.

Confidence in Predictions (Levels of Uncertainty)

8.22 The likelihood or probability that an impact will occur as predicted is described in one of

four categories, as follows:

Certain or near certain (probability estimated at 95% or higher);

Probable (probability estimated to be > 50% but < 95%);

Unlikely (probability estimated to be > 5% but < 50%);

Extremely unlikely (probability estimated to be <5%).

Duration and Reversibility

8.23 The duration of impact is defined as far as possible in terms of ecological

characteristics, such as lifetime of a species. A reversible impact is one for which

recovery is possible through natural regeneration or the working of the mitigation

measures within a reasonable timescale. Where recovery is not possible within such a

timescale, or the impact cannot be mitigated, it is described as irreve rsible. The impacts

of phased development on all VERs are considered in the assessment.

Seasonality and Frequency

8.24 Seasonality considers whether an impact will coincide with a critical stage of the year or

life cycle for a particular species or group, e.g . disturbance to wintering birds, which

may be avoided by carrying out the works outside this period. Frequency considers

whether the impact will be occasional or continuous.



Identification of Valued Ecological Receptors (VER)

8.25 Assessment of the value of a VER considers each one in a range of contexts, from

international through national, regional, county/unitary authority and borough to local

level. Examples of receptor values at these levels are listed below.

International: An internationally designated site or candidate site (Special

Protection Area (SPA), Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Ramsar site,

Biosphere Reserve) or an area which Natural England has determined meets the

published selection criteria for such designation, irrespective of whether or not it

has yet been notified.

UK and England: A nationally designated site (e.g. Sites of Special Scientific

Interest (SSSI), National Nature Reserves (NNR), Marine Nature Reserve) or a

discrete area which Natural England has determined meets the publ ished

selection criteria for national designation (e.g. SSSI selection guidelines)

irrespective of whether or not it has yet been notified.

Regional: Any regional designation including Areas of Outstanding Natural

Beauty (AONB).

County: Viable areas of habitat identified in a County Biodiversity Action Plan

(BAP) or a locally significant population of a species identified as important on a

county basis, such as the County BAP or County Wildlife Site (CWS).

Borough: Sites of borough importance including Local Wildlife Sites (LWS).

Local: Diverse and/or ecologically valuable habitats on a parish or site level.

Sensitivity of VER

8.26 For the purposes of this assessment VERs of International , UK or England importance

are considered to be of ‘high’ sensitivity; those of regional or county importance are

‘moderate’ sensitivity; and those of borough or local importance are ‘low’ sensitivity.

Magnitude of Impact

8.27 The magnitude of impact is defined within this assessment as major, moderate, minor

or negligible as shown in Table 8.1.



Table 8.1: Definitions of Magnitude of Impact

Magnitude of Impact Criteria for assessing impact

Major The proposal will affect the conservation status of the Site or feature.

Moderate The Site or feature’s conservation status will not be affected, but the effect is likely to be significant in terms of ecological objectives or populations. If, in the light of full information, it cannot be clearly demonstrated that the proposal will not have an adverse effect on conservation objectives, then the effect should be assessed as high.

Minor Neither of the above applies but some minor effect is likely.

Negligible Some very limited effects may occur which are barely distinguishable from a ‘no-change’ situation.

8.28 The significance of ecological effects on a VER takes into account its sensitivity and the

magnitude of the impact, including the geographical scale of the impact, seasonality and

frequency, and duration and reversibility of the impact. A significant ecological effect

may be adverse or beneficial and the Effect Significance Matrix is given in Table 8.2.

Table 8.2: Matrix for Identification of Significance of Effects

Magnitude Sensitivity

High Moderate Low

Major Major Adverse/beneficial

Major-moderate Adverse/beneficial

Moderate-minor Adverse/beneficial

Moderate Major-moderate Adverse/beneficial

Moderate-minor Adverse/beneficial

Minor Adverse/beneficial

Minor Moderate-minor Adverse/beneficial

Minor Adverse/beneficial

Minor-negligible

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible

8.29 Moderate and major effects are considered to be significant in EIA terms for this

assessment.

Limitations and Assumptions

8.30 All surveys for the baseline were carried out at seasons specified as suitable for each

species and method. However, variance in the results is inherent in all wildlife surveys

due to factors such as weather conditions, and this inevitably introduces uncertainty in

some cases. Methodologies employed to some extent counteract such uncertainties by

employing repeat surveys.

8.31 The very nature of ecology means that species are dynamic and can move to and from

an area with ease. All surveys provide data for the Site at the time and this assessment

is based on those data and records from other sources. Changes in land management,

climatic conditions and quality of a habitat can affect species composition, populations

and ranges and where there is the potential for such effects this is highlighted.



Baseline Methodology

8.32 The assessment is based on data collected for the Site from a series of ecolog ical

surveys undertaken during 2013. An extended Phase 1 habitat survey of the Site was

undertaken and based on the findings of this study, results of a desk study and previous

surveys of the Site, more detailed surveys were recommended for amphibians, reptiles,

bats, water voles, badgers and breeding birds. The results of the surveys are presented

in the Ecological Baseline Report of Land to the West of Lower Cambourne,

Cambridgeshire (ESL, 2014)xviii which is given in Appendix 8.1.

Desk Study

8.33 A desk study was undertaken for the Site and relevant statutory and non-statutory

organisations and their websites were contacted for information pertaining to any

internationally important sites which may be affected by the proposal and any nationally

designated sites of nature conservation importance within 2km of the Site. Information

relating to non-statutory sites including County Wildlife Sites (CWS) and Local Wildlife

Sites (LWS) within 2km of the Site were requested from Cambridgeshire and

Peterborough Environmental Records Centre (CPERC). CPERC was also asked to provide

records of protected species, UK and local BAP and important species for

Cambridgeshire within 2km of the Site. The habitats and species listed in the UK BAP

are set out in S41 of the NERC Act 2006 as those considered to be of principal

importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England.

Field Surveys

8.34 The ecological surveys were undertaken between March and August 2013 and a

summary of the methodologies is detailed below. Further detailed methodologies are

given in the appended ecological report (Appendix 8.1).

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

8.35 An extended phase 1 habitat survey was undertaken over two survey visits in May and

June 2013 to map the habitats present. The survey area included the Site and adjacent

land to put the Site into context. The survey was based on the 1993 Joint Nature

Conservation Committee (JNCC) Phase 1 Habitat Survey Methodologyxix. All habitats and

plant communities in the survey area were mapped and characterised by identifying the

dominant and typical species. Hedgerows were assessed against the criteria for

importance set out in the Hedgerow Regulations 1997xx. All signs of protected species



were recorded and any habitat with the potential for use by protected spec ies was

noted.

