Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
On behalf of University of the West of England
Prepared by: Mary Wood
Checked by Craig Stenson
32 Jacob’s Wells Road
Bristol
BS8 1DR
Tel
0117 917 7273
Fax
0117 929 7273
Email enquiries@AWTecologicalconsultancy.org.uk
AWT065 MW
Revision: 0
300410
This report has been produced by the Avon Wildlife Trust within the terms of the contract with the client and taking account of the
resources devoted to it by agreement with the client.
We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above.
This report is confidential to the client and we accept no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this report, or
any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at their own risk
The Avon Wildlife Trust. Registered charity number: 280422
Registered address: 32 Jacob’s Wells Road, Bristol, BS8 1DR.
A member of the Association of Wildlife Trust Consultancies.
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Summary
AWT Ecological Consultancy was commissioned by the University of the West of
England to carry out an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of their land holding at
Frenchay in north Bristol. The survey was undertaken on 16 and 17 March 2010, in
cloud with occasional sunny periods. A further visit was made on 9 April A desk
study was also conducted in order to assess existing records of designated sites and
protected or notable species within the site and the surrounding area. The field survey
and desk study results were used to facilitate an ecological assessment of the site,
particularly its importance for Biodiversity Action Plan Habitats and protected species.
Features identified as having the most significant nature conservation value are broad leaved woodland (UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat),
ponds (UK and Avon BAP Habitat), watercourse (Avon BAP Habitat), species-rich
hedgerows (UK , Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat), veteran trees
and species-diverse grassland (UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP
Habitat).
The habitats within the site have the potential to support bats, great crested newts,
reptiles, badgers and breeding birds.
Please be aware that a survey of this nature can only provide a snapshot of the
site's ecological importance.
To provide more detailed information, the following protected species surveys have been
recommended:
Immediate

great crested newt - presence/likely absence survey;
Pending future development

bats - activity surveys, also tree surveys if trees are to be removed or are
subject to tree works;

reptiles;

badgers.
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In order to meet accepted standards of survey effort, the surveys listed above are subject
to seasonal constraints. Depending on the survey results, mitigation measures may be
required, and these may also be subject to seasonal constraints. It is recommended that
a protected species survey programme be incorporated into any development timetable to
include timing of survey work and any further works required in the event that protected
species are found to be present.
Please note that the survey results and any recommendations contained within this
report will remain valid for one year following the date of survey.
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Contents
1
Introduction..........................................................................1
2
Methodology.........................................................................2
2.1
Ecological Assessment
2
2.2
Desk Study
2
2.3
Field Study
2
2.4
Constraints
3
3
Results..................................................................................4
3.1
Desk Study
4
3.2
Field Survey - Habitat Assessment
10
4
Discussion and Assessment..............................................14
4.1
Designated Sites
14
4.2
Habitats and Flora
14
4.3
Fauna
14
5
Conclusions..........................................................................19
5.1
Designated Sites
19
5.2
Habitats and Species
19
6
Recommendations...............................................................20
6.1
Bats
20
6.2
Nesting birds
21
6.3
Reptiles
21
6.4
Badgers
22
6.5
Great crested newts
22
References
23
Appendices
24
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Drawings
AWT 065-001a - Phase 1 Habitat Map SW section
AWT 065-001b - Phase 1 Habitat Map NW section
AWT 065-001c - Phase 1 Habitat Map S section Main Campus
AWT 065-001d - Phase 1 Habitat Map Section Main Campus
AWT 065-001e - Phase 1 Habitat Map NE section
AWT 065-001f - Phase 1 Habitat Map SE section
Figure 2 Designated Sites within 2 kilometres of UWE
Figure 3 Protected Species within 2 kilometres of UWE
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Tables
Table 3.1 International Designated Sites within 10km of UWE, UK and Local Sites within
2km of UWE.
Table 3.3 Birds of Conservation Concern recorded within a 2km radius of the site.
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Appendices
Appendix A – Target Notes
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1
Introduction
1.1
Background
1.1.1 AWT Ecological Consultancy was commissioned by the University of the West of
England (UWE) to carry out a full wildlife survey and Protected Species Audit
(known as an Extended Phase I Habitat Survey). The survey took place on 16 and
17 March 2010, with a further survey on 9 April 2010. The survey is required in
order to inform the site's Biodiversity Action Plan and any future development
proposals.
1.1.2 The university landholding is situated to the west of Frenchay in north Bristol, and is
approximately 10.5ha in area. The central grid reference is ST623783. The main
site is for the most part comprised of high-density modern buildings, hard-standing
and ornamental areas, with trees and amenity grassland, but there are fields and
hedgerows to the south-west and south-east of the main campus. Ponds and other
water-bodies on the site as well as woodlands and veteran trees add further
biodiversity interest.
1.1.3 The purpose of the survey was to identify habitats present within the site, and to
assess the ecological status and value of these habitats, including their potential to
support protected or otherwise notable species. Recommendations for further
ecological surveys have been made based on the survey findings.
.
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2
Methodology
2.1
Ecological Assessment
The ecological assessment was carried out in three stages:

A desk study to collate records of designated sites and protected or
otherwise notable species on the site and within the local area.

A walkover field survey to identify habitats and their associated species and
to assess the potential of the habitats to support protected or otherwise
notable plant and animal species.

