DCC/A/8
Ecology
A380 South Devon Link Road (Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Proof of Evidence
Ecology
Volume 3: Appendices and Figures
by
Andrew McCarthy BSc CEnv MIEEM
Andrew McCarthy Associates
June 2009
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew McCarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
This Proof of Evidence is presented in the following documents:
Volume 1
Summary
DCC/SUM/8
Volume 2
Text
DCC/P/8
Volume 3
Appendices
DCC/A/8
Devon County Council
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew McCarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
List of Figures Contained in Volume 3
Figure
Description
Figure 1-4
Phase 1 Habitat Survey data and Scheme layout (1 of 4)
Figure 5a
Local (Designated) Sites along or adjacent to Scheme corridor
as of 2004
Figure 5b
Local (Designated) Sites along or adjacent to Scheme corridor
as of 2009
Figure 6
Known bat roosts within Bat Study Area (as of 2009)
Figure 7a
Lesser horseshoe radio tracking study (2003) summary
Figure 7b
Most important (linear) feeding habitats for southern colony of
Lesser Horseshoe bat
Figure 8
Location and extent of land management agreements as of
June 2009 (except Labrador Bay)
Figure 9
Location and extent of Labrador Bay
Figure 10
Cirl bunting territories along Scheme corridor from survey data
in 2003 and 2007
Figure 11
Bat House design
Devon County Council
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew McCarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
List of Appendices Contained in Volume 3
Item
Description
Appendix 1
Ecological Baseline Survey results and Best Practice
Methodology followed
Appendix 2
Tables used in impact assessment (from Environmental
Statement CD 2.3)
Table 2.1
Value of Features
Table 2.2
Impact Magnitude
Table 2.3
Overall Appraisal (residual effects)
Appendix 3
Target Notes from 2003 Phase 1 habitat survey (updated 2009)
Appendix 4
Devon County Council Guidance Note on Hedgerow
Translocation
Devon County Council
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Appendix 1: Ecological Baseline Survey Results and Best Practice Methodology followed
Survey Type
Dates
Desk study
2002; updated
in 2009
Phase 1 habitat
survey
2002
Targeted
botanical studies
2003 & 2004
Hedgerow survey
2003 & 2004
River Corridor
Survey
April 2004
Description of work
undertaken
Literature search; data request
to data holding organisations for
species records and locations of
locally and nationally designated
sites.
Results of survey
Botanical walkover survey of
scheme corridor up to 250m
either side; recording and
mapping main habitat types;
compiling botanical species list;
identifying and target-noting
features of ecological value.
Detailed assessment of areas of
higher botanical value (i.e.
wetland) along scheme corridor
as identified during P1 habitat
survey
Sampling 30m sections of
hedgerow along the Scheme
corridor to determine species
richness, likely antiquity and
value for fauna
Habitats mapped at 1:5000 scale as per
Figures 1-4 in Proof of Evidence
Key reference: Handbook for Phase 1
Habitat Survey – A Technique for
Environmental Audit. Joint Nature
Conservation Committee, Peterborough
CD 5.42
Floristically richer grassland was identified
locally at the southern end of the corridor, on
some of the Torbay Ring Road embankments,
as well as very locally on verges and in fields
south and north of Kerswell Down.
Boundary hedges are mostly species-rich, with
up to eleven woody species per 30m section of
hedge being recorded locally. Hedges
frequently unmanaged, especially south of
Maddacombe Road, which has resulted in
complex three-dimensional structure.
Involved botanical identification using a
standard botanical flora.
Aller Brook and Edginswell
Stream
Aller Brook and Edginswell Stream support a
good riffle and pool structure, and a welldeveloped meander system. General Water
Quality Assessment is ‘Good’. Stands of Grey
and Goat Willow and Bramble form extensive
stands along some sections of bank and wet
grassland and Sedge-dominated vegetation
flank Aller Brook as it flows through Ford
Fields CWS.
National Rivers Authority. 1992. River
Corridor Surveys. Conservation Technical
Handbook Number 1. Based on mapping
defined 500m sections of river corridor
using outline maps derived from OS
information.’ ‘..survey of a small river
should cover both banks..’ ‘The preferred
time for survey is between late April - early
May and early October, when vegetation
should be readily identifiable.’
Local Sites and protected species records
noted along and adjacent to scheme corridor
and assessment of such sites included in
Environmental Statement (ES)
-1-
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
This is a generally accepted standard
approach at the outset of an ecological
assessment and in line with Institute of
Ecology and Environmental Management
EIA guidance CD 5.1.
Bickmore, C. J. (2002). Hedgerow Survey
Handbook: A Standard Procedure for
Local Surveys in the UK. Prepared on
behalf of Defra, London (Steering Group
for the UK Biodiversity Action Plan for
Ancient and/or Species-rich Hedgerows).
Involved sampling 30m sections of
hedges, to give an indication of speciesrichness of whole hedge, along the
Scheme corridor, and recording
associated features, hedge structure and
management, hedge context as well as the
number of woody and field layer plant
species present.
Implications
Data used to assist
identification of species
requiring specialist
survey, to fully assess
their status and
establish impacts in ES.
Enabled identification of
sensitive habitat types
and calculation of areas
affected as well as ID of
habitats of potential
importance for protected
or priority fauna.
Species rich habitats
and Local Sites
inspected for presence
of rare plant species and
species assemblages.
Most species rich hedge
sections will be
translocated
Enabled river sections to
be described in ES and
impact assessment to
be carried out
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Badger walkover
survey
2002
Badger baitmarking
Otter survey
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Search for field signs of badger setts, runs, latrines, hair, feeding
remains along and within 250m
either side of the Scheme
corridor
Results of survey
March 2003
Bait-marking survey of badger
setts along scheme corridor
2003 & 2004
Aller Brook and Edginswell
Stream
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Harris, S., Cresswell, P. & Jefferies, D.
(1989). Surveying Badgers. Occasional
Publication of the Mammal Society No 9.
Available from the Mammal Society,
London. Best practice involves recording
sett data (used/disused setts, type of sett)
and other badger field signs (latrines, runs,
hair, feeding remains/signs) to build up a
picture of badger activity locally.
Implications
Badger activity level ranged from low to high
along much of the proposed western corridor,
with activity being most heavily concentrated in
the northern two thirds of the study area.
Three outlier setts were located which would
need to be closed under licence. Points were
noted at which badgers appeared to cross the
line of the road on a regular basis.
Delahay, R. J. et al (2000). The use of
marked bait in studies of the territorial
organisation of the European Badger
(Meles meles). Mammal Review 30(2): 7387. Best practice: ‘Bait-marking is a widely
used technique for determining the
territorial configuration of social groups of
the European badger. Bait laced with
indigestible plastic pellets is fed to badger
social groups, and markers are identified
in subsequent defecations. Feeding a
unique colour and/or shape of pellet to
each social group allows the origin of
droppings to be assigned.’
Bat marking study
carried out to determine
extent of territory size
and to indicate where
mitigation solutions
should be located.
Signs of Otter were found at both the upstream
and downstream ends of the site in June 2002
and the species is known to occur throughout
most riparian habitats within the Scheme
corridor. No obvious breeding holts were
found.
NRA 1993. Otters and River Habitat
Management. Conservation Technical
Handbook Number 3. NRA (EA), Bristol.
Woodroffe, G. (2001). The Otter. The
Mammal Society, London. The
presence of Otter in an area can be
detected by their distinctive field signs.
All the national surveys of otter
distribution in the British Isles have
relied heavily on the interpretation of
field signs, which include spraints
(droppings), footprints, feeding remains
and slides (characteristic marks in mud
made by animals entering water).
Effectively a
presence/absence
survey – Otter assumed
to be present throughout
the Aller Brook and
Edginswell Stream
catchments; mitigation
designed accordingly.
Setts of low status (i.e. non breeding setts)
were present along scheme corridor
-2-
Badger bat-marking
study recommended;
subsequently carried out
to determine extent of
territory size.