Amphibians

8.36 Ponds and waterbodies on the Site and within 250m of the Site’s boundary were

assessed for their potential to support amphibians, specifically great crested newts, and

an assessment was made of their terrestrial habitat connecti vity with the Site. At this

point, the Entrance Lake and Lake Lambert were scoped out of the surveys as they

historically have never had great crested newt populations, they support fish and are

isolated from the Site by a main road. A pond south of Caxton bypass was scoped out

as the road is considered a significant barrier to movement. The newly created pond

within the curtilage of the secondary school was considered not to have developed

sufficiently to be of value yet to great crested newts. For the remaining ponds a

quantitative assessment of the suitability for great crested newts was carried out using

the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) endorsed by Natural England xxi.

8.37 Surveys for amphibians were undertaken using a combination of standard methods in

accordance with Natural England guidelinesxxii over six visits between 3 April and 10

June 2013. Eleven waterbodies were included in the surveys with one pond only being

on Site (Pond 11, a Highways pond adjacent to the roundabout on the Caxton Bypass) ,

the remainder being beyond the boundary of the Site. The waterbodies off the Site

were: the two Highways balancing ponds adjacent to the A428; the pond in the

curtilage of Swansley Wood Farm; and seven waterbodies in the vicinity of the

Cambourne Business Park. The survey methods used included refuge searches, egg

searches, torchlight surveys, netting and bottle trapping. Full survey details are given in

Appendix 8.1.

Reptiles

8.38 An assessment of the Site was undertaken to identify any areas with suitable habitat f or

reptiles. Much of the Site is unsuitable for reptiles, being in agricultural cultivation,

however the banks of drains, road verges and field margins were all assessed as having

some potential value. Suitable areas were subject to further survey and in April 2013,

150 artificial reptile refugia were placed in these areas, where they remained until July

2013. The refugia, together with any other suitable items on Site, were inspected on

seven occasions between April and July in weather conditions in which it could be

reasonably expected that reptiles would be activexxiii.



8.39 Direct observation surveys were conducted on each of the seven visits which involves

walking slowly and quietly through areas of suitable habitat watching and listening for

reptilesxxiv.

Bats

8.40 All trees within the Site boundary were visually inspected from the ground for features

considered to have potential to support roosting batsxxv. Each tree was accurately

mapped and individually categorised for its potential according to Bat Conservation

Trust guidelinesxxvi.

8.41 There are no buildings on the Site, but there are a range of buildings at Swansley Wood

Farm and these were assessed for their potential to support a bat roost. Following the

assessment, the farmhouse was subject to an emergence watch on 11 June 2013 using

ultrasonic detectors, to look and listen for any bats emerging.

8.42 To determine species assemblages and levels of use of the Site, bat activity was also

sampled. This comprised placing static loggers across the Site, along hedgerows, a

ditch, in open arable land and in the garden of Swansley Wood farm, on 10 June 2013

and 11 July 2013. Transect walks were also carried out on 11 July and 12 August 2013

along pre-determined transect routes and included 5-10 minute stops at recording

stations at key intervals. All bat activity was recorded using Anabat SD-1 detectors.

Water Voles

8.43 An assessment of all drains on the Site, and those off the Site but connected to it via

culverts, plus the two balancing ponds adjacent to the A428 was undertaken to

determine their suitability for water voles. All of the waterbodies were surveyed over

two days in May and June 2013 by wading/walking within the drain channel or from the

pond edge to look for signs of current of past activity. Signs searched for included

burrows, droppings and feeding remainsxxvii.

Badgers

8.44 A full badger activity survey of the Site and immediately adjacent land was undertaken

in March 2013. Signs looked for included setts, prints, snuffle holes, latrines, hairs,

runs, dug-out wasps nests and scratched trees. During all other survey visits up to



July 2013 to undertake other species surveys badger activity signs were noted. All

observations were accurately mapped.

Breeding Birds

8.45 Six visits were made to the Site to record all birds seen or heard, using the Common

Bird Census (CBC) species codes and activity symbols according to Marchant 1983 xxviii.

The surveys were carried out between April and June 2013 and the start and end times

varied, but all were carried out in the period 05.20-09.55hrs. An assessment of the Site

was made for the potential for Schedule I species listed on the Wildlife and Countryside

Act (and as amended)xxix to use the Site. Further details are given in Appendix 8.1.

8.46 In addition to the six mapping surveys, birds seen or heard during the course of other

surveys between March and July 2013, were recorded. In particular crepuscular or

nocturnal species were looked/listened for during great crested newt and bat surveys.

Invertebrates

8.47 During the extended phase 1 survey and all subsequent surveys, the overall quality of

the habitats on Site for invertebrates and any key features of interest were assessed,

and any invertebrates seen were recorded. The Site is predominantly intensively farmed

arable land, with large fields which are subject to rotation of arable crops. The limited

number of drains on the Site are subject to chemical spray drift, and the hedgerows and

semi-improved grassland on Site are relatively recently planted/sown. Two Highways

ponds, one on Site and one off Site, and the woodland block beyond the Site boundary

to the north are likely to have a greater diversity than any other habitats on Site . All of

these habitats will be retained.

8.48 Based on these assessments no further invertebrate surveys were undertaken.

Baseline Conditions

Desk Study

8.49 The nearest site of international importance is Eversden and Wimpole Woods SAC,

which is approximately 8km south-east of the Site. It is designated for barbestelle bat,

an Annex II species for which the SAC is considered to be one of the best areas in the

UKxxx.



8.50 The only nationally important site within 2km is Elsworth Wood SSSI, which is 1.2km to

the north, beyond the A428. It is designated as it is the remnant of an ancient

woodland and its field maple dominated woodland is nationally uncommon. It also has

good populations of oxlip and an important assemblage of invertebrate fauna. Other

SSSIs in the area include Caldecote Meadows SSSI , Hardwick Wood SSSI and Overhall

Grove SSSI.

8.51 There are two non-statutory sites within 2km of the Site. S8 Protected Road Verge

(PRV) (Elsworth A428 to Common Farm) is 200m north of the Site and is designated for

its neutral/calcareous grassland and for the presence of a local (unnamed) red data

book species. Caxton Moats County Wildlife Site (CWS) is 1km to the south-west and is

designated for its neutral grassland indicator species. In addition part of the Cambourne

development is a Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust

reserve.

8.52 Records from CPERC and from surveys undertaken by ESL since 1995 show that great

crested newts are present across the Cambourne site, the closest being in ponds in the

greenways around the Cambourne Business Park ( to which newts were translocated

under European Protected Species EPS licence) and in the balancing pond on the A428.

Further records for Cambourne include the ECO Park ponds, Jeavons pond, the Manor

House pond, the reed bed and pond above Haven Lake, Lake Sirius and Whomping

Willow. The only record for any reptile in the search area is for grass snake at

Cambourne.