Interpretation of the combined desk study and field survey results to assess
the site's ecological status (presented under Discussion and
Recommendations).
2.2
Desk Study
2.2.1 Biological data within 2km (designated sites, protected and otherwise notable
species) was obtained from Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre
(BRERC - www.brerc.org.uk 2010 data).
2.3
Field Survey
2.3.1 The survey was conducted in accordance with best practice guidance (Institute of
Environmental Assessment 1995. Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment).
2.3.2 A walkover survey of the site was undertaken on 16 and 17 March and April 2010,
during which habitats within the site were mapped and assessed for their ecological
interest. The habitats were also assessed for their potential to support legally
protected or otherwise notable flora and fauna. Where suitable habitat was
identified on site, a search was conducted for field signs such as droppings,
burrows, tracks and evidence of feeding that might indicate the presence of
protected species, both at UK and European level. These habitats were also
considered in relation to habitats immediately adjacent to the site.
2.3.3 Botanical nomenclature in this report follows that laid out by Stace (1997).
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2.4
Constraints
2.4.1 The main walkover survey was carried out just before the optimum survey period,
but many plant species were already evident. The further visit in April provided an
additional check, so the survey is deemed to have been carried out during the
optimal survey period. However, we were unable to identify an orchid species due
to the time of year.
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Results
3.1
Desk Study
Designated Sites
3.1.1 The results of the data search for statutory designated sites within 2km of UWE are
shown in Table 3.1 and also on Figure 2 - UWE Designated Sites.
3.1.2 There are no statutory sites found within the site boundaries. (The Severn Estuary
Special Area of Conservation, a European designated site, lies within 10km of the
site, but the site has no relevance in terms of the species for which it is designated).
3.1.3 There are no non-statutory sites found within the site boundaries, but there are six
Sites of Nature Conservation Interest within 2km of the site boundaries. There are
also two Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites within 2km, one
at Stoke Park Estate to the south, and one to the east near Frenchay Common.
Table 3.1 International Designated sites within 10km of UWE, UK
designated sites and Locally Designated sites within 2km
Designation
Reasons for designation
Special Area of Conservation
Severn Estuary
Waders and wildfowl, fish and Sabellaria reefs.
Site of Nature Conservation
Interest
Stoke Park Woodland
Semi-natural ancient woodland, neutral and
calcareous grassland.
Splatts Abbey Wood
Semi-natural ancient woodland.
Stoke Brook (tributary of River
Flowing open water and bank-side vegetation.
Frome)
River Frome and Oldbury Court
Flowing open water and bank-side vegetation,
Estate
woodland and grassland.
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Frenchay Common
Neutral and acid grassland.
Bonnington Walk
Former allotments
Protected and Notable Species records
3.1.4 The desk study returned numerous records of protected or otherwise notable
species within 2km of the site, described in more detail below.
3.1.5 All protected species are mapped on Figure 3 Protected Species within 2km.
Flora
3.1.6 There are many notable floral species within a 2km radius of the site. However, of
these, only bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta was found on the site (Figure 1c).
In addition, an orchid species found in several places growing in amenity grassland
on the site may be the notable (locally uncommon) bee orchid Ophrys apifera, for
which there are records within 2km.
Mammals
Badger
3.1.7 There are 47 badger Meles meles records within 2km of the site. Seven records
occur on the site itself, mainly in the east/south-east, but also in the west. On the
edge of the woodland, adjacent to car park 20, several holes which may have been
formed by badgers were found (Target Note (TN) 1). In the south-eastern
woodland many badger paths and other signs were found (TNs 3 and 4).
Bats
3.1.8 There are 19 records for common/soprano pipistrelle Pipistrellus
pipistrellus/pygmaeus, 9 for noctule Nyctalus noctula, 1 for brown long-eared
Plecotus auritus, and 8 for Daubenton’s Myotis daubentonii within 2km of the site.
Extending the search boundary to 5km from the site includes records for soprano
pipistrelle, Leisler's bat Nyctalus leisleri, natterer’s bat Myotis nattereri and serotine
Eptesicus serotinus.
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Water Vole
3.1.9 There are no water vole Arvicola terrestris records within 2km of the site. The
habitats at UWE are not suitable for this species, which requires extensively
interconnected rivers and other waterways with well-vegetated relatively steep
banks.
Otter
3.1.10 There are 4 records of otter Lutra lutra within 2km of the site. There is no suitable
habitat at UWE as otters require larger water bodies than those found on site, with
semi-natural connecting corridors to river habitat.
Dormouse
3.1.11 There are no records of dormouse Muscardinus arvicola within 2km of the site. The
habitats at UWE are not suitable for this species, which requires fairly extensive
areas of interconnected ancient semi-natural woodland and species-rich
hedgerows.
Water shrew
3.1.12 There are 2 records for water shrew Neomys fodiens within 2km of the site.
Although there are water bodies on site, they are not suitable for water shrews as
the ditch is not well-enough vegetated, and the ponds are too isolated and lack
suitable foraging areas.
Hedgehog
3.1.13 There are 19 records for hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus within 2km of the site.
White-clawed crayfish
3.1.14 There are 12 records for white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes within
2km of the site, on the River Frome. However, it is known from recent Avon
Wildlife Trust surveys that this species is now probably extinct from the River
Frome.
3.1.15 Although there are water bodies on the site, these are not suitable for this species,
which requires clean flowing rivers and brooks with stony substrates.
Birds
3.1.16 Records of notable birds are given in Table 3.3.
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Table 3.3 Birds of Conservation Concern recorded within a 2km radius of the
site.
Common name
Latin name
Red List
Amber List
Schedule 1
species
Barnacle goose
Branta leucopsis
√
Black-headed gull
Larus ridibundus
√
Bullfinch
Pyrrhula pyrrhula
Common gull
Larus canus
√
Cormorant
Phalacrocorax
√
√
carbo
Dunnock
Prunella modularis
√
Fieldfare
Turdus pilaris
√
Goldcrest
Regulus regulus
√
Green woodpecker
Picus viridis
√
Grey wagtail
Motacilla cinerea
√
Herring gull
Larus argentatus
√
Hobby
Falco subbuteo
House martin
Delichon urbica
House sparrow
Passer domesticus
Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus
√
Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
√
Lesser black-
Larus fuscus
√
√
√
√
√
backed gull
Linnet
√
Carduelis
cannabina
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√
Marsh tit
Parus palustris
Meadow pipit
Anthus pratensis
√
Mistle thrush
Turdus viscivorus
√
Mute swan
Cygnus olor
√
Pochard
Aythya ferina
√
Redstart
Phoenicurus
√
phoenicurus
Redwing
Turdus iliacus
Reed bunting
Emberiza
√
√
schoeniclus
√
Sand martin
Riparia riparia
Song thrush
Turdus philomelos
√
Spotted flycatcher
Muscicapa striata
√
Starling
Sturna vulgaris
√
Stock dove
Columba oenas
√
Stonechat
Saxicola torquata
√
Swallow
Hirundo rustica
√
Water rail
Rallus aquaticus
√
Willow warbler
Phylloscopus
√
trochilus
3.1.17 There are no BRERC records for birds for the site.
3.1.18 Birds of Conservation Concern recorded during the survey were song thrush (anvil
only) (South Gloucestershire Council BAP species), green woodpecker, bullfinch
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(South Gloucestershire Council BAP species), linnet and dunnock (but please note
that these are only incidental records and do not represent a formal bird survey).