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Water vole survey
During 2004
River Corridor
Survey
Dormouse
surveys
2002 & 2003
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Description of work
undertaken
Aller Brook and Edginswell
Stream
Results of survey
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Implications
Negative result
Strachan, R. (1998). Water Vole
Conservation Handbook. Pub: Wildlife
Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU),
Oxford University. (Revised 2003).
‘Signs of water voles are recorded on
standard survey forms … noting
sightings, sounds of (animals) entering
water, latrines showing discrete piles of
droppings, tunnel entrances (above and
below water), cropped ‘gardens’ or
‘lawns’ around tunnels entrances,
‘feeding stations’ of chopped vegetation,
paths at water’s edge, runs in the
vegetation and footprints in mud.’
Species screened out at
survey stage after
negative result
Nest tube survey (x2) and nut
search sampling along scheme
corridor
Negative result
Nut searches: The Dormouse
Conservation Handbook (Bright et al.
1996) recommends ‘selecting an area of
heavily fruiting hazel and searching a
quadrat (patch) 10m x 10m for 20
minutes.’
Tube surveys: Surveying dormice using
nest tubes (Chanin & Woods 2003) EN
Report 524. - nest tube survey at
Kingskerswell undertaken in 2002 and
2003 by the author Dr Paul Chanin, in
collaboration with AMA.
Species screened out at
survey stage after
negative result
-3-
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Bat building /
structure
inspections
Summer 2002,
September
2004 & 2008
Bat roost - letter
drop survey
2003 & 2004
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
External and internal inspection
of residential properties along
Scheme corridor for field signs
of bats in summer 2002;
Edginswell Road A380 bridge
inspection and 53 Daccabridge
Road in 2004; re-inspection and
emergence survey of Aller
Cottages, Elmcroft and
Elmsleigh in summer 2008.
Supplementary survey using a
standard letter to check for
possible roosts along and
adjacent to scheme corridor.
Results of survey
Small roosts (mainly individual day-roosting
bats or individual night roosts) found in the
following buildings:
1-6 Aller Cottages
Hazel Bank (Aller)
Elmsleigh and Elmcroft Nursery
House at Yon Street
53 Daccabridge Road
Records were received of several roosts along
the Scheme corridor and several to east of
Kingskerswell. Follow-up visits confirmed
roost status and enabled results to be
correlated with field survey and overall pattern
of activity to be determined. Some newly
discovered roosts subsequently used as sites
to trap and tag Lesser horseshoe bats during
radio tracking.
-4-
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. & McLeish, A P.
(1999). The Bat Workers’ Manual. JNCC
Peterborough. Includes information on bat
ID and notes on counting bats in roosts
and in flight.
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. (2004). Bat Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough. Inspection
of buildings or other structures: ‘Carry out
an external inspection of the structures
looking for bat droppings on the ground or
stuck to walls, suitable entry and exit
points around eaves, soffits, flashing under
tiles etc.’ Carry out an internal inspection
of the structure….focus particularly o
areas which provide appropriate
environmental conditions for bats….warm
dark areas, joints and crevices in wood,
ridge beams and hips as well as cool
subterranean areas suitable for torpor or
hibernation.’
Bat Conservation Trust (2007). Bat
Surveys - Good Practice Guidelines. Bat
Conservation Trust, London.
‘This document provides good practice
guidance for those commissioning,
undertaking or reviewing bat surveys
throughout the UK. It is intended to bring
about improvements in the standard and
consistency of bat surveys and survey
reports and ultimately lead to greater
understanding about bats and
improvements in their protection and
conservation.’ Similar in approach to
Mitchell-Jones (2004).
Supplementary to radio tracking
Implications
Building roosts will
require a European
Protected Species
licence to be in place
before demolition can
take place. New bat
house has been
designed and will be
built in grounds of
Elmcroft Nursery in
compensation for loss of
roosts.
Additional preconstruction surveys will
be carried out.
Enabled clearer
understanding of
patterns of bat activity
along Scheme corridor
and more robust impact
assessment.
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Bat habitat activity
survey
2002, 2003 &
2004
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Transect-based survey of bat
habitat along scheme corridor
Results of survey
An evening/night bat detector survey along the
western corridor during August 2002, recorded
several species of bat; of which Common
pipistrelle was by far the most abundant. In
addition to pipistrelle, species recorded
included the high-flying Noctule bat (not
considered sensitive to the proposals), as well
as Lesser and Greater horseshoe bat, Longeared and Myotis bats.
Field survey results were dominated by
detector registrations for Common pipistrelle,
and activity from this species was widespread
throughout; most hedges, fields, roads and
woodland edge being used by pipistrelles for
foraging and commuting.
Bat tree
inspection and
follow up
emergence
surveys
Winter 2003
and
September
2004
Ground-based inspection of
trees along scheme corridor for
potential to support roosting bats
Only one tree within the Scheme corridor was
actually confirmed as supporting a bat roost
(small numbers of Common pipistrelle) during
targeted tree survey in September 2004; a
total of 74 trees were noted as having either
Moderate or High potential to support bats.
This roost was situated some 100m south of
Kerswell Down Wood.
-5-
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. & McLeish, A P.
(1999). The Bat Workers’ Manual. JNCC
Peterborough.
Includes ID and counting of bats in roosts
and in flight.
Implications
Enabled further
specialist (i.e. radio
tracking; building)
surveys to be designed
and mitigation to be
designed.
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. (2004). Bat Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough.
Bat Conservation Trust (2007). Bat
Surveys - Good Practice Guidelines. Bat
Conservation Trust, London.
Methodology followed good practice
similar to more recent guidance from Bat
Conservation Trust for Manual bat activity
surveys. Walked transects conducted
along pre-defined route, using a
broadband bat detector connected to a
recording device. Bat calls are later
subject to analysis using sonogram
analysis software
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. & McLeish, A P.
(1999). The Bat Workers’ Manual. JNCC
Peterborough.
Mitchell-Jones, A. J. (2004). Bat Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough.
‘5.6.2 Inspection of trees….bats will use a
wide variety of roost sites in cavities, splits,
cracks, knotholes and under loose bark….’
‘endoscopes may also be useful for
inspecting likely cavities..’ ‘presence of
bats may be attempted by using bat
detectors for an emergence survey at an
appropriate time of year….’
Specialist climbing or
cherry picker inspection
recommended prior to
construction
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Lesser horseshoe
bat radio-tracking
MaySeptember
2003
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Radio-tracking of individual bats
fitted with transmitters to
determine commuting routes
and foraging habitat for this
nationally scarce species.
Results of survey
The radio tracking field study
covered three weeks in total and
commenced at the end of May
2003. Animals were trapped and
tagged at a small roost on the
western edge of Kingskerswell
village, and were radio tracked
for six nights.
The results of the survey strongly suggest that
two separate colonies are present in the area;
one north of Kerswell Down Wood (with a
probable breeding roost located at
Abbotskerswell, around 1.0 km north-west of
the Scheme corridor, and the second south of
Kerswell Down Wood (breeding roost location
unknown).
The second survey session was
undertaken in August 2003,
following the leaflet drop and
discovery of several new Lesser
horseshoe roosts to the south of
Kerswell Down, including a
significant day roost in a cellar at
Edginswell.
A summary of Lesser horseshoe bat activity
areas and main flight routes, together with
known roost sites, is shown in Figure 7.
The tracking session during midSeptember tracked bats from
roosts in the north and south of
Kerswell Down and was
intended to confirm whether two
separate bat colonies were
present; to the north and south
of Kerswell Down.
Breeding bird
survey
April 2002
Common Bird Census of
scheme corridor and 200 m
buffer zone
‘Core’ feeding habitats were either northwest
of the proposed Scheme corridor around
Kerswell Down Wood and in and around
Decoy Country Park, or just north of
Edginswell.
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
During the first tracking session in May
2003, bats were trapped at the few known
roosts and, as the project progressed, at
additional roosts. Individuals were sexed;
measurements taken and a number were
radio tagged using radio transmitters to
shoulder blades. None of the animals was
unduly stressed and no apparent
detrimental effects on behaviour were
discerned.
