P00509 Junction Road, Woodhouse (SK430851)
Surveyed 8.8.2012 by A. Hunter, H. Marples & M. Senkans
Looking north west, up through the former scrap
yard.
Brief site description
P00509 the former scrap yard is situated between Junction Road
(Woodhouse) and the railway line between Sheffield and Worksop. The area
immediately adjacent Junction Road is level, though this slopes sharply down
to the railway line in south western half.
The site compromises the following habitats. The level area in the north west
contains mainly dense common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) scrub
(and former hedge lines), thick stands of bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and
tall rank grasses dominated by false oat – grass (Arrhenatherum elatius).
Areas of tall ruderal species such as rosebay willowherb (Chamerion
angustifolium), creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense) and stinging nettle
(Urtica dioica) also compete for space. An unusual addition to these open
areas were the scattered flowering spikes of marsh woundwort (Stachys
palustris) a species obviously associated with wet habitats. The bank down to
the flat silver birch (Betula pendula) woodland, contains stands of male fern
(Dryopteris filix – mas) and small areas of wavy hair – grass (Deschampsia
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flexuosa). The birch woodland between the bank and the railway line also
contains goat willow (Salix capraea) in the canopy. The shrub layer here
consists of young trees (birch, willow and the occasional English oak
(Quercus robur)). The ground layer contains species such as wavy hair –
grass, leafy hawkweed (Hieracium sabaudum) and perforate St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum). At the entrance of the scrap yard, ephemeral
and opportunist species occur including red bartsia (Odontites vernus), white
melilot (Melilotus alba) and michaelmas – daisy (Aster novi – belgii agg.).
Also within this birch dominated woodland a colony of yellow bird’s – nest
(Monotropa hypopitys) were noted. About 20 flowering spikes were counted.
This is a rare endangered species this far north. There are only 2 recent
records for this species in the South Yorkshire area (both sites former railway
sidings). This curious plant is a saprophyte (An organism, usually a fungus or
bacterium, that grows on and derives its nourishment from dead or decaying
organic matter). It colonises leaf litter in shaded woodlands, but can also be
found in dune systems.
Assessment and conclusion
The presence of the nationally endangered yellow bird’s – nest suggests
that this area of the site should be removed from any development. The steep
bank above the birch dominated woodland should act as a buffer, should any
development occur on the upper flat area (immediately adjacent Junction
Road). Also noted at the base of the bank a large mammal hole (currently not
used) and numerous mammal paths leading up the bank, suggesting the site
is still used. A mammal survey would be a necessity before any planning
applications could be considered.
Due to its closeness to Woodhouse Washlands Local Nature Reserve
(Local Wildlife Site 258) and its population of great crested newt (Triturus
cristatus), we were asked to carry out a GCN Habitat Suitability Index. This is
carried out on aquatic habitats such as ponds and small lakes, none of which
occur on this site (areas of temporary standing water were evident. Shallow
puddles also formed during a down pour whilst we were on site).
Though suitable breeding habitats were not encountered on this site, large
piles of soil, woody debris and concrete were found throughout, offering the
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perfect amphibian and reptile hibernation sites. We have recent records of
common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) and grass snake (Natrix natrix) within the
immediate area. The piles of debris present would need to be dismantled by
hand should removal be needed, especially if this were to take place during
the hibernation period.
A colony of around 20 flowering spikes of yellow bird’s –
nest (Monotropa hypopitys) found growing at the
Junction Road site.
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The bank down to the flat silver birch (Betula
pendula) woodland, contains stands of male
fern (Dryopteris filix – mas) and small areas of
wavy hair – grass (Deschampsia flexuosa).
Mammal holes and runs noted on and above
this bank.
Also within this birch dominated woodland a colony of yellow bird’s – nest
(Monotropa hypopitys) were noted. About 20 flowering spikes were
counted. This is a rare endangered species this far north. There are only 2
recent records for this species in the South Yorkshire area (both sites
former railway sidings).
Though suitable breeding
habitats were not encountered
on this site, large piles of soil,
woody debris and concrete
were found throughout,
offering the perfect amphibian
and reptile hibernation sites.
We have recent records of
common lizard (Lacerta
vivipara) and grass snake
(Natrix natrix) within the
immediate area. The piles of
debris present would need to
be dismantled by hand should
removal be needed, especially
if this were to take place
during the hibernation period.
P00509 Junction Road SK430851
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