8.53 Records for bats include foraging activity in the vicinity but no records of roosts were

supplied. CPERC provided 5 records of common pipistrelle and one soprano pipistrelle

bat in the search area and ESL records include forag ing Daubenton’s bat, noctule,

barbestelle, common pipistrelle and soprano pipistrelle in the area.

8.54 CPERC provided one record for water vole in Redgrave Water from 2007. Further ESL

records are for Bourn Brook, where there have been regular records since 1996, and for

Whomping Willow, Lake Ewart, Haven Lake and Lake Sirius , with records up until 2010.

Water Vole have also been recorded in the A428 balancing pond and in the roadside

ditch adjacent to the A428 north of Caxton Gibbet. Badger activity across Cambourne

has been monitored since 1995 and social group territories have moved frequently

throughout this time. There are records for a sett on the Site; disused setts beyond the

southern boundary; in Lower Cambourne; and several setts in the area around Upper

Cambourne.



8.55 Records for birds in the area of search include 22 UK BAP Priority species and

16 Schedule 1 birds, not all of which breed locally. ESL records of wintering flocks of

lapwings and golden plovers on the Site are generally of adventitious flocks feeding

when the crop types and rotation are suitable. Such use is sporadic and dependent upon

the right height and type of crop being available at the right time. Only two records

were supplied for invertebrates, both of which are UK BAP species namely small heath

butterfly and cinnabar moth.

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey

8.56 The Site is predominantly arable land in cultivation with very large fields separated by

dry/damp ditches or by hedgerows, which are either older, grown out and gappy or

newly planted. Rough grassland strips occur around the boundaries and adjacent to the

internal field boundaries and there are patches of scattered scrub on the Site mainly

associated with the internal field boundaries. All of the above habitats are subject to

frequent chemical spray drift and consequently their ecological value is low. There is a

field of semi-improved grassland in the south east which has low species diversity.

8.57 Where the access road is proposed from Sheepfold Lane, most of the habitats are

already hard standing, and used for vehicular access, with associated amenity grassland

and shrub/tree planting. This area also has rough grassland and a narrow section of the

bridleway and associated greenway, which has rough grassland, a dry ditch and

woodland strip.

8.58 There are a limited number of scattered trees across the Site, none of which are very

old. There are occasional standard trees in some of the older hedgerows and along the

central boundary ditch. There is one large willow tree adjacent to Sheepfold Lane, but

this will not be impacted by the proposals. Beyond the north eastern boundary off Site

there is a strip of broadleaved woodland which has elm, elder, ash, hawthorn and

blackthorn with bramble and dog-rose over bluebell, ground ivy and false brome. In the

south west of the Site there is a recently planted broadleaved plantation , a mixed

plantation on a bund associated with the Caxton bypass road and an area of mixed

plantation in the semi-improved grassland.

8.59 None of the plant species recorded are nationally rare, scarce, red data book or

S41 Principal species and none are locally important in Cambridgeshire. There is a stand

of the invasive alien plant Japanese knotweed within the curtilage of Swansley Wood

Farm.



8.60 All of the habitats are common and widespread nationally and locally and none of the

hedgerows meet the criteria for importance under the Hedgerow Regulations. However,

most hedgerows and ponds are S41 Priority Habitats. The arable field margins on Site

do not qualify as S41 Priority habitats.

Amphibians

8.61 Great crested newts were recorded in four waterbodies during the surveys as follows:

waterbody 2, eastern balancing pond on the A428;

waterbody 4, pond in Business Park greenway;

waterbody 5, ditch across the Cambourne Business Park;

waterbody 10, pond in Business Park greenway.

8.62 There are currently three EPS licences protecting great crested newts in the vicinity of

the Cambourne Business Park, which cover the area where access is proposed along

Sheepfold Lane.

8.63 Common toad, which is a S41 Priority species, were recorded across the Site during the

course of reptile surveys and in ponds 3, 7 and 11 during great crested newt surveys .

Reptiles

8.64 No reptiles were recorded on the Site. One grass snake was recorded off Site to the

west. Habitats on Site are largely unsuitable for reptiles and historically records for this

group are scarce.

Bats

8.65 No bats were seen to emerge from the Swansley Wood Farm during the emergence

watch. No trees on Site were categorised as having features suitable to support a bat

roost.

8.66 The bat activity surveys found that the Site is used for foraging by a small number of

opportunistic bats, principally common pipistrelle with very small numbers of noctule

and soprano pipistrelle. Soprano pipistrelle is a S41 Principa l species. The intensively

arable nature of the Site is largely unsuitable for bats and peak activity was recorded



around Swansley Wood Farm on 11 June 2013, where it is likely that a small number of

bats were foraging backwards and forwards.

Water Voles

8.67 No water voles signs were found on the Site. Water vole burrows and droppings were

recorded in the roadside ditch (ditch 1), north of the Caxton Gibbet roundabout on the

A428. There was no evidence of water vole in the balancing pond east on the A428,

despite previous records for the waterbody.

Badgers

8.68 See separate confidential badger section in Appendix 8.2.

Breeding Birds

8.69 In total 57 species of birds were recorded using the Site and adjacent land during all of

the survey visits. One Schedule 1 species, redwing, was recorded in April but at this

season this northern species would be on passage; there is no suitable habitat for this

species to breed on Site. Twelve of the species present on Site are S41 Principal Species

and these are grey partridge (only one bird recorded), skylark, yellow wagtail, dunnock,

song thrush, starling, house sparrow, linnet, bullfinch, yellowhammer, reed bunting and

corn bunting. With the exception of starling and house sparrow, all of these species are

considered to be possibly breeding on Site as there are suitable habitats available.

8.70 No nocturnal or crepuscular species were noted during the evening bat and newt

surveys.

8.71 All of the species recorded considered to have at least possibly bred on the Site are

common and widespread in Britain in suitable habitat, and are similarly common or

fairly common residents or breeding summer visitors in Cambridgeshire. The good

assemblage of farmland species, many of which are declining nationally, is typical of the

habitats available and the geographic location.

Invertebrates

8.72 The habitats on Site are predominantly poor for invertebrates with the most value being

the woodland block in the north and the highways pond in the south west both of which

will be retained. All of the species recorded are common and widespread and would be



expected in the habitats present on Site at this locality. Small heath butterfly was

recorded off site and cinnabar moth was noted both on and off site, both are S41

Priority species. The cinnabar moth is on S41 due to a potential risk of it becoming

scarce in the future as a result of ragwort eradication , it is not currently rare.