Surveyors,
using
a
combination of road and foot tracking,
followed bats through three seven-night
periods, (17 - 23 May; 24 – 29 August, and
21 –26 September 2003). Tagged bats
were located by sighting compass
triangulation.
Implications
Generic breeding bird monitoring methods
- Common Birds Census (CBC), In:
Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D. W. & Evans, J.
(1998). Bird Monitoring Methods - a
manual of techniques for key UK species.
RSPB, Sandy. Walk a pre-determined
route of survey area on three occasions,
reversing the route between visits;
approach within 50m of all points; record
all birds using standard species codes and
activity recording codes.
Species-specific survey
for Cirl bunting
recommended
Enabled impact
assessment to be
undertaken and targeted
mitigation to be
designed
The radio tracking study demonstrated the
importance of the complex of small wet
pastures and broad hedges within and
adjacent to the Edginswell CWS, as individual
bats were recorded utilising this habitat for up
to 98% of nightly activity in August and up to
85% in September (although activity levels
during this latter session were low). The
complex of habitats here, including hedges
leading to this area from the west and south
(under the A380 Torbay Ring Road via
culverts, were all confirmed as being of value
for this bat species.
The breeding bird assemblage was typical of
lowland south Devon. Complex of habitats
along the scheme corridor supported moderate
to high species diversity. Two or possibly three
territories of Cirl bunting noted along scheme
corridor
-6-
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Cirl bunting
breeding survey
springsummer 2003
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Survey of territorial birds along
scheme corridor and 200m
buffer zone
re-survey in
springsummer 2007
Results of survey
In 2003 at least two breeding territories in the
northern half of the Scheme corridor.
In 2007, three territories located to the west, in
the southern half of the corridor and one
territory along the scheme route; at Yannon
Lane.
The territorial birds at Kerswell Down, found
during the 2003 breeding survey, were
recorded foraging during winter 2002/03 in
gardens along the western periphery of
Kingskerswell in the vicinity of Kerswell Down,
where property owners fed birds and
maintained seed feeders.
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Cirl bunting - Breeding season survey population, In: Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D. W.
& Evans, J. (1998). Bird Monitoring
Methods - a manual of techniques for key
UK species. RSPB, Sandy.
Implications
Cirl bunting - Winter survey, In: Gilbert, G.,
Gibbons, D. W. & Evans, J. (1998). Bird
Monitoring Methods - a manual of
techniques for key UK species. RSPB,
Sandy.
Additional data on
behaviour enabled
importance of site to be
more properly
determined and impact
assessment to be
undertaken
Enabled importance of
site to be determined,
mitigation recommended
and impact assessment
to be undertaken
Cirl bunting winter
survey
winter 20022003
Survey for wintering birds
including foraging sites
Barn owl survey
April-June
2003
Targeted building inspection and
dusk watches for hunting birds
along scheme corridor
Only one visual sighting of Barn owl was made
during the extensive evening/dusk surveys
along the Scheme corridor during 2002 to
2004, indicating numbers very low. A roost just
outside the Scheme corridor (Edginswell
village) was reported to the surveyors during
2003 and a dead Barn owl was found by
surveyors during a hedge survey in autumn
2004. Although apparently suitable foraging
habitat is present, there are very few
opportunities for roosting and nesting.
Probably contributes to the species ephemeral
presence along the scheme corridor.
Based on ‘breeding season survey population’, In: Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D. W.
& Evans, J. (1998). Bird Monitoring
Methods - a manual of techniques for key
UK species. RSPB, Sandy: Five
afternoon/dusk visits to survey suitable
habitats for hunting owls; search of
potential building roost sites; assessment
of potential tree roost sites.
Enabled importance of
site to be determined
and impact assessment
to be undertaken
Amphibian survey
ponds Royal Aller
Vale and Zigzag
quarries
spring 2003
Habitat evaluation for potential
to support amphibians followed
by torch light, bottle-trapping and
netting techniques
Negative result for great crested newt.
Gent, A. & Gibson, S. (Eds.). 1998.
Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC,
Peterborough.
EN 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough August
2001.
See also:
Langton, T., Beckett, C. & Foster, J. 2001.
Great Crested Newt Conservation
Handbook. Froglife, Halesworth, Suffolk.
Search for ponds within 500m of scheme
route; sweep netting, bottle-trapping and
torch light surveys
One of several pond
sites surveyed for this
species pre-impact
assessment. No further
work required at this
site.
-7-
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Pond assessment
Ganders Park
North of
Edginswell (a
caravan park)
2002
Amphibian survey
of ponds and HSI
Index Edginswell
caravan park
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Habitat evaluation for potential
to support amphibians
Results of survey
spring 2008;
following
inspection of
air photos that
showed
additional
ponds to have
been
constructed
since 2002
Great Crested Newt Habitat
Suitability Index assessment and
torch light, bottle-trapping and
netting techniques
Negative result for great crested newt.
Reptile survey
spring 2003
Presence/absence sampling of
suitable habitat using artificial
heat refuges along scheme
corridor
Slow-worm the most frequent species, being
found at seven of the nine study plots, and
present in highest densities on road verges.
Common lizard restricted to field edges and
never present in large numbers. Grass snake
recorded in the wet meadows at Edginswell
County Wildlife Site. Adder not recorded.
Fisheries survey
summer 2004
Electro-fishing of Aller Brook and
Edginswell Stream
The study found good numbers of the
migratory species, Atlantic salmon and
Common eel, together with Brown Trout,
Brook lamprey and Bullhead.
Terrestrial
invertebrate
survey
July 2003
Edginswell County Wildlife Site
A total of 117 species were recorded from ten
orders, which showed this site to be of
moderate local interest.
Potential to support breeding amphibians,
including great crested newt in 1 concrete
lined pond
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
Gent, A. & Gibson, S. (Edits). 1998.
Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC,
Peterborough.
EN 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough August
2001.
Implications
Gent, A. & Gibson, S. (Edits). 1998.
Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC,
Peterborough.
EN 2001. Great Crested Newt Mitigation
Guidelines. EN, Peterborough August
2001.
One of several pond
sites surveyed for this
species pre-impact
assessment. No further
work required at this
site.
Note Great crested newt
known to occur at CLS
Laundry site, Newton
Abbot – data obtained
from Teignbridge DC on
which impact
assessment made.
Enabled importance of
site to be determined,
mitigation recommended
and impact assessment
to be undertaken
Langton, T., Beckett, C. & Foster, J. 2001.
Great Crested Newt Conservation
Handbook. Froglife, Halesworth, Suffolk.
-8-
Gent, A. & Gibson, S. (Eds.). 1998.
Herpetofauna Workers Manual. JNCC,
Peterborough: Variety of habitats sampled
using artificial heat refuges comprising
bitumen roofing felt and corrugated roofing
sheet. Passive observation for basking
reptiles; checking on/under refuges.
Carried out over 7 survey visits in
appropriate weather.
Hendry and Cragg-Hine (1996).
Restoration of Riverine Salmon HabitatsA Guidance Manual. Fisheries Technical
Manual 4. Environment Agency, Bristol:
Electro-fishing four sites of 100m in length;
three sampling sites encompassed major
stream habitats represented in each local
reach.
Brooks, S.J. 1993. Joint Committee for the
Conservation of British Invertebrates:
Guidelines for invertebrate site surveys.
British Wildlife, 4 (5): 283-286. Gather
baseline data on wetland and dry ground
invertebrates
Limited potential for
great crested newt
noted.
Enabled importance of
site to be determined,
mitigation recommended
and impact assessment
to be undertaken
Enabled importance of
site to be determined
and impact assessment
to be undertaken on
Edginswell CWS.
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Survey Type
Dates
Aquatic
invertebrate
survey
July 2003 and
April 2004
White-clawed
crayfish survey
September
2003 and May
2004
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
Description of work
undertaken
Aller Brook and Edginswell
Stream
Results of survey
Aller Brook and Edginswell
Stream
Negative result
Surveys found Edginswell Stream and Aller
Brook of Medium - High biological quality,
based on BMWP and ASPT (average score
per taxa). Highest scoring taxa recorded
during kick sampling were members of two
families of Caddis flies as well as Blackfly,
Mayfly and riffle beetle.