Amphibians
Great crested newt
3.1.19 There are 53 records of great crested newt Triturus cristatus within 2km. The
nearest record is within 500m of the site boundary, to the north-west.
Other amphibian species recorded (Schedule 5 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981)
3.1.20 There are records for smooth newts Triturus vulgaris and palmate newts Triturus
helveticus, and toads Bufo bufo, within 2km of the site.
3.1.21 A small clump of frogspawn was noted in the eastern ditch. Two adult frogs Rana
temporaria were found sheltering under debris in the southern woodland.
Reptiles
3.1.22 There are 9 records for viviparous lizard Lacerta vivipara and 24 records for slow
worm Anguis fragilis within 2km of the site. There are also 9 records for grass
snake Natrix natrix and 2 records for adder Vipera berus within 2km of the site.
3.1.23 While there is suitable habitat for viviparous lizards and slow-worms on the site in
the form of scrub, hedgerows and rank grassland, it seems unlikely that adders
would be supported since there is little suitable habitat (dry stony ground and
heathland).
3.1.24 The water bodies on the site, particularly those that are more natural in character
such as the floodplain pond, the 'Ecopond' and the Wallscourt pond, and the ditch,
may be suitable for grass snake. There is suitable terrestrial habitat in the form of
hedgerows and woodlands.
Invertebrates
3.1.25 Many notable invertebrate species have been recorded within a 2km radius of the
site.
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3.2
Field Survey
Habitats and plants (Please refer to Phase 1 Habitat Map Figures 1a-f).
Woodlands and Trees
3.2.1
There are several blocks of woodland at the site (TNs 2, 3 and 4). Several have
been planted, but there are also woodlands that appear semi-natural in origin and
may be fairly old, particularly bordering the south, north, west and south-east of the
site (TNs 2, 3 and 4).
3.2.2 The planted woodland blocks are mainly dominated by sycamore Acer
pseudoplatanus or ash Fraxinus excelsior, and in the blocks situated on top of the
eastern bank of the ditch many trees of small-leaved lime Tilia cordata have been
established.
3.2.3
.
In the south-western hedgerows there are at least two veteran trees (TN 5).
Across the site there are at least seven veteran trees, typically English oak Quercus
robur and ash. These are mainly free-standing and are likely to derive from old
hedgerows, or to be old field trees from the previous rural landscape.
3.2.4
Veteran trees are those with features of aging such as scars, holes, hollows and
dead branches. Several were noted to have holes made by nesting woodpeckers.
3.2.5
Other veteran trees occur just south of Wallscourt Farm buildings, on the main
campus east of B Block, and at the north-west corner of the site.
Hedgerows
3.2.6 Near the Nursery building native bluebell was found in what would appear to be a
remnant hedgerow.
3.2.7 The fields in the south-west of the site are divided by hedgerows consisting of a
variety of native species, such as hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, blackthorn
Prunus spinosa, hazel Corylus avellana, ash and field maple Acer campestre.
Elder Sambucus nigra and willow species Salix spp. also occur (TN 6). In one very
small block of trees near the Nursery building, likely to be a remnant of a field
hedgerow, native bluebell was found.
3.2.8
The majority of these hedgerows appear to have grown up alongside field ditches,
now dry, thus forming double rowed hedges.
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3.2.9
Elsewhere the hedgerows on site are planted, consisting of beech Fagus sylvatica
and blackthorn where native; other hedgerows containing ornamental non-native
species.
Species-rich Grassland
3.2.10 The majority of the site does not consist of this habitat type but there are four areas
where the botanical interest is greater. Currently these are managed as amenity
grassland (i.e. regularly cut).
3.2.11 One such site is the small area of grassland just south of the Wallscourt pond (TN
7). Cowslip Primula veris is abundant here.
3.2.12 The most interesting area is an amenity-cut man-made bank immediately north of
the main entrance (TN 8). The origin of the soil is unknown.
3.2.13 Both banks of the ditch in the east of the site are also more diverse. Here as well
as many of the species listed above, carnation sedge Carex panicea was recorded
and, in damper areas, cuckooflower Cardamine pratensis. The most speciesdiverse areas are within 5 metres of the watercourse on both sides.
3.2.14 A small area in the north of the south-western fields was also of interest, where
there was abundant self-heal and ox-eye daisy, and occasional common knapweed
Centaurea nigra. As this area is not regularly mown it appears on the Phase 1 map
as semi-improved grassland.
Rank grassland
3.2.15 The fields in the south-west consist of rank grassland dominated by the grasses
cock's-foot Dactylis glomerata and Yorkshire fog (TN 9).
3.2.16 Other species found here are typical of agriculturally improved fields such as
creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, white
clover and daisy.
3.2.17 The central-eastern field is slightly more diverse (TN 10).
3.2.18 The south-eastern field also consists of rank semi-improved grassland (TN 11).
Amenity grassland
3.2.19 The more formal areas of the site consist of regularly mown grass, almost certainly
seeded (TN 12). These border buildings, paths, roads and car parks, and formally
managed areas around site entrances.
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3.2.20 In the main such grasslands are species-poor, supporting only daisy, white clover,
buttercups and dandelion Taraxacum agg.
3.2.21 However, of significance are the several occurrences of a species of orchid (as
indicated on the Phase 1 maps). Only the basal leaves were evident at this time of
year, but it is likely to be bee orchid or possibly green-winged Orchis morio (TN 13).
3.2.22 In a limited number of areas, the amenity grassland shows slightly greater botanical
diversity, with selfheal and, in less well-drained areas, cuckooflower.
Ornamental trees and shrubs
3.2.23 Associated with the formal areas of amenity grassland are borders of ornamental
shrubs and trees (TN 14).
3.2.24 Some of the planted trees are native, while many are non-native in origin.
Invasive plant species
No invasive plant species were observed.
Water-bodies
3.2.25 There are several ponds on the holding, four within the main campus, one in the
north-west, and another south-west of Wallscourt Farm.
3.2.26 A ditch flows in a northerly direction in the east of the site.
3.2.27 In the north-west of the site, on the 1000 year floodplain, is a relatively large flood
attenuation pond (TN 15), to the north of which is a ditch carrying water off site via a
culvert. The marginal species consist of a large stand of bulrush Typha latifolia
with occasional yellow iris Iris pseudacorus, and a single clump of marsh marigold
Caltha palustris.
3.2.28 The surrounding grassland, although regularly mown, has enough floral diversity to
be considered semi-improved.
3.2.29 At the south-west corner of the main campus is a pond which also appears quite
natural and is known as the site's Ecopond (TN 16). An interpretation board is
present.
3.2.30 To the south-west of Wallscourt Farm buildings is a pond which has been used for
fishing and is currently known as the Hewlett Packard pond (TN 7).
3.2.31 A small ornamental pond is situated between car parks 1 and 2 (TN 18).
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3.2.32 Another small ornamental pond exists between Blocks P and Q. (TN 19); this pond
contains fish.
3.2.33 In a poorly draining field in the south-western section of the holding is a small
shallow body of water. This is probably only a temporary pond (TN 20).
3.2.34 Running south to north in the east of the site is a watercourse, culverted at either
end and likely to be a remnant of a tributary of the River Frome (TN 21). The
southern end of the watercourse in the east of the site forms a large lake (TN17).
Buildings
3.2.35 The main buildings of Wallscourt Farm and its associated out-houses are built in