Likely Significant Effects

Construction

Effects of Construction on Eversden and Wimpole Woods SAC before Mitigation

8.73 The SAC designation is for barbastelle bats, a woodland dwelling species which can

forage for large distances from the roost. The occasional record of individual bats even

at distances of 8km is not unusual and the 2011 record for the area is not considered

significant. Habitats on the Site are poor for both commuting and foraging bats and the

loss of the largely arable land will have a negligible impacts on this high sensitivity VER.

The effect of construction works on the special interest of the SAC before mitigation is

therefore negligible.

Effects of Construction emissions on Designated Sites before Mitigation

8.74 The closest SSSI to the Site is Elsworth Wood ancient woodland site. Impacts of

development-generated vehicle emissions on statutory ecological sites do not require

assessment if located more than 200m from roads considered in the assessment, in

accordance with the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) air quality

assessment guidance 2007xxxi. As Elsworth Wood, Caldecote Meadows and Hardwick

Wood SSSIs are over 200m from any roads included within the assessment and the

closest, Elsworth Wood, is 1.2km from the Site, impacts of development-generated

vehicle emissions on the SSSIs are considered negligible and the effects on these high

sensitivity VERs is negligible.

Effects of Construction on the Hydrology of Statutory and Non-Statutory Sites of Nature

Conservation Interest before Mitigation

8.75 During construction no water will be extracted from any watercourse on or off Site and

discharge rates to watercourses will be at the same flow rates as is currently permitted.

An increase in surface water runoff is anticipated during construction due to an increase

in the area of impermeable surfaces and compaction of ground during construction



activities leading to a reduction in the rate of infiltration. The impacts before mitigation

of a minor increase in surface water runoff on sites of nature conservation interest off

Site are considered negligible due to the distances involved. The effects are therefore

negligible.

Effects of Construction on Hedgerows

8.76 Construction of the proposed cycleway to link Lower Cambourne to the Proposed

Development will follow the route of an existing footpath which links to the bridleway.

In order to alter the footway to a cycleway the footprint of the route will be widened on

either side. At the point where the footpath crosses the bridleway corridor there is a

relatively newly planted hedgerow (approximately. 15 years old) approximately 1-2m of

which will need to be removed to facilitate the cycleway. A poor gappy hawthorn

dominated hedgerow that separates two of the large arable fields in the south of the

Site at the site of the proposed Secondary School will also be removed. The impacts of

loss of these hedgerows prior to mitigation will be minor and the effects are minor-

negligible.

Effects of Construction on Great Crested Newt EPS in the A428 Balancing pond before

Mitigation

8.77 Consideration of the effects on great crested newts must address both the aquatic and

terrestrial habitats of the species. There will be no direct impact on any aquatic habitat

used by this species either on or close to the Site. Before mitigation an indirect impact

on the A428 balancing pond as a result of runoff and sediment load is possible with an

associated minor adverse effect on water quality. Before mitigation the potential for

hydrocarbon or heavy metal pollutants entering the pond as a result of leakage,

accidents or spills is uncertain. The effects of water quality reduction before mitigation

would be a major adverse effect on a high sensitivity international receptor.

8.78 During the landscaping and habitat creation works proposed for the area around the

A428 balancing pond there is the potential for temporary disturbance of terrestrial

habitat associated with the known great crested newt population. The impacts will be

temporary but before mitigation it is probable that there would be a moderate impact to

a high sensitivity receptor resulting in a major-moderate adverse effect.



Effects of Construction on Great Crested Newt EPS in the vicinity of Sheepfold Lane

before Mitigation

8.79 The majority of the Site is largely unsuitable habitat for great crested newts, being

mainly in arable cultivation, however the terrestrial habitat associated with the known

populations in the ponds in the vicinity of Sheepfold Lane, all of which are off Site, will

be impacted during the construction phase. Loss of terrestrial habitat will occur during

the widening of the Sheepfold Lane access to create a footpath at the point where the

road crosses the greenway and the bridleway. Prior to mitigation, the impacts of loss of

habitat during the construction works to improve access along Sheepfold Lane and

during construction of a bridleway crossing will be moderate adverse impact resulting in

a major-moderate adverse permanent effect on a high sensitivity receptor.

Effects of Construction on Common Toad S41 Priority Species before Mitigation

8.80 All of the ponds in which common toads were recorded will be retained, though areas of

suitable terrestrial habitat on the Site around the boundaries and along the banks of

drains will be lost during the construction period. The phased nature of the Proposed

Development will mean that there is always habitat available, either existing or newly

created, throughout the course of construction. Phase 1 includes the creation of green

infrastructure, including a new waterbody in the south of the Site, woodland and

grassland habitats, which will provide new habitat at the start of the construction

phase. The impact on common toad, a moderate sensitivity receptor, during

construction is considered negligible.

Effects of Construction on Bats before Mitigation

8.81 Currently none of the trees on Site have bat roost potential and there fore there is no

impact to bats from their loss. All trees however have future potential over time as they

age or become damaged, and therefore any tree to be affected by development must be

resurveyed prior to felling or surgery. The survey results show that the Site and

boundary habitats offer very limited foraging opportunities for bats . The impacts on

foraging and commuting bats are considered negligible and the effects on this high

sensitivity receptor are negligible.

Effects of Construction on Badgers before Mitigation




Effects of Construction on Breeding Birds including S41 Species - Starling, House

Sparrow and Dunnock before mitigation

8.83 Loss of trees and scrub during the construction phase will impact breeding birds by

reducing the available habitat for nesting. However the loss of the habitat is a small

proportion of that available in the wider area (<5%) and due to the phased nature of

construction and habitat creation it is probable that habitat will always be available and

certain that impacts will be temporary. Construction activities are certain to impact

breeding birds by reducing numbers nesting near to the Site due to increased

disturbance from noise, dust, vehicle movements etc. It is probable, that prior to

mitigation a bird’s nest may be damaged by construction activity on Site. The overall

effect of temporary loss of bird breeding habitat, disturbance and potential to damage a

bird’s nest prior to mitigation could have a temporary minor adverse impact on a low or

moderately sensitive receptor and therefore a temporary minor effect.

Effects of Construction on S41 Species of Farmland Birds before Mitigation

Skylark

8.84 During the construction phase there will be a phased loss of open countryside available

to nesting skylark and a certain increase in disturbance from construction activities

which will reduce available areas for nesting. As construction progresses the available

habitat will diminish and will eventually be lost. During 2013 surveys there were 12-14

skylark territories on the Site. There is no scope for habitat creation for skylark and

therefore the impact will be permanent and major on a moderately sensitive receptor

which will result in a major-moderate adverse effect.

Corn bunting

8.85 Construction processes are certain to disturb corn buntings feeding in close proximity to

Site activity. The phased nature of construction will result in areas of previously farmed

land being left to set aside, resulting in arable weeds and seed bearing plants growing

on Site. This will provide corn bunting with feeding areas and it is probable that the

population will increase during the earlier phases of the construction period from one

recorded territory. As development progresses the available habitat will decrease again.