-9-
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Best practice followed and extracts
from relative documents as appropriate
ISO 7828: 1985 (BS EN 27828: 1994).
Water Quality – Methods of biological
sampling – Guidance on hand-net
sampling of aquatic benthic macroinvertebrates. ISO 8265: 1988 (BS EN
28265: 1994). Design and use of
quantitative samplers for benthic macroinvertebrates on stony substrata in shallow
freshwaters.
BS EN ISO 8689-1: 2000 Water quality –
biological classification of rivers – Part 1:
Guidance on the interpretation of biological
quality data from surveys of benthic
macro-invertebrates.
Implications
Peay, S. (2003). Monitoring the Whiteclawed crayfish Austropotamobius
pallipes. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers
Monitoring Series No 1. EN, Peterborough.
Species screened out at
survey stage
Enabled importance of
site to be determined,
mitigation to be
recommended and
impact assessment to
be undertaken
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Appendix 2: Tables used in Impact Assessment (from Environmental Statement
CD 2.3)
Table 2.1 Value of Features
Value
Very High
Criteria
High Importance and
rarity, international scale
and limited potential for
substitution
High
High Importance and
rarity, national scale, or
regional scale with limited
potential for substitution
Medium
High or medium
importance and rarity,
local or regional scale, and
limited potential for
substitution
Lower
Low or medium
importance and rarity,
local scale
Negligible
Very low importance and
rarity, local scale
Examples
Internationally designated sites, e.g. candidate Special Areas
of Conservation (cSAC).
A viable area of a habitat type listed in Annex I of the Habitats
Directive, or smaller areas of such habitat which are essential
to maintain the viability of a larger whole.
Any regularly occurring population of an internationally
important species, which is threatened or rare in the UK
A regularly occurring, nationally significant population/number
of any internationally important species.
Nationally designated sites e.g. Sites of Special Scientific
Interest;
Regionally important sites with limited potential for substitution
e.g. Ancient Woodland.
A viable area of a priority habitat identified in the UK BAP, or of
smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain
the viability of a larger whole.
Any regularly occurring population of species listed in
Schedule 5 and 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, or
a priority species listed in the UK BAP.
Regionally important sites with potential for substitution;
Locally designated sites of some local biodiversity interest, e.g.
County Wildlife Sites CWS
Viable areas of key habitat identified in the Devon BAP.
Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a
species listed in the Devon BAP.
Undesignated sites of some local biodiversity and/or earth
heritage interest.
Good example of a more widespread habitat or a species-poor
example of a habitat of note (as described above).
Other sites with little or no local biodiversity and earth heritage
interest.
A widespread site with little or no local biodiversity interest.
Table 2.2 Impact Magnitude
Magnitude
Major negative
Intermediate negative
Minor negative
Neutral
Positive
Criteria
The proposal may adversely affect the integrity of the site, in terms
of the coherence of its ecological structure and function, across its
whole area that enables it to sustain the habitat, complex of habitat
and/ or the population levels of species of interest.
The site integrity would not be adversely affected, but the effect on
the site is likely to be significant in terms of its ecological
objectives. If, in the light of full information, it cannot be clearly
demonstrated that the proposal would not have an adverse effect
on the integrity, then the impact should be assessed as major
negative.
Neither of the above apply but some minor negative impact is
evident.
No observable impact in either direction.
Impacts which provide a net gain for wildlife overall
- 10 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Table 2.3 Overall Appraisal (residual effects)
Magnitude of Potential
Impact
Major negative
Intermediate negative
Minor Negative
Neutral
Positive
Nature Conservation value of sites damaged or improved
Very high
Very large
adverse
Large
adverse
Slight
adverse
Neutral
Large
beneficial
High
Very large
adverse
Large
adverse
Slight
adverse
Neutral
Large
Beneficial
Medium
Moderate
adverse
Moderate
adverse
Slight
adverse
Neutral
Moderate
beneficial
- 11 -
Lower
Slight
adverse
Slight
adverse
Slight
adverse
Neutral
Slight
beneficial
Negligible
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Appendix 3: Target Notes from Phase 1 Habitat Survey (updated 2009).
Target Note
1.Mature Oak tree
2.Aller Cottages
3.Buildings
4.Marshy grassland
5.Nursery grounds
5a.Old orchard
6.Grassland
7.Pasture & orchard
8. Woodland
Description
Mature oak with some dead limbs and a diameter at breast height of 50-60 cm.
The tree is a potential bat roost and a notable landscape tree.
A row of terraced houses with partially burnt roof, some beams are still intact and
the north part is still occupied. The building is a bat roost (surveys have shown 45 Common pipistrelles are present in a summer roost); will be lost to the scheme.
Buildings along line of proposed road; one house (Hazel Bank Cottage) and a
small series of barns at Aller Cross. Both are occupied. The house has brick walls
with a slate roof and bay windows; the farm buildings have concrete and asbestos
roofs. Surveys in 2003/04 (when the building was occupied) showed the cottage
and outbuildings to support very small numbers of long-eared and lesser
horseshoe bats. The building was re-inspected in 2009, but was found to be
derelict and too hazardous to enter. Both the cottage and outbuildings appears to
have declined as a potential bat roost, since parts of the roof and walls are in poor
condition.
Small field of diverse and locally species-rich marshy grassland, dominated by
Hard rush, interspersed with stands of wet grassland with abundant Silverweed,
Creeping buttercup, Greater bird’s-foot trefoil, Crested dog’s-tail, Yorkshire fog,
Creeping bent (NVC MG10/MG13 mix). Associated species included Rough
meadow-grass, Common mouse-ear, Red clover (O), Soft rush (LA), Sweet vernal
grass (LF), Oval sedge (O), Marsh thistle (F), Common sorrel (O), Common spikerush (LD), Lesser water-parsnip (O), Floating sweet-grass (LF), Hemlock waterdropwort (LA), Water forget-me-not (LA), Yellow flag iris (LD), Cuckoo flower (O),
Curled dock (LF), Common fleabane (LF) and Hairy sedge. The northern end
supports a stand of Southern marsh-orchid and Germander speedwell. Dryer
grassland stands at this end are dominated by a mix of Crested dog’s-tail, Sweet
vernal grass, Common mouse-ear, Silverweed, Red fescue, Creeping buttercup
and Common sorrel.
Plant nursery – House with wooden outbuildings (corrugated steel and concrete
roof); plus adjacent house not boarded up – brick with a slate roof. The garden is
overgrown and contains an old orchard (see TN5a).
An old, overgrown orchard in the grounds of Elmsleigh (a former nursery)
surrounded in 2003 by dense bramble scrub and trees smothered by climbing
brambles. These have been cut and the site is now an open orchard surrounded
on the north and west sides by tall hedgerows with trees. Mown amenity grassland
to the north-east.
Moderately species-rich grassland, dominated by fine leaved grasses and low
growing herbs. Typical species include Crested dog’s-tail, Soft brome, Perennial
rye-grass, with Common bird’s-foot-trefoil, Trailing tormentil, Yarrow, Self-heal,
Ribwort plantain, White clover, Common mouse-ear, Black knapweed, Annual
meadow-grass, Field thistle, Common cat’s-ear, Hairy sedge, Hard rush, all
frequent to abundant.
Abandoned pasture and orchard; now species poor rank grassland with scattered
fruit trees. Stands of Hemlock water-dropwort occupy damper access. Lightly
managed in 2003, but heavily horse grazed in 2009 and reduced in quality for Cirl
bunting.
Block of woodland between two hedges, with several old trees including a large,
formerly laid Ash and numerous multi-stemmed Hazel. A dense tangled understorey with Ivy dominant in field layer; Dog’s mercury is invading from the margins.