the traditional style using stonework and slates (TN 22).
3.2.36 The majority of the campus consists of modern buildings with much use of prefabricated materials.
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Discussion and Assessment
4.1
Designated Sites
It is considered extremely unlikely that any development on the UWE landholding or
change in site management would have any negative impact on any of the Sites of
Nature Conservation Interest within a 2km radius of the site.
4.2
Habitats and Flora
4.2.1 Features identified as having the most significant nature conservation value are broad leaved woodland (UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP
Habitat), ponds (UK and Avon BAP Habitat), watercourse (Avon BAP Habitat),
species-rich hedgerows (UK , Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP
Habitat), veteran trees and species-rich grassland (UK, Avon and South
Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat).
4.2.2 Native bluebell is a UK BAP species and is also protected under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981.
4.2.3 Bee orchid is a locally uncommon species, green-winged orchid (should the orchid
prove to be either of these species) is a locally scarce species.
4.3
Fauna
4.3.1 The site has significance for the following protected species Bats
4.3.2 There are seventeen species of bats in the UK, all of which are protected by
European law through The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994
(better known as the Habitats Regulations) making them 'European Protected
Species'. Bats are afforded legal protection in the UK under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act
2000) Schedule 5 Section 9, which protects bats from intentional killing, injuring or
taking, and protects their roosts in England, Scotland and Wales.
4.3.3 The UK Biodiversity Action Plan identifies brown long-eared bat, soprano pipistrelle
bat, noctule bat as UK BAP priority species. The Avon Biodiversity Action Plan
identifies all bats as Local BAP priority species.
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4.3.4 All of the above species have been recorded with a 5km radius of the site
boundaries. Common or soprano pipistrelle, noctule, Daubenton’s, and brown
long-eared bat have also been recorded within 2km of the site boundaries. There
are no records of bats on the site itself.
Bats in Trees
4.3.5 A significant number of the site's veteran trees possess features such as cracks,
splits, loose bark, and in particular woodpecker holes that might provide suitable
roosting locations for bats. This includes trees with a dense cover of ivy (ivy is
known to be used for roosting by bats). Should bats be utilising the local area, it is
possible that they might be using some of the site's trees for roosting.
Foraging bats
4.3.6 The several areas of woodland and hedgerows found along the boundaries of the
site have potential to provide foraging habitat for bats that might be present in the
local area. Also the habitat in the south-east corner of the site which consists of
pasture enclosed by woodland, hedgerows and scrub.
4.3.7 The connectivity with the greatest potential for bat commuting is provided by the
hedgerows in the south-west of the site, as these have a direct link with the Long
Wood broad-leaved woodland complex of Stoke Park Estate, to the south of the
site.
Bats in Buildings
4.3.8 The older buildings of Wallscourt Farm and its outbuildings have pitched roofs, and
some may conceal roof voids that could be suitable for roosting bats.
4.3.9 The majority of the campus buildings afford low/negligible potential to support
roosting bats.
Nesting Birds
4.3.10 Statutory protection is given to nesting birds in the UK under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) which makes it an offence to intentionally kill,
injure or take any wild bird or take, damage or destroy its nest whilst in use or being
built, or take or destroy its eggs. In addition to this, for species listed on Schedule 1
of the Act, it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb them while they are
nest building or at or near a nest with eggs or young, or to disturb the dependent
young of such a bird.
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4.3.11 The woodlands, hedgerows, old trees, scrub and even the denser areas of
ornamental vegetation all have the potential to support nesting birds.
Badgers
4.3.12
Badgers are protected under the Badgers Act 1992. This makes it an offence to
wilfully kill, injure, take, possess or ill-treat a badger, or to attempt to do so; or to
intentionally or recklessly interfere with a sett. Sett interference includes disturbing
badgers whilst they are occupying a sett, as well as damaging or destroying a sett
or obstructing access to it.
4.3.13
The many signs of badger activity in the south-east of the site, along with the
density of badger records to the east and south of the site, confirm that the
woodlands and fields in this area are important badger foraging territories. In
addition, the badger records from the Business Park, and those in the western
section of the site, suggest that badgers would be found across the campus both
directly foraging and to gain access to their potential foraging territory in the west.
4.3.14
It would appear that the construction of the M32 bisected the habitats of badger
populations using the Frome Valley and the woodlands to the west, with further loss
of territory caused by the development of the university campus, the Business Park,
housing and the complex at AXA.
Hedgehogs
4.3.15
There is much potential habitat at UWE (woodland, hedgerows, grasslands and
shrub beds) to support this species, which has declined so much in recent years
that it is now listed in the Red Data Book and is a South Gloucestershire Council
BAP species.
Amphibians
4.3.16 Great crested newts are European Protected Species and as such are protected by
the Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994, which implements the
Habitats Directive. With regard to UK law, the species is afforded protection under
Schedule 5, Section 9 (all parts) of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as
amended). Great crested newts are also listed as UK, Avon and South
Gloucestershire BAP priority species, and as Species of Principal Importance under
the NERC Act 2006.
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4.3.17 Common toad was added to the list of UK BAP priority species in September 2007
and is also an Avon BAP species.
4.3.18 Smooth and palmate newts, common frog and common toad are protected under
Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 against being sold.
4.3.19 The ponds with the most natural appearance (i.e. vegetated edges, grass or scrub
surroundings and green corridor connections to other ponds) have the potential to
support great crested newts. Even ponds which appear to have low potential
should be checked, as this species will use sub-optimal habitat in the absence of
more preferred sites.
4.3.20 The ponds also have the potential to support smooth and palmate newts, and frogs
and toads, although the latter is likely to be restricted to the larger water-bodies.
4.3.21 The presence of great crested newt records within less than 500m to the north of
the site, in the Harry Stoke area, implies that any suitable habitat within the UWE
landholding may be used by this species, which requires several interconnected
ponds to sustain its population.
Reptiles
4.3.22 The six species of native reptiles within the UK are protected under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and are all UK BAP priority species. The four
most frequently encountered reptiles; adder, grass snake, common or viviparous
lizard and slow-worm are protected against killing and injuring under Schedule 5 of
the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Slow-worm is a UK, Avon and South
Gloucestershire Council BAP species.
4.3.23 The rank grassland and hedgerows have the potential to support foraging slowworms, viviparous lizards and grass snakes. The wetland areas have the potential
to be inhabited by grass snakes.
Invertebrates
4.3.24 The semi-natural areas at the site such as the native species of the woodlands and