There would be a temporary moderate beneficial impact which would result in a

temporary moderate-minor beneficial effect on a moderate sensitivity receptor.



Reed bunting

8.86 There are 4-5 territories for reed bunting on the Site and these may be impacted during

the construction works by disturbance from noise, movement etc . and from temporary

habitat loss. Habitat creation during Phases 1 and 2 in the southern part of the Site

includes habitats suitable for reed bunting including ponds, lakes and ditches which will

incorporate reedbed features and shrubby willows on the banks. It is probable that the

impacts on reed bunting, a moderate sensitivity receptor will be minor and temporary

and the effects will be adverse minor and temporary at a county level.

Yellowhammer and Linnet

8.87 Both yellowhammer and linnet utilise hedgerows with rough grass at the bottom for

nesting and in the 2013 surveys there were 5-6 yellowhammer territories on Site.

During construction there will be a phased loss of habitat available prior to mitigation

and an increase in disturbance from construction activities , though habitat creation in

phases 1, 2 and 3 is likely to compensate for some loss of nesting habitat. It is probable

that there will be a reduction of available habitat during construction and the minor

impact on these moderately sensitive species will result in a temporary minor adverse

effect.

Grey Partridge

8.88 There was only one individual record for grey partridge on Site, with no indication of

breeding. Construction processes on Site are certain to disturb any grey partridge in the

vicinity. In the early phases of development, the effects are s imilar to corn bunting,

with the availability of areas of set aside, arable weeds and seed bearing plants

providing grey partridge with feeding areas. It is possible that the enhancement of

foraging potential could increase the population during the earlier phases of the

construction period. As development progresses the available habitat will decrease

again. Therefore, prior to mitigation there would be a temporary moderate beneficial

impact on a moderate sensitivity receptor which would result in a temporary moderate-

minor beneficial effect.

Yellow Wagtail

8.89 There is a small population of this species, comprising 3-4 territories. During

construction the existing breeding habitat will be permanently lost but phased habitat

creation during construction may include habitat suitable for this species. Yellow



wagtails are susceptible to disturbance from construction processes such as noise and it

is anticipated that prior to mitigation the impacts during construction will be adverse

and moderate with a resulting temporary moderate-minor adverse effect on a moderate

sensitivity receptor.

Effects on Redwing

8.90 Flocks of redwing occur widely throughout the country during migration and winter

periods. They are widespread and common at this season. The presence of foraging

redwing is therefore not unusual and there is plenty of other available habitat in the

area for this species. The impact of loss of habitat on this species is negligible and the

effects are therefore negligible.

Completed Development

Effects of Completed Development on Statutory Ecological Sites – Recreational pressure

8.91 An increase in recreational pressure at Eversden and Wimpole Woods SAC is probable

from residents with an interest in walking or cycling. There is no direct public transport

between it and the Site and there is limited parking at the SAC. Public access is

carefully managed and any increase generated by the proposal is unlikely to damage the

special interest of the SAC. Hardwick Woods SSSI is managed by the Bedfordshire,

Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust and is open access with

demarcated footpaths. There are no facilities or parking at the site and no direct public

transport linking the Site with the SSSI. An increase in visitor pressure on this SSSI

would probably be from Wildlife Trust members, cyclists or walkers following the

Wildlife Trusts circular walk route from their published and distributed ‘Cambourne

Discovery Map’. It is probable that there would be a small increase in dog walking but

likely that mainly car owners will visit the site. Any increase in recreational activities are

likely to be non damaging to the habitats. Caldecote Meadows SSSI has no formal

access. Elsworth Wood lies on the bridleway between Cambourne and Elsworth Village

but there are no public rights of way on the SSSI. The probable increase in recreation at

statutory ecological sites would result in negligible impacts and therefore the

significance of effects on the high sensitivity receptors is negligible.

Effects of the Completed Development on Hedgerows

8.92 On completion of the Proposed Development there will be a net increase in the length of

the hedgerow network. All hedgerows to be created will be of greater species diversity



and will be largely associated with other green infrastructure including grassland, which

will increase their biodiversity value. The impacts on hedgerows will therefore be

beneficial and moderate with a resultant moderate-minor beneficial effect.

Effects of the Completed Development on Great Crested Newts EPS before Mitigation

8.93 New aquatic and terrestrial habitats will be created as part of the Proposed

Development and there will be a net increase of five waterbodies with associated

terrestrial habitat including woodland, grassland and scrub available to great crested

newts. The landscape design ensures that there are means of dispersal for the species

to enable colonisation of new habitats and therefore extension of their range - which

will be a long term beneficial impact. The overall effect on great crested newts , a high

sensitivity receptor, will be permanent and major-moderate beneficial.

Effects of the Completed Development on Bats before Mitigation

8.94 Some species of bats are generally accepted to be adversely affected by lighting of their

commuting and foraging routes. However some species, such as pipistrelles, have been

shown to be attracted to certain forms of lighting where this attracts their prey species.

The actual effect on the different bat species present will be determined by the types

and levels of lighting. Anticipated residual effects of lighting on the completed

Development once all lighting mitigation measures are implemented, including the use

of flat glass luminaires set horizontally to control upward light spill, are negligible to

minor adverse. However, as the numbers and species diversity of bats currently using

the Site is very low it is not anticipated that lighting of the completed Development will

have a significant adverse impact on the status of foraging or commuting bats. Creation

of woodland, grassland, hedgerows and waterbodies in the completed Development are

certain to increase availability of prey for feeding and routes for commuting, and in time

houses and other buildings and trees as they mature will provide roosting habitat for

bats. Overall the effects on this high sensitivity receptor of the completed development

including habitat creation and changes to lighting levels are considered to be

permanent, moderate-minor beneficial.

Effects of the Completed Development on Badgers before Mitigation




Effects of the Completed Development on S41 species – Reed Bunting, Starling, House

Sparrow, Dunnock, Bullfinch before Mitigation

8.96 The completed Development will result in newly created habitat available for feeding

and nesting for these species. Some of the species, namely house sparrow, starling and

dunnock, will benefit from the increase in housing on the Site and the increase in

available food from seed feeders provided by households. Bullfinch require scrub,

woodland and grass habitats with a source of seed and the created green infrastructure

will provide such habitat. Overall for these species the completed Development will be a

permanent major beneficial impact with resulting major-moderate beneficial effects on

moderate sensitivity receptors.

Effects of the Completed Development on S41 species – Linnet and Yellowhammer

before Mitigation

8.97 It is probable on completion of the Development that the suitable nesting habitat for

both species will be increased due to habitat creation, but due to potential levels of

disturbance from recreational activities, dog walkers etc. it is uncertain whether overall

the habitat use by these species will be reduced from the current levels. The probable

impact prior to mitigation will be moderate adverse with a resulting permanent

moderate-minor adverse effect on moderate sensitivity receptors.