Also Hart’s tongue fern, Soft shield-fern and Field-rose. Evidence of Badger
foraging (snuffle pits and runs) but no evidence of recent excavation - some
- 12 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
9. Yannon Lane
10.Stream
11.Grassland
12.Grassland
13.Green lane
14.Former small field
15.Damp grassland
16.Willow carr/swamp
17.Grassland
18. Mature maple tree
19.Grassland
20.Stream
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
disused holes are present. Potential Dormouse habitat. There is evidence of
disturbance at the widest point (hummocks and hollows), with runs leading into,
what appears to be, a green lane.
An old green lane fringed by tall hedges and with rich flora under a canopy of
Hazel, with Bluebell, Soft shield-fern, Stinking iris, Hart’s tongue fern, Wild
strawberry, violet sp., Ivy, Enchanter’s night-shade. There is a large, pollarded
oak approximately half way up the hill.
Shaded stream course running to the main road through Kingskerswell. The
stream is clear and slow flowing, with a silty base and locally rich aquatic
vegetation, dominated by lush Common water-starwort growth. Hemlock waterdropwort dominates the margin in open areas.
Small stand of roadside grassland with Pyramidal orchid among Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue and False oat-grass.
Road side grassland with Pyramidal orchid among Wood false-brome. Large
male Slow worm found under refuge.
Hollow way/green lane between two steep banks, with species-rich hedges with
occasional large Hazel among a low but continuous canopy of Hazel, Field maple,
Elder, Ash and Wych elm. The base of the lane supports Meadowsweet stands in
damp areas, among grassy sward margins dominated by tall herbs including
Meadowsweet, Hogweed, Common nettle and Red campion.
Grassy glade with vegetation of neutral character on limestone substrate between
two stands of Field maple and Ash scrub. The site has been subject to recent
scrub clearance allowing regeneration of the field-layer. The grassland is
moderately species-rich with False oat-grass, Rough meadow-grass, Hedge
bedstraw, Hogweed, Red fescue, Red clover, Germander speedwell, Yarrow,
Black medick, Pyramidal orchid, Ribwort plantain, Greater burnet saxifrage and
Black knapweed.
Stand of rather species-poor damp pasture in an otherwise improved field.
Dominated by Sharp-flowered rush with Crested dog’s-tail, Yorkshire fog,
Creeping buttercup and Ragged-robin.
Complex of Grey willow scrub, damp grassland and tall swamp vegetation. The
field up-slope is improved, but the species richness increases down to the base,
where Grey willow is dominant locally. Stands of Hemlock water-dropwort, Yellow
flag iris, Meadowsweet and Reed canary-grass are scattered through this area.
The damp grassland at the transition zone between the vegetation at the improved
pasture above supports such species as Selfheal, Common fleabane, Sharpflowered rush, Alsike clover, Carnation sedge, Creeping buttercup, Lesser trefoil,
Black knapweed and Field wood-rush.
Roadside grassland of moderate richness with some species of note; there are a
few Pyramidal orchid present locally and broomrape sp. was frequent. The
grassland varies between an open Wood false-brome-dominated sward, where
European gorse has been cleared, to a rather dense sward with Crested dog’stail, Sweet vernal grass, Red fescue, Ribwort plantain, Yarrow, Daisy, and Herb
Robert. Selfheal is local. Species-richness is probably < 10 species/m2.
Large old Field maple, with a diameter at base of 60 cm.
Species-rich grassland on road embankment, with sub-surface flushing; large
stands of Southern marsh orchid, among a low sward with Creeping buttercup,
Ribwort plantain, Daisy, Selfheal, Common mouse-ear, Curled dock, Black
knapweed, Grey sedge, Lesser trefoil, Glaucous sedge, Early forget-me-not,
occasional Pyramidal orchid, Agrimony, Common fleabane, Ragged-robin,
scattered tussocks of Hard rush, occasional Common spotted-orchid and
occasional hybrids. There are several self-sown poplars present plus Lombardy
poplar, oak sp., Ash, and Rosa scrub.
Narrow rather shaded and shallow stream that drains alongside a species-rich
- 13 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
21.Swamp/wet
grassland in
Edginswell County
Wildlife Site
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
hedge into Aller Brook. The stream is clean and gravel-bottomed with a marginal
growth of Hemlock water-dropwort and Fool’s water-cress.
Valuable mosaic of swamp and rush pasture vegetation in a large cattle-grazed
field, which is fringed by the Aller Brook and behind this is an overgrown hedge
with several large White willow. The Aller Brook here is narrow and generally
rather shaded, but quite clear and a moderate to rapid flow.
Swamp Vegetation is dominated by Yellow flag iris, Meadowsweet, Common
fleabane, Great willowherb, Hemlock water-dropwort, Broad-leaved dock,
Common nettle, Fool’s water-cress (locally dominant). Associated species include
Water figwort, Water mint and Brooklime.
Rush Pasture is dominated by Hard rush tussocks with Yorkshire fog, Creeping
bent, Silverweed, occasional Soft rush, Creeping buttercup, Marsh thistle, Rough
meadow-grass and Floating sweet-grass. Associated species include Marsh
horsetail, Common spike-rush, Reed sweet-grass, Common mouse-ear and
Common sorrel.
22.Damp grassland
22a.Deciduous
woodland
22b.Secondary Ash
woodland
23.Relict calcareous
Pasture
(Unconfirmed County
Wildlife Site in 2009)
24.Quarry
The Dryer grassland to the south-west has been improved and is generally rather
species poor, although species such as Hairy sedge are present locally amongst a
Ranunculus-rich sward.
Improved damp field; rather species poor, but with pockets of floristic interest,
including stands of Common spotted-orchid and Common fleabane with Greater
bird’s-foot trefoil. The lower areas support a small amount of rushes. and
Hemlock water-dropwort.
Secondary woodland on limestone outcrop. Ash and Field maple are locally
dominant. There is evidence of former coppicing and some trees are multistemmed in the understory, which comprises Elm, Field maple and Hazel. There
is little regeneration evident. The field-layer is dominated by Ivy, Hart’s tongue
fern, Stinking iris and Dog’s mercury. There is extensive bare rock colonised by
epiphytes, mainly frequent Polypody and Hart’s tongue fern. The bryophyte
Thamobryum alopecurum is abundant on boulder slopes. Some of the rock face
has deep fissures that may support roosting bats.
The south side of the woodland is bounded by an old dry stone wall with veteran
Field maple containing numerous rot holes and fissures with high potential to
harbour roosting bats.
Secondary Ash woodland on limestone with an understory of Field maple, Elder
and Hawthorn. The field-layer is dominated by Ivy, Stinking iris, Hart’s tongue fern
and occasional Wood false-brome. Parts of the wood show evidence of coppicing.
The wood is bounded to the north by an old dry stone wall topped with occasional
veteran, multi-stemmed Field maple.
Pasture – short grazed by horses across much of its area and sloping to the south
into a valley with a hedged base. The field on the south side of the hedge is
improved. The northern of the two fields appears to have been improved at some
point, as it is fairly species-poor and characterised by widespread and abundant
herb species of moderately rich pastures: Cock’s-foot, Smooth meadow-grass,
Ribwort plantain, Bulbous buttercup, Meadow buttercup, Selfheal, Daisy,
Dandelion., Potentilla sp., Red clover, Common sorrel, Lesser cellandine,
Ragwort, Creeping buttercup, Germander speedwell and Common mouse-ear. A
small area of steeper ground supports a remnant of unimproved pasture, marked
out by the presence of species such as Agrimony, Common bird’s-foot-trefoil,
Black knapweed, Yarrow, Wild teasel, Bluebell, Sweet vernal-grass and Red
fescue.
A former limestone quarry, now used as a car park and small model car racetrack.
- 14 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
25.Grassland
26.Stream
27.Marshy grassland
28.Woodland
29.Woodland
30.Woodland
31.Mature Oak tree
32.Woodland
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Surrounded by young – moderate aged wood and scrub dominated by Ash, with
an under-storey of Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Elder, Elm sp., and Sycamore. There
are several large Field maples at the western end on a hedge bank (many trees
are Ivy-covered – some with bat roost potential). The field-layer is typical of wellestablished woods on a limestone substrate; dominated by Dog’s mercury,
Bluebell, Hart’s tongue fern, Wood dock, Lesser cellandine, Wood sedge, Stinking
iris, Ramsons, Soft shield-fern, and Wood false-brome. The potentially affected
area is less diverse and younger than the woodland to the west, and the field layer
supports more Ivy and fewer typical woodland species.