hedgerows provide food plants for invertebrate larvae. And some exotic shrubs
provide nectar favoured by many adult insects. Therefore the site will have some
value for native invertebrates.
4.3.25 The records show that there are many notable invertebrates in the surrounding
area, especially moth species, but without a specialist invertebrate survey, it is not
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possible to say whether any of these species might occur at the site. However,
species-rich grasslands tend to support the greatest diversity of insects, and this
habitat is very scarce at the UWE landholding.
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5
Conclusions
5.1
Designated Sites
5.1.1 It is considered that any development on the survey site is unlikely to have an
impact on any nearby designated sites as there is little direct connection between
such sites and the UWE landholding.
5.1.2 However, one possible exception is the drainage from the floodplain pond; this
would appear to exit the UWE site onto the site of Splatts Wood. It is not possible
at this stage to be definitive about this potential risk.
5.2
Habitats and Species
The most ecologically significant habitats on site are the blocks of native semi-natural
woodland and the hedgerows, particularly those in the south-west of the site. The
ditch and the most natural ponds are also of ecological importance.
5.2.1 Some small areas of grassland have been show to have characteristics of more
species-rich grassland, but these areas are currently limited in their extent.
5.2.2 The Phase 1 survey has demonstrated the presence of the protected species
badgers on the UWE landholding.
5.2.3 It has also demonstrated the potential presence of the protected species bats, great
crested newts, slow-worms and grass snakes on the site.
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6
Recommendations
6.1
Bats
Bats in trees
6.1.1 Several trees, in particular the veteran trees, within the site were considered to
have medium to high potential to support roosting bats. It is recommended that all
trees within the site are assessed in order to determine their potential to support
roosting bats and provide baseline data for use in planning future tree works.
6.1.2 In the event of future development and/or tree works taking place, any trees likely to
be affected with identified features with medium to high potential to support roosting
bats should be fully inspected for bats. This would require a skilled tree climber to
assess the tree using ropes and a ladder where necessary to inspect features that
are not accessible from the ground. The inspection would be carried out under the
supervision of an ecologist with experience in assessing trees for their potential to
support roosting bats.
Bats in Buildings
6.1.3
Before any building works, including demolition, take place that may affect the
fabric of the site buildings, particularly the buildings of Wallscourt Farm, it is
recommended that consideration be given to assessing the buildings' potential to
support roosting bats.
6.1.4
Should potential to support roosting bats be identified, the buildings should be
inspected. An inspection survey would involve a full visual inspection of the interior
and exterior of the building using ladders where necessary to access features at
height. During the survey the building would be inspected for any features that may
provide roosting sites with bats, along with any signs of bat usage such as
droppings, scratch marks, urine staining, or grease marks.
Foraging bats
6.1.5
In the event of future development taking place that is likely to affect the site's
boundary habitats, especially the areas of woodland and hedgerows, it is
recommended that a bat activity survey be conducted in order to assess the
abundance, and patterns of activity, of any bats that may be using the site.
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6.1.6
The bat activity survey would require two or three separate dawn and/or dusk
surveys, with at least one consisting of a dusk and dawn survey within one 24-hour
period. The survey would involve an ecologist/s walking potential foraging and
navigational routes within the site using a bat detector to detect the echolocation
calls of any bats that may be present. The surveys should be conducted between
April and September inclusive.
6.2
Nesting Birds
6.2.1
It is recommended that all scrub and tree clearance works should be conducted
outside of the breeding and nesting season (generally considered to be March to
September inclusive).
6.2.2
Where it is not possible to conduct these operations outside the nesting season, the
trees and scrub to be cleared should be inspected by an ecologist immediately prior
to works commencing.
6.2.3
In the event of nesting birds being found in vegetation to be cleared, works should
cease. The vegetation in question should be cordoned off to a radius of 10m. No
works shall be allowed to commence until an ecologist has confirmed that breeding
or nesting birds are no longer present.
6.3
Reptiles
6.3.1
In the event of future development taking place within areas identified with the
potential to support reptiles, it is recommended that a reptile presence / absence
survey is carried out to determine presence or likely absence of reptiles.
6.3.2
This survey would involve placing artificial refugia made of corrugated steel, heavyduty black rubber or bitumen roofing felt within the area. Refugia would be checked
during suitable weather conditions at intervals of between 3 and 12 days for a
minimum of 7 visits. Natural England guidelines recommend that reptile surveying
be carried out in late March to April or in September. Should any reptiles be found
during the survey, further mitigation may be required. Depending on the numbers
and species of reptile present, and the details of the development, further mitigation
may involve habitat creation and/or translocation/relocation of reptiles.
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6.4
Badgers
6.4.1 In the event of future development, the exact use of the site by badgers for foraging
would need to be established by a full badger survey, to include the surrounding
land up to 500m where suitable habitat exists.
6.4.2
The location of signs of badger activity should be recorded and mapped, including
setts, runs, latrines, footprints, snaffle holes, digging, scratching trees and hair on
fences and sharp vegetation such as brambles. In the event of future development,
this will provide a picture of badger utilisation of the site and also inform ecological
management decisions relating to the site
6.4.3
The best times of year to survey for badger activity are spring and autumn when
activity levels are relatively high and vegetation growth is limited.
6.5
Great crested newts
6.5.1 If any of the ponds, or newt-friendly habitat within 500m, support this species and
are likely to be affected by proposed development, full population surveys will be
required in order to inform a development licence.
6.5.2 A population survey would require six surveys to be carried out between March and
June, using at least three methods from; egg searching, torchlight survey, refugia
searching, netting and bottle trapping.
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References
JNCC (1990). Handbook for Phase 1 habitat survey - a technique for environmental
audit. England Field Unit Nature Conservancy Council
RSPB (2002). The Population Status of Birds in the UK Birds of Conservation
Concern 2002 – 2007.
English Nature (2004). Bat Mitigation Guidelines. Mitchell-Jones, A J.
Mitchell-Jones, A J, & McLeish, A D, eds. (1999). The Bat Workers’ Manual.
Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Peterborough.
Bat Conservation Trust (2007). Bat Surveys – Good Practice Guidelines.
Avon BAP: www.avon-biodiversity.org.uk
Great Crested Newt Mitigation Handbook Froglife 2001
Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines English Nature (as was) 2001
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Appendices
Appendix A - Target Notes
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Target Note 1
Habitat Type:
Broad-leaved Woodland with old badger sett
Plate 1: Entrance
Plate 2: Spoil heap