Effects of the Completed Development on S41 species – Skylark and Corn Bunting

before Mitigation

8.98 On completion of the Proposed Development there will be complete habitat loss for

these species with no potential for mitigation on Site. The impacts on these moderate

sensitivity receptors will be major, adverse and permanent and the effects major–

moderate adverse and permanent.

Effects of the Completed Development on S41 species – Grey Partridge and Yellow

Wagtail before Mitigation

8.99 On completion of the Proposed Development there will be suitable insect prey

associated with new grassland habitats for foraging by both grey partridge and yellow

wagtail and potentially some breeding habitat for both. It is probable that the impacts

to grey partridge will be negligible with a resulting negligible effect. However, due to

the increased disturbance from recreational pressure it is uncertain whether yellow

wagtail will continue to use the Site for breeding. The probable impact on yellow wagtail



will be adverse minor with resulting permanent minor adverse effects on a moderate

sensitivity receptor.

Effects of the Completed Development on Wintering birds before Mitigation

8.100 The adventitious use of the Site by flocks of lapwing and golden plover is totally

dependent on current agricultural practice. There is no scope within the Proposed

Development to incorporate any habitat compensation due to the habitat requirements

of both species. Following completion of the Proposed Development there will be the

loss of potential for the birds to use the Site which will be an adverse minor impact

resulting in an adverse permanent minor effect on a moderate sensitivity receptor.

Mitigation Measures

Construction

Pre-construction ecological checks

8.101 Prior to commencement of work in any phase pre-construction ecological checks will be

carried out to ensure that: the ecological baseline is current; best practice methods are

employed; and any ecological statute is complied with. Specific ecological checks which

will be undertaken are:

Checks to ensure that there are no new badger setts within 30m of the working

area;

Assessments, and where necessary emergence watches, for bats on any tree

scheduled for felling;

Checks on any vegetation that is removed during the bird breeding season for

the presence of nesting birds, including checks for ground nesting species . If

present the nest will be protected from disturbance until the nesting attempt is

completed.

Prevention of Killing, Injuring, Disturbing or Obstructing Great Crested Newts

8.102 Following granting of any planning permission, an application will be made to amend

the Natural England EPS licences which are already granted for the area of the

Cambourne Business Park and Sheepfold Lane. In addition a new application will be

submitted, if required, to Natural England for an EPS licence to cover the area of works



in the vicinity of the A428 balancing pond. Once approved, the method statements

associated with each licence will be complied with to ensure that: populations remain at

favourable conservation status; methods minimise the risk of killing or injuring any

newt; habitats are protected wherever possible and where necessary losses are

compensated for.

Protection of Trees and Woodland

8.103 All existing woodland and individual trees which are to be retained in the Proposed

Development will be protected from any root or canopy damage during the construction

phase by implementation of tree precautionary root zone protection according to the

British Standard 5837:2005 Trees in Relation to Construct ion Recommendationsxxxii.

Phasing of Habitat Creation

8.104 Some habitat creation will be undertaken early in the Development and as this matures

it will contribute to ensuring that there is continuity in habitat available to most species

during the construction phase. Phase 1 of the Proposed Development includes non

development land, the majority of which is green infrastructure including: proposed

woodland belts along the west boundary and part of the northern-west boundary;

woodland and other green infrastructure adjacent to the A428 boundary in the vicinity

of the A428 balancing pond; and woodland, green infrastructure and two waterbodies in

a wide swathe from the Caxton bypass to Lower Cambourne on the southern boundary.

Phase 2 includes the creation of a south-west to north-east orientated spine of green

infrastructure through the centre of the Proposed Development including a series of

waterbodies and associated grassland. Early creation of the habitats will provide

alternative available feeding habitat for common toads, badger, starling, house sparrow

and dunnock and before construction is completed and as the habitats mature it is likely

that bats, yellowhammer and linnet will also benefit.

Construction Environment Management Plan

8.105 The Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP) will have details regarding the

required ecological safeguards, timings and requirements for Ecological Cle rk of Works

presence on Site. The plan will be produced in consultation with the ecological

consultants who will be oversee the implementat ion of the ecological component.

Typical safeguards are likely to include pre commencement ecological checks such as

nesting bird checks, delivery of ecological tool box talks, polluti on prevention controls in



the vicinity of waterbodies, ecological watching briefs during potentially sensitive works,

instructions on when ecological advice must be sought and mechanisms for reporting.

8.106 Mitigation to ensure there are no indirect impacts on great crested newts in the A428

balancing pond during the construction phase will be implemented via the CEMP.

Measures to maintain water quality during landscape and construction works in the

vicinity will include regular monitoring and processes to be implemented in the event

that water quality reduces. Safeguards to prevent excess sediment load in the event of

minor to large storm events will be incorporated.

8.107 The increase in surface water run off as a result of construction activities will be

mitigated by the early installation of SuDS drainage infrastructure to provide water

attenuation and to manage flows to local water courses. This will ensure that there are

no hydrological changes to any off Site Statutory and non Statutory nature conservation

sites.

Ecological Monitoring

8.108 Ecological monitoring will be undertaken for the duration of the Proposed Development.

This will inform future ecological mitigation and protection measures and ensure that all

construction activities are compliant with current wildlife legislation (which may change

during the lifetime of the Development) and that work is undertaken to current best

practice. Prior to any phase of development an updated ecological survey will be

undertaken to assess whether there are any constraints to development in that phase

including, but not limited to, the presence or close proximity of protected or S41

species, presence of invasive alien plants or arable weeds of ecological significance and

presence of any other ecologically significant species or habitat. Where appropriate,

mitigation plans will be drawn up, and if necessary approved by the Planning Authority

in consultations with Natural England, and implemented on Site. Necessary licences will

be sought from Natural England if required.


Landscape Design and Habitat Creation

8.109 Habitat design for the Site aims: to protect those features of existing ecological interest

wherever possible; to mitigate any impacts by creation of alternative habitats; and to



incorporate biodiversity gain in accordance with National and Local Planning Policy.

Contributions to biodiversity gain in the completed Development will be as follows:

any new open ditch systems will be designed to provide habitat for water vole

with the intention of extending the range of the species which currently occurs

just off Site;

newly created waterbodies will provide foraging for bats and new breeding

habitat for amphibians;

extensive planting of native trees and scrub, or those species of benefit to

wildlife, throughout the development resulting in a net increase in number and

diversity;

creation of a new permanent network of green infrastructure , as per local

planning policy, including hedgerows, grassland, trees, scrub, waterbodies and

woodland which will benefit invertebrates, breeding birds, foraging bats,

amphibians and reptiles as well as significantly increasing botanical diversity;

new houses and buildings will provide new roosting opportunities for bats and

nesting opportunities for birds;

green infrastructure will link to existing habitats on and off Site of ecological

value to maximise the opportunities for natural colonisation of the Site and to

extend the range available for certain species;

green infrastructure will link to existing badger tunnels under the A428 and

Caxton bypass to ensure that foraging routes to adjacent land are not severed as

a result of the Proposed Development.