An area of grassland co-dominated by Greater pond-sedge, Common fleabane,
Square-stalked St John’s-wort, Hard rush with occasional Wild angelica and
Hemp-agrimony.
A clear fast flowing brook, two metres wide, 20-50 cm deep with small stones and
earth substrate. Earth banks 30-900 angle, marginal vegetation consists of
liverwort and Lesser pond-sedge. The brook is shielded from the light Hazel and
Hawthorn. It appears to be suitable for White-clawed crayfish.
A mosaic of marshy grassland and species-poor semi-improved grassland. The
marshy grassland is dominated by Jointed rush, Common fleabane, Sweet vernal
grass, Silverweed, Timothy ssp. with frequent Marsh thistle, Meadowsweet and
the occasional Ragged-robin. This field was tightly grazed at the time of survey.
Secondary Ash woodland with frequent Sycamore, Silver birch, Ash and an
understory of Elder, Hazel and young Ash. Tall field layer of Common nettle,
Wood dock, Bramble, Cock’s-foot with occasional Wood false-brome, Herb
Robert. Ivy is a conspicuous climber. There are a number of mature Oak sp. and
Beech sp.. – some of which occur along the road edge (bat survey)
Milber Road/ Ben Stedman’s wood. Appears to be owned and managed by
Teignbridge DC or Devon CC. Mixed woodland dominated by Scot’s Pine with
frequent Silver birch and Ash. The vertical structure is good; with open glades but
little deadwood. A line of mature and immature Beech, together with young Ash,
fringe the road along the stretch proposed for modification, with also oak along the
hedgebank lower down the road. The field-layer is dominated by
Bramble/Bracken.
Southern section: predominantly broad-leaved and dominated by Sweet chestnut
and Beech with occasional Scot’s pine and stands of Hairy birch, and old Silver
birch. The understory is locally dense with stands of Holly dominant. The fieldlayer is patchy under the shade of Beech, being predominately Bracken and
Bramble. Mature Pedunculate oak are present closer to the road. The section of
the woodland closest to the junction is dominated by young Beech up to the road.
Beech and Birch sp. dominant woodland, with occasional mature Pedunculate
oak, over an understory of regenerating Ash saplings, young Beech and a fieldlayer of Bracken and Bramble. There is only one mature Beech along the potential
area of road modification.
Mature Pedunculate oak with 75 cm girth at breast height and probably pollarded
in the past-fissures (potential bat roost).
Small semi-natural woodland dominated by mature and semi-mature oak. The
understory was dominated by Holly and Bramble making access difficult. Hazel
coppice was abundant with occasional Elder and Blackthorn. The ground flora
was dominated by Ivy. There is potential for Dormouse and possibly Bats.
- 15 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
33.Tall ruderal/scrub
34.Roadside grassland
35.Scrub
36.Limestone railway
bridge
37.Stony path over
railway bridge
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
An area of overgrown vegetation between the road and the railway track.
Dominated by Bramble, Bracken and Common nettle with frequent False oatgrass. The railway edge was dominated by Horsetail sp. with frequent Common
toadflax. The area nearer the roadside was dominated by semi-mature Hazel and
Wych elm with occasional deadwood. NB. Now cleared during 2004 for another
development.
A sloping roadside verge, generally species-poor neutral appearance but with a
few calcareous substrate indicators and botanically diverse in places. Dominated
by Red fescue and False oat-grass with frequent Tall fescue, Perennial rye-grass,
Broad-leaved dock, Common sorrel, common bird’s-foot trefoil, Ribwort plantain,
Mouse-eared hawkweed, Yorkshire fog, Smooth hawk’s-beard, Creeping
cinquefoil, Hedge bindweed, Hedge bedstraw, Devil’s-bit scabious, with
occasional patches of Agrimony, White campion and Field poppy.
Dense scrub dominated by Bramble with frequent Elder, Apple sp. and Hawthorn.
41.Plantation
A limestone built bridge over the railway line. No access to view underside but it
may require checking for bats if affected by the bypass.
Stony path with frequent Ragwort, Black knapweed, Wood false-brome, Spear
thistle and Yarrow, Tormentil, Small-leaved cranes-bill and Dove’s-foot crane-bill
on a limestone substrate, with locally abundant Spotted medick, Parsley-piert and
Wild carrot. The limestone walls of the bridge support the pteridophytes; Rustyback fern, Wall rue and Black spleenwort.
Short roadside verge dominated by False oat-grass, with Wall barley, Common
bent and Sterile brome. Herbs include frequent Ribwort plantain, Common cat’sear, Black knapweed, Ragwort, locally abundant Devil’s-bit scabious, Common
bird’s-foot trefoil, and occasional Curled dock, stonecrop sp. and Sow thistle.
Mature and semi-mature Elm, Ash, Hawthorn, Scots pine, Pedunculate oak and
Turkey oak. Small patch of semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by Black
knapweed and Red fescue with frequent Common centaury, Yarrow and Wild
strawberry.
Rough grassland dominated by False oat-grass (LD), Cock’s-foot, Large-leaved
timothy sp., with frequent Yarrow, Wild carrot (LA), Black knapweed, Prickly oxtongue (F), Common bird’s-foot-trefoil, Creeping thistle, and occasional Oxeye
daisy, Creeping cinquefoil, Common fleabane, Broad-leaved dock, Red clover
(possibly a sown cultivar), Spotted medick and Meadow vetchling. Some areas of
topsoil appear to have been stripped and the site re-seeded in the past.
Pedunculate oak and Sitka spruce plantation with no understory.
42.Otter field sign
Otter footprints.
43.Plantation
Typical roadside plantation with abundant Ash, Sycamore, Field maple, Rowan
and Silver birch, with an understory of Bramble.
Aller Brook. Slow moving, oligotrophic stream. The sediment was mud and the
steep (90-45o) banks were made up of earth with wire netting to prevent erosion.
The bank was 30 cm deep and six metres wide with occasional boulders along the
side. The banks were dominated by Willow (Crack willow and hybrids) with
abundant Sycamore and Ash. The understory comprised Bramble and Sycamore
saplings. Ivy and Honeysuckle are frequent on the ground and in the trees.
Aquatic vegetation was sparse.
Aller Brook, as in previous target note, but with semi-natural woodland replaced by
Bramble scrub with frequent Butterfly-bush., Great willowherb, Hemp-agrimony,
Purple-loosestrife, Yellow flag iris, with occasional Crack willow. Could not get
access to check for Otter.
38.Calcareous
grassland
39.Grassland and
trees
40.Grassland
44.Aller Brook
45. Aller Brook &
woodland
- 16 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
46.Grassland
47.Grassland
48.Grassland
49.Ditch
50.Marshy grassland
50a.Stone culvert
51.Grassland & Alder
carr
52.Tall hedgerow
53.Marshy grassland
54.Marshy grassland
55.Boundary ditch
56.Marshy grassland
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Overgrown patch of grassland dominated by False oat-grass, Cock’s-foot, and
Yarrow, with frequent Common bird’s-foot trefoil, Black knapweed, Ground-elder
and Hogweed, grading into dense Bramble in the south.
Typical amenity grassland and roadside verge dominated by White clover, Red
clover, Perennial rye-grass, Daisy, Creeping buttercup, Common cat’s-ear, False
oat-grass, and Cock’s-foot, with frequent Red fescue, Common bent, Creeping
bent, Rough meadow-grass, and occasional Black knapweed, Common bird’s-foot
trefoil and Creeping thistle.
North corner of grazed field with species-poor semi-improved grassland grading to
a very locally semi-improved herb-rich sward. To the west of this are two mature
oak trees.
Field boundary with water-filled ditch for much of its length.