In the woodland bordering the car park just south of the Bristol Business Park,
evidence was found for a badger Meles meles sett. Badger use of the site was
confirmed by the finding of a typical badger hair.

It is likely that the sett is disused, at least at the present time (badgers can abandon a
sett and then open it up again at a later date according to the need of the population).
Although there were relatively recent spoil heaps, the (at least half a dozen) holes did
not have the characteristic D shape of badger sett entrance holes.

Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus droppings were found and it seems most probable that
the original badger entrance holes and tunnels have partially collapsed, but been kept
open to a smaller extent by rabbit use. On inspection, the holes led to tunnels which
quickly narrowed only a short distance inside, further confirming the lack of recent
use by badgers.
Habitat status:
UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Foraging badgers, foraging bats,
nesting birds, great crested newts, slow-worms and grass snakes.
.
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Target Note 2
Habitat Type:
Broad-leaved woodland
Plate 3: Broad-leaved woodland

There are several blocks of broad-leaved woodland adjacent to or bordering the
perimeters of the site.

An example is the woodland bordering the north of the western section of the main
campus, which leads down to the floodplain. The woodland appears to be mainly
secondary and consists of predominantly native species. Dominated by sycamore
Acer pseudoplatanus and/or ash Fraxinus excelsior, occasional pedunculate oak
Quercus robur, English yew Taxus baccata and field maple Acer campestre are also
present.

The understory consists of frequent hazel Corylus avellana coppice, hawthorn
Crataegus monogyna, blackthorn Prunus spinosa, wild privet Ligustrum vulgare,
dogwood Cornus sanguinea and rarely, spindle Euonymus europaeus.

Ivy Hedera helix is the dominant species of the ground flora, and other species
include frequent lords-and-ladies Arum maculatum and occasional stinking iris Iris
foetidissima.
Habitat status:
UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP habitat.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Foraging badgers, foraging bats, nesting
birds, great crested newts, slow-worms and grass snakes.
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Target Note 3
Habitat Type:
Broad-leaved Woodland at boundary with Filton Cemetery
Plate 5: Woodland
Plate 4: Woodland

This is a small block of linear mixed broad-leaved plantation woodland forming the
boundary with Filton Cemetery.

A diverse range of mostly native broad-leaved tree species characterise this area,
including ash, pedunculate oak, hazel, field maple, hawthorn, elder Sambucus nigra,
spindle, wild privet, goat willow Salix capraea and crack willow Salix fragilis. Nonnative species found include: sycamore, European larch Larix decidua, Turkey oak
Quercus cerris, horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum and lime Tilia x europaea.

The generally impoverished ground flora is dominated by ivy, lords-and-ladies and
common nettle Urtica dioica. However, some small patches of bluebell Hyacinthoides
non-scripta occur in the north west corner. These have probably been here since this
area formed part of a now defunct hedged boundary.

Rabbit activity is found throughout the woodland, but is most extensive in the northern
section of woodland. There are signs of badger activity throughout the woodland,
including trails, snuffle holes, and hair samples found within spoil formed around
some of the rabbit hole entrances found along the northern boundary (TN 1).
Habitat status:
UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Badgers, foraging bats, slow-worms,
nesting birds, great crested newts.
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Target Note 4
Habitat Type:
South-eastern Broad-leaved Woodland
Plate 6: Eastern woodland edge from
Plate 7: Badger hair sample on eastern
adjacent UWE landholding
boundary fence

This small area of mixed broad-leaved plantation woodland forms part of a more
extensive area of adjacent woodland found outside the UWE landholding.

Like the woodland parcel found to the north (TN 1), this area comprises a diverse
range of mostly native broad-leaved trees species with pedunculate oak, field maple
and European larch commonly occurring.

Like the woodland area found to the north, there are signs of badger activity
throughout the woodland, including trails, snuffle holes, and hair samples, notably a
small bundle of badger hair found caught on the eastern boundary fence line (Plate 7
above).
Habitat status:
UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire Council BAP Habitat.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Badgers, foraging bats, slow-worms,
grass snakes, nesting birds, great crested newts.
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Target Note 5
Habitat Type:
Veteran trees
Plate 8: Veteran trees with
woodpecker holes

This specimen, pedunculate oak, was found in one of the south-west field hedgerows.

Like several of the other veteran trees, old woodpecker holes were noted. These can
be frequented by certain bat species such as noctule bats.

Other typical features that may attract bat use are crevices, rot holes and areas
where bark has lifted away from the trunk. In addition dense ivy may provide dayroosting opportunities for bats.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
oNone None apparent, although it is likely that the trees are subject to
Health and Safety inspections with subsequent safety works as
necessary.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Roosting bats and nesting birds.
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Target Note 6
Habitat Type:
Native hedgerow
Plate 9: Native hedgerow
Plate 10: Ditch

There are several native hedgerows across the site, but mainly found bordering the
fields in the south-west and the east of the site.

The hedges in the south-western fields consists of hawthorn, ash, willow sp.,
blackthorn, hazel (often old coppice) and field maple.

They appear to be formed from scrub which has grown up around old ditches, largely
now dry.

The number of species per unit length of hedgerow, linkages with other native
hedgerows, and association with ditches, lead these hedgerows to be assessed as
important under the Hedgerow Regulations. This means that Hedgerow Removal
Notices will need to be submitted to the Local Authority for permission to remove
them, although their being left in situ and buffered within any new development would
be advised in terms of maintaining the biodiversity interest at the site.
Habitat status:
Species-rich hedgerows are UK, Avon and South Gloucestershire
Council BAP Habitats. They are also protected under the
Hedgerow Regulations 1997.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Foraging and commuting bats, grass
snakes, slow-worms and common lizard, foraging bats, great crested newts, nesting birds.
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Target Note 7
Habitat Type:
Wallscourt Pond
Plate 11: Pond

This rectangular, stone-lined pond has been used in the past by Hewlett Packard staff
as a fishing lake.