Landscape and Ecological Management Plan

8.110 Management of the existing and newly created green infrastructure in line wit h the

Landscape and Ecological Management Plan will ensure that the benefits obtained

through the mitigation and enhancement works continue into the future.

8.111 The woodland on the southern aspect of the A428 pond will be planted to ensure there

is a grassland and/or shrub layer at the closest point to the pond to prevent shading

effects of the water surface. Monitoring of the shading effect will be part of the on

going monitoring and management of this edge will maintain the lower vegetation to

mitigate any adverse effects.



Lighting Mitigation for Bats

8.112 As nocturnal animals, most species of bat are adversely affected by high levels of light,

though it is unclear how different colours and types of light affect each species. In

order to provide the maximum mitigation possible, light levels in and adjacent to the

green infrastructure will be kept to a minimum and lighting will be focussed downwards

to prevent unnecessary light spill.

Residual Effects

Construction

8.113 Probable effects of the Proposed Development during the construction phase range

between major-moderate adverse to major-moderate beneficial. Taking into

consideration all of the construction mitigation, including the measures needed to obtain

and amend EPS licences, pre-construction ecological checks, the phased nature of the

Proposed Development and the protection of existing ecological features, the residual

effects are predominantly negligible. Residual effects are considered to be beneficial for

corn bunting which will have a temporary increase in available foraging as a result of

former cultivated fields being set aside. Residual adverse effects are considered for

skylark and yellow wagtail due to habitat loss and disturbance.


8.114 Effects of the completed Development on the Ecology and Nature conservation of the

Site range from major-moderate adverse to negligible to major-moderate beneficial.

Given the limited ecological interest of the undeveloped Site and the proposed

mitigation measures and ecological enhancement and creation works it is certain that

there will be a net biodiversity gain through improved green infrastructure . The major-

moderate beneficial effects are associated with newly created habitats which will benefit

specific species and species groups. The remaining unmitigated adverse effects range

from major-moderate to minor and are all associated with the loss of habitat for

farmland bird species for which habitat creation or the effects of recreational

disturbance cannot be mitigated.

Cumulative Effects

8.115 In assessment of the effects of the Proposed Development on Ecology and Nature

Conservation due consideration has been given to the following developments:



Upper Camborne 950 Development S/6438/07/O

8.116 Approximately 150 units on the Cambourne 950 Development are constructed and the

Proposed Development is moving into Phase 2. In the Impact Assessment all of the

anticipated impacts were avoided, mitigated or compensated for by appropriate

controls, protection and habitat creation. There were no residual effects expected and

therefore it is unlikely that there will be any cumulative effects with this Development.

Loves Farm, St Neots

8.117 Approved application for 1427 dwellings, a primary school, retail uses, open space and

community facilities over 63.2ha. The Development is under construction with 80 houses

constructed in 2014, with 213 houses still to be built. The development footprint covers

a largely arable site and associated drains and hedgerows, with ecological interest in

the Fox Brook corridor and a woodland. Habitat creation and enhancement via wildlife

corridors are incorporated into the development design. The only residual effect was

considered to be an adverse permanent effect on skylark, for which no mitigation was

either possible or proposed in the development design. The cumulative effects on

skylark are likely to be of permanent, major-moderate adverse significance in a county

context.

Land off Church Lane and Ermine Street South, Papworth Everard

8.118 No application for this site has been formally submitted and without an ecological

baseline it is not possible to fully assess any cumulative effects.

Wintringham Park Cambridge Road St Neots

8.119 This site is typical of the local landscape being mainly in arable cultivation, but with

some associated grassland and water courses of a greater quality than those on the

Site. Ecological enhancements of this predominantly arable site are proposed. The only

significant residual effect which arises from the EIA for Wintringham Park is the loss of

arable habitat for 15-21 breeding pairs of skylark which is assessed as a local moderate

adverse effect. (Corn bunting are not considered in the assessment). The proposal is

approximately 9km from the Site with a largely arable landscape between the two which

is certain to provide suitable skylark habitat. The cumulative effects on 27-35 breeding

pairs of skylark are likely to be permanent, major-moderate adverse significance in a

county context.



Bourn Airfield


baseline it is not possible to fully assess any cumulative effects.

Balance of Land at the Business Park, Cambourne


baseline it is not possible to fully assess any cumulative effects. However the three

existing licences from Natural England to translocate great crested newts cover the

balance of the land at the Business Park and mitigation for any great crested newts on

this land has already been approved within the licence agreements.

Summary

8.122 The ecological baseline surveys indicate that the Site has limited biodiversity value due

to the intensively farmed arable nature of the Site. The exceptions to this are the

presence of great crested newts off Site, the assemblage of farmland birds and the

presence of S41 habitats and species. The construction phase of the Proposed

Development will lead to the temporary loss of habitats and creation of new ones which

will have direct, temporary effects on a limited number of species groups. With

mitigation these effects are largely negligible with some minor adverse and beneficial

effects, though the exception are the effects on a limited number of farmland birds

which are considered adverse.

8.123 On completion of the Proposed Development there will be significant biodiversity gain as

a result of habitat enhancement and creation via the proposed network of green

infrastructure. A variety of species groups will benefit and the range of species on or

close to the Site are anticipated to expand. With the exception of farmland birds some

of which will be adversely effected, all other groups should benefit from the proposal

and the overall effect is anticipated to be moderate beneficial.

8.124 Table 8.3 contains a summary of the likely significant effects of the Proposed

Development.