Northwest corner of grazing field west of the Aller Brook with wet/marshy
grassland. A Common snipe was flushed from this area on 2 April 2004.
Old stone culvert under railway, with a well-vegetated entrance into scrubby
riparian woodland. The culvert is approximately 0.75 m in diameter and contains
running water. It has a moderate to high potential to support roosting or
hibernating bats.
Northern corner of grazing field between railway line and Aller Brook with an area
of wet Alder carr with at least two dozen tussocks of Greater tussock-sedge along
with other sedge sp., including Lesser pond sedge. Three of the tussocks were up
to a metre in height. In this sedge swamp there was also found Marsh-marigold,
Creeping buttercup, Wild angelica, Hogweed, Meadowsweet, Water mint, Water
figwort, Hemlock water dropwort, and willowherb sp. Several of the Alders were
dead (possibly from Phytophthora disease)
Field boundary to the west of the Brook comprised a tall, unmanaged hedge with
mature oak trees on a bank. Hedge showed evidence of previous laying. A ditch
on the south side was wet or water-filled and well vegetated with sedges and
Reed canary-grass, became wider at western end with Water/Tufted forget-menot, water speedwell., Water mint, Brooklime, Meadowsweet, Water figwort and
Fool’s watercress. There was some local pollution of this ditch with an oily film
noted on the water surface - some car engine parts were found in the water, which
were thought to be the origin of these slicks. The western end of the ditch was
partly poached and disturbed and also with ochre seepage. Hedgebanks were
about one metre high on average, sparsely vegetated in places with other areas
clothed in Ivy and locally frequent Hart’s tongue fern.
A remnant field boundary to the east of Aller Brook with Willow and Bramble
alongside wet marshy grassland. The southern side contains a broad, wet ditch,
mostly vegetated over with Fool’s watercress, Water mint, sedge sp., Hard rush,
Soft rush, Common sorrel, Water figwort, willowherb sp. and Reed canary-grass.
Ditch and wet marshy grassland on eastern banks of Aller Brook. The ditch was
straight, about 60-70cm wide, well vegetated with rush and patches of Fool’s
watercress.
Field boundary comprising of Hawthorn hedge and mature trees on a bank on the
western side of Brook with wet/water-filled ditch. Mature trees included oak and
Alder with some prostrate Willow. The ditch was marked by frequent Soft rush.
The field layer on the banks and margins comprised Ivy, Common sorrel, Garlic
mustard, Common nettle, Cleavers, Hemlock water dropwort, Bramble, Herb
Robert and Rosa sp.
Ditch on east side of Aller Brook with marshy grassland. The ditch had patches of
abundant Round-leaved water-crowfoot and water-starwort sp. Other water-filled
ditches are mostly vegetated over.
- 17 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
57.Willow carr
58.Grassland
59.Stream banks
60.Oak trees
61.Stream
62.Streambank
63. Eyot
64.Streambank
65.Road Bridge
66.Grass field
67.Old boundary
hedge
68.Deciduous
woodland
69. Woodland
70 Milber Junction
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Area of Willow carr with stands of sedge sp., including at least four dozen
tussocks of Greater tussock sedge, rush sp., Yellow flag iris and Common reed.
Gorse-covered sloping bank with small area of semi to unimproved neutral
grassland containing a range of herbs, including Common cat’s-ear, Creeping
buttercup, Yarrow, Ribwort plantain, Common sorrel, Common mouse-ear, Field
wood-rush, Daisy, Ragwort, bitter-cress., Dandelion, Common knapweed in a fineleaved sward including Common bent. An eroded part of the bank supported
Sheep’s sorrel.
An erosion feature comprising banks significantly eroded back by combination of
scouring and poaching by livestock with three multi-stemmed Willows lying
prostrate across the width of the Aller Brook
Two mature oak trees on the west bank of the Aller Brook with potential for bat
roosting.
Tributary stream that joins the Aller Brook on its western bank with scattered
Willow saplings and Hawthorn. Stream has some emergent vegetation along its
banks and is fairly swift flowing. The banks are mostly grassy with tall herbs such
as figwort, Common nettle, Meadowsweet and dock sp. Further south the stream
turns southwest and runs along both managed and unmanaged hedges with trees.
At the point where the stream turns southwest Badger tracks were found in mud.
East bank of the Brook with scattered Willows, Alder, Hawthorn and mature oak
(with potential for bat roosts).
Eyot – stony and gravelly exposed part of stream bed partly vegetated with sedge
sp., dock sp. and cranesbill sp.
Erosion feature comprising a mature Crack willow on a bank surrounded on one
side by bare ground (on the west) and the Brook to the east, effectively creating
an island of vegetation. The field-layer comprised Lesser celandine, speedwell
sp., Cow parsley, Lords & ladies, Bramble, Daffodil. (cultivated), bitter-cress sp.
and Dandelion.
An unlit bridge (the Torbay bypass over Edginswell Road) with extensive
expansion cracks along both sides under the bridge and along each side above
the embankments. These cracks provide potential bat roosting/hibernacula sites
and require inspection prior to widening works.
Species-poor, rough pasture grassland dominated by False oat-grass, with stands
of Red fescue. Frequent herbs include Ribwort plantain, Ragwort, Common sorrel,
Germander speedwell, Dove’s-foot cranesbill, Creeping thistle, Dandelion and
Scarlet pimpernel.
A former boundary hedgebank alongside the lay-by, possibly the former road
route, dominated by oak, with occasional Hazel, Hawthorn, Spindle, Beech and
Dog rose.
Young, deciduous woodland along a hillside bordering the A380. Dominated by
Oak, Beech and Sycamore, with occasional Sweet chestnut. Hazel, with
occasional Hawthorn, Spindle, Dog rose and Blackthorn dominate the understorey. Ivy, Wood false-brome and Ground ivy dominate the field-layer. Fieldlayer species present along a roadside grass bank and hedgebank borders the
woodland which comprises sparse Red fescue, Wood sage, Field madder Stinking
iris, Traveller’s joy Common calamint on a base-rich spoil. The grass bank grades
in places to a short ephemeral community.
Woodland adjacent to the existing A380. A former hedge bank flanks the road,
dominated by semi-mature oak, with Beech, Birch and Sycamore behind, and
occasional Yew. Further north there is more Holly in the understory and gorse
along the side of the road.
20 x 10m of Ash saplings over Ivy and Bramble. On the north side the woodland
to be lost comprises a 150m x 10m stretch of young Beech, Ash and Birch, all
probably less than 20 years old.
- 18 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
71
72 Kerswell Down
Wood
73 Woodland
74 Woodland off
Churchway Lane
75 Grassland
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Small stand of Hazel and Hawthorn, over Ivy, Lords and Ladies, Bluebell and
Lesser celandine. Possibly an old woodland for former ancient hedge site judging
from the density of bluebells. Trees assessed for bats and birds but no obvious
holes noted.
Woodland over a former limestone quarry. Canopy primarily Sycamore less than
50 years old, with a well established understory of Hazel, Holly, Hawthorn,
Spindle, Honeysuckle and Yew, over a moderately species rich field layer of Dog’s
mercury , Bluebell, Lords and Ladies, Ivy, Early dog violet, Stinking iris,
Polypodium sp., Harts tongue fern and Lesser celandine. At the western end are
mature Oak and Ash up to about 80 years old (single specimens), over Hazel
stools, low sparse Hawthorn and a field layer dominated by Ivy, Harts tongue fern,
Iris, occasional Dog’s mercury and small stands of Bluebell. Extensive Sycamore
regeneration and slightly older Hazel stools along the boundary
Woodland on the east side of the former quarry is dominated by Ash less than 80
years old (mostly less than 50 years) with Hawthorn, Field maple, Holly and Elm,
over a sparse field layer of Cow parsley, Lesser celandine, occasional Dog’s
Mercury, Lords and Ladies, Stinking iris and Ivy. Occasional young Sycamore.
There is an extensive mat of Wild garlic at the northern end
A rather poorly structured Ash woodland with a sparse field layer of Dog’s
Mercury, Stinking iris, and occasional Shield fern and occasional Lesser
celandine. Very little regeneration apart from sparse Hazel and occasional Elder.