Well-spaced ash and goat willow surround the pond.

The marginal vegetation consist of clumps of common reed Phragmites australis, but
there did not appear to be any emergent or submerged plant species.

The water is opaque, with a grey-green tinge, suggesting that it is subject to
considerable eutrophication (an overgrowth of algae caused by excessive nutrient
input).

We were informed that there are carp in the pond, which could account for the
nutrient richness (their excretion) and the opaqueness of the water (they are bottom
feeders and constantly stir up silt).

Cowslips Primula veris grow in the adjacent grassland.
Habitat status:
UK and Avon Biodiversity Action Plan Habitat.
Habitat management:
Grass is cut right up to the edge of the pond.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Foraging bats, great crested newts,
grass snakes, nesting birds.
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Target Note 8
Habitat Type:
Semi-improved Neutral Grassland
Plate 12: Area of species-rich
grassland

A bank of grassland to the north of the main entrance consists of species-rich
grassland.

It's provenance is not known, but it is possible that the bank was made up with
imported or on site material which contained an assemblage of less common plants,
i.e. was species-rich grassland.

Red fescue Festuca rubra is the dominant grass species, with abundant Yorkshire
fog Holcus lanatus.

Self-heal Prunella vulgaris and ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata are the most
abundant herbs, with frequent creeping cinquefoil Potentilla repens, ground-ivy
Glechoma hederacea, white clover Trifolium repens and daisy Bellis perennis,
occasional germander speedwell Veronica chamaedrys and common mouse-ear
Cerastium fontanum, and rarely (and of most interest), an orchid species, ox-eye
daisy Leucanthemum vulgaris, lady's bedstraw Galium verum and corky-fruited
water-dropwort Oenanthe pimpinelloides.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Frequent cutting as amenity grassland.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Very limited, possibly basking slowworms, grass snakes and invertebrates.
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Target Note 9
Habitat Type:
Rank grassland
Plate 13: Field with rank grassland

This field in the south-west of the site consists of rank i.e. dense and overgrown
grassland.

The dominant grass species are cock's-foot and Yorkshire fog.

Supporting only widespread and common species such as daisy, white clover,
buttercup, hogweed, docks and nettles, most of these fields consist of improved
grassland, grading to semi-improved with the addition of common mouse-ear and
ribwort plantain.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Cut, with the cuttings left in situ.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Slow-worms and grass snakes,
hunting ground for birds of prey such as kestrel.
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Target Note 10
Habitat Type:
Central-Eastern field
Plate 14 : Rank field with shorter rabbitgrazed turf (inset)

The field consists of rank grassland, i.e. dense tall grasses, dominated by cock's-foot
and Yorkshire fog.

The few plant species present include hogweed, docks, nettles and creeping thistle
with occasional ribwort plantain and common mouse-ear. This species assemblage
would lead it to be assessed as semi-improved grassland.

A slightly more species-rich area occurs in the central-eastern section of the field,
which appears to be intensively rabbit-grazed (many droppings are present). Here
there is carnation sedge Carex panicea, self-heal and ox-eye daisy, giving it
characteristics of semi-improved neutral grassland.

The far eastern end of the field is dominated by dense bramble Rubus fruticosus
agg. scrub.

The southern boundary is formed by an old hedge, (the sparse line of old hawthorns
to the west appears to be a continuation of this feature), where there was a spoil
mound and holes suggestive of another disused badger sett, currently used by
rabbits.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Field is cut infrequently.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Badger foraging, slow-worm, grass
snake, nesting birds in scrub and hedgerow, hunting ground for birds of prey such as kestrel.
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Target Note 11
Habitat Type:
Semi-improved grassland
Plate 15: Semi-improved grassland looking south

L-shaped, fenced off area of species poor semi-improved rank grassland. Dominant
grass species include cock's-foot, common bent Agrostis capillaris and red fescue.
Commonly occurring forbs include common sorrel Rumex acetosa, ribwort plantain,
dandelion Taraxacum agg. and creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens. Other forbs
found include: broad-leaved plantain Plantago major, meadow buttercup Ranunculus
acris, creeping cinquefoil, common mouse-ear, white clover, common daisy, lesser
celandine Ranunculus ficaria and carnation sedge (rare).

A small area of tall ruderal vegetation occurs in the northern end of this area,
characterised by creeping thistle Cirsium arvense, common nettle and spear thistle
Cirsium vulgare.

The larger expanse of grassland found to the south of this area is for the most part
species-poor improved grassland dominated by perennial rye grass Lolium perenne.
Small patches of vegetation more characteristic of species poor semi-improved
grassland, as described above, occasionally occur within the sward.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Not known
Potential likelihood to support protected species: foraging badgers and bats, slowworms, hunting ground for birds of prey such as kestrel.
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Target Note 12
Habitat Type:
Amenity grassland
Plate 16: Amenity grassland

The majority of the amenity grassland on the site consists of the grasses cock's-foot
and Yorkshire fog, with daisy, white clover and creeping buttercup.

However, there are some areas, indicated on the Ph1 map, which have developed a
slightly more diverse species assemblage, causing them to be assessed as semiimproved grassland or even poor semi-improved neutral grassland. On these areas
species such as common mouse-ear, cuckooflower Cardamine pratensis, ox-eye
daisy and self-heal occur.

The extensive swathes of level grasslands within 5 metres of the ditch in the east of
the site are a good example of these more species-rich areas, and in addition to the
species above, also support carnation sedge.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Frequent mowing.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Possibly basking slow-worms and
grass snakes.
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Target Note 13
Habitat Type:
Amenity grassland with orchids
Plate17: Orchid leaves

The majority of the amenity grassland on the site consists of the grasses cock's-foot
and Yorkshire fog, with daisy, white clover and creeping buttercup.

However, there are some areas, indicated on the Phase 1 map (Figures 1a-f), where
orchids grow. As just the base leaves were visible at the time of survey, it is difficult
to make an identification as yet, but the most likely species are bee orchid Ophrys
apifera or green-winged orchid Orchis morio.

Bee orchids are locally uncommon, while green-winged orchids are locally scarce.