19102/A5/ES2014 December 2014 Chapter 8 –

Table 8.3: Table of Significance – Ecology and Nature Conservation

Potential Effect

Nature of Effect

(Permanent/ Temporary)

Significance (Major/Moderate/

Minor) (Beneficial/Adverse/

Negligible)

Mitigation / Enhancement Measures

Geographical

Importance*

Residual Effects (Major/Moderate/


Negligible) I UK E R C B L

Construction

Effect on Eversden and Wimpole Woods SAC

Temporary Negligible None required * Negligible

Effects of air quality on SSSIs

Temporary Negligible None required * Negligible

Effects of hydrology on Statutory and non Statutory sites

Temporary Negligible SuDs drainage infrastructure * * * Negligible

Effects on Hedgerows Temporary Minor- Negligible adverse

Habitat creation * Negligible

Effects of water quality on great crested newt in the balancing pond

Temporary Major adverse CEMP. Pollution control measures * Negligible

Effects of disturbance to great crested newt terrestrial habitat at the balancing pond

Temporary Major-moderate adverse

EPS licence * Negligible

Effects on great crested newts in Business Park

Temporary Major-moderate adverse

EPS licence * Negligible

Effects of common toad Temporary Negligible Phased construction, including habitat creation

* Negligible

Effects on bats Temporary Negligible Check trees before felling. In the

event that a roost is found an EPS licence will be required

* Negligible



Potential Effect

Nature of Effect




Negligible)


Geographical Importance*



Negligible) I UK E R C B L

Effects on badgers Temporary Minor adverse Badger surveys prior to construction phases. If found implement stand off zones, fencing, timing of works or obtain licences to disturb/destroy sett

* Negligible

Effects on breeding birds including S41 Species - starling, house sparrow and dunnock

Temporary Minor adverse Pre commencement surveys and protection measures to mitigate disturbance. Checks for breeding birds prior to vegetation removal or tree surgery. Protect any nests found until young have fledged.

Habitat creation

* * Minor-Negligible

Effects on farmland bird Skylark

Permanent Major-moderate adverse

Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found

until young have fledged

* Major-moderate adverse

Corn bunting Temporary Moderate-minor beneficial

Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found until young have fledged

* Moderate-minor beneficial

Reed bunting Temporary Minor adverse Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found until young have fledged. Habitat creation

* Negligible

Yellowhammer and linnet Temporary Minor adverse Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found until young have fledged. Habitat creation

* Negligible

Grey partridge Temporary Moderate – minor beneficial

Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found until young have fledged

* Negligible



Potential Effect

Nature of Effect




Negligible)





Negligible) I UK E R C D L

Yellow wagtail Temporary Moderate - minor adverse

Check for nests prior to construction works and protect any nests found until young have fledged. Temporary

habitat creation

* Minor adverse

Effects on redwing Permanent Negligible None required * Negligible


Effects of recreation on statutory sites

Permanent Negligible None required * * Negligible

Effects on Hedgerows Permanent Moderate-minor beneficial

Habitat creation – net increase in length. Improved species diversity. Associated with other green infrastructure

* Moderate- minor beneficial

Effects on great crested

newts Permanent Major-moderate

beneficial

Habitat creation. Improved and

extended terrestrial habitat around existing ponds

* Major-moderate

beneficial

Effects on bats Permanent Moderate–minor beneficial

Foraging habitat creation in landscape plans. Roosting potential in new buildings

* Moderate - minor beneficial

Effects on Badgers Permanent Minor beneficial Habitat creation * Minor beneficial

Effects on reed bunting, staling, house sparrow, dunnock, bullfinch

Permanent Major-moderate beneficial

Habitat creation. Increase in nesting opportunities. Supplementary feeding by new households

* Major-moderate beneficial

Effects on linnet and yellowhammer

Permanent Moderate-minor adverse

Habitat creation * Moderate-minor adverse

Effects on skylark and corn bunting

Permanent Major-moderate adverse

None possible * Major-moderate adverse

Effects on grey partridge Permanent Negligible Habitat creation * Negligible

Effects on yellow wagtail Permanent Minor adverse Habitat creation * Minor adverse



Potential Effect

Nature of Effect




Negligible)





Negligible) I UK E R C D L

Effect on wintering birds Permanent Minor adverse None possible * * Minor adverse

Cumulative Effects

Construction

Not Significant Not Significant Not Significant

Operation

Effects on skylark Permanent Major-moderate adverse

None possible * Major-moderate adverse

* Geographical Level of Importance I = International; UK = United Kingdom; E = England; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local Site



References i Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of wild fauna and

flora (Habitat Directive) ii Conservation of Species and Habitats Regulations 2010 iii ODPM Circular 06/2005 (August 2005). Government Circular Biodiversity and Geological

Conservation – Statutory Obligations and their Impact within the Planning System iv Defra (2011) Biodiversity 2020 A Strategy for England’s Wildlife and Ecosystem Services v The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 vi Protection of Badgers Act (1992) vii HMSO (1994) The UK Biodiversity Action Plan viii Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) (2012) National Planning Policy

Framework (NPPF) ix Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) Planning Practice Guidance

Natural Environment available on l ine http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk x South Cambridgeshire District Council (January 2007) Local Development Framework Core

Strategy Development Plan Document xi South Cambridgeshire District Council (July 2007) Development Control Policie s DPD xii South Cambridgeshire District Council (January 2009) Local Development Framework Trees

and Development Sites Supplementary Planning Document xiii South Cambridgeshire District Council (July 2009) Local Development Framework

Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document xiv South Cambridgeshire District Council (July 2013) South Cambridgeshire Local Plan

Proposed Submission xv Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy (2011) xvi Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Biodiversity Partnership (2008) Cambridgeshire and

Peterborough Biodiversity Action Plan available online at http://www.cpbiodiversity.org.uk/ xvii IEEM (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom. IEEM xviii ESL (2014) Ecological Baseline Report of Land to the West of Lower Cambourne,

Cambridgeshire xix JNCC (1993) Handbook of Phase 1 Habitat Survey – A Technique for Environmental Audit.

JNCC, Peterborough Hedgerow Regulations (1997) xx Hedgerow Regulations (1997) xxi Oldham R.S., Keeble J., Swan M.J.S. & Jeffcote M. (2000). Evaluating the suitability of

habitat for the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus). Herpetological Journal 10 (4), 143-155

xxii English Nature (2001). Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature,

Peterborough xxiii English Nature (1994) (and as updated). Species Conservation Handbook. English Nature,

Peterborough xxiv Herpetofauna Groups of Britain & Ireland (HGBI) (1998) Evaluating local

mitigation/translocation programmes: maintaining best practice and lawful standards. Advisory notes for Amphibian and Reptile Groups. Froglife. Halesworth. Suffolk

xxv English Nature (2004) The Bat Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough xxvi Bat Conservation Trust (2012) Bat surveys – Good practice guidelines, 2nd Edition. Bat

Conservation Trust, London xxvii Strachan R, Moorhouse T and Gellling M. (2011) Water Vole Conservation Handbook. Third

Edition. Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Oxford xxviii Marchant J H. (1983) Common Bird Census Instructions. British Trust for Ornithology, Tring xxix Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (and as amended) xxx Joint Nature Conservation Committee (2011) Eversden and Wimpole Woods Natura 2000

Data Form UK0030331 xxxi Highways Agency (2007) Design Manual for Roads and Bridges Volume 11 Section 3, Air

Quality xxxii BSI Standards (2012) BS 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design , demolition and

construction- Recommendations, BSI Standards

8.0 ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION 8... · Development in terms of the ecology and nature...

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