Possible browsing by deer noted. The two main tree age classes are 50-60 years
and 10-20 years old. Former field boundaries still present (walls). Few trees with
holes/cavities noted.
Adjacent grassland is species poor (possibly re-seeded); dominated by Yorkshire
fog, Ribwort plantain, Dandelion, Timothy grass and Cocksfoot.
- 19 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Appendix 4: Devon County Council Draft Guidance Note on Moving
Hedges
Many forms of development threaten hedges. Where their ‘in situ’ conservation is
impossible, consideration should be given to the practicality of moving (i.e. or ‘translocating’)
them. This can provide an effective alternative to their complete loss or their replacement
with a new hedge. This is particularly true for hedges comprising earth banks, so making the
technique of special relevance to Devon and other parts of the West Country. This guidance
note is intended to help in deciding when it is appropriate to move a hedge and how this
might be achieved.
Why Move Hedges?
The only way to truly conserve a hedge is to retain it in its original position and setting.
However, where this is not possible, moving a hedge can offer the following advantages:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Replacement by a new boundary feature – such as a fence or new style of hedge – may
not be in keeping with its surroundings.
Transfer of the original vegetation cover – including living trees/shrubs, herbaceous
cover, vegetative fragments and existing seedbank – can maintain much of the original
wildlife value and ‘ancient’ characteristics of the hedge.
It considerably speeds the process of establishment and development of the hedge in its
new position.
The retention of the original, non-enriched soils can reduce problems of weed infestation.
Where done well, the integrity and visual character of the original hedge structure can be
maintained, so limiting the adverse effects of disturbance.
It retains the genetic stock of the woody and herbaceous plant cover, which is suited to
local conditions, so offering advantages over new planting / seeding.
It can present a cost-effective alternative to the establishment of a replacement
hedgebank.
Selecting Hedges for Moving
The first question to ask when faced with the loss of a hedge is whether there is any way in
which it can be retained, perhaps by incorporating this into the design of a new development.
If not, ask whether moving the hedge is a practical proposition and, if so, weigh this up
against other options, in the light of local conditions.
Moving a hedge is most likely to succeed and be a favoured option where:
x
x
x
x
x
The original hedge is of particular landscape or wildlife importance (e.g. an ‘Important
Hedgerow’ based on the wildlife criteria of the Hedgerows Regulations).
Its value is NOT based primarily on its historic importance, which is unlikely to be
conserved through re-positioning.
It does NOT contain too many mature trees, but instead comprises managed, shrubby
growth or even sparse woody cover.
It is in good condition, comprising a well-defined and maintained earth bank, rather than
one which is badly slumped and gappy.
There is level ground (although hedges can be moved across moderate slopes)
- 20 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
x
x
x
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
The work can be carried out during an appropriate time of year (i.e. autumn or winter),
when the ground is sufficiently moist, but not frozen or waterlogged.
The original hedge is turf-faced rather than stone-faced.
The hedge is to be moved only a short distance, as moving it by more than a few metres
increases the risks and expense.
Techniques for Moving Hedges
Although there are probably as many variations in technique as there are contractors, three
general approaches are usually applied:
1. Dragging or pushing the hedge as a series of discrete sections.
2. Lifting the hedge in chunks and then re-building.
3. Dragging or pushing the hedge in very small, incremental stages, whilst tracking up and
down its length, to retain its original integrity.
Preparatory Works
Whichever technique is applied, it is helpful to carry out some advance preparation to the
hedge to be moved. Dependent on its management condition, much of the existing growth
of woody vegetation should be removed, either by flailing or coppicing. This is particularly
important where the hedge contains young trees or overgrown shrubs. It can also be helpful
to prepare the base of the bank by cutting away slumped soil and turves. The turves can be
set aside for use in patching-up the re-positioned hedge.
Where a hedge is being dragged or pushed, it can be helpful to mound any excess soil
behind the hedge to give it stability and help prevent any disintegration or over-toppling
when being moved. Similarly, the bucket can be used to cut into the base of the bank, for up
to a third of its width on the front face, to ease its initial movement.
Some operators also prepare the ground where the hedge is to be re-position by removing
the turf and creating a shallow receiving trench.
1. Dragging Sections of Hedge
This approach is best applied where the ground is relatively level and the hedge is being
moved only a very short distance. Through this technique the hedge is split and then rejoined, so limiting the major disturbance to the main contact points. Along the majority of its
length, the vegetation cover is retained intact.
Machinery:
Tracked mechanical excavator with 360 swing shovel (usually 13 tonne or larger) and a
selection of buckets.
Technique:
x Remove turf from rear base of bank and set to one side.
x Mound any surplus soil behind rear base of bank.
x Position bucket so that teeth cut into the front base of the hedge to dislodge it.
x Drag back the full hedge in bucket-sized widths.
x Once each section of bank starts to move freely, reverse the bucket so that it is pulled by
the flat, back of the bucket.
x Continue this process sequentially along the hedge, pulling each section back by the
required distance to tie-in with the adjoining section.
- 21 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
x
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
Repair any minor collapses and face-up bare sections of bank, as necessary, with cut
turves.
2. Lifting and Re-building Hedge
This would appear to be the most commonly used approach, although it is also one of the
most disruptive as it involves taking the hedge apart in ‘chunks’ and then rebuilding it. It is
particularly useful where the hedge is to be moved by more than a few metres, where the
ground is sloping or the bank is irregularly shaped.
Machinery:
Four wheel drive mechanical excavator with front four-in-one loading bucket and 180 degree
backhoe with a selection of buckets
Technique:
x Remove line of turf to create a shallow receiving trench.
x Use four-in-one bucket to remove top layer of hedge to depth of main, fibrous root-ball.
For first section of hedge, place this to one side.
x Remove remainder of bank, preferably as two bucket-loads, transferring these across
and placing them within the receiving trench.
x The next section of hedge-top can then be placed onto this newly created base of the
bank.
x Continue this operation in sequence, shaping the newly constructed bank as necessary.
x On completion, using the cut turves to face up the re-position bank, as necessary.
3. Incremental Dragging of Intact Hedge
This approach is broadly similar to the first, but instead of moving sections of the hedge
independently, the entire hedge is dragged (or pushed) whilst intact. When done well, this
technique can give superb results; however, few contractors are experienced in this
approach.
Machinery:
Mechanical excavator with 360 swing shovel (from 13 to 40 tonne) and a selection of
buckets.
Technique:
x Straighten rear of bank by trimming turf and slumped soil.
x Mound any surplus soil behind rear base of bank.
x Depending on stability of bank, it may be necessary to cultivate ground and create a
significant mound of spoil against rear of hedge.
x Cut into base of front face of hedge using the teeth of the bucket.
x Reverse the bucket prior to dragging hedge.
x Drag the hedge back in tiny increments, continuously tracking up and down the selected
length, so retaining its original structure at all times.
x Two operators required, to man the machinery and to guide the precise movement of the
bucket from the front of the hedge.
Case Study– Southdown Moor, Alverdiscott (K & J Plant Hire)
During the 1980’s a large number of highway improvement schemes resulted in the loss of
roadside hedges. On the Barnstaple to Torrington road (B3232) the County Council
commissioned K & J Plant Hire to move two lengths of hedge at Southdown Moor, near
Alverdiscott. It was this firm who developed the technique described above based on the
- 22 -
A380 South Devon Link Road
(Kingskerswell Bypass)
Public Inquiries
Andrew Mccarthy
DCC/A/8
Ecology
incremental dragging of the intact hedge. The hedges in question originally lay immediately
alongside the road and created a visibility hazard on the approach to bends. The hedges
were moved back to create a narrow verge, similar to that found along adjoining sections of
the road. Looking at these hedges today, it is virtually impossible to detect that they have
been re-positioned. Interestingly on this scheme, the swing shovel bucket was adapted by
fixing two railway sleeps within it, rather than using the reverse of wide bucket.
- 23 -