Future management of these grasslands could be altered to enable the orchids to
flower.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Frequent mowing.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Possibly basking slow-worms and
grass snakes.
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University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 14
Habitat Type:
Ornamental shrubs with trees
Plate 18: An example of ornamental
shrubs and trees

Forming borders in and around car parks and adjacent to roads and buildings, are
extensive areas consisting of non-native shrubs and trees.

Occasionally native trees have been formally planted, such as silver birch Betula
pendula, but the majority of species are non-native and therefore of very limited value
to wildlife.
Habitat status:
None
Habitat management:
Regular maintenance.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Nesting birds, possibly slow-worms and
grass snakes, badgers (especially within more extensive areas along the northern boundary).
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University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 15
Habitat Type:
Pond on 1000 year floodplain
Plate :Pond (marsh marigold in insert)
Plate 19: Floodplain pond with marsh
marigold (inset)

Although there are trees bordering the pond, they are not casting enough shade to
limit the pond's wildlife value.

There are swathes of bulrush Typha latifolia forming the marginal vegetation, with
occasional marsh marigold Caltha palustris and yellow flag iris Iris pseudacorus.

To the north of the pond runs a partially culverted drain, bringing water from the site,
the pond acting as an overflow reservoir.
Habitat status:
Ponds are UK and Avon BAP habitats.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Great crested newts, grass snakes,
foraging bats.
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April 2010
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University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 16
Habitat Type:
Ecopond
Plate 20: Ecopond with Interpretation
Board

This pond is reputed to be an old farm pond.

The marginal vegetation consists of hard rush Juncus inflexus, soft rush Juncus
effusus, marsh marigold and yellow flag iris.

Mare's-tail Hippuris vulgaris is the emergent species, forming a dense tangle of
aquatic stems at the northern end of the pond, and the main submerged species is
rigid hornwort Ceratophyllum demersum.

Information from site workers suggests that the pond has been much used in the past
by frogs although no spawn was evident at the time of survey. However, two frogs
were found under some hardboard debris adjacent to the woodland to the east of the
pond.

New development now lies immediately outside the fence on the western boundary,
where open fields had existed until last year or so.
Habitat status:
Ponds are UK and Avon BAP habitats.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Great crested newts, grass snakes,
foraging bats.
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April 2010
40
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 17
Habitat Type:
Water course lake
Plate 21: Pond at
southern end
of ditch
Plate 22: Corky-fruited
water-dropwort

At the southern end of the ditch the water has been dammed to form an ornamental
lake.

The marginal vegetation consists of infrequent stretches of common reed with
occasional hard rush.

There does not appear to be much emergent or submerged vegetation.

The lake supports water birds such as coot, mallard and Canada goose.

Abundant corky-fruited water-dropwort was growing on the surrounding amenity
grassland. It is not known whether this may have been planted.
Habitat status:
Ponds are UK and Avon BAP habitats.
Habitat management:
Grass cut to water's edge.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Grass snakes, unlikely to be great
crested newts as there are likely to be fish in a water body of this area, foraging bats.
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April 2010
41
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 18
Habitat Type:
Ornamental pond
Plate 23: Ornamental
pond

This pond is stone-lined, with stone walls and paving on most of the perimeter. Much
of the upper banks are covered in the ornamental shrub Cotoneaster horizontalis.

However, it has gained a more semi-natural appearance through the development of
a marginal vegetation consisting of common reed, bulrush and yellow iris.

The emergent vegetation consists of water mint Mentha sp. and marsh marigold.

The submerged species include the non-native Nuttall's pondweed Elodea nuttallii.

There was no evidence of use by amphibians at the time of survey.
Habitat status:
Ponds are UK and Avon BAP habitats.
Habitat management:
Not known.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Great crested newts, grass snakes,
foraging bats.
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April 2010
42
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 19
Habitat Type:
Ornamental pond between Blocks P and Q
Plate 24: Ornamental pond

This pond is completely surrounded by stone paving, making it less suitable for
wildlife than if it had a vegetated edge.

It contains fish, which makes it unlikely that great crested newts would survive for
long in it.

It is quite isolated from other water bodies and is without any vegetated corridors
leading to other more suitable water bodies.
Habitat status:
Water bodies are a UK and Avon BAP habitat.
Habitat management:
The grass is cut to the edges of the water.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Limited potential for great crested
newts.
AWT Ecological Consultancy
April 2010
43
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 20
Habitat Type:
Pond (and poorly drained grassland)
Plate : Pond with damp grassland
Plate 25 : Temporary pond

In the northern centre of the SW fields, lies an area of poorly drained grassland,
where a shallow depression has enabled the formation of a (probably seasonal)
pond.

The "pond" is up to half a metre in depth, and the vegetation appears to consist of
immersed terrestrial species such as grasses and buttercups.
Habitat status:
Ponds are UK and local BAP habitats.
Habitat management:
None apparent.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Great crested newts, possibly foraging
bats.
AWT Ecological Consultancy
April 2010
44
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note 21
Habitat Type:
Ditch
Plate 26: Northern section
Plate 27: Southern section

The majority of the length of the ditch was holding water at the time of survey,
although the water was very shallow in some sections with excessive silting and no
more than half a metre at the deepest point. Leaves were evident on the ditch bed.

Water flow is in a northerly direction, with a culvert exiting the site at the northerly
end. At the southern end is a pond (TN 17).

Ditch vegetation is sparse, but there are extensive beds of water mint at points, and
occasional hard and soft rush on the margins. Common reed occurs at the southern
end and here a section of the ditch is lined with mature alder Alnus glutinosa trees.

A small clump of frog spawn was found near the southern end, and mallard ducks
were observed.
Habitat status:
Water bodies are a UK, Avon BAP habitat.
Habitat management:
The grass is cut to the edges of the water.
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Great crested newts are unlikely, due
to the presence of fish, but are possible, grass snakes.
AWT Ecological Consultancy
April 2010
45
University of the West of England
AWT065
Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Target Note: 22
Habitat Type:
Buildings
Plate 28: Wallscourt Farm
Plate 29: Potential entry for bats

Wallscourt Farm itself was renovated in the 1960s by Hewlett Packard.

Now occupied by the Vice Chancellor, it appears well maintained.

Although very few access opportunities into the roof-space were visible, there were
gaps in the form of design features such as slots which would require further
investigation.

Potential access was visible in at least one of the outbuildings, where lead flashing
had become raised.
Habitat status:
Not designated
Habitat management:
Well maintained
Potential likelihood to support protected species: Roosting bats.
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April 2010
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University of the West of England
AWT065